a little update

It has been a busy week.  Jasmine had her first 'slumber party' here with one of her best friends. They had a blast. Then we went and got Jasmine a new bed today and a few things for her room. And she had counseling today.  Her counselor told us about this awesome therapy program at this equestrian ranch here in vancouver. She said that you have to be referred in, and she feels Jasmine would benefit greatly from it. The patients basically get a horse that they are responsible for. They take care of it, learn to ride it and everything. It helps with trust building (which is huge for a sexual abuse survivor), you have to trust the horse, and the horse has to trust you.  Confidence. Self Esteem. Responsibility, and so much more.  Jasmine was really excited about it.  I sat in on her session today. ( I will sit in with her until Jasmine feels comfortable going in alone) And it was hard.  Jasmine was talking about how she doesnt like herself very much. She doesnt like how she looks, and she feels like the abuse and assault is her fault. She also talked about other feelings she has been having but was holding them in. Her counselor pulled out a balloon and an air pump, and started pumping up the balloon as Jasmine talked, to show her what happens if you hold it all in. (you explode) Jasmine really liked that example. She told me later that she feels guilty that she didnt tell us sooner, and is very worried about the other kids that were always in their house. She is worried there are more victims that havent come forward. She feels like she should have been able to be braver, and should have been able to stop the abuse. BREAKS.MY.HEART!  At her next session, we are going to make a "tool kit" that has different tools/items to help her when she is triggered and/or having a bad day.

Jasmine really likes her new counselor and is excited to work with her.  I think we may have found a perfect fit. I am hopeful.