For Parents & Relatives of a survivor

WOAR offers many services for parents, primary care givers or close family members of a child who has been sexually abused.

Short term individual counseling - 2-3 sessions can be provided to offer education about childhood sexual abuse, coping skills and support. An appointment can be made the same time your child is being seen by their counselor.

Walk-in Workshop - Parenting Through the Pain                                                    These walk-in workshops are held the 4th Wednesday of every month from 11:00am - 12:30pm at the WOAR office.

Support Group - In this 8 week group parents are given education about child development, sexual abuse, skills to assist a child who has been abused, and the legal process. The group also provides a safe space for parents to share their feelings, thoughts, ask questions and meet other parents who are going through the same experience.

Call our hotline at 215-985-3333 for more information.

What can caregivers do to help?

1. Caregivers can encourage their children to talk positively about themselves, while reminding them how brave they were to tell.
2. Caregivers can encourage children to write or draw pictures of their feelings.
3. Caregivers can provide their children with a safe environment.
4. Caregivers shouldn't force their children to talk about the abuse; instead they should be willing to listen when the child brings it up.
5. Caregivers can arrange an interesting activity or special event for the child to enjoy with family.
6. Caregivers need to remember to take care of themselves so that they can be at their best for their children.

Please refer to the Resources & Associations page for information on book recommendations and other anti-violence organizations.