Chapter: Finding Strength
Therapy had become Billie’s safe space, even if it was challenging at times. The sterile office smelled faintly of lavender, and her therapist, Dr. Lyons, always greeted her with a warm smile. Today was no different, but Billie entered the room carrying a heavy weight.
After settling in, Billie began signing slowly. I want to talk about last week. The mall.
Dr. Lyons nodded, her expression encouraging. Take your time, Billie. I’m here to listen.
Billie hesitated, her hands trembling slightly. Someone ripped off my ear defenders. They said I was faking. It made me feel…like I wasn’t real.
Tears welled in Billie’s eyes, and she struggled to continue. Dr. Lyons gently placed a hand on her own chest, mirroring calm breathing. You’re safe here, Billie. What happened to you was wrong. Let’s talk about how we can make sure you feel prepared if anything like that happens again.
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Coping Strategies
Dr. Lyons and Billie spent the next hour brainstorming strategies to handle overwhelming public encounters. They decided on a few key methods:
1. Safety Cards: Dr. Lyons suggested Billie carry cards explaining her conditions. This way, you don’t have to communicate verbally if you’re too overwhelmed, she signed.
2. Escape Plans: They talked about identifying quiet spaces Billie could retreat to in public if she needed to reset.
3. Advocacy: Dr. Lyons encouraged Billie to lean on her family and Odessa. You’re not alone, Billie. Let people who love you help.
As they wrapped up their discussion, Dr. Lyons shifted the focus. Now, let’s practice your words. How are you feeling today?
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"I Love You"
Billie hesitated but tried. Her voice was soft and shaky, but she managed to say, “I…love…you.”
Her face lit up instantly, and her body began to stim with excitement. Her hands fluttered wildly, and her legs kicked out slightly from her chair. Dr. Lyons clapped her hands together softly, beaming at Billie.
You did it! That’s wonderful, Billie! Dr. Lyons signed.
For the rest of the session, Billie repeated the phrase with growing confidence, her joy palpable.
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Sharing the Love
When Billie got home, the excitement hadn’t worn off. She immediately signed to her parents and brother, I learned how to say “I love you” today!
Her voice, though hesitant, carried the words again, “I…love…you.”
Her family erupted into cheers, and Billie began stimming happily—her arms waved in the air, her feet tapped rhythmically on the floor, and she let out soft vocalizations. She jumped up and down repeatedly before rolling onto the floor, giggling uncontrollably.
That afternoon, as Billie sat down for lunch she couldn’t stop herself from repeating the phrase. Each time she said it, her hands flapped, and she rocked back and forth in her chair with giddy excitement.
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A Call to Odessa
Later, Billie picked up her tablet and video-called Odessa. The moment Odessa’s face appeared, Billie signed excitedly, I learned something new today!
Odessa’s eyes sparkled with curiosity. Show me, she signed back.
Taking a deep breath, Billie said aloud, “I…love…you.”
YOU ARE READING
mute
أدب الهواةbillie has severe autism and is mute. as she grows old she meets a friend. Billie is always bullied in school for being mute and having Tourette's.
