Our Immediate Response hotline received a call last fall. 8-year-old Brian* was a victim of sexual abuse that occurred while he was playing at a friend’s house. His parents, upset and not sure where to turn, called our Immediate Response hotline. Given the severity of the trauma, Brian was quickly able to begin treatment with our team.
His therapist began focusing on support building and making sure he felt safe in our space. They discussed body boundaries, and how he can give consent or say no in any situation. He also learned differences between safe and unsafe secrets and how to reach out and talk to an adult if he ever feels uncomfortable or pressured.
Our therapist also provided support to his parents throughout treatment. They received psychoeducation and reassured that he is not defined by what he experienced. Our therapist explained trauma and what symptoms can look like so they could monitor him after he finished treatment through our program.
At discharge, Brian had built a trusting relationship with his therapist, was able to assert boundaries, and learned how to reach out to a trusted adult if he feels uncomfortable. Last year, Brian was just one of the 176 children we served through this program. If your child is experiencing immediate trauma, please call our free Immediate Response Helpline at (804) 305-2420.
*Client’s name has been changed to protect their identity.
