Abuse can have long-term effects on many aspects of a person’s life, including health, relationships, wellbeing, faith, safety, and trust. The Diocese of Parramatta is committed to providing respectful, compassionate, and ongoing care that supports healing and recovery.
We are here to support you
Our Healing and Support Team provides pastoral and therapeutic support to individuals who have experienced harm within a Church context, as well as those indirectly affected, such as family members.
We provide a respectful and welcoming space for people seeking support. Each person’s experience and needs are unique. There is no time limit on our service. You can reach out when you need help and stay connected for as long as you wish.
How we can help
We offer support with:
- counselling and therapeutic support
- pastoral and emotional support
- practical guidance, resources, pathways and services
- speaking to police
- spiritual support
Our role is to listen, assist, and respond to each person’s individual needs and choices.
Our approach
We provide a respectful and welcoming space where people are heard and treated with care. Support is guided by each person’s individual circumstances and needs.
Our approach is:
- trauma-informed
- person-centred
- respectful
- flexible
- compassionate
- ongoing
We recognise the harm that has been done and seek to respond with humility, care, and a genuine commitment to healing and wellbeing.
National Redress Scheme Support
We understand that engaging with the National Redress Scheme can be difficult, especially when it involves revisiting traumatic experiences. Our Healing and Support Service can provide therapeutic support and assist people to navigate the process.
Spiritual Support
For some people, abuse has also affected faith, trust, or spiritual wellbeing.
If requested, spiritual support may include:
- meetings with a priest or bishop
- spiritual direction
- pastoral accompaniment
- support groups
- reading and other resources
- healing services
Any spiritual support offered is optional and respectful of each person’s wishes.
Support for people harmed in other settings
Some people were harmed in other churches, other institutions, or in family or community settings.
There are services available for people affected by abuse in many different contexts, and our Healing and Support Team can help connect people with appropriate assistance.
Get Support
You do not have to do this alone.
A Healing and Support Counsellor is here to assist.
Contact us
Lorena Portocarrero
Healing and Support Counsellor
M: 0475 796 630
T: (02) 8838 3419
Our Healing and Support Services are delivered in partnership with the Archdiocese of Sydney. Together, we provide a coordinated, trauma-informed service that ensures survivors receive consistent support and continuity of care across diocesan boundaries.