An overwhelming number of young adults experience anxiety and depression. If left untreated they are at increased risk for loneliness, academic struggles, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and other mental health or developmental challenges (Pottick, et al., 2008). In the last 20 years a treatment option referred to as Young Adult Transition programs has emerged to support young adults as they launch into healthy, independent lifestyles.
Dr. Mona Treadway shares the findings from a comprehensive research project examining the experience of 17 young adults who completed a young adult transitional living program. It highlights the importance of high quality connection and relationships, community and culture, and experiential education for young adults as they move to find their place in the world. Dr. Treadway disseminates important feedback for programs and families working with adults on topics such as dating, medication management, group therapy, and family work.
ABOUT MONA TREADWAY
Mona Treadway has a doctorate in Leadership and Change through Antioch University where her research focused specifically on young adults in treatment. She is also a graduate of Portland State University with a Master’s in Social Work and a graduate of Prescott College with a B.A. in Human Development and Wilderness Leadership. She has worked with a variety of populations, including women survivors of breast cancer and Native Alaskan teenagers dealing with substance abuse issues. Mona has led therapeutic wilderness trips taught college-level outdoor courses and wilderness skills such as rock climbing, skiing, kayaking, glacier travel, and backpacking. Her graduate internships included working at hospice, a drug and alcohol outpatient program and as a counselor at Oregon Institute of Technology. While at OIT she received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Suicide Assessment and Prevention.
Mona loves working with people and is a natural-born therapist with a gift for helping young adults “let go” and accept their situation so they can begin building meaningful lives. Mona has a clear understanding of family dynamics and an ability to help families move from crisis into stability. She particularly loves program development and creates an environment where staff and students alike engage in the process of growth and changes.
