Teen Talking Circles

When we give youth a safe space to tell the truth, 

we save lives.

"I get worn out by life and coming to Circle gives me a place and time where I can be myself, where I can connect.                                  It reminds me that I am not alone." - Circle Participant

"Circle has helped me more than anything in finding who I am and being more confident about every side of me." - Circle Participant

One of the most powerful gifts we can give youth and families is a safe space to tell the truth, where they can be heard, accepted, and supported as their full selves. In a time of increasing social isolation, young people and caregivers alike need spaces to connect authentically, build trust, and strengthen the skills of communication, empathy, and emotional awareness.

For over 30 years, Teen Talking Circles™ has supported youth mental health by creating emotionally safe, facilitated spaces where connection and belonging can grow. Our work helps young people develop strong voices, a sense of agency, and lifelong emotional and relational skills. These experiences foster resilience, deepen self-understanding, and support healthier relationships at home, in school, and in the wider community.

"TTC transforms not only the teens but also everyone who then encounters them." - Eric Liu, Founder, Guiding Lights, Citizen University

Today, our programming extends beyond traditional circles to meet the evolving needs of youth and families. In addition to training adults to lead local and virtual Teen Talking Circles™, we offer youth and family workshops, limited series programs, immersive retreats, and in-depth facilitator trainings for all ages. Our work supports not only teens, but also parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals seeking healthier ways to connect with and support young people.

Through our TTC Facilitator Trainings, youth and adult facilitators are empowered to bring Circle-based practices into their own communities. Alumni of our trainings have launched programs in hospitals, detention centers, foster care programs, community centers, after-school programs, yoga studios, summer camps, faith-based organizations, youth-serving nonprofits, and public and private schools - locally and internationally.

By modeling wholeness, compassion, and inclusivity, Teen Talking Circles™ supports youth and families in developing healthy identities and relationships. In Circle, participants learn to bear witness to one another as full human beings, relate inclusively rather than exclusively, and hold space for both joy and struggle. These shared experiences help young people and families build connection, understanding, and hope, laying the groundwork for a more compassionate and connected world.

“There is a deep hunger in teens that is being fed by TTC. I’m grateful that my daughter had a Girl¹s Teen Talking Circle, and I only wish I’d had one when I was young.” 

- Phil Rockefeller, former Washington State Senator for the 23rd District

START A CIRCLE, SAVE A LIFE. 

We are a community funded nonprofit organization and we are truly grateful for your support! Interested in becoming a Board Member? Reach out to us at info@teentalkingcircles.org