I Matter: Making sure youth have the support they need

In the summer of 2021, Colorado passed a bill establishing a temporary behavioral health services program in response to our youth’s worsening mental health crisis. And, JFS is proud to be one of the participants in the I Matter program, which is the first in the nation.

The I Matter program is open to those 18 and younger or those younger than 21 if they are receiving special education services. Participants can receive at least three free behavioral health sessions with a licensed clinician. Sessions are confidential and can be either virtual or in-person, depending on the provider, giving youth the tools they need to help manage their mental well-being.

“We’d been following the I Matter legislation closely, and we knew we wanted to be involved with the program as soon as it passed,” said JFS KidSuccess Program Manager Lisa Rincon. “Our program is in 14 schools, and we see how important it is to reduce the barriers around mental health. As an organization, JFS is innovative and agile. When the pandemic first hit, we went from having in-person visits to implementing a Telehealth system in a week, which is incredible. With I Matter, again, we were able to move at lightning speed to meet the need and provide this service.”

Since January 31, JFS therapists have helped approximately 10 clients through 41 sessions.

Funding for the I Matter Program has been extended to continue offering services for an additional year, through at least June 2023. The Office of Behavioral Health is hopeful to continue funding on a longer-term basis—especially given the belief that addressing mental health needs is a marathon and not a sprint.

Interested in being matched with the best therapist for you or your child or learning more? Visit imattercolorado.org.