"Who Can Help Me Heal?"

Get Professional Counseling 

Seeking professional counseling is a proactive and empowering response after enduring abuse, and surviving clergy sexual misconduct is no exception. You deserve to lead a fulfilling life and heal in a way that suits you. By taking the initiative to connect with a professional who can assist you in navigating the healing process, you are actively reclaiming control over your life and sending yourself the powerful message that you have the strength to not only survive but thrive after experiencing abuse.

Understand that healing is a gradual process, and it's important to be patient and compassionate with yourself throughout. Many survivors encounter post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which may manifest in various ways such as bad dreams and unwanted memories. Discussing your past experiences with your counselor might temporarily intensify these symptoms. Nevertheless, it is crucial to remain committed to counseling as you actively steer your own path to healing. Your counselor can offer the necessary guidance and support.

When selecting a counselor, empower yourself by choosing a trauma-informed professional who recognizes clergy sexual misconduct as abuse. Opt for a counselor outside of the church where the abuse occurred, ensuring that you are comfortable and in control of your therapeutic environment.

Consider exploring e-counseling platforms like BetterHelp, which offers an affordable and easily accessible professional counseling service. This option provides access to licensed professionals anytime, anywhere, giving you the control to connect with the right counselor that suits your needs.

Participating in a peer-support community for survivors of abuse can also be highly beneficial. Restored Voices Collective, specifically designed for survivors of adult clergy sexual abuse, offers a supportive community.

Always remember, you have the right to lead a joyful life and thrive. Professional counseling is a tool that empowers you on this journey.

If you are a counselor, you can enhance your understanding of counseling victims of clergy sexual misconduct by exploring scholarly articles about CSM.