Stories

Chelsea, just out of a juvenile detention facility in Topeka, Kansas

Chelsea came to Florence Crittenton after spending several months at a restricted juvenile facility in Beloit, Kansas. She was a troubled 18-year-old with few skills and little support. She struggled with anxiety and bipolar disorder, which was compounded by a significant history of substance abuse. Chelsea’s depression led to incidents of self-harm and suicide attempts. She also had had trouble with the legal system as a result of her physical aggression and stealing. 

Chelsea was admitted into our facility and began a treatment program with a wide array of clinical services—case management, crisis counseling, individual therapy, medication management, alcohol and drug treatment, anger management, and group therapy—in addition to our residential care which includes medical care referral, academic enrollment, community involvement, recreational activities, volunteer experiences and daily living skills.

Chelsea graduated from drug and alcohol treatment and began an aftercare/relapse prevention group. She remained clean and sober throughout her stay and showed a real commitment to her recovery. Also, through therapy, case management, and medication management, Chelsea was able to stabilize her mood and anxiety. This process opened the door for higher functioning and the ability to learn new skills.

When she arrived, Chelsea was significantly behind in her academic work. She also had anxiety about her academic abilities. During her stay at Florence Crittenton, she was able to enroll in GED classes and in only six months she obtained her GED. 

Chelsea left our program free from drugs and alcohol, with significantly improved mental and physical health, a diploma, and most importantly, the confidence to live her life differently. Nearly a year later, Chelsea remained–drug free and is living independently and maintaining a job. She stays in contact with our program and often reports that she would not have had the confidence to live on her own if it were not for the help she received at Florence Crittenton.