Support for Caregivers
We are here to listen and offer you, your child and your family the help and resources you need to get through a very confusing, difficult time.
We Work With Families
Reliable and nurturing relationships with caregivers are essential for children and youth to do well in the face of significant adversity. At Luna, we provide the support and resources that parents and caregivers need to help children and youth build resilience and thrive.
A loving parent or caregiver can help children and youth overcome the feelings of isolation that often accompany abuse. We support families so that they serve as links back to the community where healing can begin.
How We Help
Children and youth who experience abuse are often overwhelmed. Daily stresses become even more stressful. Emotional responses get more intense.
Our Victim Support Program offers referrals, information and support. We work with children, youth and families to:
Reduce stress and anxiety
Offer emotional support
Provide a consistent point of contact
Connect to community resources
Help navigate the criminal justice system
What to Expect
When you arrive at Luna, you will be met by our Child Life Specialist who will explain what to expect during your visit. Children are welcomed into our Child Space. It is brightly coloured, full of toys and looks like a magic forest. Teenagers will find age-appropriate activities to help them settle in.
You should plan for a visit that lasts at least two hours.
Download our Welcome Guide to learn more.
Therapy
Therapy is for children and youth who have experienced sexual abuse, severe physical abuse or severe neglect. Children under 12 who have initiated concerning sexual behavior and children who have been affected by the sexual behavior of another child, are also eligible.
For a referral to Alberta Health Services Therapy, call Child Abuse Service at 403-428-5320
Download the Alberta Health Services Problematic Sexual Behaviour brochure here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an appointment at Luna?
Luna is a collaborative team works together from one location to support you and your child through every step of the healing process. Children and youth become involved with the Centre through one of our partner agencies which include: Calgary Police, Children’s Services, Alberta Education, Alberta Justice, RCMP and Alberta Health Services. Each agency will work to ensure you are connected to the right partners within Luna.
If you are looking for therapy or mental health support for your child, you can find more on how to access AHS Child Abuse Services here: 403-428-5320.
Who provides services to my child?
Once your child has been referred to Luna they may receive services from Calgary Police detectives or constables who work specifically in the area of child abuse, prosecutors, Children’s Services workers, Alberta Health Services (which includes workers in the medical team and workers in the therapy team), and our Victim Support team.
How should I prepare my child for a visit to the Luna Centre?
When preparing your child for a visit to Luna, it is important that you start by having a conversation about their questions and concerns. Asking them how they feel about going and what questions they have will help you know how to prepare them for their appointment. It is a good idea to let them know who they will be meeting, brief description of the professional’s role, and a brief description of why they will be meeting them. This should always be done in an age-appropriate way. It is okay if you do not have an answer to all the questions your child asks—do not make one up; instead, let your child know that you do not know the answer but you will get an answer as soon as you can. Regarding the timing of this discussion, it is a good idea to tell younger children about the appointment only a day or two before the actual meeting, as any longer than this may cause anxiety. For older children (8 and older) it is a good idea to let them know several days prior to the appointment so this gives them an opportunity to ask you questions and talk about how they are feeling about the upcoming visit. Remember, information is power. Often when children are able to ask their questions and get a good understanding of who they will be meeting, their anxiety can significantly decrease.
How long will the visit last?
The length of the visit will depend on what type of service your child is receiving that day. Some appointments will be for a scheduled amount of time and others will be dependent upon the situation. Therapy appointments will have set times while police interviews and medicals will be dependent upon the situation.
If I have to bring my other children, is childcare available?
Siblings are welcome to spend time in the Child Space or engage in age-appropriate activities. Volunteers are on hand to spend time with these kids.
Can I accompany my child to the interview?
No. A parent in the room can make it more difficult for children to offer details about traumatic events. For this reason, the interviewer will talk with your child one-on-one.
What can I do if my child is exhibiting Problematic Sexual Behaviour?
Our Alberta Health Services Therapy team offers support for parents of children, age 7-11, who are exhibiting problematic sexual behaviour. Download the brochure here.
