Conferences & Training CentreSexual Abuse Treatment Program
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 their feelings, relationships and understanding of the world.
Relationships with family and friends, with school and the community can change – and sometimes it can feel like nothing in the world will ever be okay again.
The Sexual Abuse Treatment Program (SATP) at Marymound offers therapy for young people who are navigating the impacts of sexual abuse. Therapists at the program help young people understand the effects of sexual abuse, begin to process the experience and move forward.
Welcoming Setting and Specialized Staff
The Sexual Abuse Treatment Program (SATP) is located in a welcoming and safe setting.
Our therapists are experienced in providing sexual abuse therapy and have specialized skills specific to facilitating this process. 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 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 or apology 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
SATP recognizes the intrinsic strengths of children who have survived sexual abuse. A variety of therapeutic methods are employed to engage the child’s feelings, cognitions and senses in their healing journey.
At the Sexual Abuse Treatment Program therapists complete an assessment from an ecological perspective, understanding that the child’s world is much larger than only being a victim of sexual abuse. Family, culture and community affect a young person’s identity, thoughts and feelings; the Sexual Abuse Treatment Program supports participants to discover strengths and resources in these areas and within themselves as well. The program also aims to reduce or resolve troubling symptoms young people may experience and to provide education about the impact of traumatic abuse to the client, family and community.
A family/caregiver is recognized as having the potential to positively influence the resolution of the impact of sexual abuse. Families are supported to recognize the strengths within their relationships that support healing and wholeness; this can reduce stigma, enhance family esteem, and promote optimism for the future.
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 don’t know the answer, but I will try to find out for you.”
“I’m sorry this happened to 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.”
Parents play a valuable role in the treatment process.
Contact us today if you need help or just want to talk. We’re here to help.
Young people and family members may contact us for confidential information or service at Marymound Sexual Abuse Treatment Program.
You may also reach us by phone. Please feel free to leave a message on this confidential phone line.
204-944-7402