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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Dr. Jennifer Thomas Named New Executive Director of Teen Health Connection
Thomas Steps into the Role as Fourth Leader of the 33-Year-Old Organization

 

CHARLOTTE, NC – October 16, 2025 – Teen Health Connection, the leading provider of integrated medical and behavioral health services for adolescents and young adults in the Charlotte region, announced today the selection of Dr. Jennifer Thomas as the new Executive Director.

Dr. Thomas brings more than 15 years of experience as a behavioral health care leader and licensed psychologist focusing on adolescents and their families. Currently, Thomas serves as the Chief Psychologist with Teen Health Connection. In her current role, Thomas and her team provide behavioral health triage, assessments for youth involved with child welfare, and social work services for teens receiving specialized medical care. Thomas began her work at Teen Health Connection in 2012 when she was hired as the first full-time psychologist on the Assessment Services Team, including the Independent Psychological Assessments. Since that time, she has provided leadership and guidance resulting in tremendous growth and expansion of the work of Teen Health Connection, particularly through partnerships with Mecklenburg County and other organizations in the community. Her extensive history of leadership and innovation is known throughout the community through her strategic community partnerships and collaborations.

Thomas’ promotion comes as Teen Health Connection prepares for the retirement of current Executive Director Libby Safrit, who joined the organization in 1998. Safrit began as the first behavioral health clinician and was named Executive Director in 2009. Safrit has been a leader and advocate for integrated physical and behavioral healthcare for adolescents, and her name is truly synonymous with Teen Health Connection.

“I could not be more confident in Dr. Thomas’s ability to lead Teen Health Connection into its next chapter,” said Safrit. “Her heart for this work, her expertise, and her unwavering dedication will continue to elevate our organization locally and nationally. As I pass the torch, I do so knowing that Teen Health Connection is in the most capable hands.”

Thomas clearly understands the future for Teen Health Connection and has a vision for how to serve teens and their families. “Teen Health Connection provides a safe space for all adolescents to receive the medical and behavioral health services they need,” Thomas explained. “I’m incredibly excited to enter this new role as Executive Director as we continue to grow our impact on the lives of teens in our community and take Teen Health Connection to the next level in integrated health care.”

“I look forward to working alongside a fabulous team of health experts who care tremendously about supporting the unique strengths and needs of teens and their families as they journey through the joys and challenges of adolescence,” said Thomas. “Teen Health Connection is needed now more than ever.”

Thomas received her Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She completed her Predoctoral Psychology internship in Clinical Child Psychology with an emphasis on child trauma at the Duke University Medical Center. She also has a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, both from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In addition to her work at Teen Health Connection, she has held positions in a variety of settings including community-based behavioral health agencies, a managed care organization, and within a university setting. Thomas has served on many community workgroups and committees including the Mecklenburg County Child Fatality Prevention and Protection Team and currently holds a position on the leadership team with the Children’s Alliance of Mecklenburg County.

Thomas will begin as Executive Director with Teen Health Connection on December 1, 2025.

ABOUT TEEN HEALTH CONNECTION

Teen Health Connection is the leading provider of integrated medical and behavioral health services for adolescents and young adults ages 11 through 25 in the Charlotte region. Through an exclusive community collaboration with Atrium Health, Teen Health Connection’s team of experts are positioned to meet the unique needs of adolescents and their families. Teen Health Connection’s team is comprised of medical providers and nurses, psychologists, behavioral health therapists and triage clinicians, community health educators, parent educators, and a research and evaluation team. Teen Health Connection’s mission is to improve the health of adolescents by providing physical and behavioral services, advocacy, education, leadership development, and research through connections among adolescents, parents, and the community. For more information, visit www.TeenHealthConnection.org

Worried about your Teen and Suicide?

Schedule an appointment at Teen Health Connection today.

Primary care physicians, more than any other healthcare professional, are most likely to see a patient before a suicide attempt. At Teen Health Connection, we know the pivotal role we can play in our patients’ lives by asking the right questions.

Our integrated care model delivers developmentally specialized adolescent medicine, behavioral health care, and health education, and provides a “one-stop shop” for a teen’s health care needs. Our providers and staff are trained in trauma-informed care.  We conduct universal screening for depression, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), substance use. Why do we screen for these? 

The results of the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey revealed startling results on ACEs and suicide.

• Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are common, with about three in four students (76.1%) experiencing 1+ ACEs and approximately one in five students (18.5%) experiencing 4+ ACEs.
• Students with more ACEs were significantly more likely to engage in risky behaviors. The strongest associations were observed between experiencing 4+ ACEs and attempted suicide, seriously considered attempting suicide, and current prescription opioid misuse.

