The Power of a Positive Relationship

When Jay entered our free Therapeutic Mentoring program, he was having trouble sleeping and suffered from anxiety attacks. He was struggling to pass his high school classes and felt isolated. He never wanted to leave the house, even to attend family gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas. His mother, raising him alone, worried for his future. 

One of our mentors, Dave Hermanson, cultivated a strong relationship with Jay. Together, they set personal, academic and professional goals. They also collaborated with a school counselor. Jay learned to be more organized and accountable with his studies, and he was able to cultivate meaningful friendships. 

Hermanson encouraged Jay to apply for his first job. Hired by a supermarket, Jay received numerous compliments from his supervisor. Then, as he grew in confidence and maturity, he became more hopeful about his future.  

“We worked on career planning. I referred him to an outside organization that gave him additional job coaching, vocational counseling and help getting into college,” Hermanson reported. “I had the pleasure of attending his high school graduation. I am very proud of how far Jay has come.” 

At the end of Jay’s mentoring experience, his mother commented, “Jay really opened up and learned to trust people more. Now he seems more comfortable around others. He is less anxious and more optimistic about his future.” 

PCHAS operates Therapeutic Mentoring in Missouri counties of Boone, Lincoln and St. Louis. Mentors have a degree in social sciences or related experience and are paid employees of PCHAS. They use evidence-based techniques to work with children ages 4-19. Call 800-888-1904 for more information or write info@pchas.org.