Boise, ID: Northwest College Support- a life skills and academic support program for college students based in Coeur d Alene, Idaho- is expanding services into Boise, Idaho with the launch of the Gemba Gap Program.  Gemba provides individual therapy, academic support, mentorship, housing, and other supportive services to young adults ages 18-25. In Japanese, the term “gemba” means “the actual place” as well as “a place where value is created.” The Gemba Gap Program aims to help young adults who are needing time, space, and structure in order to find direction in life.

Program Director Bernie Zimmerman MA, LCPC, says “The Gemba team operates on agreements and relationships with clients who choose to work with us. These agreements include an emphasis on doing our best, treating others with respect and kindness, maintaining an awareness of our impact on others, and being thankful. These agreements are important as we navigate our various interests, and meet challenges while exploring our independent paths.” Given the difficulty of transitioning into adulthood, Gemba Gap Program is designed for young adults who feel unsure about their direction in life. The program provides opportunities for young adults to find passions and career or academic interests through mentorship, and both group and individual therapy.

Young Adults enrolled in the Gemba Gap Program can live in either the Gemba House or nearby apartments (both within the city of Boise). During their stay, the support team helps clients assess and discover their personality traits, motivations, and values. This assessment ultimately leads to collaboration on an “action plan” individualized for the client. In conjunction, clients may enroll in courses at Boise State University, University of Idaho extension campus, or a number of community colleges and vocational trade schools. Online coursework is also available. The dynamic city of Boise is also rich in employment opportunities and provides a unique setting for ample outdoor recreation.

 
About Northwest College Support and Gemba Gap Program

Since 2012, Northwest College Support has operated a program for college students needing support with learning disabilities, life skills, and mental health. The Coeur d’Alene-based company now also provides services in Boise, Idaho with the Gemba Gap Program. Both locations offer dorm-style living, life skills coaching, education coaching, counseling, and other wrap-around services to clients as they attend college or vocational paths in the Spokane- Coeur d Alene, or Boise area.