One of the most impactful components of the Teen Wellness Summit was the Teen Mental Wellness Panel Discussion, which provided youth with an opportunity to engage directly with professionals and a peer leader on topics related to mental health, stress management, self-care, and resilience.
The panel featured Dr. Nakita Nicci Cloud, Founder of Cloud Med Institute; Althera Steenes, Behavioral Health and Addiction Counseling Therapist with TCA Health; and Makayla Sims, a youth ambassador and alumna of the J & P National Youth Empowerment Network Safe Place Safe Space Program.
Panelists openly discussed the daily pressures and challenges faced by today’s youth, including academic expectations, social media influences, peer relationships, family responsibilities, and emotional wellness. They shared practical strategies for managing stress, building healthy support systems, developing positive coping skills, and seeking help when needed.
A particularly meaningful aspect of the discussion was hearing directly from Makayla Sims, who provided a youth perspective on balancing school, personal responsibilities, friendships, and self-care. Her transparency and leadership resonated strongly with participants and encouraged meaningful dialogue among the youth in attendance.
The panel concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session where youth actively participated by asking thoughtful questions and seeking guidance on managing real-life challenges. The discussion reinforced the importance of prioritizing mental health, practicing self-care, and recognizing that seeking support is a sign of strength.
The panel served as a powerful reminder that when young people are given safe spaces to share, learn, and connect, they become better equipped to navigate life’s challenges and thrive both personally and academically.
Althera M. Steenes
Behavioral Health & Addiction Counseling Therapist | TCA Health, Inc.
Dr. Nakita Nicci Cloud, PhD
Founder & Certified Integrative Functional Medicine Practitioner
Makayla Sims
Student Leader | Youth Ambassador, J & P National Youth Empowerment Network, NFP