Learn more about what the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey reveals about ACEs and suicide risk among high school students in the United States:

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/su/su7304a5.htm

RESOURCES FOR TEENS

▶ Teen Link Help Line Call 1(866) TEENLINK (833-6546)
Teen Link is a confidential, anonymous, and non-judgmental telephone help line answered by teens each evening from 6-10 PM. Teen volunteers are trained to listen to your concerns and to talk with you about whatever is on your mind. No issue is too big or too small.

▶ Teen Link Chat Visit 866TEENLINK.org
Teen Link offers Teen Link Chat, available through their website at www.866TEENLINK.org. Much like the line, teens can use Teen Link Chat to seek support from our teen volunteers on a variety of issues, including: bullying, drug and alcohol concerns, relationships, stress, and other teen issues. Teen Link accepts chats from 6-9:30 PM every day of the week. Teen Link Chat does not work well on cell phones, so we ask that you log on with a computer to chat.

▶ Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741
Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis (doesn’t just mean suicide, it’s any painful emotion for which you need support) providing access to free, 24/7 support and information via a medium people already use and trust: text. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from their secure online platform. The goal of any conversation is to get you to a calm, safe place.

▶ The Trevor Project Call 1-866-488-7386
The leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25. Text and online chat are also available at www.thetrevorproject.org.

RESOURCES FOR CAREGIVERS

▶ Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Call 9-8-8 A national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

▶ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Visit afsp.org A voluntary health organization that gives those affected by suicide a nationwide community empowered by research, education, and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death

▶ Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Call 9-8-8 A national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

▶ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Visit afsp.org A voluntary health organization that gives those affected by suicide a nationwide community empowered by research, education, and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death

RESOURCES FOR PROFESSIONALS

▶American Academy of Pediatrics Blueprint for Youth Suicide Prevention
https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/blueprint-for-youth-suicide-prevention

▶US DHHS National Strategy for Suicide Prevention
https://www.hhs.gov/programs/prevention-and-wellness/mental-health-substance-use-disorder/national-strategy-suicide-prevention/index.html

▶SAMHSA Suicide Prevention Toolkits
https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/suicide-prevention-month/toolkit

Suicide is the…

• 12^th leading cause of death in North Carolina
• 2^nd leading cause of death for ages 15-25
• 4 in 10 high school students experience persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
• 2 in 10 high school students seriously considered attempting suicide.
• 1 in 10 high school students attempted suicide.

afsp.org/statistics

Why is raising awareness so important?

• Suicide impacts ALL populations of youth and adults.
• Being open to talking about suicide means someone might talk to you when needed.
• Knowing what action to take can save a life – yours or someone else’s.
• Asking for help is hard – talking about it and having options makes it easier.

When you’re aware, you can help

Is it safe to ask teens directly if they are having thoughts of suicide?

YES – It is safe to ask teens if they are having thoughts of suicide. One of the most common myths about asking youth about suicide is that it will “put the idea into their heads.”

Multiple research studies have established that it is safe to ask young people about suicide. Asking directly about suicidal thoughts is important, as many youth will not raise the topic on their own. Most young people keep suicidal thoughts to themselves and may not bring up the topic on their own if they aren’t asked a direct question.

If you’re talking to teens, ensure your questions are asked in a non-judgmental way and follow it with questions that help build a personal connection. Allowing a young person to discuss their thoughts of suicide makes it safe to talk and may bring them relief.

Remember to get help from a clinician.

Resources

afsp.org| American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP.org)

 

Back to School: Essentials for a Healthy and Successful Start

As summer winds down and the back-to-school season approaches, it is important for parents and students to prepare for a smooth transition. Ensuring that children and teens are ready for the academic year goes beyond shopping for school supplies – It involves fostering habits that promote health and well-being. Four key areas that can help are eating breakfast every morning, getting enough sleep, getting a sports physical, and being up to date on all immunizations.

The Power of Breakfast

“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” tends to sound like a cliche saying, but this saying holds true, especially for children and teens. A nutritious breakfast provides the energy and nutrients needed to start the day right. Research shows that children and teens who eat breakfast regularly perform better academically, have improved concentration, and are less likely to be tardy or absent (The Journal of School Health).
A balanced breakfast should include a mix of protein, whole grains, and fruits or vegetables. For example:

• A whole-grain cereal with milk and a banana.
• Scrambled eggs with whole-wheat toast and a side of berries.

