Overview
The OCYP’s Victim Assistance Program provides services to clergy sexual abuse victims, adult survivors, child victims and their family members who have been affected by child sexual abuse. Our professional Victim Service Coordinators have a sincere commitment to the emotional and spiritual well-being of individuals who have been impacted by this crime and are here to help.
Our Services
The following services are available to men, women and children who were sexually abused by a priest, deacon, employee, or volunteer of the Archdiocese, as well as their family members and significant others.
- Compassionate supportive counseling
- Resources on child sexual abuse
- Referrals for outpatient therapy, pastoral support and counseling, and related psychiatric services
- Support and assistance through any canonical process
- Assistance to families seeking spiritual guidance or a meeting with
the Archbishop - Assistance eliminating barriers to treatment, such as transportation and child care
- Supportive services in cases where there has been a violation of the Standards of Ministerial Behavior and Boundaries.
Counseling
We understand that counseling after sexual abuse, whether the abuse happened yesterday or many years ago, is an important part of the healing process. Our staff is here to assist you in identifying and accessing mental health services based on your individual needs.
“Honesty, Hope and Healing in Christ”
One of OCYP’s important roles is to offer support to parishes as they begin their healing and reconciliation process in the aftermath of the sexual abuse crisis in the church. Our team is available to meet with the affected parishes for open conversation, allowing individuals to express their feelings about what has happened and move towards healing.