Family Guidance Center Berks County

Mental Health Drug and Alcohol

Children in the Middle

The Children in the Middle program is a one-time, three-hour class that focuses on how we as adults can best support the children in our lives through the processes of divorce, separation, and custody determination. Through a combination of verbal instruction and video materials, a group of participants reviews the common challenges that co-parents face, behavioral changes that children can experience, and strategies for preserving and strengthening the parental bond with children as custody agreements are being determined. Although a large number of participants complete this informative class to fulfill a requirement, Children in the Middle is open to anyone who would like to learn about this vitally important issue. Participants also include aunt and uncles, grandparents, step-parents, and other adults that play a supportive role in the lives of children.

Please note: the non-refundable participation fee of $45 is due at the time of scheduling. Participants may reschedule their class time once free of charge; subsequent reschedules will incur a $15 fee. An additional participation certificate can be issued after the date of completion at a fee of $15 per certificate.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a research-based treatment program originally developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan to help individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder learn skills to develop a “life worth living” through managing the emotions and behaviors that contribute to distress in everyday life. Family Guidance Center offers a comprehensive DBT program provided by therapists that have been trained and certified through Behavioral Tech, Linehan’s research, and training organization. Current research proposes that the acceptance and change skills taught in DBT have effectiveness beyond Personality Disorders, thus becoming an integral piece of our outpatient counseling programs to assist the varied population we serve.