Sexual Abuse and Domestic Violence Counseling
Am I A Victim of Sexual Abuse Or Domestic Violence?
There is no one “sign” or symptom of being a victim of domestic violence or sexual assault. Every individual who has gone through these traumatic experiences will process them differently. For many, the action of moving past their trauma and healing from their experiences can leave them feeling more fearful than before they confronted it. That is because sexual abuse and domestic violence are unique experiences that alter a victim’s brain to produce more emotions of fear, anxiety, and depression when faced with an altercation. They turn to rely heavily on their fight or flight instinct to help them survive everyday life, even when the immediate threat is no longer present. If you have suffered at the hands of someone you loved, and are now facing the consequences of their actions it is important to know that you are not alone. Abusers thrive on the idea of you being isolated from friends, family, and even themselves.
Below are some ways to identify if you have/currently are experiencing sexual abuse or domestic violence:
● Cannot reach out to support systems due to being cut off by the abuser
● Difficulty taking care of your emotional, mental, and physical needs
● Experiencing physical, emotional, or mental abuse from a loved one
● Reluctant to leave a situation due to the abuser imposing consequences
● Lack of control over major details of your life such as money, housing, personal needs
● Forced to engage in physical intercourse even after repeatedly saying “no”
● Forced to perform sexual favors for someone after initially refusing
● Being guilted by your abuser into staying, complying, and keeping silent
How Can Therapy Help Me?
For those who are suffering at the hands of someone they believed loved them, therapy may be the solution to helping you overcome the trauma they inflicted on you. If you are in an active abusive situation, please reach out to a therapist, crisis hotline servicer, or the local authorities to find a solution. In this scenario, a therapist can help you report your abuse, document the experience, and offer guidance through the difficult healing process. If you have moved past your abusive situation, but cannot find the right healing method, a therapist may be the best solution for you. Not only will their counsel be a great tool to lean on when experiencing PTSD, but their comfort in understanding and believing your story could act as a necessary proponent to moving forward. Our practice is here to help you better acknowledge the pain and trauma that was imposed on you so that when you are faced with potentially triggering situations or people, you can compose your emotions and thoughts accordingly.
Sessions To Help You Heal
If you or a loved one is facing a potentially dangerous sexual abuse or domestic violence situation, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We can provide you with the necessary tools to help those in need.