Education and Peer Support for Families of Clients in Adult Mental Health Treatment Programs
Families play a vital role in the recovery of a loved one, yet taking care of a relative who has a serious mental illness can place considerable strain on the primary care givers and other family members. Recognizing the important role and needs of families, Skyland Trail offers the family Support, Training and Education Program (STEP).
STEP is for families of adult clients. Learn more about the Adolescent Family Program for families of adolescent clients here.
The group provides family members with the knowledge, skills and support needed to cope effectively with the unique challenges associated with caring for someone with a mental illness.
During the first hour, a mental health professional provides education and training to the group. The second hour is a support group in which families discuss what they have learned, dilemmas they confront or feelings they experience.
Eligibility
STEP is open to family members and important friends of adult clients enrolled in a Skyland Trail mental health treatment program. Families of Skyland Trail graduates and alumni may also attend. STEP is offered to Skyland Trail families free of charge and is made possible in part by charitable donations from the community.
STEP is for families of adult clients. Learn more about the Adolescent Family Program for families of adolescent clients here.
When & Where
STEP meets on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern. Family STEP is offered through Zoom only.
Contact
Please contact STEP Facilitator, Shelley Danser at sdanser@skylandtrail.org or 678-686-5956 for more information about STEP.
Upcoming STEP Dates & Topics
March 19, 2026
From Burnout to Balance: Helping Caregivers Thrive Using ACT Skills with Latoya Williams, LAPC, NCC
March 26, 2026
Support Group Only
April 2, 2026
Loving Limits: Skills for Saying No and Staying Connected with Your Loved Ones with BPD with Kibby McMahon, PhD
April 9, 2026
No STEP
April 16, 2026
Nisha Patel, LPC
April 23, 2026
Carolyn Guthrie, Certified Parent Coach
April 30, 2026
Support Group Only
People in Your Shoes
Listen as families describe their experiences with STEP.
"You have gotten him here, and he is safe. Now rest and let Skyland do its work.' That was the kind reassurance we received from other parents and family members on our first night at STEP."
