At Alexander Youth Network, we are fortunate to have Neasha Walker, Regional Clinical Director for the Triad & SoPi Region, leading impactful initiatives that make mental health care more accessible for children. With nine years of experience, Neasha’s dedication to supporting youth continues to drive meaningful change.
A Passion for Helping Children Overcome Trauma
Neasha began her journey at Youth Focus in 2019, working closely with children facing mental health challenges. Her expertise and leadership led to her promotion in August 2024, when she stepped into her current role as Regional Clinical Director.
Recognizing a growing need for trauma-informed care, she launched the Bounce Back Program on January 13, 2025. She saw firsthand that many children in Day Treatment were struggling with trauma and mental health experiences. Bounce Back was created to provide specialized care, ensuring these children receive the support they need to heal and thrive.
What is Bounce Back?
Bounce Back is a 10-session group designed for elementary school students struggling with the effects of trauma—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, an accident, or witnessing violence. Offered at your child’s school, this program helps kids develop skills to manage their emotions and behaviors in a healthy way.
How Does It Help?
Bounce Back provides tools to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression, which can show up as:
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- Difficulty concentrating
- Moodiness or irritability
- Loss of interest in activities
- Overwhelming sadness
- Negative thoughts about themselves and others
- Jumpiness or clinginess
Parents and caregivers are also involved, joining for 2-3 individual sessions to better understand and support their child’s healing journey.
Reaching Those Who Need It Most
One of Neasha’s biggest concerns is the increasing number of children being raised by grandparents who lack access to essential mental health services. Through her leadership, she is helping break barriers and extend care to those who might otherwise go without it.
Her Motivation & Message
For Neasha, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing the progress children make. Every small victory, every breakthrough moment—it all fuels her passion for helping kids on their healing journey. Her message to families and children? “Your journey starts with your first footsteps.”
We are grateful for Neasha’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the children and families we serve!
Written by Shay Woodard
