We Can Help You!
Counseling at First Light is a great first step in healing from the trauma that follows sexual assault or child abuse. People who get counseling for their abuse or assault find it helpful to share their experiences with someone who has been specially trained to listen. With regular therapy, people learn coping skills and process their trauma, which improves their long-term health. To get counseling for yourself or for a child in your care, you can fill out the forms below.
Do you have questions about counseling?
We have answers!
‣ Why should I get counseling?
Healing from sexual assault or child abuse is hard, no matter when it happened in your life. People who don't get help after living through that experience are more likely to have long term health problems and a lower quality of life. Support, education, and professional counseling can give you the tools to help you heal.
‣ What happens in counseling?
During the first few sessions, you will work with your counselor to decide what problems you're having in your everyday life. Then, your counselor will help you set goals to work on those problems.
Counseling is hard work and doesn't end when your weekly session ends! Usually, your counselor will give you some things to work on in between sessions.
Your counselor may also give some helpful tips to your family and friends if you would like to help them understand your experience. This helps them learn ways to support your through your counseling sessions and after.
‣ What training do First Light counselors have?
First Light’s counselors all have Master’s Degrees in counseling or a similar field. Our counselors have special training to work with people of all ages, races, genders, sexes, and sexualities. The counselors are supervised by a Licensed Professional Counselor and by our Community Resources Director. Our counselors also get continued professional education while on staff.
‣ Where do I go for counseling?
Our counselors can meet you in person or virtually! To meet virtually, you'll need a quite, private place to talk without any interruptions. Children under 6 years old must have counseling in person.
‣ Does counseling cost anything?
No! All of our services, including counseling, are free of charge.
‣ Do I need insurance to get counseling?
No! First Light will never bill your insurance for any of our services. If you have insurance, we may ask if you would like to see one of our community partners since they usually have a shorter waiting list. But, if you want to stay with First Light, we're happy to have you!
‣ How do I schedule a counseling session?
Before you can schedule a therapy session, you'll have a short meeting with a counselor to figure out if First Light's services are right for you. If you have other mental or physical health problems, now may not be the time for you to start trauma counseling. If now isn't the best time, that's okay! First Light will refer you to someone who can help. And when you're ready to talk about your assault or abuse, we'll be here waiting for you.
To get a meeting with one of our counselors, you can fill out the form by clicking on the button at the top of the page. Many people want to use First Light's services, so that means there is usually a waiting list for counseling services. While you're waiting for counseling, you can talk to our Victim Advocates anytime by calling our 24/7 helpline at 864.231.7273.