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    Strategies for Talking to an Abused or Neglected Child

    February 15, 2018

    For many of us, we remember our childhood fondly with images of birthday parties, family holidays or playing in the park with friends. But for approximately 6 million children in the United States this year, their childhood will also include memories of abuse.

    It’s impossible to understand why anyone would want to harm an innocent child, yet every year approximately 3 million cases of child abuse and neglect are reported in the United States. When you’re in contact with children, whether they’re children of your own, children in your extended family or children you interact with through the course of employment or volunteer work, a child that’s been a victim of abuse may decide to divulge to you their experience of abuse or neglect.

    Listen

    As the child is talking to you, be silent and listen. Let them talk freely. When they pause or stop talking, your calm silence and attention may prompt them to say more.

    Calm

    As the child is talking, it’s important to stay calm and steady, yet caring. Don’t cry, get upset or display any negative emotion as they may feel they’re being punished or shamed. It’s natural for you to feel upset or angry, but be sure to express your anger or upset to the appropriate people.

    When you speak or ask questions of the child, be aware of your tone. Ask questions for the purpose of reporting pertinent details to the proper authorities, and avoid leading questions. Open-ended questions are best.

    Believe

    Believe the child’s report, and let them know they are believed. Now is not the time to assess validity, determine details or do detective work. You might want to say something such as, “I believe you. It’s good that you told me.”

    Reassure

    Re-establish safety with the child by reassuring them that they are loved and cared for, and that they did nothing wrong and are not in trouble. Free them from self-blame by letting them know it isn’t their fault. You can say something such as, “Nothing that happened is your fault” or “You did nothing to make this happen.”

    Don’t restrict the child from play or fun activities unless necessary for their safety. They may see restrictions as punishment.

    Get Help

    Do not alert or confront the alleged offender. Call the local police or Child Protective Services/Department of Children and Family Services in your area as soon as possible to make a report.

    Above all, it’s important that the child receives support and assistance immediately. If your child or a child you know has been the victim of abuse and you need the help of a licensed professional, please contact me today to set up an appointment.


    Harini Sukumaran is a Licensed Individual ( Women), Child & Family Counselor, Play Therapist, Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner/ Trainer, Reiki Grand Master and Yoga Teacher. She is passionate about helping children of all ages ( 3+ yrs ) holistically to become less stressed by giving them and their parents tools, support and encouragement. Her specialization also includes helping Women suffering from trauma, PTSD depression, anxiety and Pregnancy/Postpartum mood disorders. Harini’s passion for holistic treatment of Mind and Body motivated her to create MindTree, a Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center to help Individuals (Women), children ( Play Therapy) and families in Portland, OR.

    MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC
    5440 SW Westgate Dr # 210
    Portland, Oregon 97221

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    mindtree

    MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC


    5440 SW Westgate Dr, #210
    Portland, Oregon 97221

    Phone: (503) 766-4895
    Fax: (503) 716-4699
    Email us: info@mindtreeholisticcounseling.com


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    Counseling & Wellness Services Portland OR
    A Website by Brighter Vision | Privacy Policy

    • Home
    • Telehealth
    • About
      • Our Team
      • Our Office
      • COVID 19 Response
      • Join Our Team
      • COVID 19 Safety Protocol
    • Services
      • Family Counseling
      • Counseling for Women
      • Play Therapy for Children and Teens Approach
      • Pregnancy and Postpartum Therapy
      • Counseling for Men
      • Relationship & Couples Counseling
      • Yoga & Mindfulness for Children
      • Psychotherapeutic Reiki for Women’s Anxiety
      • Distance Reiki Healing
      • Reiki Energy Healing for Children
    • Getting Started
      • Appointment Request
      • Client Forms
      • FAQs
      • Rates & Insurance
      • Pay My Bill
      • Resources
        • Recent News
        • Mental Health Links
        • Physical Health Links
        • Mental Health Resources – Portland
    • Blog
    • Dhyana Yoga/Movement Studio
      • Rent our Event center
      • Class Schedule
      • Parent Mentoring – CPRT
    • Training
      • About Institute
      • Integrative Reiki – Level 1 & 2
    • Contact