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 Barn Raising Dinner Event

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Click here >> Community Treatment, Inc. (COMTREA) to access the site on Facebook. 

Click here >> Bridle Ridge Acres  to access the site on Facebook.  

COMTREA and Washington University are working together to reduce violence among young girls with a histories of maltreatment - GAIN (Girls Aspiring toward INdependence).

Despite the strong empirical evidence that girls with histories of maltreatment are at greater risk than other adolescents of engaging in youth violence and interpersonal violence as adults, there are no reports of violence prevention programs tailored to this population.

The overarching aim of this research study is to advance knowledge of both trauma treatment and violence prevention by adapting an evidence-based approach, Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS), for the unique needs of adolescent girls with histories of maltreatment.

The GAIN Program

GAIN is a cognitive behavioral intervention for trauma for adolescent girls (ages 12 to 18) with histories of maltreatment and involvement in the child welfare system.

The GAIN intervention includes: a 10-session therapeutic group, 2 individual sessions and 2 caregiver sessions. GAIN group therapy sessions target:

Reduction of trauma symptoms through psycho-education about common reactions to trauma.

Replacing maladaptive coping strategies with healthy coping skills.

Reducing aggressive/violent behaviors, intentions, and beliefs by challenging negative thoughts.

Increasing self-efficacy and social problem-solving skills by building peer support.

Preventing future interpersonal violence and maltreatment by learning how to deal with real-life problems.

For more information about the GAIN program, contact April Schutz, MSW, Project Coordinator, at (314) 935-3327 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . You can also download the GAIN referral form and informational flyer.

Noting COMTREA’s “outstanding efforts and commitment in promoting economic and civic progress in Jefferson County,” the Jefferson County Growth Association presented Dr. Huss with the 2012 Jeffersonian Award for Large Businesses in the county after the County Chief Executive, Ken Waller and COMTREA Board President Mark Mertens addressed the crowd via a video prepared by Jefferson College.

Dr. Huss accepted the award on behalf of the staff, board, and clients of COMTREA noting that the agency has grown over the past forty years because of its community origin and continuous support from the people of the county. He also noted that success came and continues to result from the staff and board’s commitment to be an innovative, effective, and responsive community treatment center.

In kind of a “double recognition,” COMTREA’s Board Treasurer, Ann Portell was given the Jefferson Award for Individual Contribution. Video and on site speakers noted her selflessness, and committed dedication to serving the people of Jefferson County at COMTREA, Lion’s Club, Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson County Growth Association and other organizations and causes. Mike Walsh, the President of Eagle Bank noted that he had learned much from her and continued to support her community involvement. Ann told the crowd of her appreciation for the recognition and of her continuing resolve to give to others.

The award is on display in the display case in the reception area of the Anderson Building in Arnold.