Kira (not her real name) would only leave the house for medical appointments. She felt her anxiety around leaving the house was the biggest contributor to her depression, that she was stuck in an endless, unbreakable cycle.
“I had very low self-esteem. I would go as far as to say that I hated myself.”
Kira was referred to Waterloo Community Counselling’s Low Cost Service after engaging in talking therapies within her local borough. She struggled with grief and feelings of guilt after a family bereavement. Kira’s described her family relationships as ‘very strenuous’ and she struggled to cope with past, deep-rooted trauma given these difficulties.
Waterloo Community Counselling offered Kira long-term psychodynamic therapy online, given the challenges she faced leaving the house and her complex emotional difficulties.
“I liked how the sessions were available virtually. I don’t think at the time I would have been able to come in person to attend.”
Kira worked with her counsellor to understand her fears around leaving the house and built coping strategies to manage her anxiety when outside. They set small goals together that focused on increasing Kira’s tolerance. Kira started with short walks around the block and gradually built herself up to being able to go to the shops and use public transport to visit family members.
“Shortly before I finished therapy, I signed up to walk a marathon across London. This was something I never thought I would be able to do.”
Through her sessions, Kira felt she could open up and step out of her comfort zone when it came to reconciling with her emotional trauma. She expressed that she felt heard for the first time and was able to work through and process what had happened in her life.
Since finishing therapy with WCC, Kira has gone on to complete a long distance walking event around London. Her relationship with close family members has improved, and she feels equipped with the tools to manage stressful situations.
“I am learning to accept what has happened and know that there’s a future for me. I definitely have more of a ‘can do’ attitude towards life now.”
Thanks to our fantastic volunteer, Lu Brookes, for writing this case study.
Your Support Makes Stories Like Kira’s Possible
Kira’s journey reminds us that with the right support, healing and hope are within reach — even when the first steps feel impossible. By giving, fundraising or spreading the word, you help create safe therapeutic spaces where people can rebuild their confidence, reconnect with life and rediscover their strength.
If Kira’s story inspires you, we invite you to stand with us. Your support today could help someone take their very first step toward healing.