Sexual assault is a crime of violent intent, where offenders view the assault as a way to gain power and control in their lives.

In 90% of sexual assaults, the victim knows the attacker. Victims range in ages from very young children to seniors, and include both males and females.

It is common for survivors of a sexual assault, especially when they know the attacker, to question whether their experience is a true case of sexual assault.

Some victims wait days, months, or years before seeking help and a better understanding of the effects of sexual assault.

Support services are available to victims of sexual assault and their families. Individual sessions are designed to support personal coping skills and accelerate recovery in people who are experiencing the after-effects of a trauma. Regardless of the length of time since the assault, all victims can benefit from appropriate supportive intervention.

Our counselling services are available at no cost.

Professional Counsellors are accessible by appointment to provide crisis, short-term and long-term counselling. Play therapy for young children is also offered. Our counselling services are available at no cost.

The trauma of sexual assault can occasionally trigger a recurrence of other issues for individuals. The combination of physical and emotional symptoms can result in ongoing or situational stress that is difficult to manage alone.

Hospital/Clinic Assistance:

Crisis Centre staff are on call 24 hours/day to provide accompaniment to the hospital for victims of recent assaults. Victims, their family and friends or hospital staff may access this service by phoning 403-356-1099 (Red Deer Local) or 1-866-956-1099 (Toll Free). If victims prefer, staff can also provide accompaniment and support to the family doctor or the Teen/Young Adult Sexual Health Clinic.

Court Support:

For those victims involved in the court process, staff are available to assist with information, preparation and accompaniment throughout the court proceedings.

Police Reporting Assistance:

Crisis Centre staff can facilitate and provide accompaniment to police for those victims wishing to make a report. There is no statute of limitations on sexual assault; that is, a police report can be made regardless of the length of time since the assault occurred.