A child sexual abuse counselling service has expanded to Northern Rivers NSW, ready to offer specialised support to children and families.
The Act for Kids Sexual Abuse Counselling service (SACS) works with kids aged five to 18 who have experienced sexual abuse, as well as children and young people who display concerning or harmful sexual behaviours.
SACS also provides education and support to parents and carers. Since 1988, Act for Kids has delivered evidence-led professional therapy and support services to children and families who have experienced or are at risk of harm.
Act for Kids Director of Therapy & Specialist Services Miranda Bain said the service in Northern Rivers was purely outreach.
‘Our sexual abuse therapist Mairead Mackle can travel to schools, homes and other community settings from southern Gold Coast all the way down to Byron Bay,’ Ms Bain said.
‘This work is about preventing harm, keeping kids safe and helping them recover from trauma.’
Expanding support
Act for Kids has delivered the SACS program on the Gold Coast for more than 20 years.
Federal government funding has now allowed the program to expand its reach to families and children across the Northern Rivers.
The service provides evidence-informed assessment and therapeutic support tailored to the needs of each child and family.
This can include trauma-focused therapy, protective behaviours education, expressive therapies, safety planning, group programs and psychoeducation, as well as specialised therapeutic approaches for children displaying harmful sexual behaviours.
Referrals can be received via self-referral, schools, health services and community organisations.
Referrals can be emailed to: [email protected].
For more information about the service, visit this link.
If you or someone you know needs support, help is always available
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800.
- Lifeline: 13 11 14.
- 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732.
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