Geoff Kane

Beyond the Two Pillars of Recovery

Geoff Kane, MD, MPH

  • Episode #18 - Helping Teens Find Their Place in the World

Episode #18 - Helping Teens Find Their Place in the World

Wednesday 4th September 2024

Jessica Kessler shares her experiences working with teens, highlighting the importance of trust, respect, and authentic connections in education.
Explicit
48 minutes
Inspiring
Compassionate
Supportive
Hopeful
Educational

About this podcast

Beyond the Two Pillars of Recovery
Author:
Geoff Kane
Overview:
Categories:
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Recovery Reimagined
Nutritional Pathways to Recovery
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
23 (View all)
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Supporting Teens: Jessica Kessler's Journey in Education

Episode Overview

  • The importance of building trust and respect with teenagers.
  • Providing essential resources to students who lack them at home.
  • The impact of authentic relationships on student development.
  • Innovative methods to foster independence and agency in youth.
  • Challenges and rewards of working with teens in education.
We treat kids as if we can't even trust them with a pencil. If we treat them like that, that's how they're going to act.
In this episode of Beyond the Two Pillars of Recovery, you'll meet Jessica Kessler, a licensed clinical social worker with a passion for working with teenagers. For over 15 years, Jessica has been serving middle and high school students in Chester, Vermont, providing essential resources and support to kids who often lack them at home. She shares her experiences and insights into the importance of connecting with youth and fostering their independence and agency.
From her unique perspective, she reveals how her school system manages to provide vital support despite limited resources. Jessica also discusses a foundation grant that allowed her to visit schools in Vermont, Puerto Rico, and Norway, exploring innovative ways to help young people thrive. The conversation touches on the challenges and rewards of working with teens, the impact of trust and respect in education, and the importance of building authentic relationships.
You'll hear about the creative solutions her school employs to address basic needs and promote emotional intelligence among students. This episode is a heartfelt look at the resilience of young people and the dedication of those who support them. If you're interested in understanding how to better connect with and support teenagers, this episode is a must-listen.