Early identification, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment of mental health and substance use conditions can alleviate suffering in young people and their families dealing with behavioral health challenges.

When concerned family members observe warning signs in their teen’s behaviors, thoughts, or moods, screening is the most appropriate step. The most impactful way to target the most effective intervention is to accurately assess a teen’s symptoms and potential diagnoses. Evidenced-based screening and a professional evaluation conducted by a qualified licensed mental health professional is the gold standard process.

Wellify Teen aims to reduce the barriers to affordable and timely assessments.

County Marin ACCESS - If your teen is covered by Medi-Cal, the best first step is to contact the County of Marin ACCESS intake line at 1-888-818-1115.

This team provides assessments and referrals for teens who are full-scope Medi-Cal eligible and are in need of mental health services. Youth with Medi-Cal are assessed by the Access staff and are then referred through Beacon Strategies to Medi-Cal providers in the community, many listed below, if they meet Medi-Cal necessity. Those teens with more serious functional impairment who need specialty mental health services are seen by the Youth & Family Services team.

Wellify Teen 4Help Program – Free, clinical assessments for Marin County at-risk teens

To bridge the affordability gap, scheduling delay, and resource navigation for families with high-risk teens and low access to a comprehensive, clinical assessment, Wellify Teen’s 4Help program offers this important mental health service. When insurance coverage is a barrier, it is offered free of charge or on a sliding scale.

Led by psychologist Dr. Jodie NewDelman, the 4Help program includes a structured, online interview using the DISC gold standard, HIPAA-compliant clinical assessment tool, evaluation of the results, and a one-hour consultation with the teen and/or family to discuss findings and resource options.