The KIDS Center

Suzanne Smither, LCSW –  Supervisor

 

 

What is the KIDS Center?

The KIDS Center is a multi-agency, non-profit center serving children who have been sexually, physically or emotionally abused, or who have witnessed domestic violence.  The Center has three components –

 

• Medical and forensic evaluation of reports of abuse
• Mental health treatment
• Prevention/public awareness activities.

 

How Do I Get A Referral For A Medical and Forensic Evaluation?

A child’s primary care physician may make a referral if he/she suspects any type of abuse. Law enforcement agencies and child welfare may also make referrals to the KIDS Center.  For additional, information you may contact the KIDS Center directly at (541) 383-5958.

 

What About Mental Health Treatment/Counseling?

The mental health treatment component of the KIDS Center is served by therapists from the Child and Family Program of Deschutes County Mental Health.  Treatment/counseling services are provided at the KIDS Center in Bend (www.kidscenter.org), at the Becky Johnson Center in Redmond and at the La Pine Community Center in La Pine.

 

• What Types of Treatment Services Are Offered?

Clients can receive individual, family, or group therapy an/or skills training.  Therapy for younger children typically involves play or art therapy along with family therapy or parent guidance.  Therapy with older children could include art therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), group skills training for DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), coping and emotional regulation skills, Seeking Safety groups for teens with trauma and alcohol and drug related issues or Survivor’s group.  Most of the therapy approaches used are evidence-based.

 

• How Do I Access Services At The KIDS Center For Treatment?

Any child of any age can receive treatment for a past or present abuse-related issue by calling the KIDS Center at (541) 383-5959 and asking for the Treatment Team.  You can also contact Jeanette Buystead at (541) 312-5094, Treatment Team Secretary or Suzanne Smither, LCSW – Supervisor of the Treatment Team at (541) 322-7580.  All referrals need to initially come through the main office at the KIDS Center.

 

• Is There A Cost For Therapy Services?

We serve clients who are served by the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), and also have grants available to serve those without OHP or private insurance.  We generally refer clients with private insurance to private clinicians for similar services.

 

 

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For More Information Contact:

Deschutes County Mental Health
2577 N.E. Courtney Drive
Bend, OR 97701
(541) 322-7500