The client was referred to the organisation following an incident in which a known male, referred to as P, inappropriately touched her thighs and buttocks. The experience left her feeling deeply sad and hurt. She becomes visibly emotional whenever the incident is discussed and has reported experiencing flashbacks. She also expresses ongoing worry that the perpetrator may have done more than just touch her. The client feels intense fear toward the alleged perpetrator and toward men outside her immediate family.
Healing from Trauma: Supportive Counselling saves a 14-Year-Old Survivor of Sexual Abuse
Intervention
The client received seven sessions of supportive counselling based on the crisis intervention model. These sessions provided a safe space for her to explore and process her emotions, feelings, and fears related to the incident.Key therapeutic elements included:
- Education about body parts and the distinction between safe and unsafe touch
- Introduction of practical coping strategies, including relaxation techniques
- Use of the “Pictures in My Head” technique to help manage and reduce flashbacks
- Writing an imaginary letter to the perpetrator in which she expressed her feelings about what happened
- Development of personalised “staying safe” strategies, including steps she can take if someone attempts to touch her inappropriately in the future and ways to protect herself
Outcomes
By the end of the intervention, the client reported significant emotional healing. She no longer experiences flashbacks related to the incident and feels considerably less afraid of the alleged perpetrator. The client expressed confidence in her ability to apply the safety strategies she learned and stated her intention to use them to protect herself going forward.Overall, the client described the counselling process as helpful in supporting her recovery from the trauma.