The information in this program outline is provided by the program representative and edited by the CEBC staff. The Sexual Abuse: Family Education and Treatment Program (SAFE-T) program has been rated by the CEBC in the area of: Sexual Behavior Problems in Adolescents, Treatment of.

• Type of Maltreatment: Sexual Abuse
• Target Population: Adolescents who have offended sexually (intra- or extra- familial) and their families

SAFE-T is a program of Thistletown Regional Centre, which is directly operated by the Government of Ontario, Ministry of Children and Youth Services. SAFE-T is a community-based clinic that provides specialized assessment and treatment services to children and families who have experienced intra-familial sexual abuse, children exhibiting concerning sexualized behavior, and youth who have offended sexually. Services at SAFE-T are offered at no cost.

The assessment and treatment services at SAFE-T focus on strengths and challenges so that individuals and families can make changes necessary for healthy futures. Training, supervision, and consultation to other professionals is offered by the SAFE-T program with the aim of helping to increase public awareness and understanding of child sexual abuse, children with concerning sexualized behavior, and youth who have offended sexually. In addition, SAFE-T is committed to conducting research in all three client areas.

The goals of SAFE-T are:

• To promote the safety and well-being of children from sexual abuse and exploitation.
• To provide clinical assessment, treatment, and support services for children and youth who have experienced sexual abuse, children who are exhibiting/have exhibited concerning sexual behaviors, adolescents who have sexually offended, and their families.
• To conduct research that will increase knowledge and understanding of sexual abuse and will contribute to improved treatment and support of children, youth, and families that have been affected by sexual abuse.
• To provide clinical training and consultation to mental health professionals and allied disciplines in the assessment and treatment of sexual abuse.

SAFE-T is committed to providing opportunities for children, youth, and families to actively participate in coping with their experiences with sexual abuse utilizing their unique strengths and resources. The program also strives to foster professional, academic, and community partnerships to promote awareness and understanding of sexual abuse.