KENT, Ohio — A mental health workshop taking place at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Kent is aimed at helping young Black men cope with their emotions using music. 

It's called the Cope Dealer Initiative.

Students in this program have the opportunity to meet several times each week during school to discuss their emotions with a social worker in a group setting. 

On several weekends outside of school, the students head to a professional recording studio with Archie Green and put their feelings into song. 

Green has been in the music industry for 20 years, and he helps the young men put their emotions into art. 

“To see him light up, to be vulnerable, to express those emotions," Green said. "That is the goal. That is part of our mission and vision.” 

This multi-week program includes several students, like Kent Roosevelt junior K’Vyayer Hill.

"For my song, 'Long Nights,' that song is about legitimately whatever pain you are going through," Hill said. "I also touch base on controversial topics like sexuality. Sexuality is still a big thing.” 

While Hill has been enthusiastic about his opportunity to create music in a professional studio, he said he is more excited about the chance to explore and heal his emotions. 

“The program provided more than just a male figure," Hill said. "It has provided a huge listening ear that I didn’t get much of.” 

The students will perform the songs they are creating in front of their school at the end of the program. 

Green hopes to partner with other schools so even more students can participate in this project.