Adult Survivors of
Childhood Abuse and/or Neglect

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Experiences of abuse or neglect in childhood can leave lasting imprints that shape how we see ourselves and others. Even long after the events have passed, survivors may carry deep feelings of shame, fear, guilt, or emptiness. Healing is possible — but it begins with recognizing that what happened was not your fault and that your survival was an act of strength.

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In my work with survivors of childhood abuse and neglect, I provide a compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can begin to process the pain of the past and rebuild a sense of safety, trust, and self-worth.

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Understanding Childhood Abuse and Neglect

Childhood abuse and neglect can take many forms, all of which impact a child’s developing sense of safety and belonging. These experiences can occur within families, schools, or other trusted environments.

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• Physical abuse: The use of force or violence that causes harm or fear.

• Emotional or psychological abuse: Constant criticism, humiliation, intimidation, or rejection that erodes a child’s self-esteem.

• Sexual abuse: Any unwanted sexual contact or exposure imposed on a child by an adult or older person.

• Physical neglect: Failing to provide basic needs such as food, shelter, or medical care.

• Emotional neglect: Withholding affection, attention, or validation, leaving a child feeling unseen and unloved.

• Witnessing violence: Growing up in a home or community where conflict, addiction, or domestic violence is present.

• Parentification: Being forced into adult roles or responsibilities, caring for others at the expense of your own needs.

• Chronic invalidation: Having emotions dismissed or minimized, leading to confusion and self-doubt.

 

Each of these experiences can deeply affect how a person develops emotionally, physically, and relationally — often leading to patterns of self-blame, people-pleasing, avoidance, or chronic anxiety in adulthood.

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How Childhood Trauma Shows Up in Adulthood

Unhealed childhood trauma often continues to echo throughout life. Survivors may find themselves:

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• Struggling with self-worth or a sense of identity.

• Avoiding closeness for fear of rejection or betrayal.

• Becoming overly responsible for others or drawn to unhealthy relationships.

• Experiencing intrusive memories, shame, or body tension without knowing why.

• Feeling emotionally numb, disconnected, or “stuck.”

 

These are not character flaws — they are adaptive responses to environments where safety and love were not guaranteed. In therapy, we honor those survival strategies and gently work toward creating new ways of relating to yourself and others.

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Healing from Childhood Abuse and Neglect

Healing childhood trauma takes time and compassionate support. Through trauma-informed therapy, we’ll work together to:

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• Reconnect with the emotions and memories that have felt too painful to face.

• Learn grounding tools to calm the body and regulate the nervous system.

• Challenge internalized shame and rebuild a sense of worthiness.

• Create new patterns of safety, trust, and emotional connection.

 

The goal of this work is not to relive the past, but to help you reclaim your present — to move from surviving to truly living.

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Reclaiming Your Voice and Sense of Self

Recovery from childhood abuse or neglect is about more than healing wounds — it’s about reclaiming your right to feel safe, seen, and whole.

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Together, we’ll build a foundation of trust and self-compassion that allows you to reconnect with your inner strength and begin to create relationships rooted in mutual respect and emotional safety.

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If you’re ready to begin healing from childhood trauma and rebuilding your sense of self, I invite you to contact me to schedule a consultation.