Abuse comes in a variety of forms: emotional, sexual, physical, or neglect. People who have endured the psychological effects of abuse of any kind know that these experiences are often traumatic, and continue to shape the course of their life. Talking about past instances of abuse, and the shame, isolation and guilt that come with it can be extremely difficult.
What is Abuse Psychotherapy and Counselling?
Psychotherapy and counselling can support you through past and present instances of domestic, emotional, sexual and physical abuse. Abuse therapists at Mind + Zest are armed with the tools to understand the difficulties that come with talking about and reliving painful memories. They also have experience working with abuse survivors of all kinds. Goals for treatment in therapy include helping you process traumatic memories in a safe and open environment, dealing with any symptom of abuse, including flashbacks or nightmares, and helping alleviate other effects of abuse such as depression, low confidence and anxiety.
How does Abuse Counselling at Mind + Zest Work?
1. 15-minute intake Session
We begin with a 15-minute intake session with one of our dedicated intake specialists.
During these 15-minutes, we ask a set of questions to determine the issue. We then assess the best approach at improving your self-worth. We also try to get a good sense of your personality. At Mind + Zest, we want to match you with the therapist that would make the best possible fit based on what you need, and who you are. This consultation is also a great opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have.
At the end of the session, our intake counsellor will set you up with a tailored ‘plan of action’ that includes the recommended abuse therapist best suited to help you, the recommended duration of your therapy, and a suggestion for any further testing or psychological service they feel would best fit your needs.
2. 50-minute Sessions
After the initial intake, clients will attend regular 50-minute sessions for the recommended duration of treatment. Here, we work with you through the treatment plan, and build towards the objectives set during your intake session. We can re-evaluate and tweak these goals as time goes on.
3.Finish and Reflect
After concluding the treatment plan, we take time to reflect. Here, you tell us what your experience was like. If you still find yourself struggling in certain areas of your life, we may suggest further therapy to keep you on track to accomplish what you set out to do. If you feel like you have achieved the goals you have set for yourself, your sessions with us will end there. We will likely provide readings to help maintain and further your progress, and you are welcome to book a check-in appointment any time you feel you may need one. We also love to hear how you’re doing, and what you’ve achieved since your treatment plan!
Readings on Abuse Issues and Therapy
“Invisible Girls – the Truth about Sexual Abuse” Feuereisen (2009)
“The Verbally Abusive Relationship” Evans (2010).
“Self-Esteem: A Proven Program of Cognitive Techniques for Assessing, Improving and Maintaining Your Self-Esteem” by McKay and Fanning (2000).
If you or someone you know is struggling, don't hesitate to reach out. The Mind + Zest team here to help. Click below, and get connected to a therapist as quickly as today!
