How to help my children...

For 7 years I watched the system fail my 2 children. Now ages 14 and 12. They were placed with their physically and mentally abusive father because he left me homeless.

Fast forward to the past month. I finally got him caught, arrested and now hes facing felony aggravated battery against a minor. The problem is that my children are so so screwed up. (Rightfully so)We have an appointment for a counselor in a week... it in the meantime, things are rough.

I'm finding it very hard to discipline these guys. Being that they got the worst of the worst. Lying and being disrespectful are the main factors. Taking away electronics, extra chores dont seem to be helping. Positive words of encouragement, rewards for good behavior arent working. Can someone throw me some advice?