CAC Parenting Support Program Leads to Positive Life Changes

By: Romelia Rodriguez, Lead Family Advocate and Bilingual Trauma Therapist

David is a 45-year-old father who was referred for parenting support services by one of the therapists in CAC’s Safe from the Start (SFTS) program. His son was seen for individual counseling services due to possible trauma exposure and/or sexual abuse by another family member. 

During the intake process, David expressed his therapy goals, which focused on reflecting on how his personal childhood experiences may be influencing how he parents his children. He also wanted to improve his overall communication skills and be able to effectively communicate his needs to his wife and children. In addition, David asked to work on strengthening relationships with his children and learn how to be responsive and supportive. 

Through the Safe from the Start program, David found the compassion and help he needed. Throughout the treatment, David consistently reported tremendous progress, stating that his communication skills improved significantly and, consequently, the relationship with his wife and children improved. David also found the opportunity to process his own trauma and reflect on how it was impacting his mental well-being.

Today, David reports feeling confident and is determined to be the best parent he can be. David also shared that his close friends noticed a significant change in him, and he was proud to say he has been seen by a therapist to work on his own trauma and to learn how to be a better father to his children. Further, David revealed that his willingness to talk about mental health inspired some friends to seek their own therapy services. He believes that his improved mental, emotional and physical health have contributed to many positive changes, and he is optimistic about continuing his healing journey after completing the Parenting Support Program at CAC.