Nurture
First
A comprehensive, systems-based mental health rehabilitation program designed specifically for adolescents.
What does
Nurture First do?
Nurture First focuses on the interaction between individual, community, and systemic dynamics to provide holistic care. Our goal is to help adolescents build emotional resilience, develop coping mechanisms, and foster a supportive environment for long-term mental health wellness.
Nurture First is committed to addressing the challenges of at-risk adolescents through a unique combination of individual & group care:
Adolescents participate in 3-hour group therapy sessions four times a week, aimed at developing emotional regulation, coping skills, and problem-solving abilities. Outside of group settings, individuals will work with a therapist 1:1 to dig deeper into topics touched on in group settings.
Recognizing the role of the family in a child’s mental health journey, Nurture First offers joint therapy in safe spaces for adolescents & caregivers to improve communication, support, and empathy within family systems.
Every Monday, we help parents, caregivers & guardians understand their role in the therapeutic process by bringing them together to ask questions, express shared needs & learn how to manage these relationships as a peer group.
Who is Nurture First for?
Adolescents
Early teens to young adults experiencing emotional distress, anxiety or trauma, in need of immediate intervention & support.
Families
Traditional and non-traditional families needing to enhance communication & relationship building skills with their adolescent.
Caregivers
Social support or guardians looking for guidance on how to support an adolescent through difficult times
Our Nuture First approach is a path to conflict resolution
Experiences of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, neglect, or other adverse events during a person’s early years. These events can significantly impact a child’s development, emotional health, and behavior, often leading to long-term psychological and physical consequences in adulthood.
Heightened emotional responses, often intense and impulsive, to everyday stressors or challenges. During adolescence, changes in brain development and hormones can lead to increased sensitivity to emotions, making teens more prone to mood swings, frustration, and difficulty managing their feelings.
Persistent or fleeting desires to inflict physical pain on oneself, often as a response to emotional distress, overwhelming feelings, or mental health struggles. These thoughts can signal underlying conditions such as depression, anxiety, or trauma and may require immediate attention from mental health professionals for support and intervention.
Extreme mood swings, including episodes of depression and mania or hypomania. These conditions can lead to intense emotional highs and lows, affecting energy, behavior, and daily functioning. Adolescents with mood disorders may struggle with school, relationships, and emotional regulation, requiring specialized care.
Why choose Nurture First?
At MMHC, we believe that adolescent mental health care should be grounded in both evidence-based practices and resilient rehabilitative strategies.
Our program is designed to foster system harmony by promoting dialogue and understanding between adolescents and their families.
Enhancing coping strategies, resilience, and equipping adolescents with the skills needed to manage their emotions and navigate life's challenges can have dramatic improvement in mental health symptoms.
Hear from our Nuture First team
The staff are very friendly and understanding. All of the professionals I have encountered seem very passionate about their job. I have received nothing but the best from this clinic. MMHC is by far the best place to go for mental healthcare!
I have been going to the Minneapolis location for a year and it’s been great. The therapist I had really did try to help in the best way he could. It was clear that he cared for my wellbeing. One thing to note is that each therapist here has a different style of therapy, find the one that’s right for you.
Dr. Donndelinger is a great kid's doctor. He really relates well and doesn't push the meds.
“As a licensed therapist, I’m passionate about empowering adolescents and their families. I focus on fostering healthy relationships and creating a safe space for open communication, helping youth and their support systems navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve stronger, more fulfilling connections.”
“As a counselor, my goal is to provide a safe space for kids to express themselves, helping them navigate their emotions and challenges. I’m here to support their journey toward healing and personal growth.”
“As the intake coordinator, I’m here to guide families through the registration process, ensuring they feel comfortable and supported from the start. My goal is to make joining the program as smooth and welcoming as possible for everyone involved.”
“The providers I see here are by far the best I’ve ever had, and the receptionist is always friendly and helpful.”
“The STAT Program is amazing and I have learned so much from going. I see a great therapist. I would highly recommend this place.”