Envision Counselling and Support Centre is offering a First Responder to Sexual Assault and Abuse Training this fall.
The Weyburn session will take place on October 1 and 2. The Estevan session is scheduled for October 8 and 9.
The program, in collaboration with the Sexual Assault Services of Saskatoon and the Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services, is targeted at professionals and paraprofessionals who work with individuals affected by sexual violence, said Raven Daer, the communications specialist with Envision.
“Some individuals who might benefit from this training include those from various fields such as health, social services, education, and justice. This includes nurses, physicians, social workers, youth workers, mental health workers, teachers, school counsellors, police officers, victim service workers, and faith leaders. We encourage all these professionals to attend.”
The training will cover a variety of topics, including the impacts of sexual violence, trauma education, communication skills, reporting obligations, and myths surrounding sexual trauma. “Community members interested in enhancing their skills and confidence in addressing sexual abuse and sexual assault are also welcome to attend.”
Participants will complete six modules to develop skills for communicating with and supporting individuals affected by sexual violence. The sessions will be facilitated by experienced counsellors from Envision, including members of the family intervention program and the intake counsellor.
“This training includes topics such as the impacts of sexual violence on individuals, trauma education, fostering hope, and essential skills for navigating these events and having meaningful conversations in difficult circumstances.”
The training aims to help participants identify, respond to, and refer individuals who have experienced sexual assault or abuse, and to support them in finding appropriate healing options or pursuing legal action.
The registration deadline is September 23. “Be sure to get your registration in as soon as possible, as we have a limited number of seats—20 participants for each training." Sessions run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on both days. The fee is $150 per participant, with lunch and refreshments provided.