- February 16, 2022
- Jennifer Salerno
Unprotected sex and sexual behaviors remain at the top of youth health risks. Yet connecting with youth in risk-reduction conversations is as challenging as ever. Technology can help to bridge this gap – engaging youth and opening the door to meaningful dialogue. It’s no surprise that youth are more honest with technology-based risk screenings, but the benefits don’t stop there.
- Evidence-based education is automatically tailored to each youth’s identified risks,
- Standardized, comprehensive sexual health history and safer sex action plan completed by ACT for every youth
- Ongoing follow-up delivered to youth via text messaging.
The Adolescent Counseling Technologies for Sexual Health (ACT-SH) from Possibilities for Change was designed to provide these benefits, acting as a “virtual health educator” for busy professionals and clinicians. ACT-SH can be delivered in person or virtually in both clinical and non-clinical settings – from schools and community-based programs to social services and physician offices. Providing a personalized and standardized experience for every youth, ACT-SH encourages youth honesty and creates a bridge between professionals and the youth they work with.
Schedule a call with us today to learn more about these outcomes and how ACT-SH can support your important sexual health work with youth.
About the Author
Jennifer Salerno, DNP, CPNP, FAANP, is the Founder and CEO of Possibilities for Change and a nationally recognized clinician, researcher, and social entrepreneur. A passionate clinician, visionary leader, and devoted parent, Dr. Jen is on a mission to change the odds for at-risk youth by blending evidence-based clinical practice with research, radical partnership, and unwavering empathy. With more than 30 years of experience in pediatric care, adolescent development, and school-based health services, she developed RAAPS (Rapid Adolescent Prevention Screening) at the University of Michigan and launched Possibilities for Change to scale that methodology nationally — supported by trauma-responsive technology and a comprehensive approach to youth wellbeing. As a mother of two, Dr. Jen brings both professional expertise and personal commitment to every aspect of this work.