Speak out presents

SAFETY TEAMS &

NAVIGATING CRISIS WORKSHOP

June 3rd | 6-8pm pst

Hey friend, if you're here, you probably know firsthand how overwhelming it can be when a young person you care about is going through a mental health crisis. It can feel like you're navigating a maze blindfolded, and honestly, it's okay if you're feeling lost, scared, or just plain exhausted.
That's why Nicole and I wanted to create this workshop – because we get it. We've been in those tough spots, feeling helpless and unsure of what to do next. We know the knot in your stomach when you consider the ER – and honestly, I've personally walked myself through those ER doors a handful of times, so I understand that experience from the inside out. We also know the awkwardness of talking to different people on the "team," and the sheer exhaustion of trying to piece things back together after things calm down (or feel like they should calm down).
In this workshop, we're not going to give you a bunch of clinical jargon or make you feel like you should have all the answers. Instead, we're going to talk heart-to-heart about the real, practical stuff:
  • That Dreaded ER Visit: We'll walk through what it's actually like, share some tips for making it a little less terrifying – and I can offer some perspective from someone who's been on the receiving end of that care – and talk about how to advocate for your young person when you might feel powerless.
  • Talking to the Team (Even When It Feels Weird): Figuring out who needs to know what, and how to talk to them, can be a minefield. We'll share some ways to have those sometimes-uncomfortable conversations with family, friends, school folks, and therapists, so you can feel more connected and supported.
  • Picking Up the Pieces After the Storm: What happens after the ER or an inpatient stay? It can feel like the real work just begins. We'll talk about some down-to-earth steps for creating a supportive environment and helping your young person (and yourself!) find a new footing.

We understand that different environments can feel safer for different people. We offer both in-person and online options to support your comfort.

In-Person Class | located in Portland, OR

  • Opportunities for direct connection and support from our Speak out team.

  • refreshments available during the session.

  • A chance to connect & learn alongside others who may understand similar experiences, fostering a sense of community & shared understanding.

  • Access to the class recording for 72 hours, allowing you the flexibility to revisit the content at your own pace and in your own time.

Online Class | available nationwide

  • The class will be guided by our Speak Out Staff, creating a safe and respectful online space.

  • An online facilitator will be present to help voice questions from the online group, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to engage in a way that feels comfortable for them.

  • Access to the class recording for 72 hours, providing flexibility to review the information as needed and on your own schedule.

A NOTE FROM OUR TEAM

Lauren (That's me!): "Honestly, I've been through some really dark times myself, including those moments where the ER felt like the only option. I've walked alongside Individuals through their struggles too. I know what it's like to feel like you're in a battle while also trying to navigate very real mental health challenges. My goal is to share what I've learned – the messy parts and the glimmers of hope – so you feel less alone and more empowered, especially when it comes to understanding the ER experience."
Nicole (Fellow Parent in the Trenches): "As a mom of four, including teens and young adults, I've seen my fair share of ups and downs, especially when it comes to mental health. I know that isolating feeling of being disconnected from your kid and the desperate search for answers. I'm here to share the practical things I've learned (sometimes the hard way!) and to create a space where you feel truly understood."

If you're feeling like you could use some real-world advice and connection with people who get how tough this can be, please join us. We're not promising easy fixes, but we are promising to walk alongside you and share some tools that can hopefully make this challenging journey a little less overwhelming.

TEACHING TEAM

  • Black and white portrait of a woman with glasses smiling against a dark background.

    LAUREN WILSON

    FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Lauren is a certified mental health coach specializing in working with teens and families. Her personal journey through spiritual warfare, suicidal ideation, and mental health challenges has given her a unique understanding of the complexities involved. Through Speak Out, she provides resources, workshops, and a supportive community for those navigating similar experiences. Lauren's holistic approach integrates mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. She also offers personalized 1:1 coaching, tailored to the specific needs of each individual. Lauren is committed to empowering teens and families to find strength, resilience, and a path towards healing.

  • NICOLE COATES

    MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCATE

    I'm Nicole, a mom of four (ages 10-20), and I'm deeply passionate about helping parents navigate the often-turbulent waters of raising teens, especially those grappling with mental health challenges. I've experienced the heart-wrenching pain of feeling disconnected from my teen and young adult child, the agonizing struggle to bridge that gap, and the isolating feeling of losing them, even while they're still right there. I understand firsthand how incredibly isolating this season of motherhood can be, especially when dealing with complex issues like mental health. My own parenting journey has been shaped by a variety of experiences, including stepparent adoption, navigating the unique needs of children with special needs, guiding my children through trauma, managing their mental health struggles, and the unique, sometimes chaotic, adventure of raising three boys. Through it all, I've discovered a significant gap in resources and support specifically designed for parents of older children. While there's a wealth of information available for the early years, that support often dwindles as kids grow older, just when the challenges become even more complex and sensitive. This is why I'm so dedicated to creating a supportive community where parents of teens feel seen, heard, and equipped.