Bright and creative, 15-year-old Kim always loved expressing herself whether through drawing, journaling or exploring new hobbies. But when her parents divorced, the world that once felt full of color began to fade.
Tensions at home and relentless bullying from peers left Kim feeling isolated and unsure of how to cope. The stress became overwhelming, leading to self-harming behaviors and thoughts of suicide that frightened both her family and teachers.
When Kim was referred to Casa Pacifica’s Therapeutic Behavioral Services (TBS), she initially refused to cooperate and wouldn’t respond to questions. Her team focused first on helping her feel safe and heard. Through consistent visits and compassionate guidance, they worked to understand the emotions behind Kim’s actions and rebuild her sense of trust. Together, they introduced skill-based tools to help her manage her thoughts, calm her body, and recognize her own strengths.
As Kim began to open up, her natural curiosity and creativity reemerged. She became fascinated with crystals — drawn to their colors, meanings, and the idea of healing energy. Her TBS team encouraged her to use that interest as part of her self-care routine, creating small rituals to help her feel grounded when anxiety struck.
Meanwhile, Kim’s mom, Janet, was learning too. “TBS helps parents, caregivers and others involved in a youth’s life to learn new ways of reducing and managing challenging behaviors,” explains John Pineda, Casa Pacifica’s TBS Program Manager. “In Janet’s case, we supported her with strategies to improve communication, like active listening, and rebuild the connection with Kim at home.”
Slowly, mother and daughter began spending more meaningful time together — shopping for crystals, journaling side by side, and celebrating small victories.
By the end of services, Kim was thriving. She joined her school’s softball team, felt confident expressing her feelings, and even started sharing coping techniques with friends who were struggling.
Janet reflects, “Watching Kim find her confidence and joy again has been incredible. The time we share now is meaningful in a way I didn’t think was possible. Casa Pacifica didn’t just support Kim—it brought us back together.”
Stories like Kim’s are made possible because of donors like you. Your support gives young people the tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to overcome obstacles and embrace a future filled with possibility.
About Casa Pacifica
Headquartered in Camarillo, California, Casa Pacifica is the largest nonprofit provider of children’s and adolescent mental health services in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Our nationally accredited programs include residential treatment, therapeutic behavioral services, wraparound care, transitional youth services, school-based mental health services and foster care support, along with a fully certified, diploma-granting Non-Public School serving grades K–12. Casa Pacifica specializes in treating youth facing complex mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. Since 1994, Casa Pacifica has helped transform the lives of nearly 54,600 at-risk children and youth.
For more information or to get involved, email info@casapacifica.org or call 805-366-4040.