For Everyone

Whether you’re a Family or a Community Partner, this section contains additional information about Project CONTACT.

Project CONTACT

Project CONTACT (Community Operations Network for Treatment After Childhood Trauma) is a five-year $2M grant awarded to the Children’s Advocacy Services of Greater Saint Louis (CASGSL) by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The goal of the project is for the CASGSL to partner with community agencies to increase participation in our Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI).

Children’s Advocacy Services of Greater St. Louis (CASGSL)

Children’s Advocacy Services of Greater St. Louis is a University-based, multidisciplinary center that provides trauma-focused services to youth, families, and the community.

Our therapists are trained in evidence-based models that have been shown to help children who have experienced trauma. We serve children impacted by all types of traumatic events including childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect. We also serve witnesses of domestic abuse and violent crime and children who have suffered accidents, natural disasters, and traumatic bereavement.

In addition to therapeutic services, CAC also has active undergraduate and professional education programs. The CAC is also St. Louis’ accredited advocacy center, and as such, conducts forensic interviews for children who have disclosed experiencing a traumatic event.

We have three locations:

UMSL Campus
Kirkwood
Central West End

Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI)

CFTSI is a brief (5-8 session), evidence-based intervention developed by the Yale Child Study Center. It is designed to reduce the effects of children’s exposure to a traumatic event and support them when they are struggling to cope. CFTSI helps families by providing education about trauma and trauma symptoms, and increasing communication between children and their caregivers.

We offer CFTSI sessions during normal business hours and offer both caregivers and children letters of excuse for their work and school.

What is a traumatic event?

A traumatic event is an overwhelming or upsetting experience that threatens or causes harm to a child’s emotional and/or physical well-being. Traumatic events may include witnessing or being the victim of a crime, sexual or physical abuse, witnessing domestic or community violence, and exposure to a natural disaster, war, or terrorism. A traumatic event can overwhelm a child’s ability to cope and can result in difficulties with thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical symptoms.

What are traumatic stress reactions?

Traumatic stress reactions differ from child to child, but generally involve changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors following a traumatic event. Common traumatic stress reactions include becoming withdrawn or not engaging in usual activities, feeling sad, nervous, jumpy or frightened, worrying more, seeming preoccupied with memories of the upsetting event or things that remind them of the event, trouble falling or staying asleep, eating problems, bedwetting, clinginess, tantrums, behavior problems, anger, difficulty concentrating, and fearfulness.

Why is CFTSI recommended?

CFTSI is an evidence-based early intervention designed to decrease traumatic stress reactions and reduce or interrupt Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and related disorders. It is effective in reducing a child’s distress and symptoms related to trauma. CFTSI helps families learn coping skills and ways to support a child after a traumatic event. CFTSI helps increase communication between child and caregiver, and provides education about trauma and trauma symptoms.

Who can participate in this program?

Children 7-18 years old who have recently experienced or disclosed a traumatic event and their non-offending caregivers (including biological or foster parents) who live in St. Louis County or City.

Where are the sessions located?

CFTSI is available at all three CASGSL locations (Central West End, UMSL campus, and Kirkwood). We also can provide sessions remotely via telehealth.

How much do the sessions cost?

CFTSI is FREE to families living in St. Louis County and St. Louis City. CFTSI is funded by grants from the St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund and St. Louis Mental Health Board.

Do you provide transportation?

We have a limited ability to pay for some transportation costs when needed. Our locations are easily accessible by St. Louis public transportation and we have free parking.

What is a Family Engagement Specialist (FES)?

Our Family Engagement Specialists (FES) are individuals who meet with CFTSI families to provide assistance with problems that might experience that prevent participation in therapy like:
– Making transportation arrangements
– Finding childcare
– Identifying community resources to address other family needs.
Our FES’s are not therapists, but help families fully participate in therapy by assisting with the completion of the necessary paperwork, making travel arrangements, and finding convenient times/dates for therapy appointments..

How long will it take?

This is a short-term intervention. Most families finish in five sessions though we may add an additional one to three sessions if needed.

When/Where do sessions take place?

We offer CFTSI sessions during normal business hours. We do our best to accommodate families’ needs when scheduling. We are happy to provide notes to families to use to explain absences to school or work. Depending on the family’s preference and therapist availability, sessions can be held in person at one of our three locations, or via telehealth.

What if my child does not want to talk about the trauma?

CFTSI does not require children to discuss the trauma again in detail. CFTSI is focused on identifying reactions and feelings children may be experiencing due to the trauma, and learning coping skills to address these reactions. CFTSI teaches skills to successfully recover from the traumatic experience.

