Sexual Violence

Sexual violence impacts us all whether directly or indirectly, on a personal level or societal level, we are all affected. Sexual violence is an umbrella term used to describe experiences such as sexual assault, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, and sexual harassment. This type of violence is rooted in power and control. They stem from attitudes and beliefs used to belittle and dehumanize those who hold less power such as historically excluded populations (e.g., BIPOC, queer folks, immigrants, etc.).

Common impacts of folks who have experienced sexual violence can include flashbacks, sleep difficulties, decreased sense of self or self-esteem, dissociation, anxiety, suicidal ideation, physical health issues (e.g., gastrointestinal problems), sudden mood changes, or hypervigilance. Everyone’s experience with sexual violence and the impacts thereafter are unique and incredibly valid. 

Folks who have been impacted by sexual violence can begin to heal, feel in control, and even empowered through therapeutic approaches that consider all aspects of sexual violence, including why sexual violence continues to harm so many. This can be accomplished in a variety of different ways such as using body-centered, emotion-focused, or mindfulness-based approaches. For healing to begin it is important for folks to be heard, believed, know that what they are feeling is okay and that they are not alone. It is a privilege and honour to share a space in which someone feels safe and comfortable enough to disclose any degree of sexual violence. It takes strength and the utmost amount of courage to do so and that deserves to be acknowledged.

Sexual Violence Therapists