Victims Services Counselling Australia

Kitty facilitates sessions for individuals who have been victims of crime both online through Coviu (an encrypted online platform) and in-person in the Northern Rivers. In Australia, victims of crime can benefit significantly from counselling services. These services are designed to provide emotional, psychological, and practical support to help individuals recover and regain a sense of stability. Here’s what victims can typically gain from counselling:

1. Emotional Support
• Validation of feelings: Counsellors provide a safe, non-judgmental space where victims can express their emotions and feel heard.
• Trauma processing: Specialized trauma therapy can help victims work through feelings of fear, anger, sadness, or guilt associated with the crime.
• Reduction of anxiety and stress: Techniques like mindfulness, grounding, and relaxation can help victims manage their emotional responses.

2. Practical Assistance
• Understanding the justice system: Counsellors may explain legal processes, court proceedings, or victim impact statements.
• Referral to resources: Victims can be directed to financial assistance programs, housing support, or medical services if needed.

3. Improved Coping Mechanisms
• Resilience building: Counsellors equip victims with tools to manage triggers and regain control over their lives.
• Cognitive-behavioural strategies: These can help reframe negative thought patterns and reduce feelings of helplessness.

4. Specialised Support for Different Groups
• Children and adolescents: Tailored approaches address their unique developmental and emotional needs.
• Cultural and linguistic support: Services often cater to diverse backgrounds, offering culturally sensitive counselling.

5. Connection to Community and Peer Support
• Group therapy: Some victims benefit from connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma, which can reduce feelings of isolation.
• Support networks: Counsellors often help victims reconnect with family, friends, or other social supports.

6. Financial Assistance for Counselling
Victims of crime in Australia may be eligible for financial support through state or territory-based schemes. For example:
• Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) in Victoria.
• Victims Services NSW offers free counselling and funding for eligible individuals.
• Other state-specific services provide free or subsidized counselling sessions.

How to Access Counselling
Victims can access counselling through:
• Government-funded victim support services (e.g., Victim Support Australia).
• For an application to Victims Services NSW see: https://victimsservices.justice.nsw.gov.au/how-can-we-help-you/victims-support-scheme/make-an-application.html.
• Non-profits and charities that specialize in trauma recovery.
• Private counselling (costs may be covered through victim assistance schemes).

Counselling empowers victims to reclaim their sense of safety and well-being, fostering healing and recovery in the aftermath of a crime. For further information or counselling through Victims Services NSW please contact Kitty through the website or by emailing kitty@compasscounselling.com.au.