School-Based Group Interventions for Children Exposed to Domestic Violence

Children exposed to the trauma of domestic violence tend to experience difficulties with internalized and externalized behavior
problems, social skills deficits, and academic functioning. Mental health practitioners in the school setting, including school
counselors, school psychologists, and school social workers, can address developmental concerns that impede development through
group counseling interventions that include both structured activities and play therapy. The school environment offers an
ideal setting in which to work with child survivors of trauma, as all students have accessibility to school mental health
resources. This article outlines the primary objectives and corresponding procedures for a developmentally- appropriate group
interventions for elementary-aged children who have been exposed to the trauma of domestic violence.