Sexual Abuse Intervention

Healing is possible

The Sexual Abuse Intervention Program provides specialized services to children and youth, under the age of 19, who have been sexually abused or sexually assaulted. The parents and siblings of the children and youth who have been abused are also eligible to receive support and counselling. Children, ages 3 to 12, who have sexual behaviour problems are provided specialized counselling and support services.

Our therapeutic interventions are sensitive to the unique needs of the child or youth who has experienced sexual abuse. The child’s age, developmental level, cultural background and severity of the abuse are all considered when developing a treatment plan. Referrals to the program come from families, the Ministry for Children and Family Development, Victim Services, the R.C.M.P., Child and Youth Mental Health, teachers, and school counsellors.

The Sexual Abuse Intervention Program provides timely therapeutic and educative support for families who are coping with a disclosure of sexual abuse or sexual assault. Therapeutic services include: initial therapeutic response, assessment services, and treatment.

Children and youth are referred to the program for a variety of reasons. Some children have been sexually abused by a family member, a relative, a friend of the family, a trusted member of the community or a stranger. Some youth have been sexually assaulted by an acquaintance or a stranger.

For children ages 3 to 10 years Play Therapy is an effective therapeutic intervention. Play is a natural medium of expression and communication for children. Play Therapy provides children with the opportunity to express themselves through the use of play and toys.