When our Therapeutic Specialist's first met Katy, it quickly became apparent that her whole family was in need of help. Katy was the eldest of four children, living in a busy multigenerational family home with pets, parents, and grandchildren.

It should have been a fun, supportive environment for a teenager with a disability. But most of the time Katy felt overwhelmed and lost. Her family was so loud, so unpredictable. On any day there were doors slammed, people yelled, and the younger children acted out their frustrations with destructive behaviours - because they had all been victims of family violence and exposed to parental drug use.

People often say that time heals all wounds, but this is rarely the case for childhood trauma. Children cannot heal themselves. They need specialist therapy to understand their experience of abuse.

Katy’s family lived outside the city, so our team often went to their home. Over a number of sessions they used play, art, and dolls to help the children open up about their emotions. They provided a safe place for them to talk. The children began to articulate their worries and frustrations.

During one of these sessions, the family invited our Therapeutic Specialist's outside to witness to the birth of a baby goat. It was a quiet, magical moment for the family to share, and a stark contrast to the trauma that had defined their past.

In this shared experience, our Therapeutic Specialist's found an anchor - a lens through which to view the intricate layers of their lives. The goat, born amidst the chaos, symbolised a fresh start for this family. It was a profound lesson in the healing power of connection. After this, the parents made an unwavering commitment to nurture their family.

Katy started to relax. She regained her sense of calm and safety.