Helping Mothers & Children

Survive Abuse Together

This group is for women who have been abused by their partner and their children (newborn to 12 years) who have been exposed to the abuse against their mothers. This ten-week program is offered in Brampton and Mississauga.  Groups occur one night per week for 10 consecutive nights.  We also have a Saturday morning group which runs for 10 consecutive weeks.  Groups are two hours in length and are free of charge.

Group Sessions

Mothers and their children spend the first ½ hour together in an interactive exercise component where they are given the opportunity to express their emotions through movement and play. During the last hour and a half, the group is divided into three sub groups, newborn to 5 years of age, 6 to 12 years of age and the mother's group.  In the breakout groups, mothers and children discuss topics such as what is abuse, feelings, anger, conflict resolution, safety planning, responsibility for abuse and self-esteem building.

Participants

d  Children newborn to 12 years of age

d  Women of all religions and ethnic backgrounds are welcome

d  Cultural interpreters are available for women

d  There is no cost for the program

Children Who Will Benefit From Participating In The Group

d  Children who have been exposed to abuse against their mother

d  Children who exhibit any of the following behaviours:

Fear or terror

Aggression towards others

Depression/sadness

Sleeplessness

Perfectionism

Anxiety or nervousness

Low self-esteem

Withdrawal or clinging behaviours

Poor school performance

Eating or appetite problems

Criteria for Participation

Women need to be able to focus on the needs of their children.

In the case of a joint custody agreement, we are obligated to inform women that the father's consent for the children to participate in the program is required.  If the abusive partner is in the home, he needs to be involved in formal treatment for his abuse and be willing to attend an interview with the Program Coordinator. 

Women and children need to commit to the 10 week program.

Women and children need to be able and ready to participate in group format.

Referral Form (PDF)

A program curriculum for Helping Mothers & Children Survive Abuse Together is available.