WYS Celebrates 45 Years
Making an Impact in the Community for 45 Years In 2017, Western Youth Services (WYS) celebrates our 45th year of service in the Orange County, CA community. We are overjoyed about this significant milestone. Not only have we survived through ups and downs both in the world and within our organization, but we have thrived. […]
It Takes a Village to Heal Mental Illness
The 21st Century Cures Act As CEO of a children’s mental health services organization, I applaud the fact that President Obama recently signed the 21st Century Cures Act, which includes Rep. Chris Murphy’s “Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act” as part of the larger health-care reform package. The bi-partisan legislation was designed to help […]
Thanks Dee Hase
Congratulations and Thanks Dee Hase What can be said about an employee who has faithfully dedicated 35 years to serving one organization? Thank YOU so very much! Over the years Western Youth Services (WYS) has been Dee’s home away from home…she sees us (and we see her) as family. She is extremely conscientious, has a […]
ACEs – From Adversity to Resiliency
ACEs – From Adversity to Resiliency Recently, we attended a local Rotary Club event and shared a bit of what we do at Western Youth Services (WYS). A man approached our booth and told us that his children were WYS clients 15 years ago. He said his entire life has been turned around as a […]
Have you heard of the Adverse Childhood Experiences – ACE Study?
Have you heard of the Adverse Childhood Experiences – ACE Study? Western Youth Services (WYS) has been a hub for Children’s Mental Health in Orange County, California since October 1972, treating children, youth and families facing trauma and stress. While we were aware that the study existed, it was not until we watched Dr. Nadine […]
The Trauma of Bullying
The Trauma of Bullying Western Youth Services (WYS) has worked with children and families in Orange County, California since 1972. Through the years we have witnessed the many faces of bullying and the effects of the trauma that it causes in a child’s life. Although October is National Bullying Prevention Month, we support the prevention […]
Quietly Making an Impact
We love to share stories about our staff, leadership, interns and our Board of Directors, but we are truly inspired by our volunteers and would like to share the story of one of our AmeriCorps volunteers, Brian McInerney, who is serving Western Youth Services this year and is quietly making an impact. Click here to tweet… […]
Take the Anxiety Out of the Back to School Season
Take the Anxiety Out of the Back to School Season As we prepare for the back to school season, we know from experience that preparation is more than school supplies and shopping. This is a stressful time for families and children, but even more so for those who experience behavioral or mental health concerns. To […]
Invisible Barriers Hold Kids Back
Invisible Barriers Hold Kids Back At Western Youth Services (WYS), we often talk about mental illness is an invisible barrier to success. Mental and behavioral health concerns are often the result of a child who has had one or more adverse experiences or trauma. The signs of trauma are not always visible, no bruises, […]
A Call to Action, NOT Arms
A Call to Action, NOT Arms Another shooting. I am devastated. This one is in my backyard. The UCLA campus. It’s my alma mater. As a person I just can’t wrap my brain around it. As a psychologist and CEO of a child and family mental health services organization, I feel an obligation to find […]