
Support Paige in Trauma Training Certificate
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Dear Friends and Family
After seeking direction in where to go next in my life, I enrolled in a certificate program called Narrative Focused Traume Care Level I through the Allender Center at the Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. With a Certificate in Narrative Focused Trauma Care, I hope to gain the skills to engage others’ stories of harm with the same courage and compassion that was offered to me so that they, too, may experience hope and healing. Would you consider giving me a financial gift to help pay for the cost of the class?
The Allender Center believes that story is how God reveals who we are, who He is, and how He intends to restore us amidst the brokenness of the world. Through the certificate program, I would be trained to address personal narratives, or stories of harm, to bring healing and redemption. This is the first year of a two-year program, completed virtually throughout four intensive four-day weekends from September through April 2024.
My Goal
The total cost of the Level I (first year) training is $6495. My goal is to raise $3000 by May 1 to supplement my savings throughout the spring and summer. If I reach my goal, I will be able to pay for the class entirely by the program's start date. This will allow me to start saving for the 2nd year of the certificate program and pay for additional counseling throughout if needed. Even small gifts help and will be much appreciated!
How I came to be here
Two and a half years ago, during the summer of 2020, I felt overwhelmed and alone in the heartache of parenting. I was beginning to wonder how my own story was being played out in my current relationships. I remember sitting in the sunshine on my back porch, writing prayers in my journal, when I distinctly sensed these words.
“I have prepared the way. Step into it and follow me. I have a plan for you.” Surprised and confused, I wondered about this. I had just scheduled my first counseling session and had a feeling that God was about to do some hard but glorious work within me.
Over the next two and half years, I shared my own stories of shame, heartache, and pain with others and experienced great care from those who sat across from me. I wept many times for the little girl in my stories who was alone, who longed to be delighted in for who she was, and who filled roles that were not meant for her. Through the care and kindness of counselors, friends, story work facilitators, and fellow story work group members, I was able to find hope as the scattered pieces of my heart were brought back together. I found blessing where there was once shame and truth where there was once confusion.
There have been multiple times in the last couple of months when I have felt God reaffirming the words I heard on my back porch two summers ago. I feel the gentle tugging to “stay here” in this place where I am, continuing to engage in the stories of my life, and learning who I have been created to be.
Organizer and beneficiary
Paige Waldron
Organizer
Traverse City, MI
Alexandra Waldron
Beneficiary