Sexual Trauma Therapy at Rhode Island Sex Therapy

For those who’ve experienced sexual trauma, a fulfilling sex life and intimacy with partners may seem impossible to achieve. These aspects of romantic relationships can be triggering for men and women who have experienced sexual trauma, but there are ways to heal and reclaim sex and intimacy on your terms. For many, that means working with a sexual trauma therapist.

If you’re interested in learning more, Rhode Island Sex Therapy can help. Led by Dr. Michael Stokes, our practice offers Licensed Mental Health Counselors and AASECT Certified Sex Therapists, so you can get the support and guidance you need to heal, set boundaries, feel safer in your sexual relationships, and experience greater intimacy.

We provide a safe space for you to share your experiences without fear of judgment or blame. This supportive environment is essential for building trust and ensuring you feel heard and validated, so you can ultimately get on the road toward healing.

What Is Sexual Trauma?

Most people think of sexual trauma as being associated with rape and molestation. These are certainly traumatic sexual experiences. However, individuals may have symptoms of sexual trauma if they witness sexual violence, are sexually harassed, or are subjected to viewing pornography or listening to sexual discussions against their will.

The root of sexual trauma, like all forms of trauma, is a loss of safety and control in an experience. Trauma to the mind, like the body, leaves a wound. Without healing this psychological wound, side effects will occur, including difficulty engaging in sex, lack of interest in sex, and loss of sexual enjoyment.

There are other side effects of this condition as well, including:

• Changes in hygiene
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Eating more or less than usual
• Experiencing mood swings
• Anxiety and depression
• Trust issues
• Feelings of shame or guilt
• Engaging in unhealthy coping mechanisms like drug and alcohol usage

FAQ About Sexual Trauma Therapy at Rhode Island Sex Therapy

Without therapy, sexual trauma can have a lasting impact and leave lifelong scars. At Rhode Island Sex Therapy, we offer professional sexual trauma therapy to avoid this and help you heal. Some common questions we often get include:

I’ve Been to Sexual Trauma Therapy in the Past. Will it Actually Help This Time?

Like physical injuries, the wounds of sexual trauma will heal differently for each person. Some people can quickly heal and move forward. Others can struggle for years and even develop symptoms of a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis.

How Does Sexual Trauma Therapy Work?

Therapy is an essential support resource in healing from sexual trauma. During sex therapy sessions, you will get help and support addressing the experiences that are impacting daily life. This always occurs in a safe and confidential environment where you can explore and express your feelings without fear of judgment.

There are many approaches to therapy that can be beneficial in processing traumatic memories, images, and the ongoing effects they have on the mind and body. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and trauma-focused therapy. Your therapist will work with you to develop a personalized sexual trauma therapy plan around your needs and experiences.

Effective sexual trauma therapy also includes building a strong therapeutic alliance, which is crucial for fostering trust and ensuring you feel understood throughout your healing journey. Once this occurs, the goal is to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression, and empower you to reclaim your sense of self-worth and control over your life.

What Types of Sexual Trauma Therapy Do You Offer?

At Rhode Island Sex Therapy, we work with clients to find the right approach to ensure they heal and reclaim their lives in a way they are most comfortable with. In addition to individual therapy sessions, it may be beneficial to schedule sessions with your sexual partner to help them understand your experience. During these relationship counseling sessions, you and your spouse or partner can set goals together, and so they can better understand your needs and boundaries.

What Are the Benefits of Sexual Trauma Therapy?

Sexual trauma therapy at Rhode Island Sex Therapy offers numerous benefits that can significantly improve your quality of life. These include:

Relief From PTSD

One of the primary advantages is the reduction of symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety. Through various therapeutic techniques, you can learn to manage and eventually diminish these symptoms, leading to a more stable and peaceful daily life.

Emotional Well-Being

Another benefit is the improvement in emotional regulation. If you experience intense emotions like anger, guilt, shame, and sadness, sexual trauma therapy can help you understand and process these emotions in a healthy way, reducing their intensity and frequency. This emotional balance contributes to better mental health and overall well-being.

Improved Sense of Self Worth

Therapy also fosters a sense of empowerment and self-worth. If you struggle with feelings of powerlessness and low self-esteem due to sexual trauma, a therapist can work with you as you process your experience, so you regain a sense of control over your life and rebuild self-confidence.

Coping Skills and a More Fulfilling Life

Sexual trauma therapy will also equip you with practical coping strategies and tools to handle triggers and stressors that may arise in the future. These skills are invaluable for maintaining long-term mental health and resilience, helping you to lead a fulfilling life despite your past trauma.

How Do I Get Started With Sexual Trauma Therapy?

Healing from sexual trauma is difficult enough. Scheduling a therapy session shouldn’t have to be another challenge. That’s why you can schedule an appointment with a sexual trauma therapist at Rhode Island Sex Therapy. Call (401) 236-5021, email DrMichaelStokes@gmail.com, or use our contact form to get started.