RALEIGH, N.C. (WLOS) — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has announced a partnership with a virtual therapy platform, Talkspace, to provide free mental health care for justice-impacted teenagers.

“There is an urgent need for youth-focused solutions to help young people involved in the justice system get the care they need so they can thrive in their homes and communities,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai.

According to a news release from the NCDHHS, 100% of young people in youth development centers had at least one mental health diagnosis, with more than half also having a substance use disorder diagnosis.

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According to the survey, youth involvement in the justice system can increase the risk of experiencing more trauma, psychological distress, adult criminal activity, lower educational attainment, and difficulty finding a job.

“The partnership with Talkspace is one of the ways the department is working to transform mental health care to build a system that works for every person in North Carolina,” Sangvai said.

The partnership with Talkspace is part of an effort to expand services for individuals in the justice system, with a focus on improving the quality and consistency of health programs for youth.

“We’re proud to partner with the North Carolina Juvenile Justice System and NCDHHS to bring accessible, confidential mental health support to teens who need it most,” said Jon Cohen, M.D., Chief Executive Officer at Talkspace, in a news release. “This collaboration marks a meaningful expansion of our work with youth—reaching them in a new context, at a critical moment, and reinforcing our commitment to equitable care for all.”

The program will last two years and aims to serve about 20,000 youth impacted by the legal system.

Talkspace offers “asynchronous” therapy, allowing for therapists and clients to communicate through text 24/7, audio and video access and selfguided actividies withoughh scheduled appointments.

“Increasing access to treatment is critical for justice-involved youth. Tele-mental health does this by meeting youth and families where they are and allows for immediate therapy from culturally responsive providers in a comfortable format,” said Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, NCDHHS Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services, in a news release. “Ensuring children and youth involved with or impacted by the justice system receive mental health care is critical in stopping the re-entry cycle and ensuring children go on to live full and meaningful lives.”

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Those who participate will immediately gain access through using a referral keyword provided by court counselors, case managers, or community partners. Participation in Talkspace is voluntary and not court-ordered.

Teenagers can download the app or visit the website, where they will be connected with a trained clinician matched by age, culture, and gender.

For more information, visit here.