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Reaching for the stars: Youth credits Devereux MA/RI with helping him grow – and thrive

Nineteen-year-old Dylan Gauthier is a high school senior with his own YouTube channel who dreams of becoming an actor.

Dylan, who was served by Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Massachusetts and Rhode Island between 2018 and 2023, is looking forward to the future, while reflecting on the past.

When Dylan arrived at Devereux’s Rutland, Massachusetts, campus, he was struggling with emotional and behavioral challenges. He credits the organization with helping him learn valuable life and social skills.

“Devereux was part of my life for a long time. The staff helped me in a lot of ways,” Dylan said. “I learned how to control my emotions and not get so angry with people. Now, I take deep breaths to calm down. I know how to take care of myself, and I have more self-respect.”

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Executive Director Nadyia Abbas, M.A., CAGS, LMHC, LADC-I, noted, “Dylan grew so much during his time with us, and we are incredibly proud of the young man he has become. Our hope is to help all of the children, adolescents and adults in our care acquire the skills needed to thrive in their homes, schools and communities. We know the future is bright for Dylan, and we cannot wait to see all he achieves in life.”

Using coping skills; pursuing hobbies

After Dylan was discharged from Devereux’s care, he moved with his family from Massachusetts to Idaho. While still adjusting to his new environment, Dylan is using the coping skills he acquired at Devereux, keeping busy playing sports, and making videos for his YouTube channel, which has more than 2,000 subscribers.

“I started my YouTube Channel – King Dylan G – in 2018,” Dylan shared. “I make videos with my younger brother on topics, like gaming or real-life issues. We also make ‘reaction’ videos where we react to different things. It’s fun and it motivates me.”

Dylan eventually wants to take his performances to the next level.

“I want to become an actor,” Dylan said. “Some of my favorite actors are Hayden Christensen, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jim Carrey, Adam Sandler and Kevin Hart. There are so many I like.”

Moving on with gratitude

Dylan hopes to graduate from high school this year, and as he moves into the next stage of life, he is grateful to the staff at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island for their support and encouragement.

“I’m a different person now than I was when I first arrived at Devereux – it was an honor to be part of that amazing school, there’s no other one like it. While there were ups and downs, it was all part of my journey,” Dylan explained. “I made a lot of friends while I was there. I was part of a community. I remember the last time I walked down the hallway, my emotions kicked in. I want to thank the clinicians, case managers and everyone else I met there for helping me all those years – they were amazing, and it truly means a lot.”

Learn more about Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and learn more about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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