DAP offers early childhood therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, and caregiver support services for youth and their caregivers who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence in their homes.

In 1981, DAP began offering therapy programs for youth who have witnessed domestic violence, since we know that they face lifelong challenges to their physical, psychological, and social development. Children—from infants to adolescents—experience so much emotional stress when they witness domestic violence that it can affect the development of their brains. This can lead to behavioral changes, including intense anxiety and irritability, depression, problems with sleeping and incontinence, and trouble in school.

We also know that children who witness or experience domestic violence are more likely to use violence later in life, in their own intimate relationships. They also face an increased likelihood of substance abuse, juvenile pregnancy, and social isolation.

DAP offers early childhood therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, and caregiver support services for youth and their caregivers who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence in their homes.

Youth Programs

Smiling young boy with short curly hair wearing a colorful striped t-shirt, seated at a table with a background resembling a blurred map or outdoor scenery

Individual Youth Therapy

DAP offers individual therapy for youth ages 5 – 18. DAP therapists support younger children through Non-Directive Play Therapy utilizing toys, games, artwork, reading, and talking to support children in expressing their feelings and experiences. For older children, therapists will work with your child to decide what they feel the most helpful form of intervention is for them to meet their individual needs and goals.

Group of five children smiling and laughing outdoors

Youth Group Therapy

Youth Group for kids ages 7 – 17 is held twice a year in the Spring and Fall. Groups meet once a week for twelve weeks on Tuesday evenings from 5:30-7:30. The goals of DAP’s Children’s Group are to help children break the secret of domestic violence, understand that the abuse and violence is not their fault, strengthen self-esteem and have FUN. A parallel parent group with dinner and childcare is also provided to make the program as accessible as possible. 

A young girl with brown hair in pigtails, wearing a yellow shirt, stands at a round white table cluttered with colored pencils, markers, and a pink water bottle, in a playroom with toys and shelves in the background.

Early Childhood Therapy

Early Childhood services are provided to children ages 0-5 and their caregiver(s). The goals of this parent-child work is to strengthen the caregiver-child attachment and find a common understanding of one another’s experiences.

If you wish to sign up for any of our Youth Programs or are unsure about which program is the best fit for your family, please contact our First Call office at 612-874-7063 x232.