As a teenager during quarantine, I was going through a tough time. Everything felt uncertain and overwhelming. Like so many others, I found myself struggling with depression and anxiety. At the time, my mom was working from home with Identity as a Community Mental Health Worker for a new program called Encuentros, peer-led, non-clinical emotional health groups for adults.
I remember her telling me how passionate she was about helping others; how meaningful it was for her to create connections even through a screen. One day, she encouraged me to join a new Encuentros group just for teens. I wasn’t sure at first, but something told me to give it a try. Looking back now, that decision changed everything for me.
Being part of that group helped me more than I ever imagined. I slowly started feeling like I wasn’t alone. I connected with other teens who were also trying to find their way, and each session made a difference in how I tackled stress and anxiety. When I completed all eight sessions, I was offered the chance to train as a Youth Peer Leader to help run groups with Identity staff. I was excited and honestly a little nervous, but I said yes.
That moment was the beginning of something bigger. Becoming a peer leader gave me purpose. I began to understand the power of creating safe spaces for others, especially youth, to feel seen and heard. I saw how it created real connection, healing and growth.
After I graduated high school, I accepted a job on the Encuentros team at Identity that opened up a whole new chapter in my life. I never imagined how much it would change me. From helping students during their lunch breaks, visiting schools and creating spaces where they could express themselves freely, I saw firsthand the impact we could make by helping teens learn how to feel comfortable expressing themselves no matter how difficult it is, releasing them to be their authentic selves.
Encuentros didn’t just help others, it helped me find myself and my true passion. I will be pursuing a career in social work. It feels so right.
