Program Co-Ordinator: Richard Harman, Masters of Social Work, Registered Social Worker.

ASSERTIVENESS TRAINING/ANGER MANAGEMENTGROUPS (Elementary School Children)

Gaining acceptance amongst peers, dealing with conflict, and reacting to perceived failure represent some of the social skills areas which timid and/or aggressive children have difficulty mastering. For many of these children, their limited awareness of pro-social alternatives can create unhappiness at school, home or in the community. The child's sense of helplessness may result in further rejection by peers as well as decreased levels of self-esteem.

In response to this need, we offer group programs designed to increase your child's ability to deal with these issues in acceptable ways. The course allows for problem solving and exploration of practical ways to deal with such situations.

Through the use of role playing and group discussion in a supportive environment, the group addresses a wide range of topics including:

• problem solving/decision making
• classroom and playground survival skills
• dealing with teasing or bullying
• conflict negotiations
• self acceptance
• assertive skills
• friendship making skills and
• skills for dealing with feelings.

The recommended age range is 7 to 15 years. Students are grouped according to age and needs, for example, timid/withdrawn; aggressive; bright/gifted; attention deficit disorder; learning disabled.

Groups are formed throughout the year. Each course of 10 one-hour sessions is limited to 8 participants in order to ensure individual benefit. One private consultation is conducted prior to group commencement to explore the concerns and to assist in appropriate group placement

INSIGHT ORIENTED GROUP (Adolescent age)

This group moves away from the skill development model used for younger children. It is designed for depressed, anxious or socially withdrawn/ isolated adolescents. While there is room to address issues such as anger management and assertiveness, the group allows for a more in depth focus on topics such as independence, fear, guilt, and relationships with others.

The recommended age range is 13 to 18 years. Students are grouped according to age and needs, for example, timid/withdrawn; school avoidance; bright/gifted; aggressive; adolescents at risk of school failure.

Groups are formed throughout the year. Each course of 10 one-hour sessions is limited to 8 participants in order to ensure individual benefit. One private consultation is conducted prior to group commencement to explore the concerns and to assist in appropriate group placement.