“I have suffered through many therapists that know squat about PTSD. All my “ah ha” moments have come from reading articles like yours and the few good books that are out there. I wish someone would write an article just for family members and friends that helps them to understand PTSD, and directly addresses their […]
Continue ReadingJust as a survivor has specific needs in recovery, so does the partner. Following is a list we will be compiling as you, the partners, send in more information. The link is located below. I hope this will help you in your journey with your loved one. Partners of survivors need: Support: Partners feel alone. […]
Continue ReadingI’ve received a number of letters from spouses and partners of survivors, and it seems there still isn’t a whole lot of support out there.It seems you, the partners are left feeling alone, helpless, powerless, and often afraid of what is ahead, and are unable to find the support and help you need. I am […]
Continue ReadingWe are all unique individuals. No two people’s stories, reactions, pain, or recovery will be exactly the same. However, there are many things we do share in the recovery process. Get to know the survivor in your life and allow them to guide you as they walk through this painful, yet very rewarding and life-changing […]
Continue ReadingMy work as a professional therapist brings me into contact with many survivors of sexual abuse. Usually, these men and women present me with some other problem which is disturbing their relationships or their health. Mary (not her real name) is a good example. To the casual observer she looks confident, capable, serene, happy about […]
Continue ReadingI really didn’t understand what you meant when you asked what I do when my laboring patient stops and cries. I know I let her cry. I offer my support, sometimes in the form of my hand on hers. Sometimes I give her a tissue. Sometimes I pray for strength for her. At times I […]
Continue ReadingThere’s an elephant in the room. It is large and squatting, so it is hard to get around it. Yet we squeeze by with “How are you?” and “I’m fine” and And a thousand other forms of trivial chatter. We talk about the weather. We talk about work. We talk about everything else–except the elephant […]
Continue ReadingI became a sex therapist in the mid-1970s because I was impressed with how well standard sex therapy techniques were able to help people overcome embarrassing problems such as difficulty having an orgasm, painful intercourse, premature ejaculation, and impotence. The use of sex education, self-awareness exercises, and a series of behavioral techniques could cure many […]
Continue ReadingDo You Have an Anger Problem? The following are questions designed to help identify potential problems you may have with anger and/or control. This is not a researched scale, but it can point to serious signs of danger in intimate relationships. Do friends and family feel free to share their thoughts and feelings with you? […]
Continue ReadingThe following provides some basic principles for beginning the process of sexual healing from the aftermath of sexual abuse. Work toward establishment of the essential conditions for ensuring an atmosphere in which sexual recovery can occur (these are essential for any healthy, sexual relationship): Mutual consent Equality of personal power in relationship Mutual respect Mutual […]
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