How can you be THAT GIRL?
When I worked with teenage mothers in the foster care system, I saw my fair share of pain and heard plenty of trauma stories. Being in that environment day after day can really take a toll on your idea of humanity and honestly, scares you into believing that sexual predators are EVERYWHERE. It is no coincidence that after 6 years in that field, I could feel pretty hopeless towards the future of humans and the idea that our youth, especially our young girls, could live in a world where they are able to love and be themselves. So this week, when I was honored to be able to attend the I Am That Girl 2017 event in Los Angeles, CA it was refreshing to sit in a room with so many young girls and hear them express their feelings with the emotional intelligence of a Goddess! From taking responsibility for their own actions to setting boundaries in relationships, I Am That Girl is obviously teaching life skills needed to live as your authentic self.
During this 3 day event, these girls are experiencing “all the feels.” So I volunteered to provide therapeutic support for any of the girls that came across feelings that needed extra care processing. So there I am, sitting in a classroom at Loyola Marymount University. The windows are open and you can smell the ocean air with every breeze. I had no idea I was going to experience some of the most inspiring souls that would change my outlook and hope towards the future of women everywhere. If you have never heard of this amazing group of people, check out their website www.iamthatgirl.com. I Am That Girl helps girls from ages 14 to 22 to realize their own power and self worth through group activities, speakers, and events. These girls come from all over the United States to connect with one another and support each other to “love, express, and be exactly who they are.” Since supporting teenage girls to engage in healthy relationships with others and themselves by increasing emotional intelligence is my passion, I believe programs like I Am That Girl are the future. If you or someone you know is looking for a therapist or even considering the option of getting mental health services, contact me! I would love to help you on your journey to a better you!
So please check out www.iamthatgirl.com and take the pledge or join a chapter! And stay tuned for upcoming blog topics related to adolescents such as:
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Back to School
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Balancing Life
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“Hookin Up”
