Discovering the Gifts Within

At Catholic Charities, counseling sometimes lasts only a few months—but for some families, the journey is longer. One child we recently celebrated had been with us for six years before graduating from therapy with confidence.

When we first met this child, their parents were overwhelmed by confusing behaviors: lying, hiding candy, and taking words literally. The client often found loopholes in rules, saying, “Well, you didn’t say I couldn’t do this—you just said I couldn’t do that.” Patterns like this weren’t mischief, but signs of neurodivergence.

It’s important to understand: neurodivergence isn’t caused by one’s environment or parenting. A child’s brain is simply wired differently. Many neurodivergent children are highly intelligent and creative. Proving with the right support, what once looked like obstacles are now opportunities for growth.

With steady counseling, the child and their family learned new skills. The parents grew in confidence, while the child discovered that telling the truth wouldn’t always lead to punishment. Upon completing therapy, this teenager had grown into a responsible person with strong emotional intelligence.

Moments like this are among our greatest joys—and they are made possible by you. Your support allows us to walk alongside children and families, helping them grow, thrive, and embrace their Christ-centered gifts.

Provide a Counseling Scholarship to a Student in Need!

Will you help Catholic Charities provide services to a student or family in critical need of counseling services?

$10,000 Bring a Counselor to a School

Fund a counselor one day a week for a year—giving students a safe space to heal and grow.

$4,500  Fund a Student’s Future

Give a student access to in-school counseling for the entire school year.

$1,500  Support a Family’s Healing

Provide 10 sessions of counseling to help a family reconnect and thrive.

$500  Heal Through Play

Give a child a month of play therapy to process emotions and build resilience.