AboutKim Expertise I am a survivor. I know what it’s like to be the victim. I am now a Sexual Assault Victim’s Care Advocate. I have been certified as such since November 2000. I am currently a student who is specializing in trauma and abuse and the associated disorders and illnesses.
Experience I am a survivor. So, I not only have book smarts but, personal experience with what rape is and how much it affects the victim and his or her loved ones.
Education/Credentials I am working on my Master's in Psychology specializing in trauma and abuse. I am in addition working on two associate degrees in Social Work and Women and Gender studies.
Question I am a woman in my 5O'S and am a survivor of incest and rape more than once. I tried therapy yrs. ago that was not so good an experience. I have become feeling-less for the most part where men are concerned. I have not been in a relationship in yrs, and when I was they were most always mentally and physically abusive. Do you think that at this stage of my life it will be helpful in anyway? I no longer drink nor do drugs. But still lost after all these yrs.
Answer Deborah,
It’s not uncommon for people to not get much from therapy at first, but, please consider trying again, and maybe focusing on someone that specializes in trauma and abuse. You can find someone in your area through RAINN (Rape Abuse and Incest National Network) www.rainn.org or by calling 1-800-656-HOPE IF you use the website go to “get help” then go to “find a local counseling center” put in your zip code or state and the site will find help in your area.
It’s important to focus on getting help that is specialized so that you can work through your feelings, to work on what it means that you can’t trust men and that you’ve become unfeeling. It’s important to work with someone on ways to learn to trust, respect yourself so that you can do that with someone else. Also they can give you the tools that can help you recognize people that are safe and healthy relationships.
But you’ll need to start with you. Start working on how to love, and respect yourself first.
This will help you establish healthy relationships with others and this will lead to happy healthier you. The very best of luck~ it’s never too late to get help, and to start loving and finding YOU.