The Importance of Sleep

Adequate sleep is crucial for everyone of all ages, but it is especially important for children and teens. In fact, they need more sleep than adults due to their growing bodies and developing brains. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 9-12 hours of sleep per night for children aged 6-12, and 8-10 hours for teenagers aged 13-18.
To help establish a healthy sleep routine for your child or teen:

• Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on the weekends.
• Create a calming bedtime environment by limiting screen time and encourage a relaxing activity like reading. Try getting an old-school alarm clock and leave phones out of the bedroom to limit bedtime distractions.

Ensuring your child gets enough sleep can improve their mood, behavior, and academic performance.

The Necessity of a Sports Physical

For any child or teen that is planning to participate in sports, a sports physical is necessary. A sports physical, usually conducted by a healthcare professional, assesses a child’s fitness level and ability to safely engage in athletic activities. The physical typically includes a review of medical history, a physical examination, and sometimes additional tests.
A sports physical can identify any potential health issues that could interfere with participation in sports and provide an opportunity to discuss injury prevention, nutrition, and other health concerns. It is a proactive step to ensure your child or teen is ready for the physical demands of their chosen sport.
If your teen needs a sports physical for the upcoming school year, call Teen Health Connection at (704) 381-TEEN (8336) to set up an appointment.

The Importance of Immunizations

Updating immunizations is a critical part of back-to-school preparation. Vaccines protect children and teens from serious diseases and prevent outbreaks in schools and communities. Common vaccines required for school entry include those for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), and polio (IPV).
Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the HPV vaccine for preteens, the meningococcal vaccine for teenagers, and the annual flu shot for all school-aged individuals. Make sure to check with your child or teen’s school and healthcare provider to ensure all immunizations are up to date.
If your teen needs immunizations for the upcoming school year, call Teen Health Connection at (704) 381-TEEN (8336) to set up an appointment.

Tips for Parents

As the new school year approaches, it is a pivotal time for parents of teens to help them transition smoothly and set the stage for a successful academic year. Here are some essential tips to help support your teen:

• Establish a Routine

Teenagers thrive on routine, even if they might not admit it. Help your teen adjust to the school schedule by establishing a consistent daily routine before school begins. This includes setting regular times for waking up, eating meals, doing homework, and going to bed. A predictable routine helps reduce stress and ensures they are well-rested and prepared for school.

• Encourage Open Communication

Maintain open lines of communication with your teen. Encourage them to talk about their feelings, concerns, and goals for the upcoming school year. Listen actively and offer support without judgement. Being approachable and understanding can make a significant difference in their ability to navigate the challenges of adolescence and school life.

• Create a Study-Friendly Environment

Set up a dedicated study area that is quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Ensure your teen has all the necessary supplies, such as a comfortable chair, a desk, and any required school materials. Establishing a conducive environment for studying can help improve focus and productivity.

• Promote Healthy Habits

Healthy habits are crucial for your teen’s well-being and academic performance. Encourage them to eat balanced meals, including a nutritious breakfast, and stay hydrated throughout the day. Stress the importance of regular exercise and sufficient sleep. Teens need 8-10 hours of sleep per night, so help them establish a bedtime routine that allows for adequate rest.

• Stay Involved

While teens often seek independence, parental involvement is still important. Stay informed about your teen’s academic progress, school events, and extracurricular activities. Attend parent-teacher conferences and school meetings whenever possible. Your involvement shows your teen that you care about their education and supports their overall success.

• Set Realistic Expectations

Encourage your teen to set realistic academic and personal goals. Help them break down larger goals into manageable steps and celebrate their achievements along the way. Avoid placing undue pressure on them to achieve perfection. Instead, focus on effort and improvement, fostering a growth mindset.

• Monitor Technology Use

Teens are often glued to their devices, which can interfere with their sleep, focus, and overall well-being. Set boundaries for screen time, especially during homework and study hours. Encourage them to take breaks from screens and engage in other activities such as reading, hobbies, or spending time outdoors.

• Support Extracurricular Involvement

Extracurricular activities provide valuable opportunities for personal growth, social interaction, and skill development. Encourage your teen to participate in sports, clubs, or other interests. Balance is key, so help them manage their time to ensure these activities do not overwhelm their academic responsibilities.

• Address Behavioral Health

Behavioral health is a critical aspect of overall well-being. Be attentive to signs of stress, anxiety, or depression in your teen. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and seek professional help if needed. Promote relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to help them manage stress.

If your teen needs help tackling back-to-school anxiety or other behavioral health challenges, contact our Behavioral Health Triage Clinicians at (704) 381-8379 to get started.

• Plan Ahead

Help your teen develop organizational skills by teaching them to use planners or digital calendars to keep track of their assignments, deadlines, and activities. Planning ahead can reduce last-minute stress and help them manage their time effectively.
Supporting your teen through the back-to-school transition involves a combination of establishing routines, promoting healthy habits, staying involved, and fostering open communication. By providing guidance and encouragement, you can help your teen navigate the challenges of adolescence and set them up for a successful and fulfilling school year.

