One Child's Journey - Children's Assessment Center

Eight year old Brady* was forensically interviewed at the CAC in 2008 and disclosed multiple incidents of sexual abuse by Henry, a close and trusted friend of the family. The multi-disciplinary team made the decision that it would be important for Brady to participate in counseling to help him work through the problems that he was suffering from as a result of the abuse.

One important aspect to remember is that sexual abuse not only impacts the victim, but it also affects the entire family. Therefore, we offer therapy to both the child and his parents. In this case, one therapist was able to have sessions with Brady's mother, Sarah, while the other therapist worked with Brady.

Brady was confused, and hurt, that someone he loved and considered a friend would take advantage of him and violate his body in such a horrific way. Brady came to understand that the abuse was not his fault and that he was not to blame. He was able to work through his fears and worries in a child-friendly and safe environment with people he trusted. One common fear sexually abused children experience is that the offender will hurt them and/or his family. Because of the collaborative work we do with police and prosecutors, they were able to talk with Brady during a session to help him understand that Henry would not be able to "come and get him."

Sarah was able to meet with the other therapist and express her frustrations, guilt and worries about her son and the abuse he had suffered. They were able to work through these issues, as well as help Sarah better understand the process of trauma experienced by a child who has been sexually abused. Through this process, Sarah was able to work through her problems which enabled her to better address the needs of her son.

Because of our unique program, we are able to work with entire families at no cost, as well as see clients until they are no longer in need of our therapy services. This allows us to serve every family that needs counseling no matter their income level or need. We are happy to report that Brady and his family are doing well. We helped the family understand the court process, and Brady was able to deliver his testimony in court, resulting in Henry being sentenced to a long prison term. The family has since met their therapeutic goals, but they are an example of the importance of follow-up treatment after sexual abuse.

*The names in this story have been changed to protect the individuals' identities.

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