The Mental Health Department at ChicagoCAC provides trauma-informed mental health counseling to children who have been sexually abused.
Therapists use the Attachment, Self-regulation and Competency (ARC) and Integrated Treatment for Complex Trauma (ITCT) treatment modalities to guide treatment. Through art, play, or conversation, therapists create a safe space for children to tell their trauma stories, identify and overcome challenges, develop positive coping skills, and build healthy relationships.

Each client receives a thorough trauma assessment that includes a clinical interview, observations of the client and his/her family, administration of psychological self-report measures and review of relevant documents. The therapist, client (if age appropriate) and caregiver/parent will meet to review the results of the assessment and complete a treatment plan that includes identification of specific issues and goals and a timeline to complete these goals. Treatment plans are reviewed with the family throughout the treatment process and modified as necessary.