“being in this group was like being in a new home, gave me a turn around... back when I was feeling suicidal…gave a reason to keep going. I met people who understood and I knew I wasn’t alone.”

“watching the kids go from being nervous to unsure of themselves, getting up in front of a microphone and crossing over from I can never do this..to I just did that” “music has an incredibly healing quality...people need to recognize its importance it has... especially with kids, ...things like this, make me feel good to be a musician,”

“The group showed that I can express myself and not be ashamed of my feelings and I got to do it through doing something I love, which is music.”

“some of the kids were talking about lyrical things that were pretty deep, kids were expressing themselves sharing their experiences in a real way and we could tell, we were breaking through,”

“It is not often that I feel compelled to share about a great treatment program! It is an innovative therapeutic songwriting group which uses creative and interventions to engage teens. It is a perfect program (alone or as an adjunct to individual therapy) for teens who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or parent conflicts.”

“Dr. Brette-Genzel is a true professional. Having worked with her for many years, I can honestly say that she really cares about her work and her clients. She meets you where you’re at, and gives you enough space to express yourself all while guiding you through the process of self-discovery...”

“This program was amazing! I got close with everyone which was awesome and something I really needed. I learned a lot about myself and others. It helped me cope with challenges in every day life and gave me an outlet to express myself and the challenges. It also helped me recognize the good things in my life. I am looking to continue with Brette, Carol and this group of teens on a monthly basis to stay connected to myself and others. ”

“Brette is a class act. She has not only created a brilliant program on so many levels, but her skills, compassion and advice are phenomenal. I knew every week that my daughter was in good hands. To combine teen group therapy with expression through music is wonderful. The people Brette brought together from Carol to Dave Grohl were exceptional. I am so grateful to have found Acoustic Youth.”

“Acoustic Youth is the best teen therapy group my daughter has ever participated in. The work that Dr. Genzel-Derman does along with her colleagues and mentors for our youth is invaluable. My daughter has been fortunate enough to have participated twice with them. The first time she finished the program she cried and looked me in the eye and said “mom, I haven’t been this happy in a long time. I don’t want it to end”. She had such a wonderful experience with the first group that when she was invited back to attend a second time we did not hesitate in reserving a spot. Myself and her father have noticed the positive changes and growth in our daughter since joining this program. She has a more positive outlook on life and communicates with us when she’s feeling down or troubled. She now wants to pursue a career in therapy in hopes that she can help other teens with their daily struggles in life. We are eternally grateful to Acoustic Youth and their amazing team! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!”