Tahoe Youth and Family Services

About Tahoe Youth and Family Services

Tahoe Youth and Family Services is a nonprofit in South Lake Tahoe, California, that has supported local youth, families, and individuals since 1971. They combine behavioral health counseling with housing assistance and practical supportive services, aiming to help people build well-being and independence. Their counseling program serves all ages and includes mental health assessments, individual counseling, and family counseling, with an emphasis on prevention and early intervention. For young people facing homelessness or housing instability, they also offer transitional housing, rehousing help, and a youth drop-in center.

Their licensed therapists, registered associates, and student therapists use solution-focused therapy, trauma therapy, play therapy, and family reunification work. Housing options include an 18-month Transitional Living Program for youth ages 16 to 21, including young parents, and a 12-month Housing First program for young adults ages 18 to 24 built on harm reduction. They also run short-term Rapid Rehousing with up to six months of aftercare and a seasonal Winter Shelter for ages 18 to 26 that uses hotel vouchers. The drop-in center provides food, clothing, showers, laundry, and help getting IDs, while the Elevate Youth Tahoe program addresses substance use by building leadership and civic engagement among young people ages 12 to 26.