Research tells us children suffer most in marital breakdown when high levels of conflict interfere with parental communication, decision making and problem solving. CJI’s Family Centred Programs equips families with skills and insights essential to overcoming entrenched conflict, and facilitates restorative processes which enables them to parent safety and effectively.
Family Centred Programs
Family Centred Programs include:
Family Group Decision Making, FGDM is a decision making process for families when children are at risk of abuse and neglect. Most families involved in this program are referred by Family & Children Services. The FGDM process includes extended family and other concerned adult stakeholders, parents, step-parents, grandparents, extended family friends and professional supports. This process also involves the children where age appropriate. These concerned adults meet together with a trained facilitator to discuss what is best for the children and establish a family care plan consistent with the families’ & FACS objectives.
“Walk the Talk” – Conflict Competence for Families (Conflict Coaching) Our “Walk the Talk” conflict coaching classes empowers caregivers to learn conflict resolution, communication, and problem-solving skills to improve their care giver relationships. The program is provided in a group setting or individually depending on personal circumstances. The 8 week program is run throughout the year available in the day, evenings and Saturday morning. This program is attended by couples and individuals interested in reducing the experience of family conflict. People attending included families of all types and varieties, including families that share a household and those share parenting roles in separate households. (See the links below for a short video and for participant feedback)
“Walk the Talk” Report: Click Here
"My ex and I were very hateful. It was who could hurt who the most. It was like a game."
Caregiver Teen Coaching Program – uses a conflict coaching approach to work with caregivers and teens to deepen their understanding of conflict dynamics and build skills so they can manage conflict differently. The program includes individual coaching sessions for caregivers and teens and group sessions for caregivers. Once coaching is completed, caregivers and teens may request a mediation.
Families may be referred directly by Family & Children’s Services of Waterloo Region, another community organization, or self-referral.
Questions about the program or referrals can be sent to: Melanie Cameron melaniec@cjiwr.com or 226-666-9391
There was so much turmoil in the house before CJI became involved. It’s not that we don’t have disagreements anymore, but we have learned how to problem solve.
Parent in conflict
During our 40+ year history, we have continuously responded to community needs by creatively, and innovatively applying restorative justice principles to new problems. We believe the only limit to the power of restorative justice is the capacity of the human heart to change and grow.
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