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outlanderSenior Contributor
hello everyone im wondering has anyone had any experiences with sexual abuse counselling?
tomorrow is my first session and i dont have a clue what to expect and im feeling super nervous
In response to: what to expect at SA therapy sessions
ethSenior Contributor
That sounds like a plan @outlander. And great that you can ask for help this time. Remember it's ok to show your emotions with this person and they should help you feel calmer by the time you leave. The more real you are with them the more they can get the picture and help you effectively. And it's ok to keep it in the now, even if you have to repeat that you're not ready to describe the specifics, you can still talk about the way they affect you now. I send you mighty strength to get through this my dear one.
Do you have a limited number of sessions with them? If you want to you can tell me more about the Victims of Crime process (I think you've mentioned it elsewhere). I should have been through this at one point but that's another story for another place.
In response to: Re: what to expect at SA therapy sessions
ethSenior Contributor
@outlander About driving - try to do some deep slow breathing before you start driving. It will calm and focus you. And I'd suggest having a shower and maybe a coffee and def some water to clear your mind. Eating something like banana will ground you more too.
In response to: what to expect at SA therapy sessions
outlanderSenior Contributor
In response to: what to expect at SA therapy sessions
outlanderSenior Contributor
In response to: Re: what to expect at SA therapy sessions
Phoenix_RisingSenior Contributor
@outlander Even though they tell you it is 22 sessions, victims services are really good about providing additional sessions. I have been told that given the nature of my muddle, I will get ongoing sessions. I don't really believe they will fund my sessions forever, but I have already had a LOT more hours than the original 22. My psychologist fills out a report after every 10 additional hours and thus far victims services have kept approving a further 10 hours each time. For me, this is the most amazing service that the NSW state government has ever provided.
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Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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