Therapy Program

We offer culturally responsive therapy and welcome individuals from all backgrounds and identities. We believe in the resilience and strength of survivors.

Short Term Therapy

Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault each have profound and distinct impacts on survivors, which is why our therapists are trained to offer tailored support and understanding. At Catalyst, we acknowledge the unique challenges faced by individuals who have survived abuse. Our therapists are dedicated to providing specialized care, recognizing the nuances of each experience.

We offer individual therapy for adults and children (ages 5 and up) by appointment, in Chico, Oroville, and Paradise. We offer eight to ten free sessions to help survivors work towards self-identified goals to process the impact of and links between past and current experiences and develop tools to manage and reduce symptoms. At the end of these sessions, your therapist will assess with you next steps.

Regardless of whether you are a survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, or both, Catalyst is here to support you on your healing journey. We offer culturally responsive services and welcome individuals from all backgrounds and identities. We believe in the resilience and strength of survivors and are committed to empowering you to reclaim your life and build a future free from violence.

Domestic Violence Support

Domestic violence can result in a range of physical, emotional, and psychological injuries for survivors. Beyond the visible injuries, many individuals impacted by intimate partner violence struggle with depression, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and traumatic grief. Our therapists at Catalyst understand the complexities of domestic violence and are equipped to address these issues with sensitivity and expertise. We understand that survivors may stay in abusive relationships for various reasons, including love, fear, financial dependence, feelings of isolation or hopelessness, among others. We prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where survivors feel empowered to make their own decisions about their relationships. Our team respects your autonomy and does not pressure you to leave if you’re not ready or interested in doing so, instead focusing on providing support, resources, and guidance tailored to your individual needs and circumstances. We provide a safe and supportive environment for survivors to explore their experiences, heal from trauma, and rebuild their lives.

Our team of professionally trained, licensed or pre-licensed therapists approaches therapy with a trauma-informed lens, ensuring that survivors of domestic violence receive compassionate and effective support.

Sexual Assault Support

Sexual assault can have long-lasting effects on survivors, impacting their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. While not every survivor will develop diagnosable trauma-related disorders such as acute stress disorder (ASD) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), many experience symptoms like anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts. The brain’s ability to process and recall events from a traumatic experience is often disrupted, leading to fragmented memories and potential difficulties in coherent storytelling. During an assault, survivors may experience involuntary responses that can result in paralysis or loss of consciousness. Dissociation, a coping mechanism to disconnect from the traumatic experience, is common among survivors and may lead to a sense of detachment or lost time. Our therapists strive to recognize and validate survivors’ experiences, understanding that trauma responses are varied and complex.

Our therapy services for survivors of sexual assault are trauma-informed and tailored to meet the individual needs of each client. Our goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where survivors can explore their emotions, regain control, and begin their healing journey. We also offer education and resources on coping strategies, self-care, and navigating legal and medical systems when relevant.

Initial Session

During your initial session with a therapist, they will assist you in assessing your situation, whether it involves domestic violence or sexual assault, and discuss a safety plan tailored to your needs and preferences. They will also provide information about all the services Catalyst offers to respond to your overall safety and well-being. Additionally, therapists often provide education on the dynamics and impact of domestic violence or sexual assault, including handouts when helpful.

Follow Up Sessions

Follow up sessions will involve further education, including understanding the pathology of people who cause harm and identifying red flags. Safety plans will be revisited and adjusted as necessary to address your domestic violence and/or sexual assault concerns. Therapists may also discuss with you how best to work towards living the life you want, which may include exploring issues related to, which may include issues related to self-esteem, boundaries, trauma, and patterns within relationships. At the end of these sessions, your therapist will help you develop a plan for next steps.

We know it can be difficult to reach out for help from a therapist. Be assured that your privacy and safety are important to us. All of Catalyst staff are trained to ensure confidentiality and will not provide any information on your behalf without your written permission.

Scheduling an Appointment

Catalyst has expanded the way in which appointments can be offered. In addition to offering in-person individual therapy for adults and children in Chico, Oroville, and Paradise, our therapists can also discuss whether meeting by telehealth (video sessions) would be an option. Youth appointments are currently offered for 5 years of age and older. We also offer group therapy – please call for days and times.*

*We have decided to discontinue, for now, the Oroville drop-in group due to lack of attendance. Currently, we do not offer any other group counseling outside of the shelter.

Call our Chico or Oroville office to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment.

Chico Business Office

330 Wall Street, Suite 50
Chico, CA 95928
(530) 343-7711

Oroville Business Office

1931 Arlin Rhine Memorial Dr.
Oroville, CA 95966
(530) 532-6427

Get Help Now: (800) 895-8476

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