He was focused on looking out for the safety and protection of the other boys - pointing out potential obstacles, standing over the bull nettle, and advising other campers about how to interact with the horses in a safe way... Ethan was so focused on helping and protecting others, he had a hard time just being a kid.

With a boyish grin, Ethan looked at the counselors and said "Most people would think that falling in bull nettle would be a bad thing, but it was kinda good because there have never been so many people who cared about me."

There are numerous other stories of growth and healing from camp this summer, but Ethan's story is a reminder that one adult can have a significant impact on a child's life. At Camp Phoenix, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to just be a kid & every child is "worth caring about." 

• 
  Increased self-esteem based on an average of a 8% increase on a 40-point measurement scale after just one overnight camp!
• 100% of campers reported there is an adult they can trust and talk to at Camp Phoenix.
• 100% of campers reported they now know how to take deep breaths to feel better.
• 100% of campers reported that they feel more confident about themselves after attending Camp Phoenix.
• 100% of campers reported that they now know how to create art to feel better when they are sad, worried or angry.
• 98% of campers reported Camp Phoenix helped them make friends.
• 98% of campers reported they now know how to journal to express themselves

  Camper Quotes 

 

"I learned that we can conquer our fears."

"I can now say that I am confident, creative, and courageous!"

"At camp I learned that when you fall you pick yourself back up and learn to cry in front of everyone.  Patience and trust."

"At camp I learned that I am braver than I could have ever dreamed."

"My least favorite thing about camp was nothing - everything was my favorite!"

Parent Feedback

"Since camp, she continues to utilize calming techniques and diverts herself from a complete meltdown." 

Thank you to all who volunteered and donated to fund our camps. We greatly appreciate the growth and change that you made possible.  Thank you.

Phoenix Center welcomes Erin Givarz and Chali Henderson to our staff as additional part-time Children's Therapists.  Erin and Chali will help the Phoenix Center meet the growing need for high-quality mental health care for children who have experienced trauma such as sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect. 

Ms. Henderson will serve as an additional bilingual therapist which will help us reach more deserving children.   

Mandi Melendez, also a part-time Phoenix Center Children's Therapist, is bilingual as well.  Read more about all of our talented staff members here.

Erin Givarz received her Masters of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas and also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art.  She is licensed through the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners and is a member of the National Association of Social Workers and the American Association for Play Therapy.  Erin has experience working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma, as well as other emotional and behavioral health needs. 

Erin first started working at the Phoenix Center as an intern and is excited to join the Phoenix Center team beginning in August 2014.  Before working at the Phoenix Center, Ms. Givarz worked with children, adolescents, and families at a bereavement center, in schools, at therapeutic camps, and internationally. 

Erin Givarz has specialized, advanced training in Play Therapy and Sandplay Therapy, as well as a professional interest in art therapy. Ms. Givarz is delighted to join the dedicated and talented team of professionals at the Phoenix Center.

Chali Henderson received her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling

from Texas State University.   She is a board certified LPC-Intern in the state of Texas. 

Chali is a bilingual therapist who specializes in play therapy, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy and grief and loss. In addition, Ms. Henderson has specialized, advanced training in evidence-based treatments for children on the Autism Spectrum.  

Chali believes that through a healthy, positive therapeutic relationship, children and families can begin a process of healing and growth that can endure throughout a child's lifetime.  Ms. Henderson has a passion for working with children, adolescents, and families to improve family relationships and create positive lasting change.