Family Counseling

The agency provides family support services for youth age 20 and younger and their families in Los Angeles. Services include child abuse prevention for families living within a 10 mile radius of the center, individual and family counseling and parenting skills classes for court-ordered and self-referred parents. Age restrictions apply; geographic restrictions apply for some services.

The child abuse prevention program assists families who are in danger of breaking up because of child abuse or neglect and/or the emotional breakdown of the caregiver. Staff work with the family in the home to help end and prevent further child abuse and neglect, and to keep the family together and avoid the institutionalization of children if possible. Most referrals for this program are court-ordered, but people may also self refer. The program focuses on parenting education, communication and socialization skills, stress management, and behavior management. The program teaches non-offending parent and caregivers how to avoid potentially abusive situations and how to recognize the signs of abuse. This is a short-term program which provides a variety of services for an average of six months to one year.

Parenting skills classes are provided through a 12-week program focused on parents of children with mental health issues including depression and anxiety. Participants receive certificates of completion; staff will provide progress reports to the court if necessary.

Counseling includes family and individual therapy and treatment for family members who have emotional and psychological problems or who have been victims of crime. Services may be provided in the individual's home, office or at school. LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH Services at the Hillsides Community Center location are in English and Spanish only.