Have you experienced sexual abuse or sexual assault, either recently or in the past? Perhaps you're struggling with difficult emotions, painful memories, anxiety or difficulties with trust and relationships.
I'm Sarel du Plessis, a registered counsellor and ACC-approved provider based in Tauranga. I offer confidential, compassionate counselling for adults who have experienced sexual abuse or assault, including experiences from childhood.
I understand that reaching out for support can be difficult. My aim is to provide a safe, respectful and non-judgemental environment where you feel heard, supported and able to explore your experiences at your own pace.
ACC-funded counselling may be available through the Sensitive Claims Service, meaning eligible clients can receive support without having to pay for their sessions.
Counselling for sexual abuse and sexual trauma
Experiences of sexual abuse or assault can affect people in many different ways. For some, the impact becomes apparent soon after the experience. For others, difficulties may emerge or continue many years later.
I support adults dealing with the emotional and psychological effects of experiences such as:
- Childhood sexual abuse
- Sexual assault or abuse during adulthood
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress
- Anxiety, fear and feelings of insecurity
- Difficulties with trust, intimacy and relationships
- Feelings of shame, guilt or self-blame
- Low self-esteem and loss of confidence
- Difficulties with emotional wellbeing following abuse
Your experiences are personal, and there is no single way that you should feel or respond.
A safe and supportive approach to trauma counselling
I have experience working with people affected by trauma and sexual abuse, including childhood experiences that continue to influence their lives as adults.
My approach is compassionate and person-centred. I recognise the importance of creating a counselling relationship built on trust, respect and understanding.
I draw on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy and Person-Centred Therapy, adapting my approach to your individual circumstances.
Together, we can explore how your experiences may be affecting your present life, your relationships and your sense of wellbeing.
My aim is to help you develop greater understanding, explore ways of managing difficult emotions and gradually reconnect with your strengths and sense of self.
You do not need to feel ready to discuss every detail of what happened. We can begin with what feels most important and manageable for you.
ACC-funded counselling for sexual abuse survivors
As an ACC-approved provider, I can support clients who may be eligible for funded counselling through the ACC Sensitive Claims Service.
This service provides support for people who have experienced sexual abuse or assault, including experiences that happened many years ago.
If you are eligible, ACC can fund your counselling sessions.
You do not need a referral from your GP to begin the process, and you do not need to have reported the abuse to the police.
How to access ACC counselling with me
If you would like to explore ACC-funded counselling, the process is straightforward:
Contact me to check my current availability for ACC clients.
Let me know if you already have an ACC claim number. If you have an existing claim, we can discuss the next steps.
If you don't have a claim yet, I can help you begin the process and lodge a new claim where appropriate.
You do not need to have an approved ACC claim before making initial contact.
We can discuss your circumstances and the support that may be available to you.
Sexual abuse counselling in Tauranga
I offer face-to-face counselling in a private, welcoming office in Tauranga.
I understand how important it is to feel comfortable and respected when seeking support for sensitive and deeply personal experiences.
Whether the abuse happened recently or many years ago, you're welcome to contact me to discuss counselling and the possibility of ACC funding.
Would you like to know more or make an appointment? Please feel free to contact me.
Sarel
Registered Counsellor (NZAC)
ACC Approved Provider
