Juan’s Transformation: Unlocking Self Confidence through Relationships

When Juan started at PEP Willow Creek as a freshman, he refused to speak to anyone. He wouldn’t socialize with his peers, he wouldn’t volunteer in class, and he wouldn’t answer direct questions. His refusal to speak wasn’t because he couldn’t speak or because he was being intentionally difficult. It was because of his low self confidence. He didn’t believe what he had to say mattered.

In addition to his silence, it also seemed like Juan was hoping no one would notice him. He wore baggy clothing and always wore a mask – though the pandemic was long over. “He told me he wore the mask because he didn’t feel confident about the way he looked,” explained Dena Stosak, the associate teacher-counselor in his classroom. (All of PEP’s classrooms are led by a teacher-counselor who focuses on education and an associate teacher-counselor who focuses on mental health and social emotional learning.)

Strengths-Based Approach

While many people experience periods of low self-confidence from time to time, in its most severe manifestations, it can impede daily functioning. Sadly, many young people who come to PEP struggle significantly with their self-confidence. There are a lot of things that can make a young person feel so insecure. For some, it is a symptom of a mental health diagnosis. For others, it’s the result of experiencing trauma or abuse. For still others its simply about lacking the skills necessary to navigate interactions successfully. Thankfully, at PEP we know a thing or two about unlocking self confidence and helping young people reach their potential.

Despite his reluctance to interact, the staff at PEP Willow Creek knew right away that Juan had a lot to offer. At PEP, we follow a strengths-based philosophy, where we focus on the gifts a young person has, rather than any deficits. Juan’s teachers did just that. They began building relationships with him to better understand his needs. It was clear, once they got to know him, how much he cared about the people at his school.

As his relationships at school flourished, Juan began to feel better about himself. He started to come out of his shell, always thinking of and caring for those around him.  “He always puts others ahead of himself,” said Alissa Domann. “He even checks in on the teachers.”

Juan’s Transformation

This year, as a junior, his progress is evident. It’s common for Juan to come to school sporting dress clothes – including a tie! His community-building talents – which were there all along, of course – have been on display many times this year. He regularly devises fun ideas for his class and his school – and has led several special activities. He especially enjoys creating activities for the younger kids at PEP Willow Creek.

Considering how little Juan interacted with people when he first came to PEP, his engagement is impressive. “He and one of his friends coordinated a snowman building contest for the younger kids,” said Domann. “When they were announcing it to the kids, they went class to class to explain the event. Juan watched his friend make the announcement in the first few classrooms, and then he said he felt confident enough to try it. If you had asked me last year, I never would have guessed he would be standing in front of a class presenting anything. He was the quietest kid in every class!”

Juan’s Turkey Decorating Contest

Another activity Juan coordinated this year was a turkey decorating contest. He says he was walking down the hall one day and heard one of the younger kids make a gobbling sound like a turkey. It gave him the idea to create a school-wide competition. Listen to him explain it in his own words in this video (which he agreed we could post on PEP’s website and social media pages!)

His teachers recognize his talent, encourage him and continue to strengthen relationships in the classroom. “We talk a lot about our school family and how we all take care of each other,” explained Stosak. “Ms. Domann and I keep a cabinet full of snacks, so no one goes hungry. We want the kids to feel cared for. Juan senses that. He’s very grateful.”

Giving Love to People

For Juan, these relationships have had a profound impact in unlocking his self-confidence. He feels more self-assured. He no longer hides behind a mask and is enjoying his new dapper style. “People notice him. He is well liked by everyone,” Domann adds.

In February, Juan planned a special surprise for the younger kids – bags filled with treats and Valentine messages for Valentine’s Day. When asked why he planned this activity he says it was “to sort of give love to people.” It’s a message his PEP staff have been cultivating in word and action since he walked through our doors. Now, thanks to their hard work, Juan no longer feels like he needs to hide himself away. His generous spirit and kindness are evident to everyone around him – and it’s a gift.

Learn More

For more information about PEP’s Day Treatment Centers like PEP Willow Creek, visit our website. Contact Nicole Molnar, sr. director, clinical services, at 216-361-7760 ext. 110 or via email to see if a student in your district may be a good fit for Positive Education Program.

Please note, referrals to PEP’s Day Treatment Centers are made through school districts in consultation with parents. Interested parents or caregivers should contact their school administrator.