A logo featuring a light bulb with a brain inside and radiating lines around it, next to the text 'Dr. Brainstorm' in black.

“A safe place for youth to connect and talk about mental health.”

Register now for the Mental Awareness Club (MAC), a free after-school mental health education and prevention program in Coeur d’Alene for middle school students. Join a licensed counselor for games, discussions, and tools to build peer connection, enhance resiliance, and engage in positive childhood experiences.

Group of children and an adult posing indoors, some holding mental health certificates, celebrating achievement at an event.

What is MAC?

Mental Awareness Club (MAC) is a free, weekly after-school program for middle school students in Coeur d’Alene, ID. Led by a licensed therapist, MAC helps youth develop emotional skills, build resilience, and connect with supportive peers and adults.

MAC provides a safe, welcoming space for students to talk about mental health, learn coping strategies, and strengthen the skills they need for success in school, relationships, and life. Through interactive activities, games, and discussions, participants explore topics like:

  • Understanding emotions and self-talk

  • Stress management and coping strategies

  • Building healthy friendships and boundaries

  • Developing empathy and problem-solving skills

  • Recognizing and supporting mental wellness in themselves and others

MAC Details

When: Every Wednesday, 3:30–5:00pm

Where: The Kroc Center - Kootenai Room

Who Can Join: Middle school students in Kootenai County

Cost: Free (registration required) 

A man with glasses and a beard stands in front of a group of young students seated at a table in a classroom. The students are attentively listening. The room has white walls, a door, and a window.

Why MAC Matters

Adolescence is a time of rapid change, emotionally, socially, and academically. The Mental Awareness Club supports youth by embedding the Five Protective Factors into every meeting, helping them develop lifelong mental wellness habits.

A poster for a mental health event targeting youth, titled 'MAC,' with the subtitle 'A safe space for youth to talk about mental health.' The event is for 6th-8th graders, held on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 pm at The Kroc Center, 1765 W. Golf Course Rd., CDA. It is free and includes photos of children and adults.

What Students

Gain from MAC

  • Increased emotional awareness and self-regulation skills

  • Stronger peer and adult support networks

  • Better coping skills for stress and conflict

  • Confidence in advocating for their own mental health needs

  • Positive, stigma-free conversations about mental health

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • HOW DO PARENTS REGISTER?

    Fill out the form, we’ll follow-up with confirmation

  • DOES THE STUDENT NEED A KROC MEMBERSHIP?

    No

  • CAN STUDENTS BE LATE OR PICKED UP EARLY?

    Yes, MAC is an open group. Students are welcome to arrive and leave anytime.

  • WHO CAN I TALK TO FOR QUESTIONS?

    Tyson Durbin, 208-763-0606, tyson.durbin@clearmindcounselingid.com

MAC Parent

“My child looks forward to Wednesdays now. MAC has given them a place to make meaningful connections.

Kroc Center Staff

“This program has been such a blessing. It’s the kind of positive, safe space evrey middle schooler needs.”

Student Voices

  • "It's a place where I can be myself and not feel judged."

    8th grader, 3rd year with MAC

  • "It's helped me understand my feelings better."

    6th grader, 1st year with MAC

  • We talk about real stuff here, not just school stuff."

    9th grade Mentor, 3rd year with MAC

Young boy sitting at a table wearing a gold jacket, with a water bottle and snack in front of him, smiling. In the background, there are large windows and cabinetry.

Reserve your student’s spot with Mental Awareness Club, today

Get in touch