Restoring Trust: Ryan and the Collins Family
All families experience highs and lows. Yet in foster and adoption cases, trauma and past hurt often create additional, complex difficulties. Eva and Allen Collins encountered profound challenges when they welcomed their adopted son, Ryan. Sadly, Ryan carried trauma caused by past neglect and physical abuse, and he struggled with behaviors that reflected his mistrust. In a moment of crisis, Eva and Allen connected with our partner, Chosen, who provide parent coaching for families. What followed was a remarkable journey of restoring trust and healing for the whole family.
Chosen Care
Before reaching out to Chosen, the Collins family felt hopeless. Clinical assessments revealed alarmingly high levels of parental stress, with Eva and Allen grappling with significant challenges across multiple domains. Ryan’s aggressive behavior towards Eva exacerbated the strain, which she feared might cause irreparable damage to their relationship. Faced with the daunting task of rebuilding trust and connection, they called Chosen for support.
Enter John, a dedicated parent coach, who embarked on a transformative journey with the Collins family. Armed with empathy and expertise, John highlighted the impact of Ryan’s trauma on his thoughts, feelings, and actions. Rather than fixating on surface-level behaviors, John guided Eva and Allen to look for the deeper meaning behind their son’s actions.
John also helped them recognize Ryan’s positive attributes, fostering a newfound appreciation for his resilience and potential. By teaching Eva and Allen to help Ryan feel seen and heard, John increased their understanding and ability to meet his needs. Eva and Allen implemented practical strategies, such as modeling, role-playing, and conversation starters. Soon, they learned how to navigate Ryan’s behavioral challenges and validate his emotions while redirecting unhealthy behaviors.
Restoring Trust and Healing Hurt
The results of the Collins’ journey together were nothing short of remarkable. Ryan’s aggressive behaviors diminished, replaced by a blossoming sense of connection, safety, and mutual understanding. His academic performance soared, reflecting the newfound stability and support at home. Most importantly, the Collins family rediscovered the joy of doing life together. Ryan now engages in extracurricular activities and acts as a positive role model for his younger sibling.
The Collins family’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of parent coaching to increase connection and decrease parental stress within adoptive families. Using creativity, compassion, and collaboration, families like the Collins are empowered to navigate adversity and cultivate thriving relationships. With help, their loving determination changes a crisis into restored trust and hope.
Supporting foster and adoptive families is just one way we embody our mission to end the child welfare crisis in America. You can be a part of this mission starting right now. Consider making a donation today so more children like Ryan can thrive with their new families. Let’s end the crisis in our lifetime!
