Their Stories

Emily*, 12 - Kids Helpline Client

Twelve year-old Emily called in tears one morning because she had to visit her father soon, as part of a custody arrangement. She was refusing to see him because he frequently swore at her and told her he didn’t love her.

These experiences had left Emily feeling inadequate and anxious, and had damaged her self-confidence. She said she felt unsafe about visiting his home.

With her counsellor’s support, Emily devised ways to cope while at her father’s house, and began to express her thoughts and feelings regarding the situation.

Over a number of counselling sessions, Emily expressed the grief and sadness she felt about how little her father cared for her, and that her love for him had waned.

Slowly, she gained the confidence to communicate her needs to him on several occasions; but as the situation worsened, Emily made the difficult decision to not see him anymore.

Emily is presently going though this difficult period with much support from her mother and step-father, as they work to gain sole custody of her.

* Name changed for privacy reasons