Pre Overt
I am a divorced mom of three girls. I was married to my ex husband for 13 years. He was emotionally, mentally, and sexually abusive. The first time he got physically abusive, I left and I filed for divorce. He has continued to abuse me and put the kids at risk. He took up drinking and drove drunk with them multiple times. With the help of a lawyer I have been able to keep the girls safe from him, but he still doesn’t help me at all financially. I found myself in a relationship shortly after the divorce that, I thought, was wonderful, but was more of the same. He was emotionally and sexually abusive. This time I ended the relationship 3 years in, instead of 13. But I have been left even more broken; emotionally, mentally, and financially. My ex boyfriend made very little money and took advantage me. On top of paying for the everyday things, I went into financial stress by paying for his medical debt, his down payments on cars, and the legal fees associated with keeping his child safe. I struggle everyday to see worth in myself. I don’t trust myself to make decisions financially or emotionally. I need to raise my girls to be strong women, but I how do I do that when I can’t be strong? I need therapy, but I need help to afford it. I am currently seeing a therapist, but I need help.
I want to begin my journey to healing. I have been through a lot of trauma, but haven’t yet been equipped with the tools to heal from that trauma. I need to learn how to cope with my triggers and how to love myself again. I just want to feel happy again and that I am worth fighting for.
During Overt
The last five years have been very difficult for me. I struggle mainly with depression and anxiety, but all of that has been triggered and made worse by recent trauma. I have been through a lot and am excited to begin healing with my therapist.
Only a few sessions in and I really love my therapist, she is the best part of my session. I feel comfortable around here and safe to tell her how I’m feeling.
I’ve been getting really good advice from my therapist about how to handle my ex-husband and his unstable interactions with me. She also is always so good at making me feel comfortable and safe to express my feelings.
This was the first time I’ve tried EMDR, so I think next time will be even more beneficial. It also felt nice not to cry this session.
Post Overt
Six months ago I was in complete despair. I could bearly get out of bed. I was constantly on the verge of tears and I felt like a shell of a person. I am doing much better now. Not 100% back to where I was before my trauma, but I can make through the day a little easier. My eyes aren’t full of tears all the time; I even laugh every once in a while. The fog I’ve been lost in is starting to clear and the mud I’ve been dragging my feet through is starting to thin. I have a lot of work and healing to do still, but it feels so good to see changes and a light at the end of this long, dark tunnel.
My advice is Don’t give up. It will get better. Healing takes time. I need to be patient with myself and recognize the little wins.
This program was a lifesaver during a time of extreme need in my life. Thank you for helping people like me.