Amethyst Addiction Center

Sexual Abuse Support Program

The Sexual Abuse Support Program at Amethyst Women's Addiction Centre provides group and individual counselling support to women who were sexually abused as children and have a history of addiction. The unique feature of this program is that we assist our client in their desire to heal from the abuse without returning to the use of substances and/or gambling to cope. The Sexual Abuse Support Program also has as an objective liaising with other agencies and organizations in the community committed to ending violence against women.

Our Survivor's Group is offered twice each year

It is for women at Amethyst who were sexually abused as children and for those who want to explore uncomfortable sexual experiences in their childhood.

Childhood sexual abuse is defined as the sexual exploitation of a child or children by an adult or adults, whether or not the abuse includes physical contact.

In order to participate in this program, women must have :

  • at least six months in recovery
  • completed the 10 day program or are in follow-up from another treatment program
  • completed an assessment with a counsellor on an individual basis to discuss personall readiness

How does a group help?

Discussing shared experience can help to break down shame and reduce isolation.

Common goals shared by group members are:

  • to recognize my own and other group members abilities and strengths
  • to explore the areas of responsibility, in order to deal with group members' feelings of guilt and blame that are not justified
  • to diminish the isolation often experienced by group members
  • to learn new ways to express feelings and needs
  • to explore how the use of alcohol and other drugs helped members cope with the pain caused by the abuse

What is the Group like?

  • A maximum 8 group members.
  • The same group members attend all twelve sessions. It is a closed group.
  • Each session is two hours in length.
  • Confidentiality is respected and protected.
  • The group is facilitated by two Amethyst counsellors.

We have recently offered information workshops in the community focusing on the link between women's use of chemical substances and the trauma of child sexual abuse. Information sessions to partners and others who support the women involved in our program are also provided on an ongoing basis. If you have any questions or request regarding this program, please contact our Centre for further information.