Menu
The Story Behind This Series
Our objective is to help teenagers understand and feel comfortable with the idea of learning more about the benefits of exploring mental health issues. Comprehensive research validating the effectiveness of character animation as a learning tool is available at https://www.teenagermentalhealth.com/studies.
Joe Hopfer
Founder
Joe Hopfer's life was forever changed when his 15 year old son tragically took his own life. His son's death left Joe with an insatiable hunger to uncover the reasons behind his son's suicide. All of his investigations led Joe to the heartbreaking conclusion that his son had been struggling with mental illness, which had ultimately proven too much for his young soul to bear.
In 2019 Joe turned his vision of helping teens successfully navigate through their mental health issues and envision a fabulous life by creating Anything Animated animation production company. The tragedy that Joe experienced is one that is echoed across the nation as many teenagers struggle with mental health issues, ranging from short-term to more long-term battles. Joe Hopfer's story serves as a reminder of the devastating effects of mental illness and the importance of recognizing the warning signs and offering the necessary support.
We are creating a team of professional who recognize the impact of storytelling and character animation as powerful tools for mental health education.
Dr. Ben Willis, Ph.D
Subject Matter Expert
Dr. Ben Willis is a highly qualified mental health professional who holds a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, as well as credentials as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). He currently serves as a Professor of Counseling and Human Services at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, where he has been a faculty member since 2013.
Dr. Willis is a mental health professional with extensive experience in the field. He has provided therapy, counseling, and supervision in a range of settings, including private practices, community mental health centers, and universities. Dr. Willis has observed an increasing number of students grappling with mental health challenges. With this in mind, he believes that his approach of connecting with characters and their struggles in each series can have a significant impact on teenagers. He hopes that by relating to these characters, teens will be able to see their own problems in a new light and find helpful resources and support.
Andrea Karl, LPC, NCC
Subject Matter Expert
Andrea Rojas Karl is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor with extensive experience and success helping people who struggle with mental health issues such as: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, stress, overcoming fears, phobias and addictions along with other mental health issues. Andrea has been featured on TV and radio giving talks about mental health topics especially in the Hispanic community.
Andrea joined the team as she is passionate about helping other people succeed. She found that delivering stories with animation is very eye opening, impressive and very creative and believes that this method and idea will make an impact on adolescents’ lives.
Dr. Lisa Robertson, MD
Contributor/Consultant
Having been board certified in family medicine, Dr. Robertson has served as a senior partner in her family medicine group for more than 25 years. Throughout her practice, she has observed a gradual decline in the mental health of her teenage patients. In addition, her participation in a local Parent-Teacher Association has exposed her to current issues affecting teenagers.
Dr. Robertson is knowledgeable about various learning approaches, and she believes that emotional character animation series have the potential to significantly impact the mental health of teenagers. She is of the opinion that promoting hope for their future is crucial for teens to lead a happy and healthy life.
Jeff Sarbacker
Retired HS Teacher
Contributor/Consultant
Mr. Sarbacker brings a combined 34 years of teaching experience from Las Vegas High and Elko High School in Nevada to our team. Throughout his extensive career, he has tirelessly advocated for the development of a positive mental attitude among teenagers, recognizing its crucial role both as a father and as an educator.
Teaching math and serving as a coach for various sports throughout his career, Jeff has had a multifaceted impact on his students' lives. With two successful children raised alongside his wife, he possesses a deep understanding of the importance of mental well-being in shaping young minds. Witnessing the decline in mental health among adolescents during his tenure, he joined our team driven by the effectiveness of our animation in connecting with and educating teenagers on vital mental health topics.
Jeff's specialized perspective, honed through years of dedicated service, enriches our team with invaluable insight and experience. His commitment to nurturing positive mental attitudes among teens aligns seamlessly with our mission to support and empower young people.
Luis Vasquez
Content / Story Specialist
Mr. Vasquez, a dedicated member of our team with a unique focus on mental health issues. Luis will be graduating with a Masters in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Scranton in May 2025, Luis brings a profound understanding of the human psyche to our projects.
Luis has an unwavering passion for empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives, Luis aspires to contribute to a global movement that normalizes discussions around mental health, firmly believing that mental well-being is synonymous with overall health.
Luis is known for his innate altruism, Luis has always been driven to aid others. Luis brings the latest philosophies and approaches within the mental health field to our team. One of his many talents ensures that our stories resonate authentically with audiences, offering insights that inspire and resonate with the youth of today.
Email : info@teenagermentalhealth.com
© 2023 www.teenagermentalhealth.com