Emma's story
Emma wasn't on our radar as a kindergartner. Her teachers said she was an outgoing happy child that had lots of friends and did well in school - but that wasn't who she was in 1st grade. She no longer raised her hand in class, she didn't make eye contact with teachers, she didn't join playground games. School staff learned that the child had suffered sexual abuse at the hands of her mother's boyfriend. The perpetrator is in jail, but the trauma he caused would not easily heal.
Emma was referred to Elk Hill Therapeutic Day Treatment (TDT) services at her school. She was reluctant to engage with her TDT counselor, and it was apparent that the little girl was really struggling with big emotions. The school, her mother, and Elk Hill staff were desperate to help her begin her healing. Her TDT counselor who utilizes animal assisted brought in a black and white rabbit named "Oreo” to help ease Emma into talking about her feelings. She loved petting the rabbit and feeding him treats. She started visiting the counselor's office several times per day to sit with the bunny. At first she stayed silent – but eventually Emma began to talk to the rabbit about how sad she was, and how "he" had hurt her. As Emma became more comfortable with Oreo and her counselor, she started to process what had happened.
Emma began participating in school and occasionally smiled. Her mother reported that she was making great strides in rediscovering the little girl she had been prior to the summer. Although she was still very fearful of being with any adult – other than her mother – her family could see that she was willing to become more independent. By the end of the school year, Emma had re-engaged in school, was participating in friends' activities, and could express her emotions to her mother and counselor. Emma’s mother said, "Thank you for caring so much for Emma! I know that it's because of you I have my little girl back. You helped her find joy again, and for that I eternally grateful.”