Counselling for the Effects of Sexual Abuse, Online and In Person in Fareham & Southampton
Help for victims of Sexual Abuse in Whiteley, Fareham, Portsmouth and Southampton
WHAT IS SEXUAL ABUSE?
Sexual abuse refers to any unwanted sexual activity or behaviour imposed upon an individual without their consent. It can encompass a wide range of actions, including but not limited to:
Physical acts such as rape, molestation, or unwanted touching.
Coercion or manipulation to engage in sexual acts against one's will.
Sexual exploitation, including forced prostitution or pornography.
Non-consensual sexual contact with a person who is unable to give consent due to age, incapacitation (due to alcohol or medication), or other factors.
Any form of sexual harassment, intimidation, or inappropriate behaviour that creates a hostile or unsafe environment.
Sexual abuse can occur in various settings, including within families, intimate relationships, institutions, workplaces, or communities. It can have devastating and long-lasting effects on the victim's physical and mental health, leading to trauma, emotional distress, and a range of psychological issues. It is a violation of basic human rights and is considered a serious criminal offence.
Therapy for Sexual Abuse in Hampshire
Counselling offers essential support for those affected by sexual abuse, helping individuals navigate the emotional, psychological, and physical impacts with care and compassion. It provides a safe, confidential space to process trauma, rebuild trust, and regain a sense of control.
Key ways counselling can help:
Emotional Healing: Counselling allows survivors to express their feelings of fear, shame, or anger in a non-judgmental environment, promoting emotional release and healing.
Building Self-Esteem: Sexual abuse often leaves survivors with diminished self-worth. Therapy helps rebuild confidence and self-esteem, fostering a positive self-image.
Processing Trauma: Trauma can manifest as flashbacks, nightmares, or anxiety. A counsellor helps individuals process these traumatic memories, reducing their intensity over time.
Developing Coping Strategies: Survivors are equipped with tools to manage anxiety, depression, or PTSD symptoms, helping them function better in daily life.
Restoring Trust: Sexual abuse can shatter a person’s ability to trust others. Counselling helps rebuild trust, not only in relationships with others but also in one’s own judgement and safety.
Counselling supports survivors on their healing journey, helping them regain control over their lives and move forward with resilience and hope.
It Is Not Your Fault - Therapy for Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault
If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, it is important to remember that it is not your fault. Help is available to support you in healing from your trauma and regaining control of your life.
The emotional scars of sexual abuse can be difficult to overcome. You may find yourself reliving those moments of powerlessness, or perhaps the person who harmed you still affects your life in some way. Abusers often continue to exert control, even long after the abuse has ended, making it feel like they still undermine your confidence and happiness.
Abusers may initially appear charming and caring, making their control seem like genuine concern. Over time, their manipulation strips away your sense of independence. They may criticise your choices, leaving you feeling at fault. This pattern can wear you down emotionally, making you believe you are to blame.
But you are not. You deserve healing, and with the right support, you can rebuild your confidence and move forward.
