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Counseling Services

  • Call University Counseling Services at (203) 392-5475 or the Women and Families Center of Greater New Haven: Sexual Assault Crisis Services 24-hour hotline -- 1-888-999-5545 (English) or 1-888-568-8332 (Spanish) or (203) 235-4444 (out of State) for a free confidential counseling appointment. The normal reactions to sexual assault can make you feel very uncomfortable, and counseling can help you heal sooner and more completely.

  • The psychological and emotional trauma caused by a sexual assault can be severe and long-lasting. Because people react in very different ways to stress, it is not possible to predict exactly how you will feel. It may be helpful for you to know some of the most common responses of sexual assault survivors.  Some common reactions include:  shock and disbelief, remembering what happened and what it felt like (includes flashbacks and nightmares), experiencing intense emotions, physical symptoms, feeling fearful, and or feeling guilt, shame, and self-blame.

  • Each person is unique. Although many victims experience similar reactions, there are still individual differences in how they respond to the trauma of sexual assault. You may experience some or all of these symptoms. They may occur immediately, or you may have a delayed reaction weeks or months later. Certain situations, such as seeing the assailant or testifying in court, may intensify the symptoms or cause them to reoccur after a period during which you have been feeling better.

  • Some assault victims feel that if they avoid talking about the assault, they will be able to forget about what happened to them. Most survivors who try this approach eventually realize that they need to deal with the assault. Their unresolved feelings and fears hold them back from enjoying their lives and participating fully in relationships. Talking about the assault can help relieve some of the control it has over you and help you begin the process of recovery. We recommend that survivors seek professional counseling as soon as possible to begin the healing process. Therapy provides a safe, private place to deal with your feelings and concerns. A counselor can also help you deal with the reactions of family members, partners and friends.