We are creating a world where women and girls can live free from the shame and isolation of childhood sexual abuse.
Stepping Out is a Sydney-based specialist service providing free, trauma-informed childhood sexual abuse support for women.
We provide safe spaces for survivors of childhood sexual abuse and complex trauma to break the shame and isolation that often follow, ensuring women feel heard, believed and supported as they rebuild safety, connection and confidence in their lives.
We deliver therapeutic group work programs and specialist counselling, both in person and online. All our programs are informed by clinical expertise in complex trauma.
Childhood Sexual Abuse Support for Women
Free Trauma-informed Support Programs
We run therapeutic programs and social groups designed to address the lasting impacts of childhood sexual abuse, providing survivors with knowledge, connection and support at every stage of recovery.
Psychoeducational Peer Support for Trauma Recovery
Shift the Shame
Understand and manage the impacts of childhood sexual abuse. Explore trauma theory, attachment, relationships, boundaries, values and self-compassion in a safe space with other survivors. In person program led by specialist trauma clinicians.
Social Connection
The World Awaits
Social inclusion groups and activities for women survivors of childhood sexual abuse who experience isolation as a result of their trauma. Rebuild community in our safe, welcoming space in Marrickville.
Body-Based Regulation
Your Somatic Toolbox
Learn practical, body-based techniques to soothe the nervous system and aid emotional self-regulation. This program is run by a qualified trauma clinician in Marrickville.
Parenting Program
Circle of Security®
This program strengthens family bonds and furthers safe, secure relationships with trauma-informed workshops for survivors who are mothers or grandmothers of children aged 0-12. In person or online.
Navigating Relationships
You Are Not Alone
A program specifically designed for victim-survivors as a gentle, ‘soft entry’ into recovery from trauma, focusing on building healthy, safe connections. In person or online.
Training for frontline workers
We build workforce capability across the community and disability sectors through specialist training on childhood sexual abuse, complex trauma and its lifelong impacts. Our practical, trauma-informed training equips frontline workers with the knowledge, skills and confidence to respond safely to disclosures and provide effective support for survivors.
Testimonials
“I liked the fact that it was such a safe space to share and heal. Now I have found the words, voice and courage to express my experience, which I couldn’t disclose before.
I will remember the key message – shame should lie with the perpetrator, not me.”
– participant, ‘Shift the Shame’ program
Shining a Light on Healing and Connection
Childhood sexual abuse remains one of the most hidden and misunderstood forms of trauma. Many survivors carry the impacts for decades, often alongside shame, silence and isolation created by experiences that were never acknowledged or supported. Stepping Out exists to change that.
For almost 40 years, we have provided specialist childhood sexual abuse support for women survivors has recognised the complex and lifelong impacts of trauma.
We create safe spaces where survivors are believed, heard and connected with others who understand. By breaking the silence and challenging the stigma surrounding childhood sexual abuse, we help women feel less alone and provide opportunities to rebuild connection, confidence and hope.
National Crisis Support & Specialist Services
If you need immediate care, crisis counselling, or external administrative support, please connect with these trusted national and state-based services.
Lifeline Australia
Access immediate, round-the-clock crisis intervention and emotional support during moments of overwhelming distress.
Full Stop Australia
Reach out anytime for confidential, 24/7 support regarding sexual assault, domestic violence, or family safety.
Victims Services NSW
Access government-funded therapeutic streams, financial support schemes, and legal rights advocacy for victims of crime in New South Wales.