Therapeutic Services Clinical Information
At CPS 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, CPS Therapeutic Services provides a specialist therapeutic program for children, young people and their families/carers. CPS Therapeutic Services 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 harmful sexual behaviours;
- Young people between 10 and 17 who have engaged in sexually harmful behaviours.
The CPS Therapeutic team utilises a whole-of-family approach. The participation of family members and carers in the therapeutic work is vital to the healing of the child or young person. The team’s approach also acknowledges 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.
The CPS Therapeutic Services team are experienced and well qualified. 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.
CPS Therapeutic Services regularly work with young people who reside within the residential care system who are referred by child protection, community based services, families and health professionals.
Prevention
- SACPP provides Psychoeducation sessions to schools and other professionals to assist in the identification of risk factors and underlying factors contributing to sexual abuse and problem sexual behaviours and sexually abusive behaviours. This work addresses education at a population level by addressing staff in schools and agencies in order that they can intervene early and effectively, as well as liaising with appropriate professionals.
Early intervention
- SACPP provides consultation via our Intake system to carers and professionals in order to minimise harm and address situations quickly.
- Our single session program provides for prompt intervention in order that families can be provided with strategies and helpful responses in a timely manner.
- Provision of protective behaviours work for at risk children is also provided.
- Capacity to Protect Assessments are also conducted in conjunction with DHHS to identify risks and recommendations are made to minimise these risks.
Secondary intervention
- SACPP provides consultation and attendance at Care Team meetings to provide advice on safety planning and early interventions for children at risk.
- SACPP can also provide single sessions for parents to address immediate issues.
Tertiary intervention
- SACPP liaises directly with DHHS and provides monthly consultations at the Regional Office to discuss children at risk and appropriate referrals
Therapeutic intervention
- The Sexual Abuse Counselling and Prevention Program provides a specialist therapeutic counselling service. Our counsellors have a broad range of experience and include psychologists, social workers, family therapists and art therapists.
- The Sexual Abuse Counselling and Prevention Program is provided at no cost
- Our service works with the family and carers to help them understand what has happened, what the impacts are and how they can best comfort their child to help them heal