Talk with a counselor
It can be especially helpful to talk with a trained counselor at a rape crisis center or a counseling agency. These counselors understand that rape is never the victim's fault. They are experienced in helping sexual assault victims. They can help you find ways to cope with the physical and emotional effects of the assault. Even if the assault or abuse happened a long time ago, it is never too late to get help.

How to find a counselor
You can find a trained counselor by calling a hotline or a rape crisis center. Look in the local yellow pages under "rape" or "women's services," or call Directory Assistance and ask the telephone operator for the rape hotline in your area.

You can also call RAINN, a national victim assistance organization, at 1-800-656-HOPE. RAINN will connect you to a rape crisis center in your area.

Most rape crisis centers offer FREE services for sexual assault victims.