FASD Family Support, Education and Counselling Program
The FASD Family Support program offers community-based services for families whose children have challenges with development, learning, or behaviour. The program works together with families to understand the strengths and challenges of FASD while exploring different ways to support their child.
What is FASD:
Services
Services include:
- Information, education, and practical strategies regarding FASD for parents and other service providers.
- Address concerns related to: child development, social, emotional, behavioural or sensory needs, attachment, school readiness skills, mental health, safety, nutrition, coping skills, and other health related needs.
- Assistance and advocacy for children and families in matters related to childcare, housing, food security, financial needs and other daily living challenges.
- Support in accessing an FASD assessment and other community-based resources.
- Circle of Security Parenting (COS-P) offered one to one and group format (for parents interested in continuing to nurture a successful attachment relationship with their child).
- Teen Life Skills Groups offered intermittently (while involved in cooking some favorite recipes, youth explore coping strategies, communication and working as a team).
The program believes in offering family led services, which are relational, and strength based, trauma informed, and culturally responsive. Value is placed on working holistically and collaboratively with those connected to the individual with FASD and the family.
Consultation
- Short-term consultation for families, service providers and organizations.
- Workshops and training for parents and professionals.
- Supervision and training for student placements.
AGE
birth-14
LOCATION
Winnipeg
CONTACT
HOW DO I ACCESS THIS SERVICE?
FASD Family Support, Education and Counseling Program
New Directions for Children, Youth, Adults and Families
Unit 10-254 Stella Walk
Winnipeg, MB R2W 2T3
FASD Publications
Order copies of FASD publications:
This is Me
An online, animated and interactive resource that explores the strengths and challenges of living with FASD.
The Hidden Disability: FASD
« L’handicap invisible »
General information about FASD and a story of hope.
You Can Do It Too
A comic book style booklet that tells the story of two children living with FASD.
Important Things Your Child with FASD Wants You to Know
But Michael Makes Me Laugh
A mother and son’s story that helps his classmates understand his FASD challenges.
FASD Language guide
A guide providing ideas on how to talk about FASD and support dignity.
Coping with Stress
Helps identify signs of stress, and simple coping ideas.
FASD Resources and Links
Public Health Agency of Canada FASD
Manitoba FASD Network
FASD Research Network
Insight Mentor Programs
Department of Families: FASD Resources:
Klinic: Project Choices
Touchstone
Life’s Journey Inc: Spectrum Connections
Shared Health: Starfish Program
Manitoba FASD Coalition
MBLL: Alcohol & Pregnancy: Be with Child, Be without Alcohol
Meet Our Team
Anita Posaluko, BSW, RSW
Clinical Lead
Anita Posaluko, BSW, RSW is Coordinator of the FASD Family Support, Education and Counselling program. She obtained her Bachelor of Social work degree from the University of Manitoba in 1997 and has over 30 years experience working with children, youth, and families within the helping profession. In her first 15 years with the program she worked together with families in the role of Program Counsellor, supporting children and youth with FASD. As Program Coordinator Anita now over sees program management, delivers consultative services, workshops and supervises student placements within the program. She cherishes the relationships she has built with families over the years, the value of person centered work, the role of advocacy and the power of the human spirit.
Andrea Auch, OT Reg (MB)
Occupational Therapy Clinician
Andrea Auch O.T. Reg. (MB), began working in the FASD Family Support, Education, and Counselling program in 2003 and has worked as a Counsellor and Occupational Therapist. She received a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Recreation Management, and Occupational Therapy from University of Manitoba. Included in her experience is working in the mental health field and school therapy services. Andrea has a strong passion in advocating and supporting families. She enjoys working with children and families to assist them to reach their goals and potential.
Devra Buhler, BA
Counsellor (Youth)
Devra Buhler, B.A. has worked as a Counsellor with the FASD Family Support, Education and Counselling Program since 2016. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Psychology from Brandon University before starting her 20-year career in Social Services. Devra has worked with children, youth, and families in a wide range of capacities over the years. In her current role, Devra supports individuals, ages 7 to 14 and their caregivers. She enjoys helping youth discover and build on their strengths, supporting youth/caregiver relationships through an attachment lens and assisting to reduce barriers for families through advocacy work.
Ashley Manaigre, BSc Hon Psychology
Counsellor (Children)
Hailey Nykoluk, BA Psychology
Counsellor (Children)
Related Services
Family Therapy Services
