At Washington Area Clinical Center (WACC), we recognize the unique challenges faced by youth in our community. Our therapists provide both in-person and Telehealth therapy services to children, adolescents, and families throughout Maryland. Our mission is to offer effective, research-backed support that is sensitive to the cultural, emotional, and developmental needs of Black youth, Latino youth, and other underserved communities in Prince George’s County.

Understanding the Mental Health Crisis Among Youth

Youth from diverse backgrounds face distinct challenges that contribute to mental health struggles, including systemic inequities, cultural stigma, and social stressors. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the American Psychological Association (APA) has found that minority youth are less likely to receive mental health care, despite experiencing increasing rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.

Black Youth Mental Health

According to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics, suicide rates among Black youth are rising faster than in any other racial or ethnic group. Barriers to care often include:

• Stigma around mental health: Many Black families have been historically discouraged from discussing mental health, leading to delayed treatment or avoidance of professional support.
• Lack of culturally competent providers: Research from Dr. Derald Wing Sue, a pioneer in multicultural psychology, emphasizes that therapists who understand the cultural background of their clients are more effective in treatment.
• Mistrust in healthcare systems: Due to historical mistreatment and ongoing disparities, some families may feel hesitant to seek professional help.

Latino Youth Mental Health

Latino youth also experience significant mental health challenges, yet they are less likely than their White peers to receive mental health treatment. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Latino youth face the following barriers:

• Language barriers: Many Latino families have limited access to bilingual therapists, making communication and trust-building difficult.
• Immigration stress and acculturation challenges: Many Latino youth experience anxiety related to immigration status, discrimination, and adjusting to new cultural norms.
• Family expectations and stigma: Mental health struggles are often perceived as personal weaknesses rather than legitimate medical concerns in many Latino communities, discouraging youth from seeking help.

Reasons Youth May Need Counseling

Youth may benefit from counseling for a variety of reasons, including:

• Anxiety and depression: Persistent sadness, excessive worry, or emotional withdrawal.
• Academic and school-related stress: Struggles with concentration, motivation, or school performance.
• Behavioral issues: Aggressive behaviors, defiance, or sudden mood changes.
• Family conflicts: Difficulty coping with family changes, divorce, or strained relationships.
• Social challenges and bullying: Low self-esteem, peer pressure, or difficulties with friendships.
• Trauma and grief: Experiences of loss, abuse, or significant life transitions.

How WACC Supports Prince George’s County Families

At WACC, we are committed to addressing these barriers and providing culturally responsive mental health care for youth and families. Our services include:

Child & Adolescent Therapy

Our therapists specialize in working with children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, school stress, trauma, self-esteem issues, and more. We offer play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other age-appropriate interventions.

Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support

We provide intervention strategies to help at-risk youth, working closely with families to create safety plans and build emotional resilience. Patients are given tools to recognize warning signs and foster open communication.

Culturally Competent Care

Our diverse team of clinicians understands the impact of cultural identity on mental health. We incorporate evidence-based practices while respecting cultural values, traditions, and family dynamics.

Parent Support & Family Therapy

We equip parents with strategies to support their child’s mental health, improve communication, and strengthen family bonds. Our therapists offer guidance on navigating school concerns, peer relationships, and emotional development.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Research consistently shows that early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes for youth experiencing mental health challenges. A study from the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that children who receive therapy at an early stage are more likely to develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve academic performance, and reduce their risk of future mental health disorders.

Seeking Help: Next Steps for Parents in Prince George’s County

If you are a parent of a child attending school in Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel, Frederick, or other nearby counties and have noticed signs of emotional distress, behavioral changes, or academic struggles, now is the time to seek professional support.

Your child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. Let’s work together to ensure that every child in Maryland has access to the compassionate, effective mental health care they deserve.

Caity is Currently taking New Patients!

She specializes in working with children, young adults, and adults, focusing on self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, and personal growth. Caity is committed to creating a safe and supportive space for support and empowerment. Her sessions are in-person and Telehealth.

📅 Book a session with Caity today!

Contact WACC today at 301-701-6965 to or fill out the New Patient Registration Form and take the next step in your journey!

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References

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2023). “Mental Health in Minority Youth.”
• American Psychological Association (APA). (2022). “Addressing Mental Health Disparities in Black and Latino Youth.”
• JAMA Pediatrics. (2021). “Suicide Trends Among Black Adolescents.”
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2022). “Latino Youth Mental Health Challenges and Barriers.”
• Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. (2020). “Early Intervention and Long-Term Mental Health Outcomes.”
• Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS). (2024). “From Awareness to Action: Recognizing and Responding to Suicide Warning Signs.” Retrieved from: https://www.pgcps.org/inside-scoop-blog/2024-2025/from-awareness-to-action-recognizing-and-responding-to-suicide-warning-signs