Thirteen. That was Maggie’s* age when her world shifted. She had to leave the only home she knew and move into foster care. Even though her home life had its challenges, it was familiar. Leaving it brought a sense of loss and confusion.
In her new environment, Maggie felt like a fish out of water. School became overwhelming, and she found it hard to connect with her classmates. Anxiety shadowed her days, making it difficult to focus on her studies or build relationships with her teachers and foster parents.
But then, Maggie met Olivia, her counselor with LCFS. Every week, they sat together, creating a space where Maggie could express her feelings. They talked about normalizing grief and loss, learned how to identify and share emotions, and practiced asking for what she needed. Maggie bravely opened up about her past and, with Olivia’s guidance, discovered ways to cope with the big emotions that once overwhelmed her.
Her foster parents stood by her side through it all, attending appointments and reinforcing the lessons learned in therapy. Their support became a cornerstone in Maggie’s healing journey.
Maggie’s foster parents eventually adopted her, giving her the loving forever home she’d longed for. She still continued on in therapy which helped her process all the changes going on in her life. Her behavior and schoolwork improved. She began to enjoy activities typical for her age. Now, at 16, Maggie has her first job and a driver’s license … a testament to just how far she’s come. Olivia reflects, “Maggie is now excited about what’s to come and is no longer in a place where her past and anxiety dictate her future.”
Soon, Maggie will complete her counseling services, stepping confidently into her next chapter.
*Names and images changed for privacy.