
Over the last 8 weeks, Lainie has been leading me and a group of teens through such an amazing and personal process, during the Transformative Mentoring for Teens 12-week course. I did a similar check-in after the first 4 weeks of the course, so if you haven’t read that yet, you’re more than welcome to check that out first.
Another four short weeks in our shared journey into the realms of self-discovery, led by the ever-dedicated Lainie, has shown and reinforced the strong bond of connection and growth we are all learning to share with one another. Each two-hour session has remained a sanctuary of laughter, light, and open dialogue—a space meticulously crafted by Lainie to foster unity and exploration. Even through some of the toughest, and not-so lighthearted discussions, it’s become clearer just how safe this space is for everyone involved. Here is a brief overview of the past weeks, and the subjects we have covered so far:
Week 1 – Unveiling Personalities and Their Connection to Core Beliefs
Our journey commenced with a deep dive into the intricacies of personalities and their symbiotic relationship with our core beliefs. Lainie skillfully guided us through the labyrinth of self-awareness, unraveling the layers that contribute to our individuality. By understanding the intricate dance between personalities and core convictions, we laid the groundwork for profound self-discovery.
Week 2 – Navigating Triggers
In our second week, the spotlight turned to triggers—the subtle yet potent catalysts that unlock hidden facets of our psyche. Through insightful discussions and introspective exercises, Lainie illuminated the power these triggers hold in unveiling our hidden beliefs and emotions. The session provided a roadmap for navigating these transformative moments with grace and self-awareness.
Week 3 – Embracing Shadow Work
Delving into the shadows of our subconscious, Week 3 unveiled the transformative practice of shadow work. Lainie artfully guided us through the process of acknowledging and embracing the often-overlooked aspects of ourselves. This exploration empowered us to integrate our shadows, fostering personal growth and a deeper understanding of the complexity within.
Week 4 – The Importance of Play Across Ages
Our most recent excursion explored the universal significance of play throughout various life stages. Lainie masterfully conveyed the importance of maintaining a playful spirit, regardless of age. The session not only offered a delightful exploration of the lighter side of life but also highlighted how play contributes to holistic well-being and resilience.

In Conclusion
As we collectively continue our journey over the last incoming 4 weeks, the anticipation is buoyed by the genuine camaraderie fostered by Lainie’s insightful guidance. Our weekly gatherings, guided by her steady hand, have already become a cornerstone of support and exploration. The foundation laid in these initial weeks promises a continued journey filled with self-discovery, friendship, and the unwavering support of an incredible mentor. Together, we navigate the unpredictable bridge towards adulthood, fortified by the wisdom shared in this transformative space.