The PEACE Program: Prevention Education Advocacy Counselling Empowerment
(Formerly known as Children Who Witnessed Abuse)
The PEACE program offers 8-12 weeks of individualized, psycho-educational counselling for children and youth (aged 3-18) who have witnessed or experienced violence. We empower children and youth to understand the impact of violence, recognize unsafe situations, and develop healthy coping strategies. Children and youth are taught that violence is not their fault, and that they are not alone.
PEACE Services
- Offers a safe space for children and youth to explore and express their emotions in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
- Builds confidence and self-esteem through skill development, including communication, emotional regulation, and problem-solving, helping children and youth grow emotionally and socially.
- Teaches children and youth how to recognize and establish healthy boundaries in their relationships.
- Helps children and youth identify and understand unsafe situations and harmful relationships, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to seek support when needed, whether from a trusted adult, counselor, or other resources.
- Assists in developing personalized safety plans for navigating potentially dangerous situations.
Psychoeducation
- Psychoeducation is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that provides children, youth, and families with information and skills to better understand and manage the effects of violence, mental health challenges, and to develop healthy coping strategies.
- It provides age-appropriate tools to help children and youth recognize violence and unsafe situations, as well as practical methods for managing emotions and stress.
- Children and youth are taught safe coping strategies to improve emotional resilience and well-being.
Counsellors
- Provides one-on-one psychoeducational counselling.
- Facilitates group counselling sessions with peers.
- Supports parents in understanding the emotional and psychological impact of violence on their child.
- Delivers presentations and activities about violence prevention in schools and the community.
Note: PEACE counsellors are not clinicians and cannot diagnose or assess mental health conditions. They focus on providing psychoeducational support and resources.
Who Can Benefit?
Children, Youth and Families
The PEACE program is available for children, youth, and families who have experienced or witnessed violence. We offer tailored support for children and youth aged 3-18 and provide resources for parents and caregivers.
Schools and Educators
PEACE also provides violence prevention presentations and activities for schools. These sessions are designed to educate students and staff about recognizing unsafe situations, promoting healthy relationships, understanding the impact of violence, and online safety. If you are an educator or school counselor, we encourage you to contact us to arrange a presentation for your school or classroom.
Referral Information
PEACE is a free, open-referral program designed to be completely voluntary. Participation in the program is at the discretion of the child or youth, who are free to choose whether to continue or terminate services at any point. Referrals can be made by parents, friends, family, school counselors, doctors, or other community professionals.
Phone: 250-627-7166
Email: peace@nccspr.ca
Get Support Today
If you or someone you know would benefit from the PEACE program, please reach out for more information or to make a referral.
The Ministry of Public Safety & Solicitor General funds this program.