Natasha came to Mariposa because she was experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression due to emotional, financial, and physical abuse. She reported that when she would look at herself in the mirror, she would ruminate about the things that were said to her by her perpetrator and believed those things to be true. Natasha was also unemployed when she came to us.

"My goal coming into the program was to learn how to be able to talk about my experience in a domestic violence relationship without allowing my emotions to get in the way. I did not want to feel depressed anymore", said Natasha.

Natasha participated in individual counseling, the Seeking Safety Group, and sought assistance from Employment Specialist for resources in housing and employment. She was very dedicated and worked hard to overcome her inability to talk about her past by utilizing skills learned, such as emotional regulation and mindfulness skills.

Since learning these new skills, she has been able to talk about her past without becoming overly emotional and has learned how to believe in herself again. She has better self-esteem, knows that she matters and has value, and deals with situations more positively and effectively. During the Mariposa program, she obtained a stable place of employment with an opportunity for advancement. Now when she looks in the mirror, she sees a renewed woman with a bright and promising future.