When 15-year-old Ethan arrived at YFCC’s Malana Youth at Risk Service, he was experiencing a range of complex challenges following a crisis at his grandmother’s home.

Ethan had been diagnosed with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder and had an active NDIS plan.

He had also experienced difficulties managing his anger.

Despite the circumstances that brought him to Malana, Ethan showed a willingness to engage with support and a genuine desire to find better ways of managing the challenges he faced.

Youth Coaches worked alongside Ethan and his existing support network to ensure he had access to services that met his needs.

With encouragement and support, Ethan agreed to recommence medication for his ADHD, while Youth Coaches advocated for alternative NDIS support when he felt his existing arrangements were not working for him.

An important part of Ethan’s progress was his growing awareness of how he managed his emotions.

He voluntarily engaged with the Supporting Adolescent Boys Trial program, recognising that he wanted to develop healthier strategies for managing his anger.

Youth Coaches also supported Ethan to build his everyday living skills and navigate complex family relationships.

During his time at Malana, he began developing positive connections within the Launceston community and reported improvements in his relationship with his mother.

He also continued working towards his goals with the support of his Youth Coaches, NDIS and other community providers.

His engagement with therapeutic programs, growing awareness of his own needs and willingness to accept support represented meaningful progress towards a more stable and supported future.