Sexual Abuse

Sexual Abuse Treatment

By Psychotherapist Brenda H Thompson LPC
I am a psychotherapist with a private practice located in Arvada, CO. I have an MA degree in Counseling and Education from the University of Northern Iowa. During my 20+ year career I have held a number of titles: educator, school counselor, mental health consultant, counseling services director, as well as psychotherapist and licensed professional counselor.

One of the more rewarding learning experiences I've had involves my work as psychotherapist at a rape crisis center where I provided individual and group therapy for victims of sexual assault and childhood incest. During this period, I attended numerous trainings at the Midwest Conference onChildhood Sexual Abuse, in Madison, WI. I was privileged to train with many renowned experts in the field of childhood incest and sexual abuse. Currently in my private practice I see individual clients and couples, addressing a wide spectrum of mental health concerns, and I continue to treat survivors of sexual abuse, domestic violence and incest as well.

The impact of childhood incest on a person's life has very many far-reaching possible negative effects of varying degrees and intensity, some of which are the following: low self-esteem, inability to trust others, personal boundary issues, underlying depression or anxiety, alcohol /drug abuse, sexual dysfunction, PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) including symptoms of hyper-vigilance, nightmares or flashbacks, and emotional numbing.

In more severe cases there is also the likelihood ofdissociation, identity confusion and or a full blown manifestation of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), previously known as multiple personality disorder. Each individual is impacted differently, depending on personal circumstances, including intensity, length of time and the age they were victimized.

Please consider getting professional therapy and guidance from a well-trained, experienced psychotherapist or psychologist who is familiar with trauma and its aftermath. These issues are complex and people are commonly misdiagnosed. In addition if you are able and choose to do so, tell your story to a trusted friend or companion, as it is detrimental to keep these secrets locked inside. Always know that the sexual abuse is not your fault and it is your decision alone as to whom you wish to share the details of your story. Remember to be gentle with yourself and respect your need to take the time necessary for healing and recovery.

There are a number of well-trained psychotherapists or psychologists who provide services (myself included). When calling for an appointment, speak to them regarding their experience in dealing with trauma issues. I would suggest seeing a Masters degree level therapist or P.H.D. Seek out an M.D. or psychiatrist if there is a concern regarding the need for medication for depression or anxiety. A combination of a therapeutic intervention and medication is often very beneficial.

Get the professional help you need. Believe in yourself, identify your strengths, and acknowledge your inherent goodness and birthright to a healthy and happy life ahead of you.