I became involved in A Home Within in February 2014. At that time, I was in private practice, which can be somewhat isolating. I expressed to a colleague, who was newly involved in A Home Within, a want to become part of a larger network of therapists who were working to provide therapy to an underserved population. She described the mission of A Home Within and right away it so appealed to me. I was often aware, in my private practice, of an injustice that those in such great need were the least likely to receive the services they deserved. Doing such work could potentially create the professional balance I was seeking and I was eager to offer long-term therapy to someone who otherwise might never receive it.

I would enthusiastically encourage them to do so! I’m so proud of the work we do... To be a part of an organization that truly and positively impacts people’s lives in the most meaningful of ways is one of the most rewarding experiences I have had.

Personally, when I tell people that we stay in relationship with our clients “for as long as it takes” and that the work is pro bono, they are ALWAYS surprised. And that our clients, many of whom have had terribly traumatic lives filled with so many fragmented and often abusive relationships, can develop the trust and safety that enables them to maintain a relationship with a therapist if given the time to do so.

My first A Home Within client was 12 years old when we started working together in 2014. He is now 22. Ours is the longest, most consistent relationship he has had. That I have been an integral part of this young man’s life, and have helped enable his growth beyond his very traumatic childhood, has been one of the most rewarding professional as well as personal experiences of my own life. The possibilities for growth beyond rather extensive trauma confirms the very mission of A Home Within.
The nature of our clients’ experiences can at first be very daunting for any clinician. An aspect of involvement in this organization is the availability of a consultation group, comprised of clinicians also volunteering for A Home Within. My participation in my particular group has been invaluable. Our shared investment in each of our cases makes that which is initially so daunting and potentially emotionally draining much more endurable as well as enjoyable. I have tremendous gratitude for the support, compassion, and clinical skills of each member.
I would also like to add that the organization is run by the most dedicated and enthusiastic staff who never fail to positively communicate gratitude for our work. A Home Within also provides workshops that pertain to and supports the work we do with this population. The organization’s growth over the years has been tremendous and greatly adds to the unique and special experience for its volunteers.

“For as long as it takes”. The gift of time has given me confirmation of the value of patience (mine) and resiliency (my client’s). Clients, which to some might, at the outset, appear to have sustained too much emotional damage to engage in a long-term therapeutic relationship, often do have such capacity, a capacity which is born out over time. This has given me unwavering belief in the value of my professional work, and personally, involvement in this organization, overall, gives me an incredibly strong sense of purpose and an optimism that is fueled by the sheer act of donating my time and energy. My life is, in a word, enriched.