RESOURCES for SURVIVORS of SEXUAL ABUSE & ASSAULT
It can be a daunting task to find support as a survivor of sexual abuse.
Though there are rape crisis centers in almost every major city in the USA and Canada and therapists who have experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, it is wise to consider how to find the kind of treatment that works best for you.
FINDING A THERAPIST
It is essential that you find a clinician who has experience working with the issues of sexual abuse.
Psychotherapy with survivors of sexual trauma is both an art and a skill that creates empowerment and connection—not dependency. It is their task to facilitate you being a strong survivor, not a fragile victim, and do this with support and skill.
Recovery work with a therapist is a relationship based on earned trust, impeccable boundaries, and mutual respect. A psychotherapist must be both genuine and emotionally present. In the case of recovery from sexual violation, this could not be more essential. They must understand how to be engaged without letting their own feelings intrude on yours or for their own agenda to supersede your own. You need the safety to be vulnerable and in the truth. Previously, that might not have been possible. So, you and the therapist may not always agree. In fact, if you have a good relationship, it will be important that you are free enough to disagree, or question, or simply say “no.”
GENERAL RESOURCES FOR WOMEN SURVIVORS
These are but a few of the many web resources available to you as survivors.
Also look in your geographical area for local resources- support groups, networks of survivors, community services. But use your instinct and be discerning about who you contact. Not all websites or resources are equally helpful. Find the ones that are most appropriate for you.
In the meantime, we've gathered a list of some of the best international resources available to you. If you know of an organization that should be part of this list, contact us.
From Red Women's Workshop
RESOURCES FOR LGBTQAI SURVIVORS
Resources and groups especially versed and trained in the singular experiences of being trans men and women survivors and for the wider Queer community.
RESOURCES FOR WOMEN SURVIVORS OF COLOR
This is a growing catalog of resources specifically for women of color.
RESOURCES FOR SURVIVORS OF MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA
Unfortunately a large number of members of the military suffer from assault and trauma during their service. Fortunately there is more visibility and resources than ever for those who do.
Photo by F Dillon
RESOURCES FOR RELIGIOUS ABUSE SURVIVORS
An expanding list of resources for survivors of religious abuse of all faiths.
RESOURCES FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Compiled is a partial list of National resources, many with immediate hotlines to call, for survivors of Domestic Violence.
RESOURCES FOR MALE SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE
Taking Back Ourselves partners and supports resources for male survivors of sexual abuse.
RESOURCES FOR DISABLED SURVIVORS
Please help us expand this list…
RESOURCES FOR SURVIVORS WHO ARE OR WERE ATHLETES
Like religious institutions, the military and other places of power and pressure, this is a growing area of awareness of rampant abuse.
RESOURCES FOR THOSE WHO STRUGGLE WITH ADDICTION
Often addiction and trauma go hand in hand, and sometimes, you need the resources first to treat the addiction. You are not alone.