Recovery from Sexual Trauma

Rape, incest and sexual abuse all happen in the context of close human relationships. It is therefore crucial that the process of recovery also occurs in the context of a meaningful human relationship. I know that to risk trusting another human being after experiencing sexual violation can feel terrifying, nearly impossible.

It is for this reason that our work will focus first and foremost on safety, both emotional and physical. Safety and trust cannot be immediately given, but rather earned in the context of a genuine human relationship over time. We will find out together what makes you feel safe and unsafe, what you can do to increase your sense of safety in your life, and use our relationship as a place to learn more about your boundaries, needs and wants.

Many survivors, especially of childhood sexual abuse, also struggle with managing intense painful emotions. We will work together to help you feel safer in your skin and in the world, and to realistically plan for those times when you are reliving the trauma all over again, so you gradually increase your capacity to take care of yourself during those times.

Ultimately, we will strive together to reconnect and integrate the parts of you that got disconnected or lost when the sexual trauma occurred. This means that over time, we work together towards your experiencing yourself as a whole and worthy person, confident, thriving and able to love and be loved.