This initiative is a preventive measure that sets out to develop and implement tangible strategies for children, youth and their caregivers to cope more effectively with the challenges of their given circumstance.

Staffed by a qualified clinical counsellor, this initiative offers a combination of community and office-based services designed to “meet the client where they are at”.

Aspects of service may include:

• Individual counselling for children and adolescents
• Group sessions for the target population which reflects common issues and needs
• Alternatives to office-based therapy including home visits, school visits, dog-walking, jogging and hiking
• Support and educational services to children and caregivers during the pre- and post-diagnostic phases of childhood disorders
• Parenting skills and family mediation for caregivers

This Counselling Initiative is designed to:

• Promote healthy childhood skill development and alleviate familial stress
• Act as an intervention service that screens and connects youth to appropriate community-based measures prior to losing connection with the school system
• Explore some of the underlying issues that youth struggle with that contribute to their risk taking behaviour related to auto crime and substance use

Service Referrals

Referrals for this initiative can be made by school-based counsellors, child and youth care workers, probation officers, RCMP and outreach workers from organizations throughout the Surrey North region. Referrals can be made on-line by visiting www.centeredlifestyle.com