April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about sexual assault, promoting education on prevention and supporting survivors. This month, we at the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a Penn State Health Enterprise owned by Penn State Health, would like to highlight mental health professionals’ significant role in the healing process for sexual assault survivors. Below, we will delve into the importance of mental health professionals in helping survivors work through trauma and reclaim their lives.
Understanding Trauma
Sexual assault is a deeply traumatic experience that can have long-lasting emotional, psychological and physical effects on survivors. However, the healing process is unique to everyone, and the trauma may manifest in various ways, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use or feelings of guilt and shame. Mental health professionals are trained to understand the complexities of trauma and provide specialized care to help survivors cope, heal and ultimately thrive.
Because of the stigma associated with sexual assault and limited access to mental health services which has worsened further since the COVID-19 pandemic, survivors of assault often do not seek help.
“But reaching out for professional help is a vital step in the healing journey for many sexual assault survivors. Acceptance to sexual trauma has expanded over the years in our society. At PPI, our compassionate and experienced therapists work closely with each individual to create a personalized treatment plan based upon race, ethnicity, and gender that addresses their unique needs and fosters a sense of empowerment. Remember, you don’t have to face this alone; we’re here to support and guide you toward recovery and reclaiming your life.” – Dr. Ritika Baweja, PPI
The Role of Mental Health Professionals
Creating a safe space
Mental health professionals provide a secure and confidential environment where survivors can openly express their feelings and emotions. They offer empathy, understanding and validation, allowing survivors to feel heard and supported during their healing journey.
Providing psychological treatment
Mental health professionals utilize various evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address the psychological effects of trauma. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and trauma-focused treatment can help survivors reframe negative thoughts, process traumatic memories and develop coping strategies.
Facilitating emotional healing
Survivors of sexual assault often grapple with intense emotions such as anger, fear, sadness and guilt. Mental health professionals can help survivors navigate these emotions, develop self-compassion and work toward emotional healing and resilience.
Addressing PTSD symptoms
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common consequence of sexual assault. Mental health professionals can help survivors identify triggers, manage symptoms and work through traumatic memories to reduce the impact of PTSD on their lives.
Empowering survivors
Mental health professionals aim to empower survivors by helping them regain control over their lives. They work with survivors to set realistic goals, rebuild self-esteem and develop healthy coping mechanisms to foster a stronger sense of self-worth and autonomy.
Connecting with resources and support networks
Mental health professionals can also connect survivors with additional resources and support networks. For example, they may recommend support groups, legal assistance or medical care to ensure a comprehensive approach to healing.
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center, call 717-909-0710
- PPI Admissions Department, call 866-746-2496
- YWCA Carlisle & Cumberland County, call 888-727-2877
- YWCA Greater Harrisburg, Violence Intervention and Prevention Services, call 800-654-1211
- YWCA Lancaster, call 717-392-7273
Statewide and national resources are also available:
- Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape, call 888-772-7227 or visit their service directory
- Pennsylvania 211, call 211 or text your zip code to 898-211
- The Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN), call 800-656-4673 or visit RAINN.org to access a live chat
For more information on our services, visit PPImhs.org or call 866-746-2496, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to schedule an appointment.