Behavioral Health

Circle of Security Parenting Program

Adolescent Health Education Initiative Children's Care Management Identity & Acceptance Program Circle of Security Parenting Program Mental Health Services for Children in Foster Care Health Services for Children in Foster Care The Children’s Health Center of The New York Foundling School Based Mental Health Services School Response Teams Supportive Housing

LOCATIONS SERVED:
All of NYC; this program is conducted virtually on Microsoft Teams
AGES SERVED:
Parent or caregiver of a child (those with children ages 0-8 will benefit most from the program)
HOW TO ENROLL:
Complete the referral form or call us.

Upcoming Class Schedule

Our next cycles of virtual Circle of Security Parenting classes will be starting in:

– January 2026 (referral deadline: 1/1)
– May 2026 (referral deadline: 5/1)
– September 2026 (referral deadline: 9/1)

Referrals are accepted year-round, and will be considered for enrollment into the next open cycle. Spaces in each class are first come, first serve. Please enroll early to ensure your spot!

Courses in Spanish are also available – contact us for more information.

The Circle of Security Parenting Program is a group-based program teaching participants to parent with wisdom and growth. Parents will learn how to protect and nurture their children, while fostering their independence. They’ll gain tools to understand their child’s behavior, support their child in managing their emotions, and help them develop self-esteem.

Using the Circle of Security model, this free 8-week group program trains parents in ways to support and strengthen relationships with their children. Drawing on decades of attachment theory research, the model encourages empathetic discussion to help parents connect to and create secure attachment with the children in their lives. Participants meet weekly in an intimate group to reflect, share, and learn with one another and with trained facilitators. Groups are held via Microsoft Teams.

This program meets requirements for ACS mandated parenting courses and annual recertification hours for foster parents.

Download the Flyer

Complete the Referral Form

Success Stories

Denisha Pursues Her Dreams

After enduring physical violence at home and battling chronic depression, Denisha left home at age 14 and spent her teenage years in foster care. As Denisha approached her 18^th birthday, she sought more independence – a transition that is hard for young people in foster care, who often lack a traditional support system.

Through our Supportive Housing program, Denisha was able to address her mental health needs, learn important life skills, become financially stable, and pursue her educational aspirations. The Foundling was Denisha’s safety net as she learned the skills she needed to succeed on her own. This year, Denisha completed a Master’s program in early childhood education, was hired as a full-time 1^st grade teacher, and recently moved into her own apartment. With The Foundling’s continued guidance, Denisha is excited for the next stage of her journey, and looks forward to what the future will bring.

Full Story

Our Continued

Impact

30,000+

people served in The Foundling's programs every year

153

years providing life changing services to children, families, and adults in New York

program sites providing services throughout the New York metropolitan area

donation launched The Foundling's work in 1869

evidence-based models and adaptations implemented with fidelity across our array of programs and service areas

40+

programs and services serving children, families, and adults across New York and Puerto Rico

DID YOU KNOW

After completing the Healthy Families program, families reported a decrease in family stress and stronger family relationships

Resources

HISTORY

1869
October 11, 1869