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.

Upcoming STEP Dates & Topics
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 meets on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern. Family STEP is offered through Zoom only.
Please contact STEP Facilitator, Shelley Danser at sdanser@skylandtrail.org or 678-686-5956 for more information about STEP.
STEP is for families of adult clients. Learn more about the Adolescent Family Program for families of adolescent clients here.
September 7, 2023
Family’s Road to Recovery with Tucker, Kathy, and Robert Wrenn
September 14, 2023
NAMI and Skyland Trail Presents "You Are Not Alone" Book Tour
September 21, 2023
Sober Living with Ramon Pacheco, CACII, CAMS
September 28, 2023
6:30-7:30 - Support Group Only
October 5, 2023
Cognitive Distortions with Crystal Battle, MAMFT
October 12, 2023
No Meeting
October 19, 2023
In Our Own Words with Tera Carter, CPS
October 26, 2023
6:30-7:30 - Support Group Only
Open to Skyland Trail Families
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.
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."
