Finding Light After Darkness: Izzy’s Journey with Oakland Family Services

At just 17 years old, Izzy has already faced more than many do in a lifetime. From a turbulent home environment marked by addiction and instability to a courageous path of healing and hope, Izzy’s journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience that lives in all of us—and the critical role that support systems like Specialized Services for Youth at Oakland Family Services can play. 

“I came here (Oakland Family Services). I was really struggling,” Izzy shared. “I got kicked out of the home I was living in with my aunt. I had to be moved out of the previous house I was living in because of drug and alcohol abuse from my family.” With nowhere else to turn, she began receiving services through Oakland Family Services—and that’s when things began to change. 

Izzy was paired with Genevieve, a therapist who visits her at home and provides trauma-based therapy. “She’s super honest and she’s so funny,” Izzy said with a smile. Genevie takes a well-rounded approach to therapy. “We made bracelets… We also go outside sometimes… I didn't expect I, I would bond with a therapist over our sense of humor.” 

She also works with Dr. Gallardo for medication management. “I absolutely love her,” Izzy said. “She always picks me up if I’m having a bad day and tells me I’m doing so good. Sometimes I just really need to hear that.” 

That support has helped Izzy make incredible strides. Once a student with a 0.3 GPA, she’s now a high school senior with a 2.7 GPA, preparing to graduate this June. “I actually got moved up a whole grade level,” she said proudly. After graduation, she plans to take a gap year before pursuing a career in radiology. 

But Izzy’s story isn’t just about academic progress—it’s about survival and healing. She bravely opened up about the trauma she experienced growing up, including witnessing violence and navigating life surrounded by substance abuse. “I was in the emergency room after a suicide attempt,” she recalled. “It was really horrible. But the nurses told me I needed to see a professional.” That’s what brought Izzy to therapy, and eventually to Oakland Family Services. 

Since coming to Oakland Family Services, Izzy hasn’t self-harmed in over a year. She credits the care she’s received with helping her reclaim her life. 

Now, Izzy is learning to build boundaries, maintain healthy relationships, and enjoy small joys—like caring for her cat, Pearl, and making friends at her job as a pharmacy cashier.  

Reflecting on her journey, Izzy says Oakland Family Services has been life-changing. “I think the staff here are very understanding,” she said, “I've been to other programs around Michigan where it's kind of just tell me what's wrong. And I never felt a connection with those therapists. But here at Oakland Family Services, I think I could actually consider Genevieve one of my friends. She's definitely one in a million.”