Hi, I'm Stepheni!
For nearly 20 years, I have dedicated my career toward supporting youth and families through some of life's most challenging moments. My passion lies in helping young people build confidence, resilience, and the skills they need to thrive- while also empowering families to reconnect, strengthen, rebuild trust, and grow together.
I'm certified in Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), Positive Psychology, Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Nurturing Parenting, Trauma-Informed Care, Peer Support, and Insight Coaching; I also have extensive experience in Intensive Care Coordination, Case Management, and Skill Building. This diverse background allows me to meet families exactly where they are, with the tools that are both practical and transformational.
My approach is strengths-based- as I believe that EVERY youth and family already has unique skillsets and inner resources that can be unlocked and amplified. By focusing on what's working, rather than only on what's "wrong," I help guide young people toward healthier coping strategies, stronger self-esteem, and improved communication skills. Families benefit from deeper connection, improved understanding, and a renewed sense of hope for the future.
Whether your child is struggling with self-esteem, emotional regulation, behavioral issues at home or school, or difficulty navigating specific challenges, I provide a supportive, intuitive, and compassionate space that fosters growth, confidence, and lasting change- for both your child and your family as a whole.
Expected Outcomes
- Building effective & healthy coping skills
- Developing a strong sense of self-worth, values, and replacing negative core beliefs with positive perspectives
- Improved academic and social behaviors/attitudes
- Developing positive routines and habits
- Skills to navigate around and overcome anxiety, depressive states, and lack of motivation
- Improve family connections, communication, and cultivating cohesiveness at home
- Developing strong interpersonal skills (on and offline)
- Teaching skills such as emotional regulation, anger management, and effective conflict resolution
- Assistance in building NATURAL support systems for youth & family members
- Teaching self-advocacy, assertiveness, and establishing boundaries
- Intervention as well as Prevention techniques
Professional Training and Certifications:
- Positive Psychology
- Trauma Informed Care
- Conflict Resolution
- Anger Management
- Neurolinguistic Programming
- Insight (Life) Coaching
- Peer Support Specialist (OR)
- Qualified Mental Health Associate (OR)
- Prevention Specialist
Relevant Experience:
- Wraparound Care Coordinator
- Family Support Specialist
- Family Coach
- Employment Specialist
- Enhanced Visitation Supervision
- Teen Director
- Executive Director of two youth organizations
- Emergency Services/Housing Advocate
- Youth Services Program Director
- Prevention Specialist
- Youth Outreach Coordinator
I've Been Exactly Where You Are...
I'm a mom of a teenage daughter- which automatically makes me fluent in eye rolls, teenage slang that I only pretend to understand (I've been called "Ohio" on a couple of occasions), and surviving the emotional roller coaster of "best day ever" followed by "my life is ruined" within the same hour- and is most often do to a hair or wardrobe malfunction. Add in the fact that I'm part of a blended family, and let's just say I've got a PhD in navigating chaos while still keeping everyone alive and mostly happy.
Parenting isn't a neat and tidy job. It's messy, loud, and sometimes heartbreaking- but it's also filled with the most rewarding, gut-punching moments of love and connection.
I don't just talk about family struggles from a textbook or provide generic affirmations; I LIVE THEM every single day.
This is why my coaching is rooted in empathy, humor, and real-world strategies that are tailored to your family's specific and unique needs- and these strategies ACTUALLY WORK.
I believe families don't need perfection- they need tools, hope, and someone who truly understands what it's like to be in the trenches. My job is to help you strengthen your child's confidence, build healthier connections, and to remind you that you're NOT failing- you're HUMAN just like the rest of us.