Youth Text-Based Support Addendum

Supplement to Initial Intake & Participation Agreement

This addendum outlines the structure, boundaries, and expectations specific to Youth Text-Based Peer Support offered through Bridging Seasons LLC.
It is intended to supplement — not replace — the Initial Intake & Request for Services and Adult Participation Agreement.

This option is offered by invitation only, after intake, when it appears to be an appropriate and supportive fit.

1. Purpose of Youth Text-Based Support

Youth text-based peer support provides a structured, supportive space for youth to process emotions, thoughts, and experiences through written communication.

This model is designed to:

  • Reduce pressure associated with real-time conversations

  • Support emotional regulation and reflection

  • Build communication skills and self-advocacy

  • Help youth practice expressing needs, boundaries, and perspectives in a safe way

The long-term goal of this support is to help youth build confidence and skills so they can increasingly communicate their needs directly with parents, caregivers, and others in their lives — without relying on a third party.

2. How Text-Based Support Works

Text-based peer support is not continuous conversation and is not crisis care.

Key features of this model include:

  • Youth may send messages when feeling upset, overwhelmed, confused, or needing support

  • Responses occur within clearly defined timeframes and availability windows

  • Youth are not expected to respond immediately

  • Breaks in communication are allowed and respected

  • There is no requirement to “have the right words” or explain everything at once

  • Youth will not be required to participate in phone or video sessions unless agreed upon

This structure is intended to create consistency, safety, and space — rather than urgency or pressure.

3. Boundaries & Safety

Youth text-based peer support:

  • Is non-clinical and not therapy

  • Does not replace counseling, medical care, or crisis services

  • Is not monitored in real time

  • Does not provide emergency response

If a youth is in immediate danger or crisis, emergency services or crisis resources must be used.
Text-based peer support is not a crisis service.

Mandated reporting laws apply to all services.
Details regarding mandated reporting can be found here:
Mandated Reporting Notice

4. Parent / Guardian Role & Involvement

This model is designed to support youth while maintaining appropriate parent or guardian involvement.

Key principles include:

  • Text communication is treated as private, similar to a support session

  • Parents/guardians are not provided with message content, except in situations involving safety concerns or mandated reporting

  • Parents/guardians are informed that support is occurring and may participate in:

    • Periodic parent check-ins

    • Joint youth/parent sessions (when appropriate)

    • Family or mediation-style sessions as agreed upon

This approach is intended to:

  • Reduce youth fear of surveillance

  • Support trust and emotional safety

  • Encourage honest communication

  • Help families build healthier communication over time

5. Family Connection & Optional Sessions

Youth text-based support may be paired with:

  • Youth-only support sessions

  • Parent check-ins

  • Joint family or mediation sessions

The format and frequency of these sessions will be discussed collaboratively and may change over time based on the youth’s needs and readiness.

Participation in any additional sessions is not automatic and is always discussed in advance.

6. Consent & Acknowledgements

By proceeding with Youth Text-Based Peer Support:

Parent / Guardian Acknowledgement

The parent or legal guardian acknowledges:

  • Understanding the structure and limits of text-based peer support

  • Consent for the youth to participate

  • Awareness that this service is non-clinical and not crisis care

  • Understanding that mandated reporting laws apply

Youth Acknowledgement

The youth acknowledges:

  • Participation is voluntary

  • Text-based support is not monitored at all times

  • They can take breaks and are not required to respond immediately

  • This support is meant to help build skills and confidence over time

Formal consent and signatures may be collected electronically or in writing prior to services beginning.

7. Additional Information

Questions, concerns, or requests for clarification can be discussed at any time.
This addendum is intended to create clear expectations, safety, and trust for youth, parents, and the support provider.

If at any point a youth feels unsafe or in crisis, contact 988 (US) or local emergency services.
Youth text-based peer support is not a crisis service.