Young Bullies Face a Strong Enemy....Empowerment

Apex, NC, October 26, 2010 --(PR.com)-- Disrespect, abuse, and bullying has reached epidemic proportions, whether done online, over the phone, or in person. Our youth are quite vulnerable to relational aggression, and bullying behavior among girls is on the rise. Technology-assisted communication only makes it easier to behave in hateful, destructive ways – for instance, abusive comments might not be made at all if the speaker had to look their victim in the eye….

A local counseling practice is focusing on empowering the adolescent victims of bullying as a powerful way to reduce interpersonal aggression among girls. Lifescapes Counseling is offering a psychoeducational therapy group for girls who have struggled with relational aggression and bullying. This group experience is open to girls age 11-14 and will meet weekly. GEMS (“Girls Empowered and Motivated to Stand”) is a group initiative developed by Shanita Brown, Counselor Intern and Co-facilitator of the group. The group will be led by Yolanda Davis, LCSW.

Group sessions will focus on self-esteem/self-worth, appropriate boundaries, assertive behavior, healthy coping, recognition of abusive relationships, cyberbullying, etc… The group will be limited to 8 participants, and it will be private and nonjudgmental in nature. All sessions will be held in their professional counseling office.

Preregistration is required for this group, which begins in early November. Most major insurances are accepted, and a low-cost self-pay fee is also available. Please call Lifescapes Counseling Associates at 919-303-0273 or visit their website for more information (www.lifescapescounseling.com). Individualized help for interpersonal aggression at any age is available in person or online through our sister site, www.realonlinetherapy.com.

A bully without a victim is not much of a threat…..

###