Unique Life Plan
One of the core beliefs of Courage Worldwide is that every individual is created uniquely, and those distinctive personal characteristics play a huge part in how healing will happen for each girl that calls Courage House home, what goals are set, and the timeframe in which those goals are met. As a staff, we desire to help guide each girl’s healing process through a “Unique Life Plan” (ULP).
The ULP begins with an in-depth assessment, called the “Uniqueness Assessment,” where each resident is taught about areas of identity and purpose. In a small group setting, they discuss areas in their life that have held them back from believing the best about themselves, how those insecurities, hurts and lies have impacted their choices, and beginning to set healthy goals for themselves. The ULP emphasizes forward thinking – that no matter what circumstances have happened to the girls in the past, there are still endless possibilities in their futures.
The ULP is a comprehensive, holistic approach, guiding each resident’s plan by intentionally meeting the specific needs of her body, mind, emotions, and spirit.
Physical Body
Physical health and safety are foundational parts of an individual reaching her full potential and purpose. Courage Worldwide focuses on each resident’s physical needs in the following ways:
- Physical safety
- Rural home environment
- Medical and Dental Care
- Fitness and Nutrition
- Body Image Program
- Individual Extra-curricular recreation
- Adventure Trips
Mind
Knowledge is a powerful tool for change. Each resident’s academic focus of the ULP will begin with functional literacy when she enters Courage House, but can progress up to a University degree. A resident’s academic goals are determined by her desires and aptitude. Included in each ULP will be:
- Assessments for learning disabilities and educational level
- Assessments for learning styles
- Classes conducted on site through a local Charter School
- Independent lesson plans and timelines
- Regular academic field trips
- Life skills courses
- Electives
- Assistance in applying for college, vocational school, or certificate programs
Emotions
Ongoing trauma deeply affects the emotional state of victims. The effects of trauma differ from individual to individual based on a multitude of factors and the resources available to the individual. Courage Worldwide is very aware that psychological trauma can have lifelong effects if not worked through therapeutically. Each resident has access to the following therapeutic resources based on her ULP:
- Mental Health assessments
- A comprehensive brain scan and diagnosis from Amen Clinic (a world renown child psychiatrist)
- Weekly individual therapy following the Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Modality
- Biofeedback and Somatic Therapy
- EMDR
- Weekly Pyscho-education groups
- Weekly Music Therapy
- Equine Assisted Therapy
- Preparation to Testify (if applicable)
Spiritual
Courage Worldwide offers spiritual activities for residents, however all opportunities are optional and are based on the desire of the individual. Courage Worldwide has a spiritual director that helps meet the needs of a resident’s ULP in the following ways:
- Wellness seminars
- Uniqueness assessment and celebrations
- Bible Studies
- Spiritual retreats
- Holidays
- Vacations
- Individual mentoring