Therapy
New Hope offers a safe space for children and their families in Blount County to begin the healing process after experiencing the trauma of abuse. Our therapy department utilizes integrative and trauma-informed modalities to work with children and families who have experienced trauma. We were the first treatment center in our area to offer SMART treatment and the first to implement a therapy garden. In 2025 we received the Simmon’s Making a Difference grant to purchase SMART therapy equipment to add to our garden, so multiple therapist can utilize SMART therapy at the same time. We are constantly seeking innovative ways to build resilience and promote healing.
Working at New Hope means that I get to walk alongside these kids that have experienced so very much and I get to be a small part in that healing process. I get to watch them grow and change and become super incredible, strong kids that turn into amazing adults!
– Lindsay Preskenis, New Hope Clinical Director
Therapy Treatment at New Hope
Therapy typically consists of weekly sessions including the child, caregiver, and/or family. Our Therapists believe that the caregiver’s participation and commitment to the therapeutic process is vital. We work with the caregiver to teach skills and increase the understanding of trauma and its effects on the child and family.
Our therapy department is trained in several different evidenced-based treatment models to provide individualized treatment to our clients and their families / caregivers, including:
- Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Therapy (SMART)
- Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- TraumaPlay
Group Therapy
Our therapy department has begun expanding services to clients in a group format. We provide Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) groups, one for middle school aged clients, and one for high school aged clients. These groups allow individuals to learn from each other’s experiences, practice skills in a safe environment, and build a supportive community. DBT can be a valuable tool for personal growth and change. It can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve your relationships, and live a more fulfilling life.
Resources for Caregivers
If you want to learn more about Trauma-Focused Therapy and how traumatic experiences effect children, check out these resources: