A boy and his grandmother find peace and stability after trauma.
Ten-year-old Chris first began counseling at Child and Family Services after he was taken from his mother’s care and placed with his grandmother. Chris was a survivor of physical abuse as well as neglect, and the consequences of these issues had a tough impact on other parts of Chris’ life. In school, Chris struggled to focus, complete his schoolwork, follow directions, finish tasks, and stay seated at his desk. He had been in trouble for getting into physical altercations with other students and missed a significant number of school days due to suspensions. As a result, Chris began to fall behind academically.
Seeing that Chris needed help, his grandmother brought him to Child and Family Services. Chris was diagnosed with ADHD and began individual counseling, which sometimes included his grandmother, who remained very involved in his treatment. He also received medication management from a Child and Family Services psychiatrist.
It has been a long road for twelve-year-old Chris, but he is now doing very well. His grandmother has since obtained full custody. It has been a challenge for her to lay down rules and enforce consequences that are effective because Chris came from a household where there were none. Chris and his grandmother have both worked very hard and have now established a close relationship and a household system that works for them. Chris was not suspended at all during his most recent school year, and he made honor roll last semester. Due to the stabilization of his behaviors in school and at home, Chris was able to take drum lessons. He even purchased his own drum set thanks to the assistance of Child and Family Services Dream Planning Program. Chris also loves to play chess and is taking lessons from a chess coach. His dream is to compete professionally. Chris has displayed stability over the past year and continues to receive counseling services.
* Name has been changed to ensure client confidentiality.