We collaborate with important people in clients' lives (teachers, case workers, doctors, family members, friends) in order to strengthen support that "wraps around" the client and fosters long term success.  Some of our therapy clients receive psychiatric evaluation and medication monitoring on-site.  Our therapists employ a number of approaches with children, including Play Therapy.  Play Therapy is a developmentally appropriate research-based method for treating children.

CHS has expanded its work with youth and their families by joining in, collaboration with the Youth Suicide Prevention Program whose mission is to reduce youth suicide attempts and deaths in Washington State. Working toward that goal, together we will build public awareness, offer training, and support communities taking action.

According to data distributed by the Youth Suicide Prevention Program, each week in our state alone, an average of two young people die by suicide and another 17 suicide attempts result in hospitalization.  However, while these facts are disturbing, there is hope. By educating ourselves and others, we can make a difference in preventing youth suicide.

Myths about Suicide                                Facts about Suicide

Under the direction of our Clinical Director, Jerry Evergreen, MA, LMHC, CMHS, CHS is embarking on work supported by the Nick Evergreen Fund.  This work is designed to work within the community to help bring awareness to the issues of teen suicide.  As the parent of an unfortunately successful suicide, Jerry knows first hand the consequences of not recognizing the signs teens exert when following the path toward suicide attempts. 

At 15, Nick Evergreen was a quiet person, a young man friends and neighbors looked forward to seeing and hearing from.  He was on select sports teams, a student who scored 95% and above on all tests, was in advanced placement courses, and was even nicknamed "Big Tree" for his last name.  Nick was known and loved by many.

While in his freshman year, Nick experienced his first love relationship, which lasted one short month.  However, following this break up, Nick slipped into a deep depression, becoming reserved, quiet and to himself.  Even with a father in the mental health field, and a loving and caring family, Nick's family still missed these valuable signs.   

Here at CHS, we know too well the loss occurred when the signs of suicide are missed.  We are dedicated, under Jerry's guidance, our Clinical Director and a father who has experienced first hand the loss of a child, to educate our community towards the signs of suicide, how to prevent them, and to support families once they've been experienced.  To find out more about the program contact Jerry at JEvergreen@chs-nw.org.  

Please support our efforts throughout the schools and communities within our reach, by contributing toward the Nick Evergreen Fund today, by completing our online donation form and designating your funds to the Nick Evergreen Fund.