Orlando Trauma Therapist Explains Rape Culture Part 2
Orlando Trauma Therapist Explains Rape Culture Part 2
Written by: Trissa Dodson, LMHC
In the last blog post Understanding Rape Culture Part One, we learned that Rape Culture negatively affects survivors of sexual violence by turning blame onto the victims and invalidating their pain. We also learned that Rape Culture protects those who inflict harm on others and minimizes the gravity of violence. Rape Culture ultimately damages our individual relationships with one another, as well as our relationship with our communities on a larger scale. How do we end Rape Culture? You can start by reflecting on your own experiences and the experiences of others with compassion and respect.
As an Orlando Trauma Therapist ending rape culture is important to me. My name is Trissa Dodson LMHC, and I’m a sexual violence trauma therapist in Orlando.
Speak up and speak against it.
Violence, abuse, and shame fester in the dark. Shining a light on these experiences helps demystify sexual violence and helps create safer, healthier communities. You can start by having honest conversations, raising awareness, share stories and experiences about rape culture and sexual violence. Think critically about how relationship dynamics and gender roles are portrayed in pop culture and the media. Challenge harmful beliefs, stereotypes, or jokes when you encounter them, and help promote a culture of compassion, rather than a culture of harm.
Reflect on your reactions to victims of sexual violence.
This requires a willingness to acknowledge our biases, learn and unlearn information, and challenge personal and societal beliefs related to victimization, victim-blaming, gender stereotypes, and trivializing harm. This also includes reflection on our reactions to people who have been accused of sexual violence. Remember that the responsibility for sexual violence lies with the perpetrator, not the victim or survivor.
Practice empathy and resist dehumanizing a victim.
So often we hear stories of violence that we can feel numb towards it or the stories feel unreal to us. Try to remember that these are real people with real experiences. In fact, simply listening to someone’s personal experience can help clarify and contextualize the ways in which sexual violence actually impacts people, not the stories and myths we’re so used to hearing. Consider the courage it takes to speak about a painful experience, the mental, emotional, and physical impacts someone may have endured, as well as the challenges that they may continue to face in seeking justice and healing.
Educate yourself!
A comprehensive sex education can help individuals clarify information like healthy boundaries, consent, anatomy, and bodily autonomy. Sex education that is inclusive, non-judgmental, and accurate empowers people with knowledge and skills to navigate their sexuality, make informed decisions, and create healthy relationships that align with their personal values.
Recognize that sexuality is a personal and diverse experience that continues to develop over the lifespan. Marginalized communities, such as those within the LGBTQ+ community, often face higher rates of sexual violence, due to various intersecting forms of oppression. Understanding various expressions of sexuality reinforces the importance of consent and honoring people’s personal boundaries. Every individual has a right to define and express themselves on their terms. Respecting diverse sexual expressions without fear of judgment or punishment helps create a safer environment that promotes everyone’s right to live free from violence. To learn more about consent, watch this video Tea Consent (clean).
Understand the aftermath of how sexual violence impacts the lives of victims. Research mental health conditions like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Rape Trauma Syndrome (RTS). Or learn more in my upcoming post!
Interested in Trauma Therapy Orlando?
We understand that starting trauma therapy can be a difficult decision, but rest assured that we are here to support you every step of the way. Our team of compassionate therapists at Mindful Living Counseling Orlando is committed to helping you navigate through your trauma and guiding you toward healing. Don't hesitate to reach out to us to begin your journey with one of our trauma counselors.
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Begin your healing journey!
Not Quite Ready for Trauma Therapy Orlando?
Our team of specialized therapists for anxiety and trauma are available to assist you. Mindful Living Counseling Orlando offers highly trained professionals who will equip you with the necessary tools to overcome trauma. For more information on trauma therapy, feel free to read the articles provided below.
Additional Trauma Therapy Orlando Resources
Orlando Trauma Therapist Explains Rape Culture Part 1
EMDR Therapy Orlando for a Recent Trauma
Orlando Therapist Shares All About Art Therapy
Other Therapy Services Offered at Mindful Living Counseling in Orlando, FL
At Mindful Living Counseling, we understand that trauma is not the only challenge that our clients may encounter. Our team of anxiety therapists recognizes that there may be other obstacles to overcome, and we are here to support our clients every step of the way. This is why we offer a variety of therapy services. Our therapy services include Toxic Relationship Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Eating Disorder Therapy, Teen Therapy, and Anxiety Therapy.
Along with our range of services, we are delighted to provide Guided Meditations. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are always pleased to help.
Orlando Trauma Therapist
Trissa Dodson, LMHC is a trauma therapist who specializes in trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, and sexual abuse. With her expertise as a registered art therapist, Trissa offers her clients alternative methods of skill development and self-expression that go beyond conventional talk therapy.