Discovering Strengths Survivor Programme
Discovering Strengths Survivors Programme
At Tower Counselling we offer the 12 session Discovering Strengths Treatment Programme or survivors of domestic abuse and abusive relationships
At Tower Counselling we utilise the ‘Three phase recovery model’ by Dr. Joan Schultz when working with adult survivors of sexual assault. The Three Phases of the model are named Reaction, Recoil, Reorganisation. They are:
At Tower Counselling we utilise the ‘Three phase recovery model’ by Dr. Joan Schultz when working with adult survivors of sexual assault. The Three Phases of the model are named Reaction, Recoil, Reorganisation. They are:
Reaction Phase
The reaction phase occurs immediately after the assault. It may last for several weeks. The survivor’s life may experience complete disruption. Emotional reactions are characterised by shock and disbelief. They may also experience feelings of fear, anger, shame, self-blame and guilt. The following is an outline of the most common reactions for victims of sexual assault:
Common Emotions and Reactions:
- Shock — They feel numb. And ask themselves ‘Why am I so calm? and Why can’t I cry?’
- Disbelief — The survivor wonders if it really happened and ask ‘Why me?’
- Embarrassment — The survivor ask ‘What will people think?’ and feel that they can not tell family or close friends.
- Shame — They feel dirty, like there is something wrong with them now.
- Guilt — They feel as if they did something to make this happen to me. For example ‘If only I had….’
- Depression — They ask ‘How am I going to go on?’ and thy feel tired and hopeless.
- Powerlessness — They wonder if they will ever feel in control again?
- Disorientation — The survivor can not sit still. I’m having trouble getting through the day. I’m just overwhelmed!
- Retriggering — The survivor keeps on having flashbacks, and they wish they would stop.
- Denial — They ask themselves ‘Wasn’t it just a rape?’
- Anger — The survivor wants retribution or revenge
A survivor’s physical and behavioural reactions (in addition to injury pain) include fatigue, headaches, loss of concentration, loss of appetite, nausea, sleep disturbances and nightmares.
Recoil Phase
During the recoil phase the survivor may feel calmer, yet his difficulties are often only suppressed. During this period both “denial” and “resolution” may be occurring along with the survivor reliving the abuse, often through becoming the victim in adult relationships or addiction.
Reorganisation Phase
In the reorganisation phase the survivor places the assault into perspective, and life no longer revolves around the crime. The survivor again has a sense of control over his life.
In working through the healing process, these boundaries may be blurred as each person may cope in differing ways
Every journey starts with a single step
The Discovering Strengths Programme can be completed either on an individual basis, or in a group therapy setting. Which ever suits you and helps you recover from the abuse you have suffered.
If you are a Survivor of Domestic Abuse or Domestic Violence you can call us in complete confidentiality on (+44) 08454670612
or (+44) 07593809574
or email
us
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