Dismissed

Well, that is a strong word, so I guess "exited" is a better one.

On Monday, Ruth had her last therapist appointment, at least for this stage of her life. :) Her therapist, Kathy, is someone I can credit with helping Ruth to learn how to name her feelings of anxiety, and then to work through them. Kathy is the person that helped me to give voice to my concerns about Ruth. Kathy held my hand a year ago when we had a major concern in our family, and she helped in finding the answers that alleviated those concerns. She pointed me in the right direction and backed me up when I said there were issues with Ruth's Sensory Processing. Kathy spoke in a soft voice, and helped Ruth to understand there are boundaries, and sometimes she will have to live within them, even when it goes against everything in her little body. (Think school concerts.) In Kathy's office, we were able to escape some of the difficult school hours, and yet, somehow learned to get through them. Ruth was able to talk about missing Nathan, and the cat that died years ago. Ruth played games, and yet, she had a quiet place to crash. This was a good place for her.

I admit… I enjoyed Kathy’s office as much as Ruth did.

There I spoke my thoughts and fears, and someone heard them. There I did not have to explain away Ruth’s odd, quirky, frustrating behaviors. I found answers and comfort in knowing things were okay. When others question why Ruth sucks her fingers, and I allow it, Kathy said “good for you”, and indicated I was doing what Ruth needed and that was the best thing to do. When I was frustrated with the school, Kathy listened and then helped me to see where I could change things, and where I couldn't. When we had Ruth’s last session, the thing that will stick in my head is as I pointed out all the ways that Kathy has helped, she pointed out that she only guided. She said “You took the couple of things I said, and you researched and sought out solutions. You figured out what was wrong, and you worked to help Ruth. When I figured out that the hair pulling was for her to have as a self soothing behavior, you not only grew her hair out, you grew yours as well. You provided Ruth with the things she needed in your sensory based living room. You deserve the credit in helping her to grow, not me. You did everything you could, and I know you will continue to do so.” I think every mom out there needs to hear that now and then.

With all that said, Ruth drew a good bye picture, and we all hugged. Then, we closed the door on that stage of our life. Although, we each do have a card with her email, phone number and address, if we ever want to keep in touch.