Growing Up Online: How Social Media Shapes Today’s Youth
Mental Health America of Spartanburg County and the 2025 Educational Series host for November…”Resources for Overcoming Insurance Obstacles to Care” presented by Morgan Strickland, Ph.D., LMFT-S, Associate Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy, Associate Program Director for the MFT Program at Converse University.

We are so thankful to Morgan Strickland for presenting our November Educational Series!
Overall Purpose
This presentation explores the complex and evolving relationship between social media and youth development.
Drawing on current research and clinical insights, the session examines the psychological, emotional, and social effects of social media use among adolescents. Topics include the impact on self-esteem and body image, the role of algorithms in shaping identity and behavior, and links to anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption.
The presentation also addreses protective factors, digital literacy, and strategies for caregivers, educators, and mental health professionals to support healthy media use. Participants gain a deeper understanding of both the risks and opportunities that social media presents for todayโs youth.
Meet Our Presenter
Morgan Strickland, Ph.D., LMFT-S,
Morgan Strickland is an Associate Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and the Associate Program Director for the MFT program at Converse University. She is also an AAMFT approved and state approved supervisor. At Converse, Morgan enjoys spending time mentoring students and collaborating on research projects. She also provides individual, couple, and family therapy at a local group practice, Modern Wellness Family Counseling, LLC, and is a member of the AAMFT Leadership Development and Recruitment Committee. Morganโs research focuses on resiliency factors surrounding survivors of family violence. She is interested in how violence is perpetuated through communication technologies and how MFTs and other mental health professionals can better assess and intervene with cyberbullying and cyber dating abuse. She and her husband Geoffrey, a teacher and football coach at Chapman High School, live in Inman with their two daughters and their dog, Luna.
Webinar Recording
Thank You!
Thank you to our sponsors who continue to provide support for our events!
Stay tuned for information about our 2026 lineup! Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for regular updates and reminders.


