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Behind “I’m Fine”, S2 Ep3

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By: OhioGuidestone Content Staff
Fact Checked By: Shane Bakovich, LPCC-S
Shane Bakovich talks about Teens and what's behind I'm Fine on Let's Talk About It With OhioGuidestone

“I’m Fine” is a phrase many teens use every day, but it doesn’t always reflect how they’re truly feeling. Behind the words can be anxiety, depression, self-harm, thoughts of suicide, or emotional struggles they don’t know how to express. Recognizing what may be hidden beneath the surface is one of the most important steps in prevention.

In Season 2, Episode 3 of Let’s Talk About It With OhioGuidestone, Host Derek Rader is joined by Shane Bakovich, LPCC-S, Therapist/Supervisor at OhioGuidestone’s Youth Resiliency and Counseling Center in Medina, for a conversation about suicide, self-harm, and prevention among teens. Together, they discuss warning signs that may be overlooked, how to create safe spaces for honest conversations, and why listening without judgment can make a lifesaving difference.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, coach, someone who supports teens, or a teen yourself, this episode offers practical guidance for recognizing when a teen may be struggling and how compassionate conversations can help them feel seen, supported, and connected before a crisis occurs. Sometimes the most important conversation begins by looking beyond the words, “I’m fine,” so let’s talk about it…

 

If you or someone you care about is struggling, call or text 988 to connect with trained crisis professionals at any time, day or night. For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, call 911. Talking about mental health can save lives, and every conversation matters.

  • Shane Bakovich, M.Ed., LPCC-S, is a Clinical Supervisor and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervision designation dedicated to advancing trauma-informed, equitable mental health care. He currently oversees a Child Advocacy Center and Youth Resiliency Center and has extensive experience across intensive in-home therapy, outpatient, residential, group, and crisis services.

    Shane is passionate about expanding access to high-quality behavioral health care, strengthening community-based services, and supporting individuals and families impacted by trauma. His professional interests include suicide prevention, resiliency, trauma recovery, and advocating for diverse and historically underserved communities, including the LGBTQ+ community and racially and ethnically diverse populations. Through his clinical work, leadership, and community engagement, Shane is committed to fostering healing, resilience, and meaningful systems change.

    Outside of his professional role, Shane enjoys volunteering through his church and with Habitat for Humanity, exploring the outdoors through hiking, listening to music, and engaging in expressive arts. He believes these experiences reflect the same values that guide his work—connection, creativity, service, and resilience.

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