Youth Overcoming Depression & Anxiety

Youth learn skills to improve mental health

YODA is a group therapy program for young people in grade 6, 7 and 8 who are experiencing symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. YODA programs aim to improve the social and emotional well-being of
youth. In small group settings, youth and their families learn new skills to improve their mental wellness.

Woodview Mental Health & Autism Services offers YODA programs to youth and families in Halton.

YODA helps youth reach their full potential

Through a variety of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Emotional Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), young people will learn:

Make a referral:

Service providers can contact ASN by phone 289-266-0036 or online.

Family members can call the Halton Access and System Navigation (ASN) service to speak with a system navigator at 289-266-0036

Location

YODA is a community based program that is offered throughout Halton region.  Programs run in North Halton, Oakville and Burlington.  Transportation is the responsibility of the parent.

Is the YODA program right for your child?

Moving into the teen years can be a challenging time for young people. Many deal with depression and anxiety. If your child exhibits any of the following, the YODA program can help.

  • low self-esteem
  • withdrawal from others
  • flat affect (reduced expression and displays of emotion)
  • avoidance of school or situations
  • sadness and unease
  • fear of being embarrassed
  • feeling worthless
  • loss of interest and pleasure in activities that once gave pleasure
  • feelings of guilt
  • excessive worry/fears about future or past events
YODA programs empower, validate & teach skills
  • Empowerment helps youth develop confidence to learn the skills they need to cope with anxiety and depression
  • Validation ensures that each young person has their feelings, thoughts and experiences validated
  • Skill building provides each young person with the opportunity to learn the necessary skills to cope with their feelings
YODA programs are offered in a variety of group formats for youth and families in Halton.

Youth group empowers youth with skills and strategies that help manage overwhelming feelings.

Parent group empowers parents with skills and strategies so they can effectively support their young person.

Family group focuses on supporting families by having both parent and youth attend the program.

Virtual group focuses on supporting young people through the use of a virtual platform.

Learn more about YODA Programs

For more information about YODA programs, please contact either:

Referrals to YODA programs can be made by parents, school staff or members of the community.

Download the YODA Flyer
Everything about the program was great. The lessons learned, the kit my son got, the support he received – everything was fantastic. Staff are exemplary and we’re thankful for all their help.

Parent

It was truly amazing. My daughter was extremely reluctant to join but understood she needed help, so agreed. And has used skills since. The change in her is quite noticeable in only the few weeks since completion.

Parent

I liked how the staff were very nice and I learned numerous strategies to help me cope with my anxiety.

Youth

I got to learn new things and learn different strategies like how to calm myself.

Youth

84% of youth responded that they would recommend Woodview.

Client Satisfaction Survey Results 2018