Bethany's Story
When Bethany arrived at Stable and Wild she was living with severe anxiety which prevented her attending school and engaging with all aspects of her home and personal life. Read about her amazing progress at Stable and Wild - using one to one sessions and then group PALs sessions to build her confidence and social skills and, ultimately, her reengagement in education and the world around her.
Bethany, born in 2008, was referred to Stable & Wild in February 2023 due to severe anxiety preventing her from attending school.
Diagnosed with ADHD and Autism, she struggled with focus and experienced a cycle of increasing anxiety and disengagement from education. Misinterpretation of her need for repeated explanations in school made her feel self-conscious, further diminishing her confidence. Eventually, her anxiety became so overwhelming that she withdrew completely, avoiding both school and social interactions.
Additionally, a past choking incident led Bethany to refuse solid food, limiting her diet to liquids. This issue significantly impacted her family, restricting their ability to take trips or even attend important events, such as a family funeral.
Intervention at Stable & Wild
Bethany began attending Stable and Wild for one-on-one weekly sessions lasting 75 minutes.
Her coach, Laura, structured these sessions into manageable time blocks, using animals as a central focus to help Bethany stay engaged. Bethany’s natural desire to care for the animals motivated her, gradually building her confidence.
To create a supportive environment, Laura reassured Bethany that asking questions was encouraged. As she started successfully completing tasks, her belief in her abilities grew. She began setting small personal challenges, such as working with different animals or staying engaged despite distractions.
A breakthrough moment came when Bethany picked up a chicken for the first time and later demonstrated this skill to another coach. This marked a shift in her confidence, proving she could not only learn but also teach others.
Transition to PALs Group
Recognizing the need to rebuild Bethany’s social skills, her next step was joining the PALS Group, a small peer group of 6–8 young people. This move doubled her time on-site and introduced a new challenge—interacting with peers. Laura remained one of her coaches, offering continuity and reassurance, while the animals provided a familiar comfort.
Initially, group interactions were difficult. Many participants had similar neurodiverse needs, leading to tension. However, with patience and support, Bethany gradually developed friendships. She started participating in group tasks, expressing her ideas, and engaging in conversations without relying on a coach.
Broader Impact and Personal Growth
During this time, Bethany also worked with an occupational therapist to address her eating difficulties. She opened up to the group about her challenges, further strengthening her ability to share and connect with others.
Her confidence extended beyond the programme. At home, Bethany started a small dog-walking service, initially accompanied by her parents but eventually handling clients independently.
Outcomes
Bethany’s love for animals became a catalyst for her personal and academic growth. She regained confidence, overcame significant personal barriers, and re-engaged with education. Today, she has secured a full-time place at Shuttleworth College studying Animal Care, has a part-time job, and is preparing to take her GCSE exams.
Her journey from isolation to independence demonstrates the power of structured, supportive intervention and the unique role animals can play in building self-esteem and resilience.