Libby’s journey through mental health challenges began at a young age. Due to a traumatic upbringing marked by severe abuse and a chaotic home life, she faced numerous emotional and behavioral issues by the time she was 11, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.

Custody of Libby and her two sisters was granted to her maternal grandparents, who deeply loved her. However, the trauma she endured made it difficult for her to trust and bond with them. Libby’s father, paternal grandparents, and her parents’ struggles with alcoholism further compounded her difficulties.

As a result of her complex needs and mental health disorders, it was decided that Libby required residential psychiatric treatment. Jackson-Feild stepped in to provide the necessary support.

The profound shame stemming from her experiences hindered Libby’s ability to trust and love. The first step towards her healing journey was establishing trust and providing validation for the abandonment, abuse, and neglect she endured. Therapists employed various interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), to help her confront her psychological trauma.

Libby’s progress was gradual, but with clear rules and consequences in place, like the Positive Behavior Incentive Program (PBIP) at Gwaltney School, she began responding positively to the services provided.

The most crucial factor in Libby’s recovery was the positive and supportive environment offered by her school, residential facility, and therapeutic programs. Libby’s grandparents played a pivotal role in her healing process, providing unwavering support throughout her treatment.

During her two-year stay at Jackson-Feild, Libby underwent a remarkable transformation. She confronted and addressed her intense feelings of shame and worthlessness, which had eroded her self-esteem and sense of self-worth. Libby’s journey culminated in her returning home with a newfound ability to love herself.