Today we’d like to introduce you to Sonja Cousar.
Hi Sonja , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Sonja Cousar, and my journey to helping youth began with my own story of brokenness, redemption, and purpose.
There was a time in my life when shame, rejection and struggle defined who I thought I was. I carried the weight of past mistakes, self-doubt, and feelings of not being enough. But God had a greater plan. Through His grace, He began to show me that my pain had a purpose — that my story could become a bridge for others to find healing, hope, and strength.
As I walked through my own process of restoration, God gave me a passion to serve young people — especially those who feel unseen, misunderstood, or trapped by challenges like ADHD traits, anxiety, and emotional struggles. I wanted to be for them what I once needed: a safe place to grow, learn, and believe that change is possible. I believe that the brain can change with the right support and skills provided to our community. I believe they need someone that can show some compassion to the past and guide with present.
That calling led me to start Sunshine Counselor, my private practice, where I began helping individuals and families find emotional balance and spiritual healing. But as I worked with youth, I realized there was a deeper need in our community — a place where young people could not only receive counseling but also learn the practical life and coping skills that transform the way the brain and heart respond to stress.
That vision became the Bridge of Strength Community Center — a organization dedicated to helping youth with ADHD move from striving to thriving. Through mentoring, skill-building, and learning see how they can values themselves by setting boundaries, help with finding if they want to attend college or finding employee and we teach young people how to regulate emotions, strengthen focus, and develop healthy ways to cope with life’s challenges.
What started as my personal pain has now become a purpose-driven mission. Every day, I see how God turns broken stories into testimonies. My goal is simple — to help the next generation discover that they are more than their struggles, and that with support, and the right tools, they can walk boldly into the life created for them.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but it’s been a rewarding one. Starting the Bridge of Strength Community Center has come with its share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been gaining consistent community support and finding the right space and resources to create a safe environment where youth can truly thrive.
Another challenge has been helping families and the community understand that our program isn’t about discipline — it’s about development. Many youth who struggle with ADHD or emotional regulation are often misunderstood. My mission is to shift that perspective — to help others see that these young people don’t need punishment; they need patience, purpose, and encouragement to grow into confident leaders in their community.
Securing financial support has also been an ongoing challenge. Finding grants, attracting community sponsors, and recruiting volunteers to assist with fundraising and mentoring takes time and dedication. But I believe that with continued outreach and faith, God will send the right people and resources to help us expand our impact.
Encouraging youth to attend regularly and participate in after-school activities has also tested my perseverance. Competing with busy schedules, social media, and the distractions of daily life isn’t easy — but I’m committed to showing them that this is not just another program. It’s a place where they belong, where they can build confidence, and where they can learn life and leadership skills that prepare them for a brighter future.
Every obstacle has strengthened my faith and focus. I’ve learned that growth takes time, consistency, and community. Even when the road isn’t easy, I hold onto the truth that God equips those He calls — and that gives me the strength to keep moving forward.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Bridge of Strength Community Center was birthed out of a deep desire to empower youth — especially those living with ADHD and emotional challenges — to move from striving to thriving. We are a faith-based organization committed to helping young people strengthen their emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being through mentorship, skill-building, and community support.
At Bridge of Strength, we don’t focus on discipline — we focus on development. We teach youth practical life and coping skills that help them improve focus, emotional regulation, communication, and self-awareness. Our programs are designed to help “change the brain in healthy ways” through structure, creativity, and connection. We want every child to know that their challenges don’t define them — their strength, character, and faith do.
We specialize in working with youth ages 12-18 who have ADHD, learning difficulties, or behavioral struggles, helping them discover their potential as future leaders. What sets us apart is our holistic approach — combining evidence-based counseling strategies with values and community engagement. We meet each child where they are and walk with them toward where they’re meant to be. We are seeking to expand for parenting groups for support.
In addition to our youth programs, our founder, (Sonja) Cousar, operates Sunshine Counselor, a private counseling practice that provides individual and family therapy. Through both organizations, we’re able to bridge professional mental health services with compassionate community outreach.
Brand-wise, we are most proud of being a safe space — a place of light, hope, and healing. Our name, Bridge of Strength, represents what we strive to be: a bridge that connects youth from hardship to healing, from confusion to clarity, and from isolation to community.
We want readers to know that this work comes from the heart. We’re not just building programs; we’re building purpose. Every workshop, mentoring session, and community event is designed to uplift, inspire, and equip the next generation with the tools they need to thrive — mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
No journey is walked alone, and I’m deeply grateful for the people God has placed in my life who have guided, encouraged, and prayed for me along the way.
My Pastor, Patricia Gregory of Linked Up Church, has been one of my greatest spiritual mentors. Her wisdom, faith, and encouragement have reminded me to stay grounded in God’s purpose and to trust His timing, even when the path seemed uncertain. She has taught me what it means to lead with grace, serve with humility, and walk boldly in the calling God has placed on my life.
I’m also thankful for my supervisor, Ms. Andrea Garwood, whose professional guidance and belief in my abilities helped shape me into a stronger counselor and leader. She has modeled excellence, integrity, and patience — qualities I now try to pass on to others through my work.
And of course, I could not have made it this far without my friends and supporters who have stood beside me during every challenge and milestone. Their prayers, encouragement, and reminders to “believe in myself” have kept me motivated on the days when progress felt slow or uncertain.
Each of these individuals has played a special role in helping me grow — not just in business, but in faith, confidence, and perseverance. Their influence continues to inspire me to pour into others the same way they poured into me.
Pricing:
- 175.00 for private session
- 35 for group per week
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bridgeofstrengthcommunitycenter.com/
- Instagram: bridgeofstrength_cc
- Facebook: Bridge of Strength Community Center
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DP44yL2E754/
