Door Of Hope
A supportive program for women survivors of sexual abuse, fostering emotional healing in a safe, nurturing environment.
Courses may be studied in the following ways:
Self Study
Study in the privacy of your own home and whenever you have time available using the course materials (videos and manuals) provided.
Note: Videos are only available on-line from Lifekeys for three months from start date.
Self Study +
Self Study plus course discussion with an ACC Counsellor (as needed during the course). Reduced counselling rates will apply – refer ACC for more information.
Group Study
Study in weekly sessions with a group at ACC which is led by trained facilitators (when available).
Empowering Women Survivors of Sexual Abuse
The Door of Hope is a supportive and uplifting program designed for women who have survived sexual abuse. In a setting of love, acceptance, and confidentiality, this program helps participants develop new strategies for living and facilitates healing from life's challenges. It addresses emotional isolation and various struggles, including empowerment, shame, guilt, sexual healing, healthy sexuality, experiencing love, restoring trust, and building positive relationships.
Session Overview
The Arena of Healing
Defining "recovery" in this context, introducing the Four Interrelated Areas of Recovery, and explaining necessary mind and heart attitudes for growth and change. Introduction to the Arena of Healing concept as a visual aid for understanding the healing process.
What is Abuse?
Defining sexual abuse, exploring forms of denial, and identifying symptoms affecting adult functioning.
Stages of Abuse
Exploring the concept of Family of Origin, the functional/dysfunctional family continuum, stages and contributing factors of abuse, and understanding the feelings of an abused child.
Shame
Differentiating between guilt and shame, understanding their outcomes, identifying characteristics of adults shamed in childhood, exploring roots and responses to shame, and discussing healing from shame.
Contempt
Discussing the characteristics and workings of contempt, challenging and changing self-contempt issues.
Betrayal and Powerlessness
Defining betrayal, examining factors contributing to feelings of betrayal, understanding powerlessness in abuse, and highlighting Jesus' role in bringing liberation.
Ambivalence
Defining and explaining ambivalence, discussing its impact on life and relationships, and introducing body awareness.
Defence Mechanisms and Survival
Discussing self-protective behaviours and defence mechanisms, introducing the Johari Window, and encouraging healthy responses to life situations.
The Way Through
Addressing issues of repentance and penance, identifying obstacles in the healing process, and discussing healing steps.
Aspects of Love
Defining love and forgiveness as aspects of love, establishing the concept of God's real love, and offering guidance on healing wounded sexuality through the Spirit of Virginity teaching.
Expression of Interest
If you are interested in studying a course alongside a counsellor, please complete the form provided. We will also be running these courses as a group when available. To be among the first to know when new dates are announced, please register your interest and we will be in touch.
Alternatively, you can call our office during office hours on (07) 3366 2200.