Sexual Abuse Counselling

Support, safety, setting

Sexual abuse counselling, also referred to as rape or sexual assault counselling, is a confidential support service that seeks to provide a safe setting for you to tell your story, and to help with your medical, legal and safety concerns. It gives you the chance to explore your thoughts and feelings, whenever you are ready, and to not be judged or blamed. Sexual abuse is never your fault!

Whoever, whenever, whatever

Sexual abuse counselling is available to assist women or men who have recently, or in the past, been affected by:

• Rape
• Date rape
• Acquaintance rape
• Male rape
• Sexual assault
• Sexual violence
• Sexual harassment
• Incest
• Childhood sexual abuse
• Any unwanted encounter

You may be the victim, or have been affected by the experience of a loved one. There are services to help you and provide you with the support and knowledge you require.

Friend, helper, healer

Sexual abuse counsellors are specifically trained to help you. They can impart their expert knowledge and provide you with the information you need. A professional can help you explore your options and solutions, and support your decisions. They are there for you, to listen and be your ally.

Individual, group, both

One-on-one sexual abuse counselling, as well as support group counselling sessions, are both effective for providing information and assistance.
Individual counselling can deal specifically with your experiences, and develop particular steps for you to take. Some people find it beneficial to talk to others who have been through similar encounters, with support groups providing a valuable setting.

Here, there, now

Sexual abuse counselling is offered in most communities and there are a number of places you can seek help:

• Talk to your doctor
• Counsellors, social workers, psychiatrists and therapists
• Information and therapeutic support groups
• Hospitals and community health centres
• Volunteer groups
• Church and religious organisations
• Specialised telephone help lines

Sexual abuse is never your fault. Get the support you need.