LAGUNA BEACH : Help Line Started by Support Group

Beyond Survival, a support group for adults who were abused as children, has started a telephone referral service called Infoline.

The group, which has offices in Laguna Beach and Irvine, offers taped messages containing information about self-help programs, seminars and books on child abuse.

Infoline will cost $2 per minute. It will direct callers to a variety of options, some of which are free, said Cathie Alderson, a founder of the nonprofit organization.

Revenue generated by Infoline will be used to provide additional services, including a fund to help teen-agers who are afraid to confide in their parents, Alderson said.

Beyond Survival started three years ago as a newsletter that later evolved into a magazine. Last year, the group began offering therapy at its Laguna Beach office. Earlier this year, counciling sessions began in Irvine.

The effort has been backed financially by private donations and the founders--a therapist and two survivors of childhood abuse. With the demand for services growing, Alderson said, more money is needed to hire more help.

“The interest level is so high that the three owners can’t support it, but there’s no way we want to give up,” Alderson said. “The 900 line should help.”

The service, which can be reached by dialing (900) 988-9808, is geared toward adults. Youngsters who are being abused should call the Orange County Child Abuse Registry at (714) 834-5353. The registry accepts collect telephone calls.

For more information about Beyond Survival, call (714) 297-2220.