Children respond to trauma in different ways. Some children may appear too have no issues at all; while others may exhibit acting out behaviors, such as sadness and anger. It is important that all children are given the opportunity to address what has happened to him/her through therapy. Even children who are not showing outward behaviors can benefit from a supportive relationship where they can express their feelings.
The Gordon County Child Advocacy Center offers free trauma-focused individual therapy to child victims under the age of 18. Therapy services are provided by individuals who are licensed by the Georgia Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. Referrals are accepted for counseling services from several sources including DFCS, law enforcement, schools, and other mental health programs. Families can also self-refer by calling to inquire about services. The CAC specializes in working with children who have been physically and sexually abused. Appropriate referrals are those with an allegation or history of physical or sexual abuse.
The types of therapy offered include Trauma-Focused CBT and Play Therapy. Sessions typically last 45 minutes. If a child is 5 or younger, sessions typically last 30 minutes. Information shared during therapy is kept confidential unless something is shared to the therapist that is mandated by law to report. For example, a report of child abuse, or if someone is planning to hurt him/herself or others. Joint sessions are also held with the parent and child.
What to expect at the intake appointment
After the referral is received and accepted, the therapist will reach out to the parent to set up an intake appointment. The intake appointment will typically take about 1- 1 ½ hours. Often times, the parent is asked to come without the child so that paperwork can be completed. The therapist and parent can meet. An informed consent will be signed explaining the therapy process, the risks and benefits of therapy, and expectations. The therapist will ask questions about the child’s behaviors, the family functioning, and the history of abuse. After the completion of the intake appointment, the therapist will schedule an appointment to meet with the child.
The Gordon County Child Advocacy Center offers free trauma-focused individual therapy to child victims under the age of 18. Therapy services are provided by individuals who are licensed by the Georgia Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. Referrals are accepted for counseling services from several sources including DFCS, law enforcement, schools, and other mental health programs. Families can also self-refer by calling to inquire about services. The CAC specializes in working with children who have been physically and sexually abused. Appropriate referrals are those with an allegation or history of physical or sexual abuse.
The types of therapy offered include Trauma-Focused CBT and Play Therapy. Sessions typically last 45 minutes. If a child is 5 or younger, sessions typically last 30 minutes. Information shared during therapy is kept confidential unless something is shared to the therapist that is mandated by law to report. For example, a report of child abuse, or if someone is planning to hurt him/herself or others. Joint sessions are also held with the parent and child.
What to expect at the intake appointment
After the referral is received and accepted, the therapist will reach out to the parent to set up an intake appointment. The intake appointment will typically take about 1- 1 ½ hours. Often times, the parent is asked to come without the child so that paperwork can be completed. The therapist and parent can meet. An informed consent will be signed explaining the therapy process, the risks and benefits of therapy, and expectations. The therapist will ask questions about the child’s behaviors, the family functioning, and the history of abuse. After the completion of the intake appointment, the therapist will schedule an appointment to meet with the child.
