DA & Childhood Matters Launch New Mental Health Center for Childhood Victims

By Redaccion
[email protected]

The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office is proud to announce our partnership with Childhood Matters, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the mental health and well-being of children and youth. This new partnership will include on-site services at the Ventura County Family Justice Center. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in addressing the mental health needs of children and families in our community.

“We are thrilled to be joining forces with Childhood Matters,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “This partnership aligns with the Ventura County Family Justice Center and Childhood Matters’ commitment to creating a healthier, more supportive community for families facing challenging circumstances.”

The partnership will see Childhood Matters establishing a dedicated space at 2982 Martha Drive in Ventura, where they will offer a comprehensive range of services to enhance mental health support for children and youth. 

Key services provided by Childhood Matters at the new space include:

• Workshops for Mental Health and Wellness: Interactive sessions designed to equip children, youth, and their families with tools and strategies to navigate the challenges of mental health.
• Mental Health Counseling: Access to mental health professional and affordable counseling, ensuring that support is readily available to those in need.
• Parenting Support Groups and Workshops: Forums for parents and caregivers to share experiences, gain insights, and build a supportive community while learning effective parenting strategies.
• Creating Safe Spaces for Children and Youth: These dedicated spaces in the community will promote emotional well-being, providing a secure environment for processing emotions during difficult times.
• Community Mental Health Events: Outreach and awareness initiatives to engage the broader community in conversations about mental health, reducing stigma, and promoting understanding.

«We are filled with heartfelt gratitude to the District Attorney’s Office and Family Justice Center for their unwavering support and provision of space,” said Shaleena Tareen, Founder of Childhood Matters. “We firmly believe that every child deserves to blossom in a supportive and nurturing environment. Through our collaboration with the Ventura County Family Justice Center, Childhood Matters is dedicated to fostering a positive impact on the mental health and well-being of the children and youth in our community.”

Childhood Matters is in the early stages of discussions with local schools to provide practicum opportunities for marriage and family therapist students. The organization is optimistic about the prospect of a productive collaboration with schools such as California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks.

We look forward to announcing an official launch date for the Childhood Matters space at the Ventura County Family Justice Center in the near future.