Child & Teen Therapy in Sapulpa | SafeHarbor Behavioral Health
Serving families in Sapulpa, Kellyville, and surrounding areas with comprehensive mental health services, from Liberty Park to Main Street and Freedom Elementary to Sapulpa High School.
Why Sapulpa Families Choose SafeHarbor
Sapulpa embodies the perfect blend of historical charm and modern community values. Known as the "Crossroads of America" due to its strategic location and rich Route 66 heritage, Sapulpa offers families a unique combination of small-town warmth, educational excellence, and economic opportunity. SafeHarbor Behavioral Health understands what makes Sapulpa special - the deep appreciation for community history and traditions, the strong commitment to family values, and the balance between honoring the past while building for the future that characterizes Sapulpa families.
We proudly serve families throughout the city and surrounding areas, including established neighborhoods near downtown Sapulpa, families along Historic Route 66, residents of Kellyville and surrounding rural Creek County areas, and those throughout the region who appreciate Sapulpa's unique character. We're conveniently accessible with easy access from Highway 97, Main Street, and Highway 66, making it simple for families to coordinate therapy with school activities, work schedules, and the community events that are central to Sapulpa life.
Parents appreciate that we understand the Sapulpa lifestyle - the importance of community connections and neighborhood relationships, the value placed on hard work and family responsibility, and the pride in being part of a community with such rich history and strong character. We know that Sapulpa families often choose to stay here for generations, and we understand both the benefits and challenges of raising children in a close-knit community where everyone knows everyone. Our team includes long-time Sapulpa residents who truly understand what it means to be a Chieftain.
Common Mental Health Challenges in Sapulpa
While Sapulpa offers many advantages for families, including strong community bonds and a supportive environment, certain challenges can impact children's mental health. The balance between maintaining traditional values and adapting to modern pressures, combined with economic and social changes in rural communities, can create specific stressors for young people.
Economic Transition and Family Stress
As traditional industries in the region have changed, many Sapulpa families face economic uncertainty or transitions. Parents working multiple jobs, concerns about job security, and financial stress can create anxiety in children who worry about family stability and their own future opportunities in a changing economy.
Limited Educational and Career Resources
While Sapulpa High School provides a solid education, teens may sometimes feel limited by fewer advanced placement options, college preparation resources, or exposure to diverse career paths compared to larger districts. This can create anxiety about college readiness and competitiveness for scholarships and opportunities.
Small Town Social Pressures and Identity Issues
In close-knit communities, children and teens may struggle with feeling different, questioning traditional values, or wanting to explore identities that don't fit community expectations. The fear of judgment or gossip can prevent young people from expressing themselves authentically or seeking help when they need it.
Substance Use and Mental Health Stigma
Rural communities can face challenges with substance use among teens, sometimes compounded by stigma around mental health treatment. We work to reduce stigma, provide education and prevention services, and help families address these challenges openly and effectively without shame.
Schools We Partner With in Sapulpa
We maintain strong collaborative relationships with Sapulpa Public Schools and area institutions, working closely with counselors, teachers, and administrators to support student success:
Sapulpa Public Schools
- • Sapulpa High School
- • Sapulpa Middle School
- • Freedom Elementary
- • Holmes Elementary
- • Jefferson Elementary
- • Madison Elementary
- • Noel Elementary
- • Parks Elementary
- • Coolidge Elementary
- • Washington Elementary
Area Schools & Programs
- • Kellyville Public Schools
- • Oilton Public Schools
- • Bristow Public Schools
- • Creek County rural schools
- • Homeschool cooperatives
- • Alternative education programs
- • Adult education and career training
Getting to SafeHarbor in Sapulpa
Convenient Access & Parking
Our services are designed to be accessible for families throughout Creek County:
- • Large parking lot with 40+ spaces available
- • Easy access from major Sapulpa highways
- • Handicap accessible parking and building entrance
- • Covered drop-off area for weather protection
- • Well-lit, secure parking for all appointment times
- • Central location for combining with other errands
From Major Sapulpa Areas
- • From Sapulpa High School: 4-minute drive via Main Street
- • From downtown Sapulpa: 2-minute drive via Highway 66
- • From Liberty Park: 3-minute drive via Dewey Avenue
- • From Historic Route 66 areas: Walking distance or 1-minute drive
- • From Kellyville: 10-minute drive via Highway 66
- • From rural Creek County areas: 15-20 minutes via county roads
Highway and Regional Access
- • Direct access from Historic Route 66
- • Easy route from Highway 97 (north-south corridor)
- • Quick access via Highway 33 from eastern areas
- • Convenient from Highway 16 (southern Creek County)
Located in Historic Sapulpa
Our team is strategically positioned near the landmarks and places that define Sapulpa:
Close to Historic Sites:
- • Historic Route 66 corridor
- • Sapulpa Historical Museum
- • Downtown Sapulpa shopping district
- • Liberty Park and Recreation Center
- • Sapulpa Community Center
- • Multiple SPS school campuses
Convenient Amenities:
- • Walmart and local shopping centers
- • Various restaurants and local diners
- • Homeland grocery and local markets
- • Coffee shops and local cafes
- • CVS, Walgreens, and pharmacy services
- • Banking and professional services on Main Street
Success Story from Sapulpa
"Our daughter was struggling with severe anxiety and depression during her junior year at Sapulpa High School. She felt trapped between wanting to leave Sapulpa for college and feeling guilty about abandoning family and community. She was also dealing with some questioning of her identity that she felt she couldn't talk about with anyone in our small town. As parents, we felt lost and worried about saying or doing the wrong thing."
