Description
Sibling sexual abuse is a complex and frequently overlooked form of child and youth sexual abuse, and until recently the research has been slow to reach publication This training provides an update of the literature and reviews the current clinical and research concerns raised over the past decade.
Participants will explore key similarities and differences between sibling sexual abuse and other forms of child and youth sexual abuse, with a strong emphasis on contemporary understanding. The course highlights the critical role of professionals working in child and youth services and examines effective assessment approaches and both formal and informal intervention strategies.
This workshop will review what is currently known about sibling sexual abuse. Definitions, prevalence aetiology, and dynamics will be covered in the presentation. The roles of key service providers (police, protective services, probation, and mental health) will be discussed. The critical role of full family participation in the assessment and treatment process will be outlined. Case examples will be used to illustrate key clinical points, addressing safety, loyalty, engagement, and minimization.
Learning Outcomes
- Learn key dynamics in sibling sexual abuse and become familiar with the continuum of behaviours related to sibling sexual abuse.
- Understand the impact of sibling sexual abuse on both the children/youth involved and the impact on the family.
- Discuss the role of various disciplines in responding to disclosure of sibling sexual abuse.
- Develop a clinical understanding of the needs of victimized children and how to respond to disclosure statements of historic or current sibling sexual abuse experiences.
Who Should Attend
This course is recommended for anyone interested in this subject matter; service professionals working with children and youth; mental health professionals wishing an update on current research on sibling sexual abuse.
Course Dates & Format
November 12 & 13, 2026, 1:00pm – 4:00pm ET
This is a 6-hour training. This course consists of two 3-hour interactive virtual sessions using Zoom.
Instructor: Geraldine Crisci, MSW, RSW
Geraldine Crisci, M.S.W. is a mental health professional with over 30 years experience in the field of trauma. She is a private practitioner who provides assessment and treatment to children, youth and their families. Geraldine primarily works with children who have been resistant to traditional behavioural and other mental health interventions. These children often present with complex trauma and attachment disruption histories. She works with biological families, foster families, day treatment programs and residential settings. Utilizing developmental, attachment and complex trauma focus has enabled Geraldine to effectively assist these families.
Training Fee
Member Fee: $205.00 + $26.65 (HST) = $231.65
Non-Member Fee: $240.00 + $31.20 (HST) = $271.20
Group Registration: Save 20% off individual fee with group registration of 4 or more participants. Download the group registration form HERE.
Continuing Education Information
Licensing boards and professional organizations will grant Continuing Education credits for attendance at their discretion when participants submit the course outline and certificate.
In-Service
This is available as an in-person or virtual in-service training and customized to suit your needs.
