A Bird in the Hand: Mere Psychotherapy, Part 4

Nothing is guaranteed. Not a single “thank you”, not fairness, not even our next breath. Everything can disappear in an instant…

…And still this emptiness persists. Perhaps this is as good as it gets. When you’ve given up the drink, and those nasty cigarettes. Now I leave the party early, at least with no regrets. Yeah this is as good as it get.”

~ Collin Haye, “Beautiful World”

James is ten years old. He’s recently been reunited with his mother after a custody battle lasting several years between the mother and her mother. James’ mother was in recovery for substance abuse (in addition to multiple chronic medical ailments) which compounded her traumatic flashbacks and anxiety; ultimately leading to brief imprisonment. It’s my understanding that James’ maternal grandmother was given temporary custody and, through a series of deceitful tactics, manipulated the legal system into obtaining more solidified guardianship.

James’ mother, now sober has regained temporary custody and I am to see over their reunification process. James is a sweet and shy boy. Given his age and development, our sessions oscillate between diff…