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Sexual Trauma

Sexual Trauma

Sexual violence is defined as any sexual act that is perpetrated against someone’s will. This includes any act in which a person is coerced and manipulated into any unwanted sexual activity, including when they are unable to consent due to age, illness, disability, or the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

There are many acts included within the definition of sexual violence, which include incest, child sexual assault, ritual abuse, marital or partner rape, exposure, voyeurism, and sexual harassment in the workplace. It can affect both males and females throughout their lives without discriminating based on age, gender, religion, social class, ethnicity, or community background.

Each survivor is unique and reacts to sexual violence in a variety of ways. Some may report the incident immediately, while others feel too afraid to tell anyone. There are many complex reasons why people do not choose to disclose, and this must be treated with respect and understanding.

The effect of sexual violence can result in both acute and chronic debilitating consequences, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety which can grossly affect relationships with others. The person may become dependent on substances to numb out the effects, they may withdraw and become isolated, and sadly, some may also feel suicidal and unable to continue with life.

These effects may happen immediately after the event or may be triggered by other events many years later. This can be confusing and bewildering for the survivor, making it even harder to reach out for help.

If you or someone you know has experienced rape or any other form of sexual assault, including harassment and intimidation, you may find the links I have attached useful.

NHS Help after rape and sexual assault

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault/

Metropolitan Police. Support for Victims of Rape and Sexual Assault

https://www.met.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/

About Hayley Irving-Law

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Born and raised in Yorkshire, I bring a work style that’s honest and straightforward. You can expect warmth, acceptance, and genuine care as a fundamental part of my approach.

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If you are visiting this site, you are most likely in a difficult life situation, feeling in pain or distressed; maybe there are areas in your life that you would wish to change and develop. 

Reaching out for help can be daunting, and you may feel that your problems are insurmountable or that your worry is not big enough or worthy enough to bring to therapy – don’t worry because many people initially feel like this. We’ll just start somewhere if you don’t know where to start.

I have over 37 years of supporting clients through a range of physical and psychological difficulties. I have experience and expertise in working with clients who have experienced trauma and who also have PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). I have previously, and continue, to work extensively with adults who have experienced any kind of sexual abuse. This includes childhood sexual abuse, incest, intimate partner sexual violence, rape, drug-facilitated sexual assault, and sexual assault of men and boys.

I work holistically, considering the whole person, not just their mental health needs. This means factors contributing to how you feel, including physical illness, social issues, and spirituality. I offer a wide range of styles and techniques because I firmly believe that therapy should mould around you, the client, and not vice versa.

I will provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment where you can explore the next steps in your life and how we can undertake them together. Whatever your difficulty, I will offer you a safe and open space to work through it together.

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