When states intervene in children’s custody and living arrangements, it is usually against the will of the parents. But in some cases, parents voluntarily seek intervention from the state as a last resort to get their children the help they need.
In this video, Linda Wells appeals to the state for help with her out-of-control nine-year-old daughter, Chelsea. Linda has exhausted every other attempt to get her daughter help while living at home, and now feels she must turn over custody of Chelsea to the state to provide her with longer term help. This video follows Linda’s experience through the court system as she seeks this support, and provides a glimpse into the judicial process in cases such as this.
Given Chelsea’s history, the court recognizes Linda’s genuine need for more intense help with her daughter. This video depicts the interventions necessary in such severe cases, and follows every part of the process from court to a residential treatment facility. Chelsea continues to exhibit serious signs of impulsiveness and hyper-emotionality. Linda’s frustration and exhaustion is evident as she advocates for her daughter through the drastic measure of giving up custody.
The video follows Linda’s journey as she visits a children’s residential treatment facility, meets with the staff, and learns about the services available to her daughter there. Linda struggles with the emotions of this decision, but feels it is her only option to help her daughter. Chelsea is eventually seen entering the facility for the first time and moving her things into her new residence, providing viewers with an exclusive look at this highly emotional experience for both child and parent.
