You Are Here:  Home » Our Programs » Women's Services » "Children Who Witness Abuse"

Children Who Witness Abuse

Who this program is for

This program is for children and adolescents who have witness abuse/violence in their home.

Program Objective

• to define the types of abuse (physical,emotional,sexual)
  
  
• to dispel common myths surrounding family abuse/violence
  
  
• to provide a safe place that allows children and adolescents to share feelings and stories
  
  
• to break the secrets of family abuse
  
  
• to begin to strengthen self-esteem
  
  
• to teach alternative problem solving and coping skills to abuse/violence

Program Description

The program provides group and some individual support for children and adolescents aged 3-18 years old who are no longer living in an abusive home.

The children/adolescent groups are an educational and supportive group for children/adolescents who have witnessed abuse in their families. Groups generally run for ten weeks. Children/adolescents are grouped according to age.

Individual sessions may occur while a child/adolescent is waiting for a group opening, as preperation for a group or because it may be a better fit for the child/adolescent.

The program may also include support, education and groups for parents.

The program also does educational talks/workshops in the community upon request as well as run groups in the local schools.

Every year many children/adolescents witness domestic violence/abuse. Each child reacts differently to the abuse. Does your child/adolescent show one or more of the following?

• fear or terror
  
  
• aggession towards others
  
  
• depression/sadness
  
  
• sleeplessness
  
  
• trying to be perfect
  
  
• anxiety or nervousness
  
  
• low self-esteem
  
  
• withdrawal or clinging behaviors
  
  
• poor school performance
  
  
• eating or appetite problems

Your child/adolescent may need help? You can start helping them by calling one of our offices.

Program Location

OPTIONS: Service to Communities Society, Guildford

Contacts:
Tina Quiring: 778-578-0564

Jas Bains, CWWA Counsellor
and Counselling Skills Certificate: 604-572-7411

Program Funding

Funding is provided by the Ministry of Community, Aboriginal and Women's Services

Referrals or Prerequisites

Referals are done by self referral and or by the Ministry or any other community organization.

Contact Information

Tina Quiring or Jas Bains
Child Support Counsellors
Phone: Tina: 778-578-0564 or Jas: 604-572-7411
Email: info@options.bc.ca

Our Programs:
Overview | Child Care Services | Family and Child Services | Health Services | Housing Services | Mental Health Services | Multicultural Services | Shelter Services | Women's Services | Youth Services