Trauma Recovery Programs for Women
Stepping Out provides safe, evidence-informed trauma recovery programs for women survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Our groups combine specialist knowledge, practical tools and peer connection to help women better understand the impacts of trauma, build skills for recovery and feel less alone.
To ensure safety and equitable access, all survivor programs are free of charge and available both in-person and online.All survivor programs are free and available both in-person and online.
Our Programs
Psychoeducational peer support
Shift the Shame
Shift the Shame is a trauma-informed recovery program designed to help women survivors of childhood sexual abuse understand and manage the impacts of complex trauma.
Through guided workshops and peer connection, participants explore trauma responses, attachment, relationships, boundaries, values and strategies to support emotional regulation and wellbeing.
Social Connection
The World Awaits
Our social inclusion program creates safe and welcoming spaces where survivors of childhood sexual abuse can find connection and a sense of community. Based at our Marrickville community space, activities include creative arts, trauma-informed exercise, shared meals, workshops and outings that support connection, confidence and social wellbeing.
Body-Based Regulation
Your Somatic Toolbox
A practical, body-based workshop that teaches tangible physical techniques to soothe the nervous system and aid emotional self-regulation.
This program is run face-to-face by a qualified trauma clinician at our Marrickville centre.
Parenting Program
Circle of Security®
Delivered in-person or online, our Parenting Program supports women survivors of childhood sexual abuse to understand the impacts of trauma on attachment, strengthen relationships with their children and break cycles of intergenerational trauma.
In person or online.
Navigating Relationships
You Are Not Alone
A foundational program focused on exploring and building healthy relationships. This group is intentionally structured as a gentle, low-pressure ‘soft entry’ into trauma recovery, making it ideal for those beginning their healing journey.
In person or online.
What to Expect in Our Groups
We understand that taking the first step into a support group can feel daunting. We design our programs to be as predictable and transparent as possible to protect your peace of mind. We focus more on the impacts of childhood sexual abuse, rather than the incidents:
Absolute Safety
You are never forced or expected to disclose details of your past trauma. You share only what you want, when you want
Clinically Led
Every therapeutic workshop is developed and facilitated by fully qualified trauma clinicians.
Zero Cost
Our programs are available for free. There are no hidden fees, assessment costs, or material charges.
Help more women recover from CSA
For forty years, Stepping Out has provided free specialist support for women survivors of child sexual abuse. We believe that cost should never be a barrier to recovery. That’s why all of our programs are provided free of charge.
Your donation helps ensure that women survivors can access the specialist support they need, when they need it.
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
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
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
Government-funded therapeutic streams, financial support schemes, and legal rights advocacy for victims of crime in New South Wales.