Parenting program heals mother and child
After years of struggling with alcohol and drug addiction, Gabby Tittel finally found the strength to get clean and sober for good. But her son, Christian, was born addicted to methadone, a drug she had been taking to relieve symptoms of withdrawal from heroin.
Mother and child were referred to Childhaven, a United Way of King County grantee agency, for help. While Christian received therapy for a resulting cognitive delay, Gabby learned how to be a better mother.
“I have been to parenting classes and participated in a program called Promoting First Relationships, where a Childhaven counselor videotaped my interaction with Christian and then gave me positive pointers and feedback about how to build a stronger relationship with him. I’ve learned how to truly listen to his feelings, to be more compassionate, to see things from his perspective. I feel more confident.”
The scientifically-tested program was developed by University of Washington School of Nursing professor Dr. Jean Kelly. It’s based on research that shows that healthy brain development depends on the first relationships babies have with their parents and caregivers. These bonds become the foundation for the child’s social and emotional growth, including how they see themselves and how they treat others.
Today, Christian is a happy, funny and outgoing 2 ½ year-old thanks to the therapy he and his mother have been receiving since his infancy.
“I remain sober for myself and for my children because they deserve to have a good mother in their lives,” explained Gabby. “My greatest ambition is to be the best mother I can be.”
Preventing abuse and neglect—or intervening early if it's occurred—is the best way to help a child to healthy development. United Way of King County invests in prevention and early intervention programs, including therapeutic child care, specialized therapy and counseling, and parenting programs. Helping kids and their families heal creates a community where everyone truly can thrive.
