Finding Her Voice: How School-Based Support Helped One Antioch Student Rebuild Confidence and Hope

When Kayla (a pseudonym used to protect privacy) began meeting with a therapist through Fred Finch Youth & Family Services’ School-Based Services at Antioch High School, she was carrying more than most teenagers should.

Kayla had experienced significant loss and instability in recent years, including a house fire that displaced her family. Living in close quarters with extended family brought added stress, and tensions at home often left her feeling overwhelmed. At school, she placed high expectations on herself, struggling quietly with depression, low self-esteem, and self-doubt.

With consistent, on-campus support, Kayla began working with her therapist to process her experiences and better understand her emotions. She learned practical tools to manage anger and stress, pause before reacting, and communicate more effectively with her family. Over time, she began expressing her needs more clearly—both at home and in the classroom.

One of the most meaningful shifts came when Kayla started advocating for herself at school. Instead of internalizing frustration, she began asking teachers for support when she needed it. She practiced using calming strategies before difficult family interactions and worked toward building healthier relationships with her parents and siblings.

As her confidence grew, so did her belief in herself.

Today, Kayla is more equipped to manage stress, express her feelings, and navigate challenges with resilience. She continues to strengthen family relationships and is learning to trust her own voice and judgment.

Her story reflects the impact of accessible, school-based mental health services—meeting students where they are and helping them build the skills, they need to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.

Learn More About Contra Costa School-Based Services

Fred Finch Youth & Family Services’ Contra Costa School-Based Services (SBS) program provides on-campus mental health support designed to improve school outcomes, strengthen family relationships, and reduce the need for higher levels of care.

Through the John Muir Program, Fred Finch clinicians are embedded within school communities, working closely with teachers, administrators, caregivers, and families to support students’ emotional well-being and academic success. In addition, Fred Finch collaborates with John Muir Health’s Beyond Violence Program, extending community-based support to Transition-Age Youth (TAY) throughout Central and East Costa County.

Services are culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and tailored to meet each student’s unique needs.

School-Based Services are available to eligible youth enrolled in participating in Contra Costa schools who have full-scope Medi-Cal. Referrals are initiated directly at each school site.

To learn more about Contra Costa School-Based Services, visit: https://www.fredfinch.org/contra-costa-school-based-services