Struggling with mental health, navigating the aftermath of domestic violence and facing financial hardship, she felt lost and alone.
Then she was introduced to Each’s integrated therapeutic community (ITC) program – a 12-month residential service supporting young people recovering from significant mental health conditions.
For the first time in a long time, Val felt a glimmer of hope.
"The ITC program provided a safe and supportive environment," Val explained.
"They understood my unique needs – not just my mental health struggles, but also my financial and social challenges."
Rebuilding confidence, reclaiming life
Through ITC, Val participated in dialectical behaviour therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy groups. Before ITC, she rarely left the house except for work.
But the community room at ITC became her stepping stone – a space that was both challenging and supportive.
It gave her the push she needed to re-engage with the world, surrounded by peers who understood the barriers she faced.
"It’s very inclusive, LGBT-safe and filled with people who get it. Just being treated as a human in that space was healing," Val recalled.
"It was truly life changing. ITC gave me the strength and confidence I needed to start rebuilding my life."
A future full of possibilities
Each’s support didn’t stop at ITC.
Recognising Val’s ongoing struggles with physical health, they connected her with the Each women’s health clinic, where she began treatment for suspected endometriosis.
She was also referred to an exercise physiologist to help with joint pain. These services provided comprehensive support for her overall wellbeing.
"Before Each, I felt very alone. But with ITC and all the other services, I felt truly listened to. They cared about me as a whole person."
Today, Val is thriving – a testament to the courage it takes to ask for help and the profound impact of being truly heard and supported.
Each didn’t just provide her with care. We saw her potential, supported her in achieving her goals and helped her reclaim her future.
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