Walking through the door to receive therapy demonstrates strength and resiliency. As the therapy relationship develops, trust increasingly emerges. Together, we can explore the meanings tied to your trauma and process how it affects your ability to function in the world and how you see yourself.

In therapy, we will focus on your relationship with yourself and others, managing your emotions, and exploring the meanings tied to your trauma. You will begin to learn what an abusive relationship looks like, and how to set and maintain healthy boundaries. Because abuse is often characterized by a lack of boundaries, in the beginning we will establish boundaries so that you can begin to feel safe.

It’s very common for people with a history of childhood sexual abuse to engage in unhealthy behavior, such as substance abuse, eating disorders, and other self-injurious patterns. In therapy, you will learn how these behaviors serve as protective strategies and how you can manage and overcome them moving forward. We can also explore the meanings attached to your experience, such as your identity—how you see yourself and how you believe others see you.

This work is multi-layered and complex. People who were victimized as children are often also victimized as adults. Core Psychotherapy Center has experienced and knowledgeable therapists who work with survivors of sexual and physical abuse, neglect, sexual assault, domestic violence, sex trafficking, and torture. Over time with collaborative work, you can begin to trust and heal.