SURVIVORS WRITE: HEALING FROM SEXUAL ABUSE AND ASSAULT – WITH LAYLA

A writing circle for adult survivors of sexual abuse or sexual assault to reclaim their voices and begin — or continue — their healing through words.

Layla experienced sexual abuse and sexual assault in childhood and adolescence. She understands the silence, the weight, and the long path of rebuilding.

Today, she brings both her lived experience and her background in integrative counselling to create a gentle, considered space where survivors can write, reflect, and connect without judgment and entirely at their own pace.

My Goal for These Sessions

My hope is that you leave each session feeling a little lighter, less weighed down by what you’ve been carrying, and more connected to your own strength.

In this space, you are invited to release what has been held, explore your story, and reconnect with your voice.

These sessions are not about forcing healing, but about creating space for it — remembering that what happened was not your fault, and allowing your experiences to transform, over time, into resilience, insight, and creative expression.

What to Expect

Small, intimate groups

Sessions are intentionally kept small to support care, privacy, and a sense of safety.

A supported space

Group sessions are held with the presence of a qualified therapist to ensure that participants are supported should difficult emotions arise during the session.

Your pace, your choice

Cameras and microphones are always optional. You may listen quietly, write privately, or share only if and when you feel ready.

Grounding and mindfulness

Sessions may include gentle grounding practices, such as meditation or sound, to support emotional regulation and presence.

Creative freedom

You are encouraged to write for yourself first. Sharing is always optional.

Optional publication

Participants may be invited to submit their writing for potential inclusion in a future collective publication under their own name, a pen name, or anonymously.

One-to-One Sessions

Some survivors may prefer a more private space.

One-to-one sessions are held directly with Layla and do not include a therapist. These sessions offer a quieter, more personal environment for those who feel more comfortable working individually.

A limited number of one-to-one sessions may open at select times. Details will be shared when available.

Session Availability

Survivors Write sessions are held at select times throughout the year.

Group sessions are offered once or twice annually, allowing space for reflection, emotional processing, and personal writing, and ensuring that each gathering is held with full care, presence, and appropriate support.

Spaces are limited, and sessions will be announced when they open.

Practical Details

Group size: intentionally small (usually no more than 8 participants)

Language: English

Age: 18+

Cost: Some sessions are free, while others may be donation-based or paid to support the continuation of the space

Please Note

These sessions are creative and supportive writing spaces and are not a substitute for therapy.

While a therapist is present during group sessions, this space is not a replacement for ongoing therapeutic support.

Due to the nature of the topic, strong emotions may arise. Please join only if you feel ready, and take breaks whenever you need to.

Together we write — not to erase the past, but to reclaim our voices and our power.