Josselyn: Expanding Mental Health Support for Lake County Youth and Families

When a child or teenager is struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or other mental health concerns, finding help quickly can make all the difference. Thanks in part to the support of community partners, Josselyn is helping to ensure that Lake County families have access to high-quality, affordable mental health care close to home.

For more than 75 years, Josselyn has provided compassionate mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, and families throughout the region. Today, Josselyn serves thousands of individuals each year with a focus on access to care and ensuring that no one is turned away because of an inability to pay.

With 40% of current clients under the age of 18, Josselyn offers a range of services designed specifically for children and teens. These include counseling, psychiatric services, case management, school-based supports, mental health education, and crisis response services. The care provided is tailored to each young person’s needs and can involve parents, caregivers, and schools when it is needed.

One of Josselyn’s offerings in Lake County is its Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) located in Grayslake, when weekly therapy isn’t enough, this higher level of care can help. Josselyn’s IOP team provides comprehensive mental health care for youth ages 8–17 experiencing challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, and school refusal or avoidance. Through evidence-based group programming, weekly family therapy, psychiatric care, and coordination with schools and outpatient providers, Josselyn’s IOP provides customized care for each child and family’s individual needs.

“The Josselyn IOP Team strives to create an environment where clients feel safe and comfortable to learn skills and process current stressors that will help them find relief from symptoms,” explained Megan Jaenicke, the Clinical Director of Grayslake. “By providing a higher level of care in an outpatient setting, the program helps to prevent crises and promotes long-term wellness.”

In addition to the IOP, Josselyn provides services at multiple locations throughout Lake County and through telehealth appointments. Most major insurance plans are accepted, and financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

Families interested in services can begin by contacting Josselyn’s Intake Team. The team will guide callers through the process, help determine the most appropriate level of care, and connect them with available services. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit www.josselyn.org or call 847-441-5600.