Family, couple and individual counseling, group sessions, classroom programs, parent education workshops, staff and administrative consultations are provided by Institute therapists and supervised trainees. Thanks to our many supporters who contribute to this program, services are generally provided at no or very low cost to the client. During FY 1999, more than 900 at-risk children and adults were served through this program. For a full description of the Community Outreach Program, see the Community Programs section of this site. The project aims to reduce early risks for the development of aggressive and anti-social behaviors and to build strengths and competencies in their place.
Intervention is directed towards the preschool children, their families and their teachers.
A two-year long curriculum is used to help children reduce negative and aggressive behavior and build social and personal competencies. Parents participate in monthly seminars and preschool teachers receive training and consultation. In 1997, in collaboration with Educators for Social Responsibility and Lyons Township High School, The Family Institute developed a model comprehensive training program geared towards infusing the school community with the ability to constructively resolve conflict. A group of students, faculty and parents of this large and diverse high school are engaged in activities geared towards developing constructive conflict resolution skills. Among the most exciting features of the program is the active involvement of students as key partners in its planning and implementation.