Positive Education Program
Erika Hansen is an experienced educator with a focus on supporting children and youth with autism spectrum disorder and complex developmental disabilities. Currently serving as an Associate Teacher Counselor at Positive Education Program since August 2016, Erika contributes to the PEP Prentiss Autism Center, working with school-age youth facing severe behavioral challenges. Additionally, Erika has been a Summer Program Second Grade Teacher at Glenview Center for Child Care Learning since June 2012, responsible for lesson planning and maintaining a safe learning environment. Prior experience includes serving as a Direct Care Provider at Community Living Services, where collaboration with other care providers facilitated support for young adults with cognitive disabilities. Erika holds a Bachelor's Degree in Studies in Children and Youth from Hope College and has participated in an educational program at CIEE Global Institute Austria.
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Positive Education Program
Dr. Nicholas Hobbs, the architect of Re-ED philosophy that guides PEP, once wrote that young people have a “tremendous desire to learn and to do well.” At PEP, we take that sentiment to heart and build upon the existing strengths of children and families, helping them replace self-defeating beliefs and behaviors with resiliency, knowledge, communication skills and confidence. PEP teacher-counselors develop trusting relationships with young people that help them heal, grow and ultimately thrive. PEP embraces an organizational mindset – The Sanctuary Model – that fosters therapeutic environments where supportive relationships can blossom. Also, as a Phase 1 certified NMT site through The ChildTrauma Academy, PEP is committed to understanding and overcoming the significant trauma and chronic stress experienced by many of the children we serve. As one of Ohio’s largest non-profit agencies committed to children, PEP positively impacts the lives of more than 2,500 children and their families each year. Founded in 1971, PEP provides services in the following areas: Integrated Special Education & Mental Health; Early Childhood; Autism; Community Support; and Consultation & Training. PEP operates many programs including six PEP Day Treatment Centers, PEP Early Childhood Plus, PEP Assist and PEP Connections.