Sexual assault assessment and support

Confidential, compassionate care to help individuals and family/whānau begin healing after sexual harm.

We provide specialist psychological assessments and therapy for individuals who have been sexually assaulted. We recognise the profound emotional and psychological effects this trauma can have and offer a safe, supportive space to begin the journey to healing — whether the experience was recent or occurred in the past.

Our sexual abuse support services are designed to restore your sense of safety and control, helping you process trauma at a pace that feels right for you.

What is a sexual assault assessment?

A sexual assault psychological assessment helps to identify the emotional, cognitive and behavioural impacts of the experience and determine the right pathway for therapeutic support. Our qualified psychologists work gently and respectfully, allowing people to share only what they are comfortable with.

We may explore:

  • How the trauma has affected mental health and everyday life
  • Any signs of anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression or distress
  • Strengths and protective factors
  • Recommendations for ongoing therapy or support options

These assessments can form part of an ACC Sensitive Claims process or be accessed privately.

What support do we provide?

  • Sensitive psychological assessments tailored to age, experience and cultural needs.
  • Trauma-informed therapy for children, teens and adults.
  • Support navigating ACC Sensitive Claims process.
  • Short- and long-term counselling options.
  • Education and support for whānau or caregivers.
  • Culturally safe services delivered with compassion and confidentiality.

We understand that seeking support for sexual assault victims requires immense courage, which is why our team creates an environment where you feel heard, believed and respected.

How we work

Our team of registered psychologists, counsellors and trauma therapists is highly experienced in working with people who have experienced sexual abuse or assault. Our approach is:

  • Confidential. Your privacy is protected at all times.
  • Person-centred. You are in control of your healing journey.
  • Evidence-based. We use proven approaches like EMDR, CBT, ACT, EFT and narrative therapy.
  • Family/whānau-inclusive. With your consent, we can support your wider support network, too.

We take care to ensure that no talk in graphic detail is ever required for assessments or therapy. Our comprehensive sexual assault support extends beyond individual therapy to include practical guidance on legal processes, safety planning and rebuilding trust in relationships.

Who can access this service?

Our sexual assault assessment and support services are available to:

  • individuals who have experienced sexual harm at any point in life
  • children or young people who may be showing signs of trauma
  • whānau or caregivers seeking support for a loved one
  • clients referred through ACC Sensitive Claims, GPs or other providers
  • self-funded individuals seeking private, confidential support.

ACC Sensitive Claims

You may be eligible for fully funded assessment and therapy through ACC’s Sensitive Claims pathway. You do not need to report the event to the police to access this support. Our team can guide you through the process and help you find the right therapist to begin your recovery.

Learn more about ACC Sensitive Claims support at: acc.co.nz/sensitive-claims 

Enquiry

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For more information call us on 0800 123 411 or email [email protected]