Shepherd's Therapy: Symptoms

Located in Seattle on North Capitol Hill. (206) 323-7131

Providing for the needs of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse through affordable therapy, education and advocacy

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Symptoms

Common symptoms often traced to the lingering effects of children sexual abuse:

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Emotional reactions
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Shame
- Guilt
- Self-blame
- Feelings of worthlessness and helplessness
- Chronic or uncontrollable anger and rage
- Difficulties with concentration
- Withdrawal and isolation
Self perception
- Bound by shame and self-blame – "It was my fault"
- Contaminated – "There's something wrong with me"
- Despair and hopelessness
- Lack of personal efficacy
Physical effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Respiratory distress
- Gynecological problems
- Immunological disturbances
- Chronic pain including migraine headaches
- Muscular tension
- Stress reactions
Sexual effects
- Sexual acting out in adolescence and early adulthood
- Questions of sexual orientation and preference
- Difficulties with sexual arousal, response and satisfaction
- Distancing or "numbing out" during sex
Social effects
- Isolation or anti-social behavior
- Risk-taking behaviors
- Over-functioning and compulsive social interaction
- Cycles of depression, anxiety, and anger
- Creating barriers to development of healthy and satisfying interactions
Relationships with others
- Pervasive mistrust of others
- Experiencing intimacy as entrapping, threatening or not satisfying
- Continuing conflicted relationships and roles with parents and siblings
- Lack of trust of own parenting skills
- High need for control in relationships

If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, find out more about the benefits of therapy and our process. Shepherd's has created a safe, supportive atmosphere where these issues can be safely explored with professional and experienced therapists. Please contact us if you have questions.