Counselling Services
Our counselling services is divided into three phases, which means you will have the opportunity to work with your therapist for approximately one year. Here is an overview of what you can expect: We are attentive to your goals and wishes; we will work collaboratively with you to best support you in facilitating change.
The intention of counselling is to:
Address the impact of childhood sexual abuse, incest and sexual assault (recent or historical)
Manage trauma symptoms related to sexual violation (i.e. depression, anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, dissociation, sleep disturbances, self-harm behaviours, body image concerns, relationship issues)
Develop and increase confidence and self-trust
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1. Safety and Stabilization – At this time we will work towards what you hope to achieve for yourself. Safety and Stabilization can include:
Reduction of symptom intensity
Improvement of basic self- management and self-regulation
Development of a safety plan (if necessary)
Identification of other resources and supports in your larger environment and increased awareness and use of internal resources
Psychoeducation about trauma
Stress Management
Social and relational skills building
Cognitive restructuring
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2. Processing the Trauma – if you choose, we focus on the processing of memory and work to remain aware and intact in a compassionate and coherent manner physically, emotionally and psychologically. This can include:
Organized history and recounting of trauma events
Strengthening emotional management, self-trust, self-care and relationship skills
If desired and available, you can elect to participate in an in-house therapy group
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3. Strengthening the Gains and Integration – During this time we review and strengthen the gains from previous work and further work to consolidate and integrate emotional, social, and relational changes and abilities. This can include:
Guidance and apply skills to strengthen safe and supportive social networks
Build and enhance intimate and family relationships
Plans for education, employment, recreation and social activities
Follow-up plan of care
Our Approach: Phased Trauma Counselling Model for Sexual Assault, Incest and Childhood Sexual Abuse
More About our Counselling Services
We provide the following services to people of all genders 16 years of age and older:
Individual assessment and counselling
Counselling in various locations including St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Fort Erie, Port Colborne, Welland and Grimsby
Group counselling for women and men (separate groups)
Family member support and education
Anonymous third party reporting (Click here to read more about how ATPR works)
Professional consultation and training
All services are:
Provided by Masters level trained therapists specializing in trauma counselling
Confidential and free
Self-referrals are required. Simply call to inquire.