Any misconceptions that a counselor can clarify will take that burden off the victim. Sexual assault removes a person's control over her body and personal physical safety. Parents and partners often fall into the pattern of wanting to take control of the situation, hoping that they will alleviate the victim's pain by taking charge. Communicate the importance of being supportive versus demanding or overbearing, and of the victim's need to make decisions about the process herself. The victim must decide her views on privacy, confidentiality, and when, with whom and what amount of information she wants to share with others.
Overprotection is a similar reaction.
The desire to protect the victim from further pain and danger is very common. Again, the most productive way to deal with a victim is to listen to her concerns and feelings and respect her right to make decisions about safety, etc. Treating her as an adult instead of as a child will reinforce the trust the person has in the victim. Behavior changes such as insomnia, panic attacks, phobias, depression, and so forth, are normal reactions. Encouraging secondary victims to use hotlines, counseling and other available alternatives to help with the healing process, whenever they need to, does a great service to everyone involved.