Healing Through Therapy: Overcoming Sexual Abuse Trauma in San Francisco

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Being raped or sexually assaulted is one of the worst things that can happen to someone who is trying to build a healthy relationship with their sexuality and with other partners.  Sexuality can be one of the most empowering, joyful connecting experiences, and on the opposite spectrum, when sex is used to control someone, as a form of violence, or as a punishment,  the emotional damage can be devastating.

Survivors of sexual abuse often experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, helplessness, rage, self blame, shame, regret, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Post Traumatic Stress Disorder forms when a fear response, such as freezing or fawning,  becomes trapped in the body and is triggered in the future by events that remind the person of the trauma that happened to them.  Often times with sexual abuse, these triggers can happen within romantic relationship and during sex,  making it scary to enjoy intimacy. Being raped is a huge betrayal and causes paranoia around letting people in. Many survivors become very protective after their assault to prevent a repeat of this trauma from happening. These feelings can be overwhelming and isolating. Engaging in therapy provides a safe space where individuals can explore their experiences, express their emotions, and begin the healing process. The process of trusting a therapist with this vulnerable wound helps with trusting and letting other people in around what has happened to you.

The Role of Somatic and Trauma-Informed Therapy with Sexual Abuse

Trauma-informed therapy and somatic therapies are essential for those recovering from sexual trauma. In San Francisco, therapists specialize in these approaches, recognizing the unique needs of survivors. They create an environment of safety and trust, allowing individuals to share their stories without fear of judgment. This supportive atmosphere is vital for effective healing. As a therapist specializing in sexual abuse for the past 12 years,  I’ve learned how important consent is in the therapy process and in exploring these wounds.  Being a trauma-informed therapist has taught me how to help people track their level of triggers in our therapy. Following the triggers closely and staying in the window of tolerance helps people who have PTSD stay safe while working through their most terrifying experiences. 

Benefits of Therapy for Sexual Abuse Survivors

  1. Emotional Support: Therapy offers a compassionate outlet for survivors to share their feelings. Therapists trained in sexual abuse recovery can guide individuals through their emotions, helping them feel understood and validated. Vindicating justice and rage feelings can be important in being understood and giving some of our more helpless parts a voice and protection.

  1. Coping Strategies: Therapists teach practical coping strategies to manage the emotional aftermath of abuse. These techniques can empower survivors to handle triggers and anxiety, fostering resilience and strength. Having an idea and education around what is happening inside of us and what our triggers and parts may need can be a stepping stone from us letting explaining these things to others.

  1. Rebuilding Self-Esteem: Many survivors struggle with self-worth after experiencing abuse. It takes time to feel safe and confident, and to feel empowered again. Most forms of abuse cause an internalization of low value, although the abuser’s actions are rarely personal to us, even when we are told that they were. Therapy focuses on rebuilding self-esteem, helping individuals differentiate from the actions of their abusers, recognize their value and reclaim their power within sexuality and relationships.

  1. Processing Trauma: Through various therapeutic techniques, survivors can process their trauma. This may include talk therapy, exposure therapy, movement, psychedelic therapy or mindfulness practices, all tailored to the individual's needs.

  1. Support Groups: In addition to individual therapy, many survivors benefit from support groups. These groups provide a sense of community and shared experience, allowing individuals to connect with others who understand their journey. Integrative Psychotherapy has a support group for survivors of Sexual Abuse,  which explores concepts of communication and consent, as well as healing one’s sexuality.

Finding Help in San Francisco

For those searching for sexual abuse therapy in San Francisco, there are many resources available. A range of therapists specialize in trauma-informed care and somatic therapy, ensuring that survivors receive the support they need. Whether through one-on-one counseling or group therapy sessions, individuals can find a path to healing in a compassionate environment.

Therapy is a powerful tool for those navigating the complex emotions associated with sexual abuse trauma. In San Francisco, survivors have access to a wealth of resources, including skilled therapists and support groups dedicated to facilitating healing. By seeking help, individuals can begin to reclaim their lives, transform their pain into strength, and embark on a journey toward recovery. Remember, healing is possible, and you don’t have to face this journey alone.

Check out Bianca Aarons’ Sexuality Recovery and Discovery Group, a group for sexual abuse survivors meant to empower people, take risks in letting other humans in around this topic, and to join others in a healing process.