Gosowes Counselling -Person centred counselling and therapy in Helston
with Clement West MBACP
Abuse is a general term, covering domestic violence and abuse,self abuse (e.g. self-harm), sexual, psychological and financial abuse amongst others. Whilst this will fall under the remit of local authorities and safeguarding services, it is widely acknowledged that abuse leaves a psychological and emotional mark on the victims, which is where talking therapies come in when the victim is ready to talk about their experiences. It might also be that whilst having counselling for another reason, the client realises that they have suffered abuse without truly noticing it or perhaps having forgotten about incidents long ago.
Much has been said and written about PTSD and now complex PTSD and in some cases this may have its origin in previous abuse.
Abuse tends to cross generations, and I often see victims behave towards themselves in an abusive manner, thus continuing the abuse. This might be even on a subtle level, such as being overly self-critical and putting themselves down. Abusers, I find, were often abused themselves.
So how do we break the cycle? We learn to establish boundaries, and values, and to listen to ourselves. We reflect on how we would like to be treated and how to treat others. We seek to change our own internal narrative and learn to view ourselves and the world differently. This is the hand life has dealt us, and it's up to us how we decide to play it.
If abuse is what is bringing you to counselling today then know that you can expect a safe confidential space to explore. If you think you would like an opportunity to talk in a non-judgemental space please do get in contact via my contact form or call 07952 203 766
Here's a link to a video I made regarding abuse