Sexual Trauma

Victims of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Victimization studies suggest that anywhere from 12-28% of all women and 3-16% of men are subjected to some form of sexual abuse in their childhood (When The Victim Is A Child, National Institute of Justice Office of Justice Programs, 1992).  Most perpetrators of sexual abuse are family members or trusted friends of the family.

Perpetrators of sexual abuse can be both male and female, mothers and fathers, aunts or uncles.  Sexual abuse causes children to develop a range of significant problems including difficulty with body image, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and suicidal thinking or attempts.  They can have difficulty with relationships and sexuality including being sexually phobic or overly seductive and advanced in their behavior for their age.  They also may excessively daydream and appear not to be “present”.

Individuals needing sexual abuse recovery will find help in our specialized individual therapy and/or trauma recovery groups.  Sexual abuse recovery requires a sensitive and supportive approach.  Our approach to sexual abuse recovery offers clients a chance to heal from the painful effects of sexual abuse and lead more fulfilling lives.

Rape

According to the U.S. Dept. of Justice, 1 out of 6 U.S. women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime, over 17 million women.  Most of these rapes are never reported and the victim just tries to “go on with their life”.  Unfortunately, the effects of rape can be debilitating and chronic.  Rape victims are 3 times more likely to suffer from depression, 6 times more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, 13 times more likely to abuse alcohol, 26 times more likely to abuse drugs, and 4 times more likely to think about suicide.  However, with treatment and supportive therapy, victims of rape can heal and lead more productive and fulfilling lives.  Our specialized therapy and/or trauma recovery groups help victims heal in a supportive, safe environment.