Sexual Abuse and Assault Trauma

Sexual Abuse and Assault Trauma

It’s Never the Survivor’s Fault

Someone did something they shouldn’t have. Maybe it happened when you were a kid, maybe it happened during college, or maybe it happened as an adult, but someone has mistreated you. Someone has initiated sexual behaviors without your consent, and it has changed the way you feel in the world.

Forms of sexual assault include:

  • Rape or attempted rape

  • Unwanted sexual touching

  • Forcing someone into sexual activity

There are many myths surrounding sexual assault. In response to stories, people might say things like the survivor provoked the situation, the survivor didn’t fight back, or the survivor should just let it go. While sexual assault takes many forms, it is never the survivor’s fault. You may feel responsible, guilty, or unlovable. You may feel confused, angry, or sad. While sexual assault is a widespread problem, your situation is unique, and we want to hear your story. 

Your Past Doesn’t Dictate Your Future 

At the Nashville Center for Trauma and Psychotherapy, you can tell a story from your past and start looking toward the future. Together we will talk through the trauma and plan out steps to take moving forward. 

We want to hear the story of your past so we can help equip you for the future. It’s hard to talk about trauma without feeling stuck in what happened. One of our sexual abuse specialists will help you through the tough spots, maybe places you have gotten stuck in the past. With methods like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, brainspotting, and narrative exposure therapy, we will help you heal.

Therapy looks different for everyone. We will get to know you, listen to your story, and plan the path forward. If you’re ready to start, reach out today. We are happy to join you.