El Paso Child Guidance Center

Although everyone experiences grief differently, some facts are universal. Grief is a normal response of sorrow that comes from losing something or someone important in life.

Grief is not linear; it comes and goes in waves. Someone might grieve days after a loss, while others grieve months later. That is okay, everyone has their own path.

Sadness isn’t the only emotion that comes with grief. To name a few: anger, confusion, anxiety, and guilt, are common emotions someone might feel.

Too many people are experiencing suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress without the support and care they need. Yet, there is hope. The 988 Lifeline helps thousands of people struggling to overcome suicidal crises or mental health-related distress every day.

Call or text 988 if you are experiencing:
-Thoughts of su***de
-Mental health or substance use crises
-Emotional distress

In light of the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, we want to offer support to families, children, and the community. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has provided valuable resources to help everyone process the emotions and stress from this event. It’s important to talk openly, acknowledge feelings, and find healthy ways to cope together.

For more information and helpful resources, visit: https://www.nctsn.org/resources/tips-parents-media-coverage-shooting

For support, contact us at the El Paso Child Guidance Center at 915-562-1999. For immediate assistance, call the crisis line at 915-779-1800 or dial 988 for emergencies. We are here for you.

September marks Su***de Prevention Month – a time to remember the lives lost to su***de, the millions who have struggled with suicidal thoughts & the individuals, families, and communities that have been impacted.

If you or someone you know is in need of support or resources on su***de prevention, please visit the following link for more information and help: sprc.org
Your awareness and support can make a difference. Let's work together to create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Healing from loss happens in its own time and in many different ways. You can observe National Grief Awareness Day no matter what type of loss you've been through.

Some common reasons people experience grief may include:
-The death of a loved one
-A divorce, breakup, or other separation
-Getting fired from a job or losing a promotion
-Losing one’s business or livelihood
-Learning about a chronic illness or condition
-Losing financial stability

No matter the reason, remember to be kind to yourself and others on this journey. Together, we find can peace.

🎒 It’s back-to-school season! 📚

For many, it’s a time of excitement and new beginnings. But let’s not forget, it can also be a bit stressful or even scary for some. 💭

Whether you’re a parent, friend, or part of the school faculty and staff, your role in a student’s mental well-being is crucial. 💖

If you’re looking for more resources and ways to support students this year, click the link below! Let’s work together to make this school year a positive and supportive experience for everyone! 🌟

🔗 https://www.samhsa.gov/blog/back-to-school-mental-health-tips-resources-help-youth-thrive-in-out-classroom?utm_source=SAMHSA&utm_campaign=2c66a3cf64-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_08_22_01_23&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-2c66a3cf64-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D

We are so proud of Jessica Andrews, Behavioral Health Director. Congratulations on this amazing opportunity!

What are words of affirmation? They’re positive statements that can help reinforce self-belief and boost mental well-being. We all know words can impact others, but the words we use towards ourselves are equally as powerful.
Consider elevating your self-talk with affirmations and choose to be kinder to yourself today!

Has your child experienced trauma? Here are some ways you can help:

-Establish safety: provide a predictable environment so that your child feels supported.
-Develop emotional regulation: model positive behavior, validate all feelings, teach coping skills.
-Build trust: trauma often breaks a child’s trust in others, you can build it back through connecting with your child.
-Be an advocate: ask for help when needed.

There is no wrong answer! This is an example of how the trauma response can be different for two people who experienced the same traumatic event. Some individuals may adjust smoothly, while others may experience stress and face greater challenges in their daily lives.

Embrace every day like it's International Self-Care Day! Remember, self-care isn't just for 7/24, it's 24/7! Take moments to breathe, recharge, and prioritize your well-being. How are you taking care of yourself today?

Did you know? Grieving manifests in ways beyond the 5 stages. It’s not just about denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance; it’s about the journey each of us take through loss.
Remember, it’s okay not to fit into a neat framework -- your grief is as unique as you are.

Having a conversation about death is hard. Below are some key points to remember when talking to a child or a teen about death and grief.

-Grief is individual, no two people will experience it the same way.
-You should explain death in a compassionate manner using age-appropriate language. Avoid saying things like “passed away” or “went to sleep” as it can confuse children and teens.
-Being honest helps build trust between you and your child or teen.
-Starting the conversation about death is understanding that it is only the beginning of an ongoing conversation. Regular check-ins are encouraged.

Does your family need support in managing a child’s emotions and behaviors? Our TCM program focuses on development of coping strategies, parenting skills, community resources and integrated care. Call today for more information! ,

Adverse childhood experiences are stressful or traumatic events that occur between the ages of 0-7. These events can have effects that persist for years. The most common ACEs are parental separation & economic hardship.

