Counsellors and confidentiality

LegacyUser

My wife was abused as a child many years ago by a family member, she has finally after so many hard years got the courage to talk to someone, however one thing keeps her from making that all important phone call to start on her healing journey. She is worried that if she goes to a counsellor/physciatrist that they are legally obliged to tell the gardai that child abuse has taken place and follow up an investigation/arrest of that person (family member in this instance), however it is a deal breaker for my wife that if the counsellor must go to the gards, then she won't go to the counsellor.

Can any one shed some light on this delicate matter. Thanks.

Morag

The counsellor would if there was a child currently at risk, as your wife is an adult then this does not apply.

LegacyUser

Thank you Sharrow, I think that clears it up. It was a fear that my wife had for along time and I'm sure its a fear that others have that stops them getting help. Not that I can see a flaw in the reasoning behind reporting of course!!

LegacyUser

yes, your wife is an adult but if there is a chance that any other child might be at risk then they may have to report. this will be explained in a first session with any good counsellor.

Plek Trum

As a possible help, I cannot receommend the Rape Crisis Centres in Ireland hihgly enough. Do NOT be put off by the name, they deal with all areas of sexual abuse and I personally have found their service fantastic. Best of luck to your wife on her journey, they also offer support to spouses should you need it. x

LegacyUser

Whats the difference between seeing a counsellor and going to the rape crisis centre. Is the rape crisis centre much cheaper?

If you are referred by your GP can you get to see a counsellor through the public health service for free?

Does this healing process take many weeks or months (roughly how many sessions?)

Morag

The rape crises centre has a range of treatments, from one to one to group therapy.
They have a sliding fees scale for people who need help.

Yes you can look for your gp to do a referal but the waiting lists for HSE counsellors is very long.

The healing process will vary a lot fro person to person.

Queen-Mise

Delicate matter wrote: »

Whats the difference between seeing a counsellor and going to the rape crisis centre. Is the rape crisis centre much cheaper?

If you are referred by your GP can you get to see a counsellor through the public health service for free?

Does this healing process take many weeks or months (roughly how many sessions?)

The healing process takes as long as it needs. It starts usually with a 'contract' of six weeks and goes on for as long as it is needed. With funding being cut for all these kind of things there may be a waiting list - but contact your nearest one and they can help. Their number is 1800 778888.

I don't think general counselling is something you can get with the health service. They have addiction counselling but that is very specialised. And they may be maximum amount of time with the HSE whereas with Rape CC & One in Four these constraints are not as important.