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.

Education

Positive Education Program

Habeebah R. Grimes

Shantelle Paul

Sarah Rodgers

Rachel McDonnell

Monica James

Meech Drayton

John Callahan

Esteban Hayes

Erika Hansen

Chris Sorozak

John Saade

Ann Montgomery

Alexandria Wright

Tory D. Coats

Tim Smith

Atr-Bc Stacy Blecher Cmp

Lesley Kelly

Derrick Davis

Cyndy Edwards

Brian Edmonds

Brett Hopkins

Matthew P. Dugovics

John Sesek

Deanna Moore

Diane Gatto Barrett

The Education and Counseling Team at Positive Education Program (PEP) is dedicated to fostering the academic, emotional, and social growth of children through trusted relationships and tailored interventions. This multidisciplinary team—comprising teacher-counselors, special education specialists, and therapist associates—works collaboratively to provide integrated special education and mental health services, leveraging therapeutic frameworks like The Sanctuary Model and the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT). They support children in overcoming trauma and chronic stress, facilitating resilient, confident, and communicative young individuals.

Education and Counseling Team

Leadership Team

Education and Counseling Team

About

Team members

Other teams at Positive Education Program

Leadership Team