The effects of sexual abuse vary for each individual and the healing process is often unique for each survivor. At CFS Counselling + Wellbeing, you receive the individual attention your experiences require in a safe, professional, and confidential counselling atmosphere.
There is no right or wrong way to feel after experiencing sexual violence. However, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, you should seek out professional help to support you along your healing journey.
You can expect to meet privately with a clinician and establish a plan together that is suited to meet your needs. Your wellbeing is our primary concern and the extent to which you share details about your experiences is at your own discretion. You will not be forced to talk about experiences you are not comfortable with or that may cause significant distress.
Witnesses of sexual abuse are often hesitant to seek help for themselves since they can feel a significant amount of guilt and shame regarding their action or inaction. Though the experience of a witness may differ from that of a sexual abuse survivor, there are still many ways it can deeply impact your mental and emotional health; most notably through the impact of traumatic memories. At CFS, we recognize the impact of both observed and lived traumatic events and we are committed to promoting your well-being in a safe, professional, and confidential counselling atmosphere.
There is no right or wrong way to feel after witnessing sexual violence. However, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, you should seek out professional help to support you along your healing journey.
You can expect to meet privately with a clinician and establish a plan together that is suited to meet your needs. Your well-being is our primary concern and the extent to which you share details about your experiences is at your discretion. You will not be forced to talk about experiences you are not comfortable with or that may cause significant distress.
Common symptoms include:
- Diminished self-esteem
- Feelings of shame
- Humiliation
- Guilt
- Anger
- Helplessness
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Shock
- Disbelief
- You may feel disconnected from self and others
- You may feel frozen or numb
- You may feel loss or grief
- You may have mood swings
- Hyper-alertness
- Flashbacks
- Fear of being alone
- Using alcohol or drugs to cope with negative thoughts or emotions.
At CFS, we recognize the impact of both observed and lived traumatic events and we are committed to promoting your well-being in a safe, professional, and confidential counselling atmosphere.