How groups work

The TOUGHLOVE Program is implemented through self-help Parent Support Groups at weekly meetings. It offers crisis intervention for families being torn apart by the unacceptable adolescent behaviour of children, whatever their age.

The weekly meeting of parents provides practical and emotional peer support. Everyone supports everyone else as they are able, even in a crisis. Other people can support you at less emotional cost than you can support yourself; they can often see through the subjective relationship between parent and child.

Support for each other's children is provided as circumstances require and allow. It can be direct or indirect support, inside or outside of the meeting structure. Ongoing support throughout the week is available as required.

Meetings incorporate TOUGHLOVE literature and audio-visual materials, which focus on creating and managing positive change within the family, together with the development of self-responsibility for all family members.

The Program provides the tools for assessing a family's crisis and a structure for developing potential solutions. Your experiences are shared, corrective information is offered and alternative behaviours are suggested to replace actions that are no longer working. Non-judgemental support helps you put those changes into place.

It works!

Learn more