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Behavioral Health Specialists, Inc.
900 W Norfolk Ave
DV Articles :
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Survivors' ProgramsBehavioral Health Specialists, Inc., offers individual and group counseling programs for the survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault within the context of domestic violence. Survivors will receive non-judgmental support in order to escape the cycle of abuse. BHS respects the survivor's perspective on experiences, and will advocate on the survivor's behalf to develop and maintain a plan to provide safety for the family. The survivor's children are also provided support and education to rebound from their experiences with domestic violence. This program is offered through a contractual relationship with Bright Horizons. The staff of the Project L.I.F.E. Program are dedicated to assisting survivors in developing safe alternatives for ending domestic violence. Topics covered during the group process will include domestic violence and sexual assault education, developing healthy relationships, feelings identification and communication, healthy coping skills, self-esteem, and empowerment. Project L.I.F.E. program staff will also assist in aftercare planning for all families as they transition to a life of liberation, independence, freedom, and empowerment. Survivors Group Therapy - Group therapy services will be provided weekly for adult survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Staff will employ a variety of effective therapies, including cognitive-behavioral approaches, psycho-educational materials, bibliotherapy, and other self-discovery work. Group Therapy for Children - Children who have witnessed or experienced domestic violence and sexual assault have their own special needs. Group therapy will also be provided weekly to promote personal healing and sharing of their experiences with peers for youth ages 12-18. Educational group programs are available for 2-11 year-olds. Individual Therapy - Individual therapy will be provided to survivors of domestic violence, adults and children, to supplement the group process. Individual therapy may also be substituted for group therapy when appropriate. Family Support Services - A Family Support Specialist may be assigned to enhance and strengthen a family's capacity to function independently. This may include assisting survivors with obtaining employment, securing housing, implementing new structure within the household, encouraging healthy relationships, and new support systems. A Family Support Specialist can meet with a family in their home, school, or community setting to provide education, assistance, crisis intervention, and support. Childcare Arrangements - Bright Horizons staff will arrange childcare at an alternative location for participants' children who are not enrolled in group services. This service is at no cost to the participants. The Family Support Specialist can assist families with making other child care arrangements as needed. Batterers' Intervention ProgramBHS's Batterers Intervention Program offers psycho-education to individuals adjudicated for acts of domestic violence which may include physical, emotional or sexual abuse against a partner. The program seeks to achieve the following goals:
BHS teaches that battering is a choice and that perpetrators of violence can choose to change. Research demonstrates the more an individual is connected to the community through employment, educational pursuit, spiritual ties, community activities, etc., the more likely they are to discontinue the cycle of violence. Therefore, the program strives to establish a health network of community connections to facilitate stabilization. Project LIFE is supported by Grant No. 2003-WR-BX-0011 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. Points of view on this website are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.
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Last Updated: 09/23/08 |
