When Karla first came to WTLC, she was wary and untrusting of everyone around her - her partner of 6 years had abused her emotionally and financially. She didn't want to participate in group activities and would often cancel her counseling appointments at the last minute because her anxiety would get the best of her and she felt overwhelmed.
Slowly, Karla started attending her counseling appointments and through her relationship with her Advocate, Hannah, she felt comfortable enough to join a Personal Empowerment Program class. It was in the class that she was able to open up about the trauma she endured and meet other survivors like herself. Her depression began to lift and she realized she wanted to go back to school and get her GED. After letting her therapist know about her dream to go back to school, they came up with easy, measurable goals that Karla could complete like registering for classes, looking up class schedules, and applying for financial aid. Karla applied to college, received financial aid, and recently secured a job.
Karla says, "
You guys make me happy to wake up in the morning. I get so excited when I know you're going to call and I love being able to talk to you about what I'm going through. You really go above and beyond; when I ask you to help me take 5 steps you help me take 10."
WTLC is committed to providing lifesaving tools and immediate support to empower survivors to find safety as their homes are more precarious and dangerous than ever before. If you or a loved one are in an abusive situation, please call our 24 Hour Helpline at 1-877-531-5522 or text love@wtlc.org
