Youth Uplift!

Youth Uplift (YUP!) is here for youth ages 12–18 who are facing challenges, feeling alone, or struggling with things like anxiety, depression, stress, identity, or just life in general. If you're dealing with stuff that feels too heavy to carry on your own, you don’t have to do it alone.

YUP offers free, confidential one-on-one counselling with a mental health professional who truly understands youth. These are people who get it—no judgment, just real support. Whether you're feeling lost, numb, overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to, we’re here for you.

Therapy is built around you. Sessions are shaped to meet you where you’re at—emotionally, mentally, and personally—so you can move forward at your own pace.

We know that cost and access are major barriers. That’s why all YUP services are 100% free—no insurance, no hidden fees, ever. And if getting to your session is tough, we’ll help with transportation too. You deserve support, and we’ll do what we can to make sure nothing stands in your way.

Once your referral is submitted, a member of our team will get in touch with you to book your first appointment. We’ll work with you to find a time that fits your schedule and a space where you feel comfortable. You have the option to meet at our Youth Lounge, which has a relaxed, trendy, welcoming vibe, or at our Counselling Office just up the road, if you prefer a professional therapy setting. The choice is completely up to you.

During your first appointment, you'll be matched with our counsellor. From there, you and your counsellor will decide together how often to meet—weekly, bi-weekly, or whatever pace feels right for you. We want to make sure you feel supported in a way that works best for your life and your goals.

We support youth ages 12 to 18 living in and around Miramichi. To get involved, youth and their families just need to be open to connecting with our team and showing up for sessions. We typically work with youth who are facing a few challenges — usually at least 3 to 5 of the following: dealing with substance use (their own or a parent’s), living in poverty, struggling with mental health, lack of parental support or supervision, limited support systems, exposure to domestic violence, or a parent involved in crime. Some youth may have had past contact with police or be involved in risky situations that could lead there. Others might be disconnected from school, not have access to sports or activities, or feel isolated from positive peers. We're here to step in and help build a stronger support network.