The Strength of Survivors

Women, Abuse and Trauma Therapy: An Information Guide

Healing from trauma takes a lot of strength, courage and determination. With the help of a therapist and new skills, you will be able to connect with others and more fully participate in life.

One woman who is a survivor of childhood abuse, and who has worked to heal from the trauma in her life, eloquently describes her process:

I knew the anxiety would come, and come in waves. I knew to get in a quiet place, lie down, meditate and guide the fear and shaking out of my body and watch it go. I knew to visually walk the path, in my mind’s eyes, to a safe picture of calm until those painful memory pictures faded away. I knew to harness the power and channel the energy to embrace happiness for today. Hot baths, cool showers, long walks and never blaming myself are all ingredients that make up the recipe for hope in recovery from trauma from abuse.

Healing requires support from both family and friends. It will be difficult and it will take time. Often, family and friends need more information so that they can give you support. This guide can help you and your family and friends understand how therapy can be useful to you.

The effects of trauma are debilitating, even at times life-threatening. The power the symptoms of trauma have over a person seems overwhelming. But harnessing that power can become liberating. The rewards are a full life empowered by overcoming that adversity.

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