Rachel Corcoran has been working as the child and adolescent sexual assault counsellor for Wagga Family Support Services, which was previously known as Linden Place, for 14 months.

In her role, she works with children up to the age of 18 who have been sexually abused.

While the issue can often be overlooked as it makes people uncomfortable, Ms Corcoran said there is a considerable demand for the service in Wagga.

"I think people like to believe that this does not happen," she said.

"There is good and bad in the world and unfortunately, this is the dark side of it.

"I think more awareness does need to be raised because people often think 'we're the only ones', but unfortunately it is common."

Ms Corcoran finished her Bachelor of Social Work in 2018 and completed a placement with the Department of Prosecutions which helps vulnerable victims of crime through the court service.

Her passion for helping children was sparked, and she would also end up completing a placement at Linen Place.

When a job came up last year, Ms Corcoran decided to apply.

"There is a bit of a misconception with child and adolescent sexual assault counselling," she said.

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"When I am in a session, we don't talk about the assault at all because it is counter-productive and it really does not help.

"What we more talk about is coping strategies. It can still be challenging because a lot of these children do have really horrible backgrounds, but they are great kids which makes the job easier."

Ms Corcoran said there needs to be more training and discussions around protective behaviours for children.

"The main thing is that you believe them and don't question them," she said.

"There is a lot of disbelief when a child discloses, especially if they are disclosing about a loved family member or a close family friend.

"But it is important to consider, where does a child pick this up?"

Ms Corcoran said there is still a way to go when it comes to tackling child sexual abuse, but a lot of headway has been made.

For assistance in any matters above call Tend Riverina on 02 6921 7544 or the Child Protection Helpline 132 111. In an emergency call Triple-Zero (000).