Childhood Sexual Abuse counselingChild sexual abuse is a form of child abuse that involves sexual activity with a minor and can leave long-lasting emotional wounds for many years. A perpetrator can be a stranger, a family friend or acquaintance, an upstanding member of the community, or a family member. Child sexual abuse does not discriminate between race or socioeconomic class. A child is unable to give consent and never at fault!
Many survivors experience shame-based beliefs and blame themselves. Some have never told anyone what happened to them, keeping the secret for years. Often survivors experience complex post-traumatic stress symptoms like flashbacks, intrusive images and emotions, and hypervigilance. Some survivors develop addictions or get into unhealthy relationships. It becomes essential to have a safe space with a trusted counselor to work through previous childhood abuse. Learning grounding techniques and challenging self-blame are important in the healing process. Survivors can heal and develop healthy self-worth and relationships. |
"out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars."
-Khalil Gibran, AUTHOR
helpful links for family violence
- www.giftfromwithin.org/html/partners.html - Article for the friends and family members of people with PTSD. Includes an explanation of symptoms and what you can do to help. (Gift from Within)
- Childhelp® National Child Abuse Hotline - 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) to report suspected abuse.
- The Florida Domestic Violence Hotline www.fcadv.org/florida-domestic-violence-hotline-1-800-500-1119
Appointment Request
|
|
Resources
We provide great information and resources to help meet your needs.
What To ExpectGreat for first time patients and parents.
|
Printable FormsSave time by filling out forms in advance
|
Common Questions
Answers to question or concerns you may have.
|