From Victim to Conqueror: Danielle’s Journey with Kindred Place

Danielle Avery grew up in a home filled with contradiction — a victim of child abuse. That early experience left her desensitized to unhealthy behaviors and longing for real love. As a young woman, she entered her first marriage with hope, but it quickly turned into a cycle of physical abuse. Danielle still remembers one of the lowest points: returning home from the hospital with her newborn daughter, only to be beaten on the same day. Over time, Danielle found the courage to leave that relationship. She had gained strength through her education, career, and personal growth, but she admits she lacked a deeper spiritual foundation. That gap left her vulnerable, and in a second relationship she encountered “Biblical counseling” that told her to fight for her marriage — even while her physical and mental health were deteriorating. She knew she needed something more: true wisdom, a supportive community, and education to break free from old patterns. That’s when she said God led her to SchoolSeed's Kindred Place. Finding Healing at Kindred Place Danielle discovered Kindred Place online and met Tammy Borkcom, Kindred Place clinical coordinator, who she describes as “awesome.” What she found was more than just a program — it was a safe space filled with kindness, education, and community. She met other women with similar stories and began to learn what real support and healing look like. “There is a great difference between academic intelligence and pearls of wisdom,” Danielle says. “Kindred Place helped me realize abuse is wrong, even in a Christian marriage. Here, I am seen, I am safe, and my shame has decreased. I’ve met so many beautiful women who share my journey.” Through domestic violence classes, counseling, and peer support, Danielle has grown stronger. She has a brighter outlook on her future and the knowledge to pass on to her daughters — ensuring they won’t repeat the cycles of abuse she endured. A New Perspective Danielle wants others who have suffered in silence to know that counseling is not a weakness — it is a gift. “God is our ultimate Counselor, and He uses vessels on earth to help us heal. Counseling, when done in the right spirit, can open your eyes to red flags we often miss on our own,” she shares . When she walks into Kindred Place, Danielle no longer feels like a victim. The clean, calm, and family-like atmosphere — from the receptionist to the security guard to the clinicians — surrounds her with warmth. “At Kindred Place, I’ve grown into a conqueror,” she says with confidence. Danielle’s story is a testament to the life-changing power of safe spaces, wise counsel, and community. Kindred Place is not just a program; it’s a place where lives are rebuilt and futures are reclaimed.