When Liam* and his grandmother, Selia,* first connected with Youth Assertive Community Treatment (Youth ACT), life at home often felt overwhelming.
Selia was struggling to navigate Liam’s behavioral challenges and strong emotions. She often felt unsure of how best to support him during difficult moments. At times, Liam’s frustration would escalate into breaking items in the home, creating additional stress for the family and making their relationship more difficult.
Through Youth ACT, Liam and Selia were introduced to a team dedicated to helping families build healthier coping strategies, strengthen communication and create stronger support systems. A Youth ACT Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Peer Advocate worked closely with Liam to help him better identify his emotions and develop safer, more effective ways to respond when he felt frustrated or scared.
At the same time, the team supported both Liam and Selia in learning how to communicate their needs more openly and work through challenges together. Over time, Selia began noticing meaningful changes at home.
“I have seen Liam actively using the coping skills he has learned,” shared Selia. “Through practicing these skills, there has been a huge decrease in property destruction and emotional outbursts.”
Along with these improvements, Selia described a stronger relationship with her grandson. When challenges arise, they are now able to pause, sit together and work through problems in a positive way.
“I love Liam, so it has been difficult not knowing how to help him,” Selia said. “Having someone there to guide us through the tough times has only brought us closer.”
For families like Liam and Selia’s, programs like Youth ACT provide more than immediate support during moments of crisis. They help families build the tools, support and connections needed to strengthen relationships and create lasting stability, all within the comfort of their own home.
*Names changed for confidentiality.