Since the start of a Teen Wellness Voucher program in September of 2018, more than 50 teenagers across the county have received counseling from Solvista Health with the voucher, which is focused on high school students. The goal is to help raise awareness of mental health issues, promote self-care, and reduce the stigma of accessing mental healthcare.

The program is designed to raise awareness of mental health issues, promoting self-care while reducing the stigma that has been associated with accessing mental healthcare among teens.

The Teen Wellness Voucher was created by the Extraordinary Teens Council, working with Solvista Health, and Family and Youth Initiatives with the help of the community.

According to Solvista Health, due to the current COVID-19 climate, many teens have reported feelings of isolation and disconnection making free counseling even more critical than usual. The voucher is good for two free one-hour visits with a Solvista Health counselor at no cost to the teenager in order to bridge the gap between mental health services and teens.

Teens ages 12 to 19 years old can make a confidential call to Solvista using the voucher without parent/guardian permission. The voucher is also available for use by youth 12 and under with parent/guardian approval.

Community partners along with Chaffee County Public Health are dedicated to making sure teens have access to services even if they are unable to afford copays after the first two free visits. “We have a commitment to remove any and all financial barriers for youth to continue services beyond the vouchers,” said Public Health Director Andrea Carlstrom.

Teens can attend the first two visits from anywhere in the country via confidential tele-video or phone call. The first two visits do not include filling out paperwork in order to help teens more quickly and build rapport. Make sure you mention the Teen Wellness Voucher when you call, even if you do not have a physical copy.

Courtesy of Solvista Health

To make an appointment call (719)539-6502

Voucher’s may be accessed at these locations and more:

  • Salida locations- Solvista Health office, Family & Youth Initiatives office (Touber Building), Ark Valley Voice, Chaffee County Public Health, Heart of the Rockies Salida Medical Clinic, First Street Family Health, Boys and Girls Club, Salida High School, Fun Street Arcade, Salida Library and more.
  • Buena Vista community locations – Heart of the Rockies Buena Vista Health Center, Chaffee County Human Services annex (114 Linderman Ave), Buena Vista High School, Chaffee County High School, Boys and Girls Club, elevateHer, Buena Vista Library and more.