I am a former therapist who has worked with children, adolescents, and teenagers in individual and group therapy settings. I began my mental health career employed with a psychiatric hospital before I left to counsel children and their families in a nonprofit community-based program. I then became the on-site Director of an Independent Living Program which assisted teenagers and young adults transitioning into independence. Along with counseling, we provided training for healthy coping skills, assertiveness, and social skills. As someone who has struggled with shyness and feeling awkward in social situations since childhood, I can relate to others who find social situations stressful or attempt to avoid approaching new people or situations. I try to teach students the value of believing in themselves while connecting with others and being a part of a community.