Programme for Women Survivors of Sexual Violence

Sexual violence results in heavy psychological trauma that affects a woman's life for a long time. One of the severe symptoms of such violence is the loss of trust in people. Victims need time to overcome the fear, shame, and distrust in order to look for help. More and more women are seeking help directly after a violent incident. This is encouraging because it considerably increases a victim's chances of rehabilitation. The main emphasis in the psychotherapeutic work is overcoming the feelings of fear, shame, and guilt. The aim is for the woman to deal with the painful emotional consequence of her experience and regain a feeling of control in her life.

The programme serves women victims of:

• Rape by an acquaintance or stranger
  
• Sexual violence by relative ("incest")
  
• Lechery, forced oral/anal sex, etc.
  
• Every other sexual coercion or threat
  
  The programme helps women cope with their emotions and overcome the trauma caused by sexual violence. Often, women victims of rape do not share feelings with anyone. They feel guilty and isolated. With the help of a therapist, in an atmosphere of confidentiality, trust, and understanding, women:
  
  
• Share their experiences
  
• Recall the traumatic event and share their story without fear of being blamed
  
• Identify the effects that the event had on their life and their relations with the other people
  
• Make a security plan
  
• Organize their thoughts and decide what to do
  
• Regain their confidence and ability to cope
  
• Receive support in prosecuting the perpetrator
  
• Overcome trauma and restore their emotional life

Programme for Women Survivors of Domestic Violence

Programme for Women Survivors of Trafficking in Women