Overview

Abuse can be defined as a deliberate act that can harm, or is likely to cause harm to a child's (or adult's) physical and psychological safety, well-being, dignity and/or development. Assault is commonly considered to be physical force and power over another individual with the intent of controlling, dis-empowering and/or injuring that individual. However sexual assault can be defined as any type of forced or coerced sexual contact or behavior that happens without consent. Sexual assault includes rape and attempted rape, cold molestation and sexual harassment or threats.

This workshop aims to develop an understanding of the impact of sexual assault and institutional abuse on a child's development of self. The emotional impact of loss and grief associated with the responses of family members, organisations, institutions and society. How this may influence a person's experiences and decisions as an adult.

Designed For

Professionals working with clients experiencing grief and loss, such as community support workers, counsellors, therapists, psychologists, social workers, pastoral care workers, palliative care workers, allied health professionals, case managers, residential care workers and child protection professionals.

Learning Objectives

After taking part in the workshop, participants will:

• Use an increased understanding of grief and loss theory to support individuals who have experienced sexual assault and institutional abuse.

   

• Identify the range and scope of grief and loss associated with sexual assault and institutional abuse.

   

• Identify and implement effective strategies to support grieving individuals.

Presenter

Angela Scuderi

BSW(Hons), Grad.Cert. Narrative Th. Grad. Cert. BerCouns & Int, Cert. CCPT, Cert. SPT Grad.Dip. Education, Cert. IV TAE,  Accr. Mem.  AASW, Ass. Mem PTA, CBP

Angela is an Accredited Mental Health Social Workers, a Certified Bereavement practitioner and a Child Centred Play Therapist in private practice based in Melbourne's north. Prior to private practice she worked in the health and community sector for over 17 years holding a range of positions in Bereavement, Grief and Loss, Family work and Mental Health.

As a mental health professional, she has worked with adults, young people, children and families experiencing difficulties with bereavement, relationships, parenting, mental health, violence, abuse and trauma. Her family work inspired her to specialise in Non Directive Child Centered Play Therapy and Sand Play Therapy. Her area of interest is attachment, grief and trauma and is currently completing EMDR training. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Narrative Therapy and is currently completing her Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Aside from counselling, Angela has co-ordinated and co-facilitated groups for young people, children and adults, co-authored a manual for a children's grief group program and presented at conferences. Angela also has over 8 years experience as a TAFE educator, trainer and assessor where she developed and delivered programs in Mental Health, and Community Services work for students and industry.

Angela is an Accredited Member of the Australian Association of Social Workers, a Certified Bereavement Counsellor with ACGB and an Associate Member of Play Therapy Australia.