counseling for
sexual abuse
tulsa oklahoma
Sexual abuse has a
deep-rooted history in our culture.
In earlier generations, the objectification of women established a system where women's rights were significantly unequal to those of men, particularly their husbands.
Recent years have witnessed a significant shift in societal attitudes and behaviors, moving away from these old ways of thinking. However, some of the underlying belief systems from the past continue to persist.
Historically, women were often regarded more as property than as individuals. They were treated as commodities to be traded, items to be bought and sold, or sources of entertainment to be enjoyed.
While today's society no longer tolerates these practices as appropriate or legal, some people still hold views that echo these historical beliefs
any of these apply to you?
Being compelled to engage in sexual activity against your will
Feeling pressured into having sex
Having sex to prevent your partner from becoming angry or violent
Being physically coerced into sexual acts
Experiencing unwanted sexual touching
Feeling coerced into engaging in sexual acts you don't enjoy
Suffering physical harm during sex
Requesting your partner to stop during sex, but they continue without your consent
Your partner suggesting that something is wrong with you because you don't enjoy sex with them
Feeling that something is wrong with you because you are dissatisfied with your sex life
Your partner threatening to leave you or have sex with someone else if you don't have sex when they want it
Being forced to have sex in exchange for money
Both men and women
often have expectations of their partners when entering a relationship. Each person brings their own ideas and values into the partnership. Sometimes, these expectations can be unhealthy and abusive.
An example of a sexually abusive relationship is the belief that a woman is obligated to have sex as her 'duty' to her husband, or that she must engage in sexual activity even when she doesn't want to.
Other examples include being coerced into sexual acts through blackmail, being forced to have sex against your will, experiencing harm from your partner during sex without your consent, not having your partner stop when you request it, or being exploited for sexual purposes by someone else
A prevalent form of sexually abusive
behavior is the pressure to have sex. In such situations, the person often feels compelled to engage in sexual activity, even if they don't want to, to avoid emotional abuse.
Another common issue is being told that if you don't enjoy sex, there's something wrong with you. If you believe that you must have a 'valid reason' to abstain from sex, it could indicate an abusive relationship. In such cases, it might be a good idea to discuss this with your therapist.
It's important to note that not all sexual abuse is physically violent; much of it occurs through emotional manipulation and psychological tactics, which can be less obvious and harder to recognize.
Sexual abuse occurs in any type of relationship
including same-sex couples. Just like heterosexual couples, same-sex couples can also face the risk of being in a sexually abusive relationship.
If your partner makes you feel guilty or becomes angry when you don't want to engage in sexual activity or perform a sexual act, it may be beneficial to consider discussing the health of your relationship with a therapist at Exhale Counseling and Wellness.
primarily about gaining power and control over the victim.
The abuser aims to assert dominance by limiting the victim's choices, demeaning them, and sometimes causing physical harm.
While certain forms of abuse are overt and easily identifiable, others are more subtle and often go unnoticed until the victim becomes trapped in the cycle of abuse.
At Exhale Counseling and Wellness
our therapists are specially trained and have the expertise needed to help individuals who have experienced sexually abusive relationships. We understand that this can be a bewildering and distressing time for you. Seeking professional help can help speed up the healing process and allow you to move forward.
Our therapists at Exhale aim to establish a supportive and secure partnership in a safe environment, helping you work towards the successful and satisfying life you deserve