At Dr. Messina & Associates, we’re committed to the emotional and psychological well-being of young people in our community. That’s why we’re proud to be part of the upcoming Tween & Teen Wellness Summit—a unique, in-person event designed to support students and families navigating the challenges of growing up in today’s world.
Dr. Michael Messina, founder of our practice and an experienced psychologist, will be leading a featured class at the event titled “Navigating Social Media Challenges.” This session will focus on helping students, parents, and educators better understand how digital platforms impact self-esteem, mental health, and social development—and how to build healthier habits and boundaries around screen time and social comparison.
The summit takes place on Friday, September 6, and is open for students, families, and local professionals looking to invest in their emotional well-being and community connection.
Why This Event Matters
Growing up has never been easy—but the digital era presents a new wave of challenges for today’s youth. From constant social media exposure to rising academic pressures and mental health struggles, tweens and teens face increasing demands on their time, attention, and emotional energy.
The Tween & Teen Wellness Summit was created to address those needs directly. Through engaging workshops, open conversations, and access to local experts, this event aims to create a space where young people can:
- Build self-confidence and emotional awareness
- Learn practical skills to manage stress, anxiety, and peer pressure
- Explore healthy relationships and boundaries—both online and offline
- Connect with others in a supportive, understanding environment
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend as well, with sessions designed to equip families with tools to support their children through these crucial developmental years.
What to Expect at the Summit
The day will feature interactive workshops, breakout sessions, and speaker panels led by local mental health professionals, educators, and community leaders. Topics will include:
- Social media and screen time
- Coping with anxiety and depression
- Building emotional resilience
- Body image and self-esteem
- Peer relationships and healthy communication
- Mindfulness and stress management techniques
Each session is designed to be age-appropriate, engaging, and actionable—helping participants walk away with tools they can use immediately in their daily lives.
Dr. Messina’s session on social media challenges will explore the often-hidden emotional toll of constant connectivity, the pressures of online image curation, and the role of likes, followers, and online comparison in adolescent self-worth. More importantly, the session will offer practical, relatable strategies to help students regain a sense of agency and self-awareness when navigating their digital lives.
How You Can Participate
The event is free to attend and open to the public, but RSVPs are required due to limited space. You can follow updates and register via the event’s dedicated Instagram page: @youth.wellness.summit
If you’re a parent, educator, coach, or community member who wants to support the emotional health of our next generation, we encourage you to share the event with others, bring your family, and join the conversation.
Printed posters are also available for display at schools, offices, and community centers. If you’d like one, please let us know or download the digital version via the summit page.
Why Dr. Messina & Associates Is Involved
At our practice, we believe that mental health care should extend beyond the therapy room and into the everyday environments where young people live, learn, and connect. Events like the Tween & Teen Wellness Summit offer a meaningful opportunity to engage with students and families in a setting that’s proactive, inclusive, and built around prevention, education, and empowerment.
We’re honored to participate in this summit alongside other professionals who share our commitment to helping youth thrive emotionally, socially, and psychologically.
Mark Your Calendar – We Hope to See You There
The Tween & Teen Wellness Summit isn’t just another event—it’s a community commitment to the well-being of our youth. Whether your child is struggling with stress, navigating social media pressure, or simply looking to feel more confident and connected, this summit can offer valuable guidance and support.
Save the date: Friday, September 6
Location and full schedule details available via Instagram: @youth.wellness.summit
We hope to see you there!
For more information about Dr. Messina & Associates, please call to schedule a consultation.
