We can help now: (509) 783-7416
Notice: We are no longer accepting new clients. Chaplaincy Health Care has decided, for business reasons, to discontinue its Behavioral Health program effective May 31, 2021. Current clients received a letter from us the week of May 3 about this change and what steps need to be taken. We want a smooth transition of care for everyone.  Current clients are encouraged to call us at (509) 783-7416 with any questions and concerns. Learn more.

Build respectful family relationships

Step-Up believes respect is at the heart of all healthy family relationships. Step-Up helps youth and parents build respectful relationships where all family members feel safe and valued.

Step-up is…

  • A nationally recognized youth-family violence intervention program.
  • A skills-based and restorative group program that focuses on non-violence and respect between family members.
  • A program that emphasizes accountability, empathy, making amends, and competency development to restore family relationships.
  • A program organized into 11-week group sessions. Each group will serve youth ages 12-17 and their parents.

This service is a collaborative effort between the Benton County Commissioners and Chaplaincy Behavioral Health. Groups are free of charge. Assessments are billed to insurance.

Who are the Step-Up group facilitators?

Teresa Avalos, LMHC has been practicing counseling in the Tri-Cities for almost 20 years. She is bilingual and bi-cultural and provides services in English and Spanish.

Robert Ascencio, LICSWA Robert’s path has included overcoming many challenges. It includes joining the Marines, a tour in Kuwait and Iraq and Graduating from U.S.C. School of Social Work. He is bi-lingual (Spanish/Englilsh), and he is completing a clinical internship.

When and where does Step-Up meet?

Step-Up meets on Tuesdays from 6 pm to 8 pm at Chaplaincy Behavioral Health, located at 2108 W. Entiat in Kennewick. The cross street is Hwy 395 and Yelm St.

How do I join a Step-Up group?

Referrals are received from community agencies, Juvenile Justice Center, Benton-Franklin Juvenile Court, schools, youth leaders, Boys & Girls clubs and from parents. Self-referrals are accepted.

For more information to determine if you qualify for this program please call (509) 783-7417 or (509) 460-5804 for Spanish-speaking.

Chaplaincy Health Care complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, or sex. Chaplaincy Health Care does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, or sex.