Therapeutic Trauma Program
At Kids First, we understand that the trauma of sexual abuse has enormous impacts on children, young people and their families and carers and we know that without specialist intervention the impacts of this devastating experience can be long-lasting.
In recognition of the devastating effects of sexual abuse trauma, Kids First Therapeutic Services provides specialist therapeutic programs for children, young people and their families/carers.
Kids First works with
- Children and young people under 18 years of age who have been sexually abused;
- Children under the age of 10 who have displayed problematic sexualised behaviours;
- Young people between 10 and 17 who have engaged in sexually abusive behaviours.
Our Approach
The Therapeutic team utilises a whole-of-family approach. Participation of family members and carers in the therapeutic work is vital to the healing of the child or young person. We also acknowledge the devastating impact that sexual abuse can have on families and those that care for the child or young person by ensuring that they too receive support.
They use a range of therapeutic tools, mediums and interventions including play, puppets, painting, drawing, sand tray and other techniques depending on the child’s age and stage of development.
Getting Help
Looking after yourself is very important if you’ve been sexually abused, displayed problematic sexualised behaviours, or either recently or in the past engaged in sexually abusive behaviours. You may want to tell someone, but not know who to talk to — or how to tell them.
For private and confidential support or help please contact one of our experienced intake team members either by phone on 03 9450 0900 or by email intake@kidsfirstaustralia.org.au
Resources
Read more about the purpose and benefits of counselling by downloading the following;
Therapeutic Services Clinical Information
Brochure
Research
Kids First has partnered with Melbourne University (School of Social Work and Nursing) on a PhD project to explore the prevention of sexually harmful behaviour by young people. The research interviewed young people who completed the Sexual Abuse Counselling and Prevention Program at Kids First, along with their workers.
Released in 2015, the Policy Briefing Paper details three opportunities identified by young people for preventing sexually abusive behaviour;
'I knew it was wrong but I couldn’t stop it'