When Jordan first sought therapy with JFS in April, he was struggling with the challenges of ADHD—trouble focusing, impulsivity, emotional overwhelm, and strained relationships. Though he had been relying on medication to manage his symptoms, he longed for a more sustainable solution, one that would help him regain control and strengthen his connections with others.
Through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Jordan began learning practical, skill-based strategies to manage his emotions and reactions. Each week, he returned to therapy with stories of how he was applying these tools in his day-to-day life—and the results were powerful. “I finally feel like I have something that really works for me,” he shared.
As his confidence and emotional stability grew, Jordan made the courageous decision to stop taking his ADHD medication, confident that DBT was giving him the support he needed. Since then, he’s experienced continued improvements in focus, self-regulation, emotional control, and relationships. “I’ve never felt this grounded before,” he said.
One of the most profound moments in Jordan’s journey came during the No Kings Day shooting in Salt Lake City. Instead of succumbing to panic or shutting down, Jordan relied on the DBT skills he had learned to stay calm and focused. He was able to keep others safe, care for himself, and navigate the aftermath of the traumatic event. “I’m proud of how I handled it,” he reflected.
Today, Jordan is not only using the skills he’s learned for his own growth, but he’s also sharing them with the children he works with at summer camp, teaching by example how to manage emotions and cope with stress.
Jordan’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right tools and support, people can overcome life’s toughest challenges and build a life filled with resilience and meaning. JFS is honored to be part of his journey.
For more information on our Affordable Mental Health Programming, please reach out to Lily Hanscom, CMHC, Director of Clinical Services, by calling 801-746-4334.
