Counselling Approaches for Young People (18-24) with Disabilities Affected by Sexual Assault and Trauma

1. Understanding Assault and Sexual Violence: Definitions and the Law

Participants begin by exploring clear, legally grounded definitions of assault and sexual violence.

The aim is to ensure practitioners can speak accurately, sensitively, and confidently about these issues within their professional role.

2. Statistics and Prevalence

This module provides an evidence‑based overview of:

• Current national and global prevalence rates
• Risk factors and patterns
• The realities behind under‑reporting

3. Context for Assault and Sexual Violence

Understanding context is essential for effective support. This section examines:

• Social, cultural, and environmental factors
• Power dynamics and coercion
• The role of digital environments

4. Barriers to disclosure for young people

The focus is on recognising the broader systems that shape a young person’s experience and response.

5. Trauma: Definition and Presentation Across the Lifespan

Participants explore trauma as both a psychological and physiological experience. Topics include:

• What trauma is and how it develops
• How trauma presents in children, adolescents, and young adults
• Common behavioural, emotional, and cognitive responses
• The impact of developmental stage on coping and recovery

This module emphasises compassion, attunement, and the importance of understanding trauma’s complexity.

6. Counselling Methods and Frameworks

This practical component introduces trauma‑informed counselling approaches suitable for young people

7. Limitations of the Counselling Role

Ethical and professional boundaries are essential when working with trauma. This section covers:

• Scope of practice
• When and how to refer
• Avoiding re‑traumatisation
• Self‑care and vicarious trauma awareness for practitioners

The goal is to support sustainable, ethical, and safe practice.

8. Feedback and Reflection

The day concludes with structured feedback, group reflection, and space for participants to consolidate learning. This final session encourages:

• Identifying areas for further development
• Sharing insights and challenges
• Strengthening professional networks