Finding Self-Worth After Trauma: Sarah’s Healing Journey

Sarah’s Journey: Discovering My Self-Worth After Trauma

Content warning: Please be advised, the below article might mention trauma-related topics that include abuse which could be triggering to the reader. If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Support is available 24/7.

Seeking therapy is a deeply personal decision that many people make for various reasons, including after experiencing trauma or abuse. Hearing stories from others who have walked similar paths can provide inspiration and hope. Today, we’d like to share Sarah’s story of healing and growth through telehealth therapy with ReachLink.

Sarah’s Path to Telehealth Therapy

Previous Therapy Experiences

“I’ve tried various forms of counseling throughout my life. My first experience was as a child after my parents divorced. Later, I sought help at different points when I was struggling. Most recently, I saw a therapist recommended by a friend, and while he provided a safe space to talk, his passive listening approach wasn’t what I needed.

Looking for More Value in Therapy

I found myself dissatisfied with those sessions because I often felt judged and uncomfortable being completely vulnerable. I needed something more active and solution-focused. I’m a practical person who likes to solve problems through concrete actions. Having someone just listen is nice, but I can get that from friends. What I really wanted was a professional who could provide me with practical strategies to overcome my insecurities.

Reluctance to Try Virtual Therapy

To be honest, I was hesitant about trying telehealth therapy. I had this idea that I should be able to work through my problems independently. I’ve always prided myself on being self-sufficient and strong enough to handle my own issues. Cost was another major concern – traditional therapy was expensive, and often the therapists I connected with weren’t covered by my insurance.

Finding ReachLink

I kept seeing information about telehealth therapy options, and several friends mentioned they were using virtual services. With my increasingly busy schedule, I decided to research options and came across ReachLink. After reading about their approach and the flexibility they offered, I decided it might be worth trying.

My Journey Toward Self-Worth

Acknowledging I Needed Support

For over a decade, I had suppressed memories of severe sexual abuse and manipulation. Earlier this year, there was a significant breakthrough in my memories that involved one of my closest friends. After all those years, I finally found the courage to speak with my mother about it. I realized these experiences were profoundly affecting my self-perception and damaging my sense of worth. That’s when I knew I needed professional support.

Meaningful Progress

My first video session with Jessica, my licensed clinical social worker at ReachLink, was transformative. Since then, we’ve connected weekly, sometimes twice weekly, through both video sessions and messaging. In the months since starting therapy, I’ve noticed remarkable improvements. I’m learning to value myself in ways I never did before. Jessica has helped me see myself through a different lens and provides me with specific exercises to use when I’m feeling overwhelmed or upset. Her active listening and real-time guidance have made all the difference.

Practical Tools for Difficult Times

Even in our relatively short time working together, I’ve gained so much from Jessica. Now I have effective strategies I can implement when I’m struggling emotionally. She’s offered valuable perspective and helped me become more mindful and open about addressing my challenges.

Appreciating the Journey to Self-Worth

My greatest achievement so far has been the gradual shift in how I view myself. Week by week, I’ve been adjusting my perspective, and these small changes have made an enormous difference in my daily life. Learning about boundaries and how to establish them in both existing and new relationships has been particularly transformative. I appreciate that I can document my experiences between sessions so Jessica and I can revisit them during our time together. ReachLink has truly been an invaluable resource in my healing journey.”

Therapy Options for Trauma Recovery

Sarah’s experience with Jessica represents just one of thousands of success stories from people using telehealth therapy for support. As Sarah mentioned, virtual therapy through platforms like ReachLink offers scheduling flexibility for those with busy lives, and many services provide messaging options to maintain connection between scheduled sessions.

The Effectiveness of Telehealth Therapy

With telehealth platforms, clients can be matched with licensed clinical social workers who have experience in trauma recovery and many other specialties. Research consistently shows that telehealth therapy can be as effective as traditional in-person therapy and often more cost-effective.

Final Thoughts

There are numerous benefits to working with a therapist, but finding one who aligns with your personal goals and needs is essential. Whether you’re looking for someone who primarily listens, offers guidance, or provides active coping strategies, there are thousands of qualified licensed clinical social workers available through telehealth and in-person services. Consider reaching out to a provider like ReachLink to explore your options for support on your healing journey.