Sexual Abuse Treatment

Sexual abuse isn’t something anyone really wants to talk about. When a young person experiences sexual abuse, it can have a profound effect on his/her feelings and relationships.

Relationships with family and friends, with school and the community can change – and sometimes feels like nothing in the world will ever be OK again.

Marymound helps young people overcome the effects of sexual abuse. We also provide short-term therapy for young people who are sexually reactive after experiencing abuse.

Welcoming Setting/Specialized Staff
Marymound’s Sexual Abuse Treatment Program (SATP) is located in a welcoming and safe setting.

Our therapists are specially trained in the treatment of sexual trauma. They do a comprehensive assessment that takes into consideration the family, cultural and social influences that have an impact on a young person. Therapists provide individualized treatment plans with a variety of modalities, such as psychoeducation, play therapy, emotion regulation, individual, group and family therapy.

All services are provided in a confidential manner to protect the privacy of individuals and families.

Who We See in our Program
Young people and their families (when appropriate), aged 4 to 18 years, who have experienced sexual abuse by a family member or someone else, where:

there is no contact between the offender and the young person during treatment unless it is part of a planned and supervised reunification process;
there are no outstanding custody or access issues;
the parent or primary caregiver is willing to be involved in the young person’s treatment.

The Program
At the Sexual Abuse Treatment Program we do an assessment that uses an ecological perspective. We view the child’s life as much larger than that of a victim of sexual abuse. Family, culture and community all impact a young person’s identity as well as their inner thoughts and feelings. SATP supports participants to discover strengths in these areas. We also work to resolve troubling symptoms young people may experience and provide education about the impact of traumatic abuse.

A family/caregiver is recognized as having a significant positive impact on resolving sexual abuse. Families are supported to recognize the strengths within their relationships that support healing and wholeness which can reduce stigma, enhance family esteem, and promote optimism for the future.

SATP recognizes the intrinsic strengths of children who have survived sexual abuse. We use many therapeutic methods to engage the child’s feelings, cognitions and senses in their healing journey.

What Parents Can Do:

Get assistance for your child, for yourself and for your family. Contact us at Marymound Sexual Abuse Treatment Program.
Stick to family routines as much as possible
Take some time to think a little before answering your child’s questions. Be sure to tell your child:
- “I believe you.”
- “It was not your fault.”
- “I’m not angry with you, I am angry with the person who hurt you.”
- “Telling was the right thing to do.”
- “I’m sorry this happened to you.”
- “I don’t know the answer, but I will try to find out for you.”
- “This has happened to other kids and families.”
- “We will get through this.”
- “Sexual assault is against the law.”
- “I will do my best to protect you.”