Introduction
A young POCSO victim sought assistance through the Sampark FIR portal of the Delhi Legal Services Authority (DLSA). Accompanied by her parents, she shared her harrowing experience of two years of abuse by a neighbor, followed by further exploitation by the abuser’s brother, involving threats and blackmail with explicit photos and videos. This forced her family to relocate to escape societal defamation, resulting in financial instability and disruption of education for the victim and her siblings.
Despite receiving court relief, the trauma and fear persisted. The victim, determined to continue her education through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), approached DLSA counseling services for guidance.

Initial Counseling
In the first session, the DLSA counselor offered a safe and empathetic space for the victim to express her challenges. The counselor assured her of continuous support through DLSA’s legal aid services and identified her family and relatives as a strong support system.

A holistic recovery plan was developed, focusing on:
Ensuring a safe living environment.
Helping her resume education.
Encouraging vocational training for self-reliance.

The counselor referred her to NGOs such as Annaya Foundation, Social Education and Liberty Foundation, NCVRT, and Nav Darpan Sanstha, which offer vocational training opportunities aligned with her interests.
Family Counseling
In the second session, the victim’s parents joined the counseling process. The DLSA counselor addressed their collective emotional struggles, guiding them on managing depression and anxiety. The counselor emphasized education as a stepping stone toward independence and stability.
The session also included practical suggestions for strengthening their financial security, such as starting small family-based ventures. This guidance helped the family regain hope and motivation to support the victim’s aspirations.

Progress Update
By the third session, significant progress was evident. The victim enrolled in a nearby sewing course, taking proactive steps toward skill development. Her family’s encouragement and her own determination highlighted her journey of recovery and empowerment.

The counselor provided career counseling and discussed long-term strategies for economic stability, completing a comprehensive approach to supporting the victim and her family.

Conclusion
Through legal aid and compassionate counseling from DLSA, the victim transformed her fear and despair into confidence and hope. She resumed her education and took steps toward skill development, envisioning a stable, independent future.

Her family’s unwavering support, coupled with DLSA’s practical guidance, empowered her to rebuild her life. This success story is a testament to the power of timely intervention, counseling, and community support in helping survivors of trauma reclaim their lives and pursue brighter futures.