The Amanecer Children’s Clinic is hard at work! In addition to individual therapy sessions for our kids, the diligent clinicians at Amanecer host group sessions to further support the children and families of our various divisions. Currently, the Clinic is offering five different group sessions that each take place weekly for approximately 1.5 – 2 hours; additionally, there will be five more groups added to the roster in time for the summer, when most children are out of school.

Our Window Between Worlds group is an arts therapy program that encourages youths to work through trauma and violence. Co-facilitated by Amanecer and A Window Between Worlds, this group has been a huge success for our children; talented artists connect with and empower our clients to express themselves and allow for more than one safe space for deep introspection. When asked about her favorite aspect of this group, Facilitator Tatiana emphasized the joy of “seeing the kids’ faces light up when doing art projects in a non-intrusive manner and allowing them to be the experts in their own story telling.”

Every Friday, the Facilitators of the Parent Retreat Group focus on helping parents understand mental health in a group setting to assure parents they are not alone in their feelings and journey. Allowing parents to reflect inwards and have respite care is paramount in their ability to support their children’s progress.  Other life skills like communication, budgeting, and constructive parenting techniques are discussed while exploring places like Eaton Canyon, San Pedro, Malibu, and Venice Beach. When asked about her favorite part of the Parent Retreat Group, Facilitator Marilyn notes “being out with parents and watching them enjoy themselves.”

Seeking Safety, a group that helps individuals who currently suffer from substance abuse or trauma attain safety and seek services, is set to re-start in the coming months. Facilitators will explore 25 topics that resonate with every age, gender, trauma type, substance type, and level of care. Our clinicians are working hard to get this group up and running soon and look forward to providing resources for our clients.

Amanecer is extremely fortunate to be able to partner with local schools and agencies to provide these additional services to our clients and would not be able to continue offering these vital sessions without the generosity of our donors and advocates. As we move forward in 2020, we hope to increase our presence in the community and provide quality mental health care for those in need.

For more information on our groups, check out our webpage.

Artwork Shown Above is from our Window Between Worlds Children’s Group Therapy.  
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