“Be a Mr. Jensen”: A Quick Dose of Inspiration

Clint Pulver with his drums

This short video (3.12) shares the story of a teacher who alters the life trajectory of a 10-year-old boy who is getting into trouble regularly at school. It is heartwarming and touches our aspirations as mental health practitioners, but more importantly, it embodies a strength-based approach in the following ways:

​1.  By reframing a problematic behavior as an asset that has the potential to become a talent. In CANS terms, it takes a “2” rated strength and builds into a “0” rated strength.
2.  By reinforcing the belief that every behavior has meaning and serves a purpose – it just may have been difficult to uncover until now.
3.  By centering connection as a significant agent of change. The innate transformational impact of seeing each youth as more than their struggles is enormous.
4.  By reminding us of our crucial function as holders of hope that things can be different.

We don’t know if every child will become a rock star, however, it is imperative to approach each child with the belief that their future has limitless possibilities. 

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