Teens Experiencing Sexual Exploitation

Marie-Vincent provides services to young people aged 12 to 25 who have experienced sexual exploitation. Our services can be offered in collaboration with our external partner Sphères.

If a child or adolescent confides in you about experiencing sexual assault, we invite you to consult the following page:

What is Sexual Exploitation?

Sexual exploitation can take many forms, but it always has one thing in common: someone profits from the body or sexuality of a young person to gain an advantage, whether financial, material, or otherwise.

It may involve an adult or a minor who takes advantage of a situation of vulnerability, dependency, or trust. This person may use manipulation, threats, or coercion to attract, control, or maintain the young person in this relationship for their own benefit.

 

Sexual exploitation can take various forms:

  • pimping or trafficking for sexual purposes
  • child or youth pornographye
  • online sexual violence
  • child luring

Support Provided to Teens Experiencing Sexual Exploitation

Marie-Vincent provides psychotherapeutic support to teens experiencing sexual exploitation, particularly through the Sphères program.

This support helps young people understand what they have experienced, reduce the impacts of trauma, and regain control over their lives.

Each accompaniment is adapted to the pace and needs of the young person.

The Sphères Program

Sphères is a support program for young Montrealers aged 12 to 24 experiencing sexual exploitation or at risk of exploitation.

It brings together several partners from the community, police, and institutional sectors, who work together to protect and support young people.

Marie-Vincent professionals provide psychotherapeutic support to:

  • work through experienced trauma
  • reduce harms related to exploitation
  • promote rebuilding and self-confidence