Who is the service for?
Women over the age of 18 from the Sunderland area, who have experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence, either in childhood or as an adult, and who are looking for support to address the impact of their experiences. Our clients often come to us with problems such as flashbacks and intrusive memories of the abuse, panic and anxiety, depression, low self confidence, difficulty concentrating and issues in relationships.
What does the service offer?
Free, confidential, face to face, individual counselling from qualified female counsellors. Our counsellors are all specifically trained to work with sexual violence issues. We provide our clients with an understanding, accepting and non-judgemental counselling relationship, within which women can explore and share feelings associated with their traumatic experiences. We help clients to identify support mechanisms and choices, build self confidence and work towards their goals. The number of sessions a client may have varies according to need, so that we can respond to each client’s individual issues.
What do we need from clients ?
There are no restrictions around when the abuse took place or if there was police involvement.
Sessions will usually be weekly with the same counsellor and it is important that clients feel able to commit to regular attendance.
Counselling can often be difficult and painful and our counsellors are there to support clients through this process
Where does counselling take place?
At Sunderland Counselling Services, 36 West Sunniside, Sunderland SR1 1BU. In exceptional circumstances, for clients who are unable to access our building, it may be possible to arrange for counselling to take place in other suitable premises, or where there is no alternative, at the client’s home.