"SafeHarbor was a godsend. The therapists understood both our daughter's individual needs and the unique dynamics of living in a small town like Sapulpa. They helped her work through her anxiety and depression, but also helped our whole family learn how to have honest conversations about difficult topics. They never judged our community or suggested our daughter needed to reject her roots - instead, they helped her find ways to be authentic while still honoring her family and hometown."
"Now she's thriving at college but comes home regularly and maintains strong relationships with family and friends. She's learned that she can love Sapulpa and also grow beyond it. The family therapy sessions helped us become closer and more open with each other. SafeHarbor helped us navigate challenging times while keeping our family bonds strong."
- Susan K., Mother of two, lifelong Sapulpa resident
Our Sapulpa Chieftain Team
Our therapists understand Sapulpa because they're part of the Chieftain community:
Dr. Mary Ellen Thompson, PsyD
Rural Community Psychology Specialist
Sapulpa resident for 20+ years, SPS parent and grandparent. Specializes in anxiety, depression, and identity issues in small-town youth. Former school counselor who understands the unique challenges and strengths of rural Creek County communities.
Daniel Creek, LCSW
Adolescent and Family Specialist
Sapulpa High School graduate who returned to serve his community. Expert in teen identity development, family communication, and helping young people navigate the balance between tradition and personal growth. Active in local church and community organizations.
Dr. Jennifer Walsh, MD
Community Psychiatrist
Specializes in mood disorders, ADHD, and anxiety in children and teens. Experienced in working with rural families and understanding the unique pressures of small-town life. Available for comprehensive evaluations and medication management when needed.
Lisa Running Bear, LPC
Cultural and Family Therapist
Creek Nation member specializing in cultural identity, family systems, and helping young people navigate multiple cultural influences. Expert in addressing mental health stigma and helping families access resources while respecting cultural values and traditions.
Sapulpa Community Resources
We connect families with local Sapulpa and Creek County resources:
Recreation & Activities
- • Liberty Park programs and facilities
- • Sapulpa Community Center activities
- • Sapulpa Historical Museum programs
- • Route 66 heritage and tourism activities
- • Youth sports leagues and teams
- • Local church youth ministries
- • 4-H clubs and agricultural programs
Support Services
- • SPS counseling and student support services
- • Creek County Health Department services
- • Family & Children's Services (Creek County office)
- • Faith community support networks
- • Food banks and emergency assistance
- • Job training and employment resources
- • Crisis support through local emergency services
Frequently Asked Questions - Sapulpa Families
Do you work with Sapulpa Public Schools?
Yes! We have strong partnerships with SPS counselors, administrators, and support staff. We can coordinate with school teams, attend meetings when appropriate, and work collaboratively to ensure students receive comprehensive support both academically and emotionally.
Do you understand the challenges of small-town living?
Absolutely. Our team includes long-time Sapulpa residents who understand the unique dynamics of small-town life - both the benefits and challenges. We know how to help families navigate issues like privacy concerns, social pressures, and community expectations while respecting the values that make Sapulpa special.
Can you help with substance use and mental health stigma?
Yes, we're experienced in addressing both substance use issues and the stigma that can surround mental health treatment in smaller communities. We provide confidential, non-judgmental care and work to educate families and reduce stigma while respecting community values and relationships.
Do you serve families from rural Creek County areas?
Definitely! We serve families from Kellyville, Oilton, Bristow, and rural areas throughout Creek County. We understand the challenges of rural living and offer flexible scheduling and telehealth options when travel is difficult.
Do you offer sliding scale fees for families facing financial challenges?
Yes, we understand that many families in our area face economic pressures. We accept most insurance plans and offer sliding scale fees based on income. We also work with families to develop payment plans when needed. Financial concerns should never prevent families from getting mental health support.
Support Your Chieftain's Mental Health and Future
Join Sapulpa families who trust SafeHarbor for mental health care that honors our community values and traditions.
Proudly serving Sapulpa, Kellyville, and all Creek County communities along Historic Route 66