Thriving After Sexual Abuse by Denise Bossarte

Author Denise Bossarte offers sage advice and encouragement to those who, like herself, were sexually abused in childhood by a family member, in Thriving After Sexual Abuse: Break Your Bondage to the Past and Live a Life You Love.

Part One, “Getting Help,” recounts Bossarte’s extensive exploration of individual and group therapies, giving a comprehensive overview of what to expect. “Embracing Joy” recalls her emotional and physical outlets: exercise, yoga, creative writing, and photography. “Figuring It Out and Moving On” explores the thorny issues of how and with whom she chose to share her traumatic experiences, and strategies for dealing with triggers – situations that bring the ugly past back to life. A “Poetry Journal” poignantly depicts her fears and rage, followed by newly wrought, positive affirmations:

I am not afraid
Of closed doors anymore.

Bossarte reveals vividly personal, harrowing recollections from a long span of her young years, when she was abused by a rigidly domineering figure whom she feared and despised, but could not avoid or control – feelings that continued throughout her life. She contrasts those dark years and their negative effect on her personal growth with a plethora of resources for accessing professional guidance and unlocking inner determination. She has arrived at a joyful existence based on constructive principles and practices that she shares here, which is wholly evident throughout the book. While not glossing over how difficult a path this can be, her book proffers hope and pragmatic solutions to anyone recovering from severe trauma.

In a book that is at once deeply honest and informative, Bossarte examines the most difficult of subjects with grace, sensitivity, and profound empathy for survivors, which makes this book an essential guide for the process of healing.