Sexual abuse is unfortunately common. Yet, survivors often feel alone and isolated. Unresolved sexual abuse can affect your sense of trust, beliefs, emotions, relationships, career, sexuality, health, etc.

However, there are many ways to heal. Studies show that EMDR is an effective way to heal from sexual abuse (even without needing to talk much about the abuse). Mindfulness techniques can also help you balance your emotions and feel more grounded and connected. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you change negative, painful beliefs. There are many different ways to heal. Find what works best for you.

One of the first steps of healing is learning coping strategies and relaxation techniques that can help you feel calmer, more grounded, and more in control of your life. With good coping strategies, it is easier to tolerate difficult emotions and resolve memories of sexual abuse.

When healing from sexual abuse, it is important to feel in control. People need to know that their choices and needs will be respected. A good therapist should respect that you need to set the pace in therapy and not push you to talk about issues before you are ready.

Be gentle with yourself. Sometimes, people think that they should push themselves to heal as quickly as possible. However, going slower and practicing self-care often works better.

Healing from sexual abuse is very possible. Even though healing can be painful at times, there are many benefits to healing from sexual abuse. Resolving trauma can help people feel more trusting and connected to themselves and to others. You deserve to heal and recover and be free.

You can read more about my approaches to healing from sexual abuse/assault and healing from all trauma.

(My writings should not be taken as advice. This blog does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you are interested in therapy, I encourage you to call me or find another licensed therapist to talk with.)  LMFT Lic # LMFT40414