Mental health team - supporting our informed trauma practice

Helping to reduce the impact of trauma 

We understand that childhood sexual abuse and the impacts of trauma can change the course of your life. We recognise your courage in contacting Shine to claim compensation for sexual abuse.  

Since 2020, our highly qualified, multi-disciplinary mental health team members have worked within our Abuse Law practice to reduce the impacts of trauma caused by the legal process. Their mental health support services are free to our Abuse Law clients, on referral from their solicitor. 

Led by Karen Spitz, our mental health team assists around 350 clients every year during their childhood sexual abuse compensation claim. Karen has also been fundamental to ensuring Shine’s Abuse team is a trauma-informed practice, and treats each client with sensitivity, compassion and understanding. 

How Shine’s mental health team can help 

The sexual abuse compensation claim process can be different for each person. When referred by your solicitor, our mental health team will work with you to best support you, depending on your specific circumstances. This free and highly skilled mental health support service might include: 

• Short term mental health support during your claim 

• Helping you prepare for and recover from medical assessments or court appearances 

• Helping to find or refer you to the right services in your local community

Download guides created by our mental health team

Our mental health team has produced freely available guides to help you understand the impact of trauma and provide practical suggestions to help you manage your mental health. They are available for your immediate download via the links below:

• A conversation guide on supporting your loved one

• Medical assessments

• Supporting your mental health