Non-Violent Resistance (NVR)

Non-Violent Resistance (NVR) is a therapeutic model that understands and addresses the parenting of children with challenging behaviours, working to change the way a parent addresses behaviour rather than trying to change the child’s behaviour.

It is about connection rather than correction.

Each group runs for 10 weeks either online or in person with trained NVR facilitators. If more than one session is missed the parent may be taken off the course.

The focus each week will be a concept from the Non-Violent Resistance Approach. The sessions will equip parents/carers with knowledge of these concepts and the skills to use the approach with their young person. We will support parents/carers with relational skills and strategies to manage issues around illness and safety, in non-coercive ways.

Course summary

Week 1: Intros to Group and NVR​

Week 2: Parental Presence and Self Care​

Week 3: De-escalation​

Week 4: Reconciliation/Relationship Gestures​

Week 5: Lifting the Veil of Secrecy & Accommodating Behaviours ​

Week 6: Baskets & intro to announcement​

Week 7: Supporters & siblings​

Week 8: Announcements​

Week 9: Campaign of concern & Sit-in/with​

Week 10: Ending session – Graduation & reflections​

The NVR parent group is suitable for parents who have a child/children between the ages of 8-17.

Priority will be given to those who meet the referral criteria.  Please help us make this decision by providing a clear and concise description of the reasons for your referral, any relevant information relating to the child’s behaviour, parent/child relationship and its impact on the family.

Criteria for referral

  • Increasing need for control or decreasing sense of control for parents.
  • Managing self-destruction/unsafe behaviours.
  • Managing controlling behaviours.
  • Conflict in the relationship between parent and young person.
  • Aggressive or violent behaviours.
  • Difficulties accessing education.
  • Difficulties accessing treatment.
  • Internet safety.
  • Addressing risk of sexual exploitation.
  • Young person not being contactable and their whereabouts not known.
  • Parental isolation/lack of support.
  • Unsafe/Unhelpful peer influences.

Feedback from families who have attended

"Week one I was alone and scared and now I feel less alone now, I know that I can do it and get through it. So red and now green."

"We’ve enjoyed the journey and it’s made all the difference, I would definitely recommend it."

"Feeling that I'm more able to respond more appropriately and effectively to challenges and difficulties. "

"I felt unsure and frustrated at beginning not sure if things would work out... I now feel hopeful and more confident with dealing with situations. Thank you."