My child is the one who experienced the trauma, why am I being asked to participate?

Because a child’s traumatic experience or disclosure impacts the entire family, CFTSI is designed to help caregivers as well as children. The first session is with the caregiver only, while the subsequent sessions include a time where the child and caregivers meet together. These sessions provide an opportunity for the caregiver to learn ways of helping their child after the trauma, for the child and caregiver to become more comfortable communicating about the child’s feelings, and for the child and caregiver to learn new, trauma-related, coping skills they can practice together. This is a very important component of treatment. Research shows that the best predictor of a child’s recovery after a trauma is the presence of a supportive caregiver!

What if I have not noticed any changes in my child’s mood or behavior?

All children react differently to traumatic events. Some of these reactions are visible, and others are not. Although some children are very vocal in communicating their symptoms or distress, many are uncomfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with their caregivers. CFTSI is designed to increase the child’s coping skills and comfort in discussing their feelings with their caregiver.

What if I want my child to have more than five to eight sessions?

During CFTSI, the therapist will thoroughly assess the child’s current functioning and symptoms. During the last CFTSI session, the caregiver, child, and therapist will discuss “next steps” which may include the end of services, or a recommendation for longer-term treatment. The therapist will provide referrals for services that may benefit you and your child.

How soon can I start?

We will be able to schedule your first appointment within one or two weeks.

What if I have more questions?

Feel free to call CASGSL’s clinical intake number (314-516-7330) and mention your family’s interest in receiving CFTSI.

Project CONTACT Staff

Family Engagement Specialists

Catherine Boyd

Catherine Boyd is a Family Engagement Specialist at CASGSL with a background in legal studies and experience working in family law and crisis intervention. She has been a valuable member of our administrative team since 2014 serving in various capacities.

As part of CASGSL’s FES staff, Catherine works to support children and families who have experienced traumatic events. Her primary focus is to remove any barriers to treatment, assist in completing forms, and connect families with essential community resources. Catherine’s expertise and compassionate approach enable her to provide exceptional support to families.

Catherine is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree to further enhance her knowledge and skills to assist area families.

Gracie Kinder

Gracie Rose Kinder is a Family Engagement Specialist at CASGSL. She earned her Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology in Child Advocacy Studies with a Minor in Psychology at the University of Missouri – St. Louis. As a member of CASGSL’s FES staff, Gracie’s role is to help children and families who have undergone traumatic events. Her main objective is to eliminate any obstacles to treatment, help in filling out forms, and link families with important local resources. Gracie’s ability to provide support to families is facilitated by her proficiency and compassionate approach. Her experience coupled with her empathetic demeanor, enables her to deliver comprehensive aid to families in need.

Clinicians

Tionna Batiste

Tionna Batiste, M.Ed., PLPC, NCC, is a clinician at CASGSL’s Central West End location. Tionna received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma. She has a passion for helping others transform challenges into opportunities for growth and self-discovery. At CASGSL, Tionna utilizes evidence-based therapies such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma (ITCT), and the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI). Her ultimate life mission is to help others promote, protect, and enhance their mental health and overall well-being.

Kerstyn Buehrig

Kerstyn Buehrig, M.Ed., PLPC, NCC, is a clinician at CASGSL’s UMSL location where she provides evidence-based therapy to children, adolescents, and families who have been affected by traumatic experiences. Kerstyn received her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UMSL, where she also obtained a certificate in Child Advocacy Studies and a graduate certificate in Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling. Kerstyn is grateful to have had the privilege of serving families at CASGSL, in various roles, over the past several years. She provides Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma, and the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention.

Melis Gümüşoğlu

Melis Gümüşoğlu, MSW, LMSW, is a clinician at CASGSL’s Central West End location. Melis received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Iowa. She has experience providing therapy services in a school-based setting. At CASGSL Melis provides Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma, and the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention. Melis also serves as a member of CASGSL’s school-based team.

Charlotte Hechler

Charlotte Hechler, MSW, LCSW, is a clinician at CASGSL’s location in the Central West End. Charlotte received her master’s degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis. She has experience in providing intensive community-based therapy to youth and families in crisis. At CASGSL, Charlotte serves children and families using Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention, and Integrated Treatment for Complex Trauma. She also implements Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools.

Jessica Mantia

Jessica Mantia, MEd, CIT, is a clinician based out of CASGSL’s UMSL location. Jessie received her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UMSL and has a certificate in Child Advocacy Studies. She has experience working in and with the child welfare system. She provides Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma, and the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention. Jessie also cofacilitates the Adolescents with Inappropriate/Illegal Sexual Behaviors treatment program.

