Article updated: 8/31/2012 10:39 AM

Moving Picture: Larkin counselor never gives up on kids

Therapist is making a difference at Elgin treatment facility

Buy this photo Buy this photo
next prev 1 of 5
   
Gallery Image

Erin Brumfield Grima hugs a client who is being stepped down to a foster home after completing his therapy at Larkin Center in Elgin. Brumfield Grima is a therapist and administrator at Larkin Center. The kids in her residential unit are 8 to 15 who have had sexually problematic behavior.

Rick West | Staff Photographer

Erin Brumfield Grima plays a game of Jenga with a client with a twist. To help with self esteem, every time someone pulls out a piece, they have to list one of their positive attributes.

Rick West | Staff Photographer

Therapist Erin Brumfield Grima works with kids in her residential unit ages 8 to 15 who have had sexually problematic behavior.

Rick West | Staff Photographer

Because some kids have trouble expressing their emotions, Erin Brumfield Grima often uses experiential therapy to draw them out.

Rick West | Staff Photographer

Erin Brumfield Grima leads a group-therapy session for clients at Larkin Center in Elgin. Sitting in on the session are other therapists and employees.

Rick West | Staff Photographer

About this Article

Erin Brumfield Grima works at Larkin Center in Elgin with kids who have issues with past sexual abuse. "When you work with kids for awhile you can see that the idea that somebody would be invested in them when nobody has been invested in them in their life ever does make a difference," she said. "They might not ever tell you, but you can see that it makes a difference for them. They'll make choices that are more positive for them, they'll succeed in school, they'll improve their relationship with there family or move on is some way and there's a piece of that that you know you've played a part."