In 2012, at the request of the Colorado 1st Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Cheryl created Sexting Solutions®, the state’s first interactive curriculum focused on adolescent sexting. More than 300 students have participated in the program, less than 2% came to the attention of the DA’s office for recommitting this offense.
Hi,
I’m Cheryl.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a specialty in child and adolescent trauma. For over twenty years, in settings ranging from community and residential to secure juvenile facilities, I have worked with children of all ages who have experienced neglect, abuse, and trauma. The services offered through my private practice include individual and family therapy, group therapy, and public speaking.
Since 2005, I have worked primarily with children and adolescents who have committed sexual offenses. In 2012, in collaboration with the 1st Judicial District Attorney’s office in Jefferson County, Colorado, I developed the state’s first Sexting curriculum as an alternative to legal consequences.
In my extensive work with adolescents and sexting, I have consistently found that individuals infrequently stop and think before they act when using devices intended to provide instant gratification. In most cases, they have not learned the value of doing so. Further, almost all the adolescents I work with show deficits in life skills relating to interpersonal relationships, effective communication, empathy, and digital citizenship.
Using a professional and therapeutic approach, I have established an integrated, values-based method that enables healing and promotes wellness. My objective is to teach empathy and self-awareness, strengthen values, and create a framework for healthy relationships. In addition, I address critical thinking, self-esteem, and coping strategies to empower you or your child toward positive behavior change and decision making.
Throughout my experience, I am proud to have seen the successful outcomes for a diverse set of young people, whether that meant navigating their way out of the juvenile justice system or learning the life skills necessary to avoid becoming future court-ordered clients.
Cheryl Kosmerl