Breaking the Silence: Living Through and Beyond Sexual Abuse

In this episode, Patti shares her experience of childhood sexual abuse, what healing has looked like over the decades, and why it’s so important that we talk about the things that were buried under shame, silence, or secrecy for way too long.We’re not getting into graphic details—but we are talking honestly about the emotional toll and long-term impact of being hurt by someone who was supposed to protect you.Here’s what we dive into:How trauma shows up in your adult body, even when your mind doesn’t “remember”The difference between being a victim and choosing healingThe complications of caretaking for the very people who failed to protect youHow to recognize signs of abuse in children—and why it’s never too late to speak outWhat experiential therapies, boundaries, and nervous system work can do for your healingThis one is vulnerable, raw, and real—but it’s also filled with hope.If this topic is hard for you, please take care of yourself first. Hit pause if you need to. And know you're not alone.Resources mentioned:Gifts from a Challenging Childhood by Jan BergstromRunning on Empty by Jonice WebbThe Courage to Heal by Ellen Bass and Laura DavisExperiential therapy modalities: ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), Gestalt, Inner Child WorkWe see you. We’ve got you.Find resources mentioned in this episode here.Learn more about this podcast here.Submit your 90-second lesson/experience here.Apply to be a guest here.Stay updated on new episodes here.*Information shared on this podcast is not medical advice. If you have a concern about your physical or mental health, please seek support from a proessional.