YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY ONE

CHILDREN:

It is estimated that 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused by age 18. Of the over 3 million children reported to authorities for child abuse and neglect each year, an estimated 400,000 of them are reported for sexual abuse.

WOMEN:

1 out of 3 American women will be sexually assaulted in her lifetime. It is estimated that there are 78 rapes per hour, 1872 rapes per day, and 683,280 rapes per year. These statistics do not include the incidents of sexual harassment, which may include unwanted comments and behaviors that are sexual in nature and create a hostile living, educational, or work environment.

UNREPORTED OFFENSES

Due to shame, fear, humiliation, disbelief, and confusion, rape is often unreported. Only 4% of the college women who have experienced rape are known to report their attack. It is estimated that no more than 50% of all raped women ever reported it. It is unknown how many men have experienced sexual assaults as the stigma associated with being a victim is likely a strong deterrent to reporting their abuse. Regarding children, it is estimated that less than 50% of the girls and 20% of the boys ever report their sexual abuse.

Children’s fear, shame, and ignorance prevents reporting.

• Told it is a secret or threatened not to tell.
• Concern about what will happen to me and/or my home if someone finds out.
• How can I tell you what I don’t understand?
• I like the special attention, and I’m told it’s ok.

Boys have additional reasons for not reporting:

• Homophobia: do not want to be viewed as gay (if the perpetrator was male).
• Loss of independence: cannot go play or go to places without adult supervision.
• Sex is always supposed to be “good” for males.
• Unwanted perception of weakness or being a victim.

The following chronic or acute behavioral and emotional problems may result from sexual abuse and rape:

• Unexpected and unwanted recurrent distressful recollections or flashbacks of trauma.
• Sleep disturbance and/or having nightmares.
• Distressed when exposed to things or situations which causes you to remember the trauma spontaneously.
• Avoiding anything which represents the abuse.
• Unable to recall details of the abusive event.
• Irritability, anger outbursts, or easily startled.
• Concentration or attention difficulties.
• Emotionally withdrawn or numb.
• Negative and apprehensive view of future.
• Anxiously preoccupied with surveying environment for potential danger.
• Disinterest in or preoccupation with sex.
• Impulsive and dangerous risk taking behaviors including substance abuse and suicide attempts.
• Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
• Difficulty trusting others and avoiding close relationships.

Possible physical indications of molestation:

• Bruises or irritation in or around genital or anal areas.
• Vaginal or anal bleeding.
• Urinary and/or anal infections as well as toileting difficulties.
• Sexually transmitted diseases.

Sexual Abuse/Rape Treatment

An immediate physician’s examination is strongly recommended to obtain treatment for any physical trauma or contracted sexually transmitted diseases, as well as for obtaining important evidence if the victim chooses to take legal action against the perpetrator(s). However, there may not always be physical evidence of child sexual abuse. Individual and/or group therapy can provide a safe environment to express thoughts and feelings to facilitate a renewed sense of worth, value, and competence. In addition, depression and anxiety will be assessed and treated. Substance abuse and self-defeating behaviors will also be addressed to support a sober and well managed life style.

Professional psychological and counseling services from a Christian perspective

I appreciate your confidence in my professionalism to provide you with quality services including:

• Individual Therapy
• Marriage Counseling
• Family Therapy
• Group Therapy
• Stress Management
• Consultations
• Evaluations
• Speaking Engagements
• Seminars

CONFIDENTIALITY

Your right to privacy and competent treatment are priorities. Your safety is also of utmost importance. Suicidal thinking will be assessed and treated to maintain a client’s personal safety. Regarding minors, licensed therapists, as well as physicians, are required by law to report all suspected cases of child abuse and neglect to the proper authorities to promote children’s safety and welfare. The child abuse reporting telephone number is 1 (800) 252 - 5400.