This is my story of how I have hope. I have been working with children for over 15 yrs
I have provided ABA, family therapy, taught early childhood education and brought in early interventions.
I have provided therapy to children as well as young adults, in groups, with siblings and individually.
I have seen progress, sometimes it's small, sometimes it's powerful!
But it happens and I am honored to be part of it.
Here are some successful moments I have been proud to have been witness to:
The 10 yr old who for the first time learned to hug his mom without a meltdown
The 22 yr old who has been in a 8 month long romantic and wonderful relationship
The siblings who now better understand why their brother/ sister behaves and has empathy and insight
The parents who have humor and happiness because they have heard others and now feel connected to others
The child who no longer is fearful of animals but instead embraces them
The child who had no friends, and now has 5!
The parents who give their knowledge to other parents
The children who developed social and emotional skills and helped each other through trauma.
Each amazes me, not one visit is the same. Whether it may seem insignificant to have an interactive conversation, that once consisted of two words or repetitive questions.. It is one of the most powerful and hopeful moments I have experienced.
I never give up hope, hope that these kids will one day have a career, job, attend college, get married
And do things they love and enjoy.
It takes one person to rise above and surround these kids with hope and
Offer change and alternatives, choices.
When one has hope others tend to follow, if you continue to believe it is possible.
Bristol, CT