Meryl

Meryl’s story

Meryl (aged 11) experienced living in a chaotic, volatile, and unpredictable home environment, where there was a threat of physical violence and the presence and use of alcohol and drugs. Meryl’s relationship with her father had broken down, and her mother’s partner was an unsafe presence in her life. Concerns were raised relating to self-harm and suicidal thoughts, with Meryl speaking about killing herself and using alcohol. She was described as having low self-confidence, low self-worth and being socially isolated in school. There was also concern that Meryl’s experiences may increase her vulnerability to influences from external peer groups, to grooming and accessing content online via social media forums that would exploit her vulnerabilities. Furthermore, Meryl’s forthcoming transition to secondary school signalled a period of potentially increased vulnerability and social isolation.

20 sessions of 1 to 1 weekly creative therapy were provided, with sessions taking place in school.

Meryl was initially anxious and reluctant about beginning therapy again, as she had previously experienced therapy as distressing. It took some time for Meryl to build and trust the relationship with the therapist. Through the work, she was increasingly able to express her identity, find her voice and be seen and validated.

“I will always be grateful for what you have done to help me. Thank you” - Meryl

Meryl became taller in posture, and her levels of self-care improved as did her confidence and sense of identity. Meryl also developed her own voice. She was able to build a more robust social network in school and transition confidently into secondary school. This may also serve to mitigate the potential of her seeking validation in spaces that are harder for her mother or school to monitor.

Significantly, Meryl was able to engage meaningfully with therapeutic support and could say that, if she needed therapy in later life, she was comfortable and confident to attend again. As well as signalling a degree of healing in her experience of therapy, this positive experience may enable her to find support in healthy ways when future emotional challenges arise.

“Thank you for all you have done I really appreciate your hard work. Meryl has come a long way working with you and I can’t thank you enough for your support and time. - Meryl’s mother

Please note: Our case studies are anonymised to protect the identity of specific individuals. All case studies are based on real stories.