My name is Elyssa De Leon, I am 28 years old and I am a special education teacher. Before I met Lauren, my boyfriend and I had just moved about 7 hours away from my hometown. I had started a new job, in a new city and I didn’t know anyone, other than my boyfriend. I was going through all these changes, mentally and emotionally, and I was struggling. I was away from family and friends and felt like I didn’t have anybody to talk to. I was getting a lot of support from my boyfriend, as much as he could offer, but it wasn’t helping. He felt like he couldn’t help me the way I needed to be helped. He saw that I was in, a “dark place”, similar to one that he had previously once been in. He kindly and supportively suggested that I should talk to someone. I was hesitant, scared, and nervous of the idea of letting someone in because of how I was raised. I am a very private individual. I am usually guarded and was always taught to take care of and do things myself. After convincing myself, I decided to give speaking with somebody, other than my boyfriend, a shot. My boyfriend and I sat down with Lauren briefly and I explained my situation from my point of view and he from his. From day one, Lauren made me feel extremely comfortable and safe. It felt as if I was talking to a friend; someone who I had known for years. I looked forward to meeting with Lauren during our scheduled “virtual” appointments. Lauren helped me find peace and develop a newfound inner strength. I am so grateful and thankful for her willingness and patience, especially her awesome virtual experience. Lauren found pieces of me that were buried, so deep that I had no idea they were even there. My body and my mind however, knew exactly what they were covering up. Lauren helped uncover that for me and helped me get to the root of the problem. I feel as if I am finally me. Thank you Lauren! As human beings, accepting and asking for help is the hardest thing to do. But just because you’re getting help, doesn’t mean you’ve failed, it’ll only make you stronger.