Thanks to generous funding from the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, The Village Family Services is proud to introduce the Blues Program, a groundbreaking initiative targeting high-risk youth grappling with elevated levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. These challenges are often byproducts of housing insecurity, family trauma, or other issues that can stem from systemic inequality. The program’s goal? To foster emotional resilience, promote more positive moods, and reduce anxious thoughts.
What is The Blues Program?
Developed by cognitive-behavioral therapists and researchers, the Blues Program is a preventative intervention designed for teens aged 14-19. It comprises six weekly, one-hour group sessions where participants learn and develop skills to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. This cognitive restructuring aims to improve future actions and outcomes. The program boasts impressive results, including reduced substance use and decreased depression for up to two years post-completion.
Meet Dr. Brian Broomand
At the helm of this program at the Village is Dr. Brian Broomand, PsyD, a Waivered Clinical Psychologist. Brian’s journey with us began as an intern from 2017 to 2019. Inspired by the Village’s impactful community work, he returned recently to lead the Blues Program.
Brian describes the program as new, exciting and well researched. He’s hopeful that the teens learning the skills will continue to apply them long after their program ends.
A Collaborative Effort
Alongside Brian and fellow facilitator Ariana Garcia, The Village employs dedicated staff who collaborate with local schools to identify teens who could benefit from the program. We also promote it at our North Hollywood Drop-In Center. Groups of 4-8 young people embark on this 6-week journey together, with pre-program assessments ensuring they are ideal candidates or redirecting them to other suitable services within our comprehensive care network.
Fitting into The Village’s Holistic Approach
When asked how the Blues Program complements The Village’s existing services, Brian explains, “This is a helpful program aimed in preventing one’s mental health from deteriorating. It all fits into a sphere of safeguarding and promoting a youth’s overall well-being. We’re offering kids the tips and skills they need to stay healthy in their everyday lives.” By integrating the Blues Program into our suite of services, The Village continues its commitment to nurturing resilient, emotionally healthy youth.
To learn more about The Blues Program, visit their website.
To work alongside dedicated service providers like Brian, explore our open positions.
