Brighter Futures Spotlight
August 2023
Studies show that 15% to 43% of girls go through at least one trauma. Of those children 10% to 15% develop PTSD.
- National Center for PTSD
“I feel less alone. I made close connections with people and I feel much more optimistic about my future and living as a person with trauma.”
- Graduating Senior and Chrysalis Participant
CHRYSALIS: A safe haven for teenage trauma survivors
As Erica Weber reflects on her last 13 years leading Trillium’s Chrysalis program, she’s most reminded of the countless lives the program has helped to transform. At the start of each school year, she watched the remarkable bravery of teen trauma survivors as they stepped into group on their school’s campus for the first time, often reserved and guarded.
Much like the program title suggests, as every year unfolds, a metamorphosis occurs. Shyness gives way to anticipation, friendships develop, and personal growth becomes a shared triumph. From celebrating academic achievements to moments of empowerment during self-defense exercises, Erica watched each experience contribute to a student’s transformation where self-acceptance and resilience flourish.
Erica Weber, LCSW is a clinical social worker with over 15 years as a child and family therapist for Trillium Family Services
Annie Kobliska-Becker, the incoming Chrysalis manager and group facilitator, recognizes the impactful role of Chrysalis in helping teenage girls recover from difficult trauma. She highlights how Chrysalis helps students improve their self-esteem, emotional regulation, and chances of graduation, often through the power of storytelling. As a student expressed in a 2022-23 survey, “telling my story makes me feel strong and keeps me pushing.”
Erica's legacy and Annie's commitment ensure that these stories continue to inspire and heal, empowering students to navigate life's challenges with resilience and unity. As Annie expresses, “in my short time working with Chrysalis, I’ve been enlivened by the experiences I’ve had as a group facilitator. I’m grateful to Erica for cultivating a program that is rooted in hope, healing, and compassion. I’m honored to be the next to care for the deeply loved Chrysalis program.”
Chrysalis is made possible through philanthropic support from individuals, businesses, and grant making entities. Students attending 18 schools across the Portland Metro have benefited from this program. This year, Chrysalis expands to two rural schools for the first time, widening its reach and impact.
Annie Kobliska-Becker, LCSW is a clinical social worker with nearly 11 years as a child and family therapist for Trillium’s Outpatient Program
School partnerships are critical to the success of Chrysalis. “We partner with school counselors who identify and refer girls to the program so they’re able to work through their trauma without leaving campus. We know trauma survivors are vulnerable to many future risks including health issues, revictimization, and other mental health challenges. This makes Chrysalis groups so important, to offer youth a chance to find connection, healing tools, and hopefully unhook from a traumatic cycle,” Erica states.