Desperate for Help
Meryl* was exhausted. Her four-year-old son was having another meltdown. He averaged multiple major meltdowns a week. He wasn’t listening, he talked back, he whined whenever he didn’t get his way. His preschool teachers were frustrated and his education was at risk. Meryl became desperate for help.
That’s when she reached out to YES and learned about Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). PCIT is a research-based program for families with children 2-7 years old. It uses a specialized room at the YES Crossroads location with a one-way mirror. A YES therapist observes the interaction between parent and child and offers feedback through an earpiece.
“PCIT has made an incredible positive impact on our household,” said Meryl. “I have learned to effectively communicate, positively reinforce and provide efficient discipline with much more control. I would recommend this program from the rooftops!”
These days Meryl’s son experiences maybe one meltdown a week which she confidently handles. Her son is proud to come home from school and brag about his good behavior.
Evidence-based therapeutic programs such as PCIT can be expensive. At YES even families who otherwise would not be able to afford these services can access much-needed support.
Thanks to the support of our community Meryl is able to create a closer bond with her son, and become more confident in her parenting, so both parent and child can thrive.
* While the client story told here is true, the name, image, and identifying information have been changed to protect the privacy of the client.
Recovery stories like these are made possible through the generosity of many YES donors. Supporters provide ALL children, youth, and families in East King County with a chance of recovery every year.
You too can be a lifeline in a young person’s life today by making a gift to provide families with hope for a brighter tomorrow! Whether you donate $5 or $500, every gift will make a difference in the life of a child or youth seeking hope and recovery.
