How do I heal from sexual trauma?
Today we’re talking about a topic that’s near and dear to my heart, sexual trauma. This episode contains content about a topic that is understandably highly sensitive for many people. If this topic is triggering for you, it may be difficult to listen to this episode. That being said, the goal of this episode is to be a guide and a warm hug to all survivors of any form of trauma. If it’s too much for you, you can listen in chunks or skip it entirely. We don’t go into any graphic detail, but rather focus on coping strategies for healing and guidance to partners and friends or family who want to support someone they love. 🥰
Listen to full episode :
Some of the questions we address
What is trauma?
How does trauma impact the body and how does that show up during sex?
Is there a benefit to labeling sexual trauma/assault?
Why do we blame ourselves when really we are the victim?
Why do we so often freeze in response to threat?
Does the freeze response make it harder to report or prosecute sexual assault?
How do we determine who we can confide in about a sexual trauma?
What is the best way we can support a loved one who has experienced trauma?
Why do so many of us engage in risky behaviors post-trauma?
How do we choose partners that feel safe without settling for someone just because they feel safe?
How can you tell your partner about your assault?
Can or should you tell a hookup about your triggers and trauma? And if so, how?
Is therapy the only option to heal from sexual trauma?
What does it mean to be a trauma-informed practitioner?
How can BDSM/kink help us heal from trauma?
Today’s brilliant and incredible guests
Alyssa Pressman
Alyssa is a licensed clinical therapist & certified trauma-informed sex and relationship coach.
Follow Alyssa’s work: Instagram | Newsletter
Resources
Sexual trauma support:
Pleasure After Trauma Class with Rafaella Smith-Fiallo, LCSW
Reclaiming Pleasure: A Sex Positive Guide for Moving Past Sexual Trauma and Living a Passionate Life by Dr. Holly Richmond
Instagram accounts: @heal.and.chill, @thesurvivorstoolbox, @weareungirls
Find a trauma-informed therapist on Therapy Den
Self-care & mental health:
Suicide:
Text ‘HELLO’ to 741-741 for the Crisis Text Line or call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
For LGBTQIA+ youth under 25, get 24/7 crisis intervention & suicide prevention lifeline support with The Trevor Project. Text ‘START’ to 678678 or dial (866) 488-7386.
Get the support you deserve. You really, truly do deserve it. ❤️