For more information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/aces/about/index.html

Last week we partnered with the El Paso United Family Resiliency Center to bring a Grief Awareness Workshop to the community. We had two great days of learning and engagement with community members who are healing from grief. If your organization is interested in a Trauma or Grief Workshop, contact our Trauma Informed Care Specialists Tanya ([email protected]) or Valeria ([email protected]).

Today is National PTSD Awareness Day! Let's honor the strength of those facing trauma and living with PTSD.

Did you know we offer workshops for parents, providers, and schools on trauma awareness?
Contact one of our Trauma-Informed Care Specialist for more information

Valerie Lerma - [email protected]
Tanya Venzor - [email protected]

Together, let's raise awareness, break stigma, and support each other on the journey to healing.

We’ve talked about the stages of grief, but did you know that grief is nonlinear? Grief has no timeline, and each journey is unique to each person.

Let's embrace the individuality of our experiences and offer compassion along every twist and turn.

Did you know? There are six principles of trauma informed care. Today we will focus on safety. It is important for everyone to feel both physically and emotionally safe. Below are some examples of how you can help a child feels safe:

-Maintain communication that is open, respectful, and compassionate.
-Set a routine so that they know what is happening throughout their day.
-If a change in routine has to happen, offer sufficient notice to prepare them, if possible.

🌈EPCGC is here to support our LGBTQIA+ community.

Tip of the day: dance with your children! Follow by listening to them and validate all feelings. Be the lead in empowering them and showing them that they can do it. Finally, advocate for them when they need the extra help. You are your child’s biggest supporter!

Whether you're a new parent seeking guidance or looking to enhance your existing skills, our classes offer a supportive environment for growth and learning. The Nurturing Parenting Program is a family-centered trauma-informed class to build nurturing parenting skills.

Let's empower you to create a nurturing and loving family dynamic that lasts a lifetime! Connect with Valerie at [email protected] or Tanya at [email protected] to secure your spot today!
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Ya sea que seas un nuevo padre buscando orientación o que estés buscando mejorar tus habilidades existentes, nuestras clases ofrecen un entorno de apoyo para el crecimiento y el aprendizaje. Los Programas de Crianza para padres son una iniciativa centrada en la familia y basada en el enfoque de trauma, diseñada para desarrollar habilidades de crianza afectuosa.

¡Permítenos empoderarte para crear una dinámica familiar amorosa y enriquecedora que perdure toda la vida! Conéctate con Valerie en [email protected] o con Tanya en [email protected] para asegurar tu lugar hoy mismo.

Struggling with lunch or dinner plans tomorrow? Look no further! Enjoy Canes Chicken at 2031 N. Mesa 🐔 while supporting the Child Guidance Center of El Paso. 15% of all proceeds will support the Center and our mission to provide superior mental health services to children in El Paso from 12-8. Just mention El Paso Child Guidance Center when you place your order!

In-person talks promote healthy mental development. This Mental Health Awareness Month, talk to your children and teens about mental health. Need help getting started? samhsa.gov/talk-they-hear-you

Contact Valerie Lerma at [email protected] or Tanya Venzor at [email protected] to get more information on how to join our Nurturing Parenting Program starting this June! Start the conversation and end the stigma.

Thank you Radford School for the opportunity for our CEO Cathy Gaytan, LCSW-S to be a part of your Baccalaureate ceremony. She was humbled and honored to be a part of such a momentous occasion.

Did you know? Positive self-talk statements can help improve your health and mental well-being! Below are just a few of the benefits:

-Improves self-esteem & confidence
-Reduces stress, risk of depression, anxiety & su***de
-Enhances your immune system
-Motivates you to overcome challenges & cope with difficulties

Practice some today and incorporate them into your morning routine!

🚀 Exciting News! 🚀

The El Paso Child Guidance Center has launched El Paso’s first Trauma and Grief Therapy Learning Collaborative. With generous support from SAMHSA and in partnership with the Trauma and Grief (TAG) Center at The Hackett Center for Mental Health this effort will train 30 El Paso mental health professionals. 🧠💙

This transformative training will equip our local professionals with the skills and knowledge to better support those affected by trauma and grief.

Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient El Paso! 🌟

Thank you to our amazing community partners who are part of this Learning Collaborative:

Aliviane
Clint ISD
San Elizario ISD
Region 19
El Paso County Juvenile Probation Department
Project Vida
El Paso Center for Children
University of Texas at El Paso
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso

Last week, El Paso Child Guidance Center staff attended the Annual National Child Traumatic Stress Network Conference 2024. This was a valuable event to maximize the impact of the NCTSN as a collaborative effort of SAMHSA, NCTS grantees, affiliates, youth and caregiver representatives, and other partners in advancing the field of child trauma. The team learned so much and will implement the skills learned into the services they provide.