STEPS Program

Supportive Texts Empowering Practical Self-management

Managing diabetes as a teen can be tough.

This program helps reduce diabetes distress, build emotional literacy, and strengthen self-management skills—without judgment or pressure.

The STEPS program is a new pilot program designed to help teens and young adults feel more confident, connected, and emotionally safe while managing type 1 diabetes.

We blend text message-based support, with clinical expertise tailored to the real-life challenges faced on the journey towards independent self-management.

What is included in this program?

1:1 Onboarding Consult
- Telehealth intake to understand goals and needs
Text-Based Support
- Weekly check-ins, mood prompts, and “tiny wins” celebrations via SMS
Expert Help, Right When You Need It
Optional CGM Data Sharing
- Real-time support available with consent
Group Sessions
- Online meetups every 2–3 months to share stories and explore topics often not well educated
Bring-a-Friend Sessions
- Education for friends or partners to support shared understand

Please note this is a pilot program but your participation will help to build something bigger and better for yourself and others. Some elements are still being worked out

Access to Clinical Expertise—When It Matters Most

Got questions like:

“How do I manage drinking alcohol at a party this weekend?”
“How do I explain my pump at school?”

STEPS is judgment-free, clinically informed guidance—whether it’s about social situations, emotional stress, or diabetes management. No question is too awkward, too small, or too real.