By Raksmey VA | Country Representative - Cambodia
Every day, Cambodian women and girls face violence in their homes, communities, and workplaces. Domestic abuse, sexual assault, and human trafficking remain persistent threats, leaving survivors with deep emotional and physical scars. Many lack access to the legal support and counseling needed to heal and rebuild their lives. The Consoling through Counseling (CTC) project exists to change that—providing safety, advocacy, and the resources necessary to help survivors reclaim their futures.
Our safe shelter in Banteay Meanchey province offers rehabilitation services and reintegration support, helping survivors rebuild their lives.
Case Study:
Sreyneang, a 14-year-old from Banteay Meanchey province, survived sexual abuse. Her mother acted immediately, reporting the case, which led to legal intervention and support from our project.
The project staff first visited Sreyneang at her home where she remained silent, withdrawn, and distressed. Understanding the need for a patient and compassionate approach, the counselor built rapport through casual conversation by discussing her interests. Over time, Sreyneang opened up and shared her story.
Recognizing the need for a safe environment, the project provided her with comprehensive support, including access to its safe shelter, where she decided to stay with her grandmother. At the shelter, she received legal counseling from the project’s legal team, which facilitated her access to legal representation. As a result of legal intervention, the perpetrator was required to provide $4,000 in civil compensation while he remains in prison, awaiting trial.
While at the shelter, Sreyneang was enrolled in Grade 6 at Save the Children Primary School, ensuring her continued education. However, the trauma of her past affected her emotional well-being. Initially, she experienced mood swings, social withdrawal, and moments of intense sadness and anger. She isolated herself in her room, avoiding interactions with others.
Through ongoing individual counseling and participation in group activities, Sreyneang gradually regained her confidence. The counselor provided emotional support, helped her process painful memories, and guided her in recognizing and addressing her emotions. With time, she became more engaged, interacted with peers, and showed noticeable improvement in her emotional stability.
Sreyneang now expresses a sense of hope for the future. In her own words: "I now feel better after staying at the safe shelter. I think staying in the center is better than staying at my house because I have enough time to rest and have the opportunity to go back to school, make new friends, play sports that I love, and continue my studies."
The project continues to monitor her progress, providing emotional and psychological support to ensure her well-being and resilience. Her journey is a testament to the importance of support services in empowering survivors and restoring their dignity.
Dear donor:
We deeply appreciate your support for the Counseling Program. Your generosity makes a meaningful difference in the lives of survivors who have found safety and support at our shelter.
If you are able, please donate today.
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