From Turbulence to Triumph:

Jake’s Transformation

Introduction

Meet Jake, a 24-year-old NDIS participant from Geelong facing significant life challenges.

With a history of trauma, involvement in criminal activity, self-harm, and relationship issues, Jake felt lost and without purpose.

This is the story of how Shake Counselling partnered with him to transform his life, build resilience, and create a future he is proud of.

Background

Jake’s struggles included:

•Past Trauma: Extensive history affecting his mental health.

•Criminal Involvement: Ongoing legal issues and altercations.

•Self-Harm and Suicidal Ideation: Coping mechanisms that endangered his well-being.

•Relationship Challenges: Difficulties maintaining healthy connections.

Goals

Working collaboratively, we aimed to:

1. Provide Guidance and Support: Connect Jake with a mentor for consistent encouragement.

2. Enhance Emotional Regulation: Develop skills to manage intense emotions.

3. Increase Physical Activity: Promote healthy outlets through exercise.

4. Reduce Aggressive Behaviours: Decrease physical assaults and criminal activities.

5. Foster a Life Worth Living: Help Jake find purpose and fulfillment.

Our Approach

Over three years, Jake engaged in a comprehensive program:

Building a Supportive Relationship:

•Mentorship: Paired with a mentor who understood his experiences.

•Consistency: Two sessions per week providing stability and routine.

Therapeutic Activities:

•Physical Exercise: Gym sessions and walks to promote health and reduce stress.

•Life Skills Development: Cooking and community engagement to build independence.

•Therapeutic Conversations: Gradual introduction of discussions about his situation in a safe environment.

Skill Building:

•Emotional Regulation: Introduced DBT skills to manage anger and impulses.

•Visual Aids: Used whiteboards and phone apps for accessible reminders.

•Self-Care Emphasis: Encouraged routines that promoted well-being.

Community Integration:

•Boxing Therapy: Engaged in boxing at MMpowerment to channel emotions positively.

•Relationship Building: Supported him in developing a healthy romantic relationship.

Outcomes

Legal Freedom:

•Jake removed himself from the justice system after six years of involvement.

•No pending charges or bail, demonstrating significant behavioural change.

Employment Success:

•Secured stable employment, maintaining his job for over eight months.

•Experienced financial independence for the first time.

Personal Growth:

•Improved relationships and communication skills.

•Developed resilience and coping strategies for turbulent situations.

Ongoing Support:

•Continues to engage with Shake Counselling for debriefing and skill reinforcement.

•Maintains healthy routines and self-care practices.

Conclusion

Jake’s journey exemplifies how consistent support, tailored therapeutic interventions, and personal determination can lead to profound life changes.

From feeling lost to building a fulfilling life, Jake’s transformation inspires hope.

Key Takeaways

•Consistency Matters: Regular sessions build trust and facilitate progress.

•Holistic Approach: Combining physical activity with therapy enhances outcomes.

•Resilience Leads to Change: Persistence through setbacks is crucial for growth.

Is It Time to Start Your Journey?

If you or someone you know is facing similar challenges, Shake Counselling is here to help. We offer personalised support to guide you toward a life worth living.

•Explore Services: Learn about our NDIS Support Services.

•Get in Touch: Contact us to discuss how we can support your unique journey.