Orem, UT: STRīV is a transitional living and social/emotional/academic support program for young adults navigating the challenging landscape of independent living. Launching into adulthood can be a struggle, even for some of the brightest emerging adults. And for some, one of the biggest barriers to launching effectively relates to Executive Functioning.
Executive Functioning (EF) comprises a set of cognitive skills that include organization, time management, mental flexibility, self-control, working memory, task initiation and completion, and others. These are skills we use every day to manage the demands of life. Deficits in these areas can make it difficult to focus, follow directions, organize and complete tasks, etc. The good news is that, like any skill, students can learn strategies to improve in the areas of difficulty. Taking a strengths-based approach, STRīV recognizes the importance of helping students excel in their strengths, but also to develop strategies to help manage their weaknesses.
A huge part of the program focuses on Executive Functioning through one-on-one coaching. Tyra Hammond is the Executive Skills Specialist and coach at STRīV. Describing the essence of her work, she shared, “We work with many students who have a lot of intellectual ‘fire power’ but have struggled to feel successful. In school, for example, often the grade doesn’t align with the potential or ability, which then leads to poor self-esteem or a general sense of frustration and discouragement. Students begin to doubt themselves. But when they begin to see that there are a variety of strategies that complement their learning styles and can help move them forward, it’s a beautiful thing!”
And it’s not just academics. Many students struggle to keep track of things, being on-time to appointments, or keeping their living space clean. Coaching can be a tremendous help here too. In her role as EF coach, Ms. Hammond reports, “It’s empowering for the student to be heard and understood, and then guided to establish plans, systems, etc. that THEY define, and that work for THEM. And it’s gratifying to me to see them beaming with pride over their clean apartment, or successfully use a checklist they’ve created to help them stay on-task.”
STRīV is designed to help students manage and improve their social skills, work through emotional challenges, and re-discover their potential. In addition, the individualized and one-on-one work on executive skills has been a tremendous part of the students’ success.
About STRiV
STRiV (Strive Forward, LLC) is a transitional living and college support program for young adults who have struggled on their journey toward independence. STRiV provides social/emotional/academic support and life-skills development through one-on-one mentoring, Executive Skills coaching, and individual & group therapy within a semi-independent living environment. Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah County, STRiV provides supported access to Utah Valley University, myriad vocational programs, unmatched outdoor recreation, and a wide variety of community-based entertainment.