Noga Melnick

Noga Melnick, MSW, LMSW, is a clinician who serves children, youth and families impacted by traumatic events. Noga earned her Master’s of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. Based at CASGSL’s UMSL office, Noga provides evidence-based therapies including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Treatment for Complex Trauma, and the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention. Noga also facilitates the Problematic Sexual Behavior – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy group for school-age children and their caregivers. Noga is a dedicated member of CASGSL’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Change Force.

Callie VanOstran

Callie VanOstran, MSW, LMSW, is a clinician at CASGSL’s Kirkwood location, where she offers evidence-based therapy to children and families impacted by traumatic events. Callie obtained her master’s degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis. She currently provides Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma for Children/Adolescents, and the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention. Callie also serves as a member of CASGSL’s school-based team, facilitating trauma-focused treatment groups in schools.

Family Advocates

Mackenzie Arnold

Mackenzie Arnold is a Family advocate at the West Pine location of CASGSL. She provides families support, resources, and psychoeducation throughout the forensic process. She earned her bachelor’s degree in public health from the University of Arkansas. She enjoys working alongside likeminded individuals who are committed to providing a support system for families and communities that have been affected by child abuse.

Jessica Constant

Jessica Constant is a family advocate at CASGSL’s West Pine location. She works to support the family on the day of the child’s forensic interview and to provide ongoing advocacy and support as the family moves through the forensic process. Jessica earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Southeast Missouri State University. She is experienced in the field of child welfare, having worked as an investigator and supervisor at Missouri Children’s Division. Jessica is passionate about advocating for families who are navigating the child welfare system or involved with child abuse and neglect investigations.

Courtney Neff

Courtney Neff, MSW, is a family advocate at CASGSL’s UMSL location. She provides support, advocacy, and education to caregivers whose children are participating in forensic interviews. Courtney received her Master of Social Work degree from University of Missouri—St. Louis. Courtney is an experienced advocate for children and families; she also draws on her prior experience working with children and families in a behavioral health setting.

Maggie O’Brien

Maggie O’Brien, MEd, is a family advocate at CASGSL. She provides support, advocacy and education for families moving through the forensic process. Maggie received her master’s degree in special education with an Emphasis in Trauma Informed Education and Intervention from Webster University. She brings experience from the education field having worked as a social emotional behavior focused special educator in public school districts in Saint Louis City and County. Maggie is passionate about advocating for families who have been impacted by traumatic events.

Intake Staff

Danielle Hochstedler

Danielle Hochstedler, MSW, is the manager of intake services at CASGSL. She provides support for both forensic and clinical services and supervises two intake coordinators. Danielle received her bachelor’s degree in human services and psychology from Purdue University and graduated from Louisiana State University with her master’s in social work. She has 6 years of experience working with children and families in a variety of roles, including case management and within the child welfare system.

Ellie Anderson

Ellie Anderson, BSW, is an Intake Coordinator at CASGSL. In this role, Ellie provides support to forensic and clinical services by scheduling clients, preparing case files and documentation, and making initial contacts to families and multidisciplinary team members. Ellie is a current student at UMSL, working towards her master’s degree in social work, and graduated with her bachelor’s degree in social work from Harding University in 2024. Ellie enjoys working within the CASGSL team to serve a diverse range of children and families and is passionate about mental health.

Maddie Damann

Maddie Damann, BSW, is an Intake Coordinator at CASGSL. As an Intake Coordinator, Maddie provides support to forensic and clinical services by scheduling clients, preparing case files and documentation, and making initial contacts to families and multidisciplinary team members. Maddie will begin the Master of Social Work program at UMSL in the spring where she received her Bachelor of Social Work. She has a decade of experience working with children and families in multiple roles.

Official Video

Kids Video

Connecting Families to Trauma Treatment

Information for Families

Información para las familias:
Intervención de estrés traumático infantil y
familiar (CFTSI, siglas en inglés)

Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention: Frequently Asked Questions

Intervención de Estrés Traumático Infantil y Familiar: Preguntas más frecuentes

Information for Community Partners

Here is a link to our FAQ brochure

Family Engagement Specialists

Andrew Tash

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Clinicians

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Clinicians

Family Engagement Specialists

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Clinicians

Family Engagement Specialists

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Clinicians

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Clinicians

Andrew Tash

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Clinicians

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Clinicians

Family Engagement Specialists

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