Sequoia Youth Services had an 18 year old female consumer reach out for mental health services. This individual shared she had initially asked her mother for help, back since she was 13 years of age; but, was never enrolled until she enrolled herself. Because, the participant resided in Porterville, she drove herself to every single appointment at our Exeter office. She independently enrolled herself due finally address her long history of depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. Initially, this individual struggled to contain herself. Despite weekly rehab and therapy sessions, consumer had a suicide attempt, which led to a subsequent inpatient hospitalization.

Through the course of treatment, consumer continued to experience suicidal ideations; these ideation were further exasperated when recalling her childhood trauma. Regardless, of the challenge of vividly addressing this painful history, consumer continued to attend (drive 38 miles each time); to receive therapy, and rehabilitation services. Consumer kept showing up, learning and using the interventions and skills. During her lowest moment, she was at risk of not completing her senior year. Just like she worked in therapy, she worked tirelessly to complete her coursework, eventually graduating from high school. Through the course of treatment, her focus shifted to meeting transitional age goals; which, now include plans to enroll at Ventura Community College, with the intention of getting a Criminal Justice degree. Based on the positive experience she gained while at the mental health hospital, she is also thinking of getting into the mental health field. Today, this individual continues to work on saving money for housing and to get her dream car. During her last session with her treating therapist, when discussing terminating and transitioning, she shared “I think I’m good. I’ve got this. I’m going to be okay.”