Therapy for Traumatized Students: Justice Ministry Expands Support in Inner-City Schools

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KINGSTON, Jamaica

Students in some of Jamaica’s most violence-prone communities are now receiving critical therapeutic intervention thanks to the Ministry of Justice’s Special Intervention Project for Schools. The initiative, operated through the Victim Services Branch (VSB), aims to help students affected by crime and trauma develop healthy coping skills and long-term emotional resilience.

Six-Session Programme for Youth Ages 6–18

According to Dionne Dawn Binns, Director of the VSB, the programme specifically targets students showing signs of emotional distress, post-traumatic stress, or depression. It offers age-appropriate therapy across six structured sessions, ensuring that both younger and older students receive tailored support.

But the programme doesn’t stop with students.

Support for Parents and Teachers

The Justice Ministry recognizes that parents and teachers are often affected by the same violence as the children in their care. As a result, the project also includes therapeutic support and training for adults, equipping them to better understand, respond to, and support traumatized children.

“We empower teachers and parents through a training component,” Binns noted, “so they can assist children effectively. We also give therapy to teachers and parents who may be struggling with their own trauma.”

Building a Community of Care

The training equips adults to:

  • Identify signs of trauma

  • Create safe, nonjudgmental environments

  • Provide basic emotional support

  • Refer children for additional therapy when necessary

Binns emphasized that without ongoing support from parents and teachers, children risk regressing even after receiving therapy. The long-term goal is to create a continuous support mechanism at home and at school.

National Support Through Parish Offices

The Victim Services Branch, which has offices in all 14 parishes, is the government’s lead agency for providing emotional support and therapeutic services to crime victims across the island. Individuals can access help by calling 888-JUSTICE (888-587-8423) or visiting moj.gov.jm.

Our Opinion

This initiative is a vital step in addressing the emotional toll of crime on young people in high-violence communities. It acknowledges that trauma is not only a personal issue but a systemic one — affecting children, families, and educators. By embedding mental health support directly into schools and empowering those closest to the children, this project represents a more sustainable, community-based approach to healing.

Highlights

  • Ministry of Justice provides therapy for inner-city students impacted by crime

  • Six-session programme targets children ages 6 to 18

  • Parents and teachers receive therapy and training to offer continued support

  • Nationwide network of 14 VSB offices ensures access to services islandwide

  • Call 888-JUSTICE or visit moj.gov.jm for more information

If you or someone you know has been impacted by crime, help is available. Contact the Victim Services Branch at 888-JUSTICE or visit moj.gov.jm for free, confidential support.

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