Kids and Teens In Court Program
Overview
In
cooperation with the Family Protection Unit at the District Attorney's Office
the Juvenile Dependency Court, and the Victim Advocacy Program, the Kids and
Teens in Court program helps children, teenagers, and their caregivers who are
not suspected of abuse learn how the courtroom and possible trial works. Program
goals for the children and teenagers include reducing their stress and anxiety;
improving their coping skills by teaching them to manage their thoughts,
feelings, and behaviors; and making it possible for them to effectively testify
in court and gain control of the court experience. Program goals for these
caretakers include increasing caregiver coping skills, and allowing the adults
to manage their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to fully support
their child or teen through the court process and recovery.
Services
The
program is primarily grounded in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
and teaches participants through a variety of activities:
-
Role-playing in the courtroom about
thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
-
Games and artwork
-
Breathing exercises
-
Educational groups on the benefits of
counseling and the overall program for the caretakers not suspected of abuse
-
Meeting and becoming comfortable with court
personnel
Location and Contact Information
To schedule appointments
call: 619-531-4117
Hours: 8:00 am- 5:00 pm and some
evenings
Fax: 619-515-5825
San Diego Superior Court/Hall of
Justice
330 W. Broadway
San Diego, CA 92101
Dependency Court
2851 Meadowlark Dr.
San Diego, CA 92123
Team Leader: Alicia Gilbert, PhD
