One day, Laya arrived at their session with a newfound determination. "I want to confront my dad's friend," she declared, her voice steady. "I can't keep living in fear."
Dr. Jones felt a mix of pride and concern. "That's a brave decision, Laya. But it's important to approach this carefully. Have you thought about how you want to do it?"
"I want to tell my parents," she said, her eyes blazing with resolve. "They need to know what he did to me."
Dr. Jones nodded, recognizing the significance of this moment. "That's a crucial step in your healing process. It's important to have their support when you confront him. Would you like me to help you prepare for that conversation?"
Laya hesitated, then nodded. "Yeah, I think that would help."
Over the next few sessions, they worked together to craft a plan. Dr. Jones guided her through the emotions she might encounter, helping her articulate her feelings and set boundaries. He emphasized the importance of self-care and support, reminding her that she was not alone in this fight.
The day finally arrived when Laya sat down with her parents to share her truth. Dr. Jones waited anxiously in the hallway, his heart racing as he listened to the muffled voices from the living room. He could hear Laya's voice rising and falling, filled with emotion.
After what felt like an eternity, Laya emerged, her face a mixture of relief and exhaustion. "I did it," she said, tears streaming down her cheeks. "I told them everything."
Dr. Jones enveloped her in a warm embrace, feeling a surge of pride for her bravery. "You were incredibly strong, Laya. This is a significant step toward healing."