Male Survivors of Sexual Trauma: Moving Out of the Silence

Male Survivors of Sexual Trauma: Moving Out of the Silence

Male survivors of sexual trauma experience unique challenges as they process feelings of isolation, shame, betrayal, humiliation, anger, confusion, and fear after the experience of sexual trauma. The trauma is made complicated by the context of a larger society that often suppresses men’s capacity to express feelings and develop body or somatic awareness. The presentation will include an exploration of the challenges men face in seeking treatment and some of the traumatic themes that emerge within the therapeutic relationship.

Participants will learn about methods, nature, and integration of sexual trauma by male survivors and treatment considerations. In addition, we will touch on some important authors such as Gartner, Hunter and Singer who have explored the complexities of working with male survivors.