Not all healing needs to be done with therapists.
Although therapy is beneficial, some people find support in other places. Here are a few resources that may be helpful.
New Terms
- Minority Stress Theory is a theory that explores how minoritized individuals bear added stress that builds up over time and can have implications for mental and physical health. Minority Stress Realities During COVID-19 (YouTube video)
- Complex PTSD, here the VA provides an excellent overview of the diagnosis. This diagnosis is not currently in the DSM-5TR. The complexity of the clinical presentation has made researching the condition difficult, but overall, it is generally an accepted clinical diagnosis by mental health clinicians. (PTSD: National Center for PTSD).
Organizations
- Adult Survivors of Child Abuse (ASCA) is a support group co-led by group members, not a psychotherapy group. The supplemental materials are very readable. They were developed by a therapist.
- Sexual Abuse Support- There are also resources and support groups for people who have experienced sexual trauma. This website may be helpful.
Books
- Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence – From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror by Judith Herman, MD
- What My Bones Know: A Memoir of Healing from Complex Trauma by Stephanie Foo
So if you do go to therapy…
During therapy, it is crucial for individuals who have experienced trauma in the past to focus on specific goals. These goals should be targeted and measurable.
- build a strong relationship of trust with your therapist
- improve sleep quality
- grounding skills
- increase emotional vocabulary
- learn to regulate emotions
Once you have progressed in these areas, you can explore more sensitive topics at your own pace. You should feel comfortable discussing the treatment process with your therapist anytime.