Teen Health Connection is Here to Help!

Preparing for the new school year involves more than just purchasing supplies and new clothes. By emphasizing the importance of a healthy breakfast, adequate sleep, regular sports physicals, and up-to-date immunizations, parents can help set their children or teenagers up for a successful and healthy school year. These practices not only contribute to better academic performance but also promote overall well-being, ensuring that students are ready to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Regardless of your family’s needs this time of year, Teen Health Connection is here to help! Reach out to 704-381-TEEN (8336) to learn more about how we can serve you and your teen during this transitional period.

Resources

Hearst, Mary O, et al. “Barriers, Benefits, and Behaviors Related to Breakfast Consumption Among Rural Adolescents.” The Journal of School Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Mar. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4825869/. 17 July 2024.

 

Comprehensive Suicide Prevention: Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Be sure to watch the vignette above from Teen Health Connection’s The Big Picture titled “The ACEs Test” for a look at the types of experiences considered to be Adverse Childhood Experiences. Knowing your score can help you, and your healthcare provider, make informed decisions about your care.

What are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)?
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood but cause pervasive effects on health throughout the lifetime. ACEs may occur inside or outside the home, and include events such as child abuse, neglect, food insecurity, violence, deportation, and bullying. These experiences can have profound and lasting effects on an individual’s health and well-being and can be influenced by individual, family, and community factors. ACEs impact not only mental health, but also significantly increase the risk of physical health conditions.

Are ACEs Common?

• About 64% of adults in the United States reported they had experienced at least one type of ACE before age 18.
• Nearly one in six (17.3%) adults reported they had experienced four or more types of ACEs.

What’s the link between ACEs and suicide?
Suicide and ACEs are both complex topics, influenced by a variety of compounding factors. However, the link between increased ACEs and increased suicidality is clear.
Research has consistently shown a strong correlation between ACEs and an increased risk of suicide. Individuals who have experienced six or more ACEs are over 24 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to those with no ACEs (Merrick, 2017). This heightened risk is due to the toxic stress caused by ACEs, which can negatively affect brain development, immune systems, and stress-response systems (CDC).
ACEs have a “dose-response relationship,” meaning the more ACEs an individual has experienced, the greater likelihood of suicidal ideation and other negative health outcomes (Merrick, 2017). You can’t lower your ACE score, but you can mitigate the risk.

Do ACEs increase risk for other conditions?
ACEs are associated with at least 5 out of the 10 leading causes of death, including heart disease and cancer. Preventing ACEs could potentially reduce many health conditions, including depression and suicidality. Estimates show up to 1.9 million heart disease cases and 21 million depression cases potentially could have been avoided by preventing ACEs (CDC).

What can family and community members do?
Preventing ACEs and mitigating their effects is crucial for reducing suicide rates. Communities can create supportive environments for children, providing mental health resources, and addressing social determinants of health such as poverty and discrimination. By understanding the profound impact of ACEs on mental health, we can take steps to support those affected and work towards a future where fewer individuals are at risk of suicide.
Creating safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for all children can prevent ACEs and help all children reach their full potential. We each have a role to play in empowering every adolescent to be healthy, safe, and successful.

How can Teen Health Connection help?
Teen Health Connection is proud to practice Trauma-Informed Care. Our behavioral health clinicians are trained to assist adolescents in navigating and understanding trauma. If you’d like to learn more about behavioral health services, call triage at (704) 381-8379.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling or texting 9-8-8 or by visiting 988LifeLine.org.

Resources

About Adverse Childhood Experiences | Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) | CDC

Merrick, M. T., Ports, K. A., Ford, D. C., Afifi, T. O., Gershoff, E. T., & Grogan-Kaylor, A. (2017). Unpacking the impact of adverse childhood experiences on adult mental health. Child abuse & neglect, 69, 10–19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2017.03.016

 

Summer Smarts: How to Stay Safe and Have Fun in the Sun

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Summer Swim Safety.” CDC, 9 May 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/prevention/summer-swim-safety.html.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Sun Safety Facts.” CDC, 1 July 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/sun-safety/index.html.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “ Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness.” CDC, 15 February 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/extreme-heat/signs-symptoms/index.html.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “Traffic Safety Facts: A Compilation of Motor Vehicle Crash Data.” NHTSA, July 2023, www.nhtsa.gov/research-data/traffic-records.

United States Department of Agriculture. “Summer Food Safety.” USDA, 15 June 2023, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/how-temperatures-affectfood.