Words That Build Us
Affirmations and prayer carried me through my teen years and into my twenties during moments when I felt worthless. I didn’t know then that what was sustaining me would one day become part of how I supported others as a youth and family counselor. It was an honor to share those same grounding practices with my clients.
15 years ago, during one of my therapist internships in South Central LA, I worked at a boot camp for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. All of the parents spoke only Spanish, and I remember asking God how I would support families without fully knowing the language. Yet having grown up in Los Angeles, I understood more than I realized and spoke what Spanish I could. It also helped that I took classes in Mexico City in the Summer of 2007. But I believe it was the power of the Holy Spirit working through me, not my own ability.
It was heartbreaking to witness the harsh conditions the youth experienced being hosed down, yelled at, and made to roll across wet ground and then watch them come into a support group with me, seeking guidance, safety, and compassion in the same environment. I did my best to hold space for them with dignity and care.
One day, when the sergeant was absent, I was unexpectedly asked to counsel the entire group of youth on my own. I picked up the loudspeaker, leaned on faith, and began speaking affirmations over them words of strength, self-worth, and hope. In that moment, I felt the true purpose of my voice, to speak life into young people who needed to be reminded of their humanity and potential. And, most importantly to remind them that they were still good kids.
Working as a youth and family therapist changed me forever. I felt God alchemize the pain and suffering of my youth into purpose. I understood then that I was giving them what my younger self had needed most. Note: This piece was from one of my sessions where I was practicing therapy in WA. #affirmations #empowerment #motivationalspeaker
Reflecting on my own experience working with youth in challenging environments, I've seen firsthand how powerful affirmations can be in fostering self-worth and resilience. In places like juvenile justice centers, young people often face harsh conditions that can erode their sense of identity and hope. Speaking affirmations such as 'I am of great worth,' 'I am strong,' and 'I can do this,' as seen in inspiring words like those from the article's image OCR content, can begin to rebuild confidence and encourage a positive mindset. When I started my work, I often found myself leaning heavily on the combination of faith and positive language. Even when language barriers existed—similar to the author's experience with Spanish-speaking families—the intention behind affirmations transcended words. It was about creating a safe emotional space where youth felt valued and seen beyond their circumstances. The impact of incorporating spiritual strength alongside verbal affirmations cannot be overstated. For example, integrating prayer or moments of reflection helped many young clients reconnect with a sense of inner peace and purpose. This holistic approach, combining empowerment through spoken truths and spiritual grounding, can transform resistance into openness and self-acceptance. Moreover, the practice of rolling out affirmations in group settings – even when unexpected opportunities arise – emphasizes adaptability and the importance of seizing moments to inspire. Often, hearing positive affirmations from a trusted adult or counselor can remind these young individuals that despite their past or current struggles, they are 'still good kids' capable of growth and change. Ultimately, embracing affirmations and faith-based encouragement offers a sustainable way to support youth through trauma and hardship. It equips them with mental tools to face uncertainty with strength and dignity. For practitioners and caregivers, sharing these words from a place of genuine care is a profound act of healing that ripples beyond the immediate moment, nurturing hope and empowerment for the future.