Manage your own stress and reach out to others for support. Be patient. Healing from the trauma of rape or sexual assault takes time. Flashbacks, nightmares, debilitating fear, and other symptom of PTSD can persist long after any physical injuries have healed.
Here’s a sample hypnotherapy script for healing mental trauma associated with sexual abuse:
Induction
(Soft, calming music plays in the background)
“Welcome to this safe and peaceful space. Allow yourself to settle in, getting comfortable and relaxed. Take a deep breath in through your nose, and out through your mouth. Feel the air fill your lungs, and then release. Allow any tension or stress to melt away with each exhale.
Imagine yourself standing at the edge of a serene lake on a warm, sunny day. Feel the gentle breeze on your skin, and the warmth of the sun on your face. With each breath, allow yourself to become more relaxed, more calm, and more at peace.”
Deepening
“As you continue to breathe deeply, imagine yourself descending a staircase of10 steps. With each step, you feel yourself becoming more relaxed, more calm, and more focused.
1. Feel your feet connecting with the ground, stable and strong.
2. Allow your body to release any physical tension, letting go of any holding or gripping.
3. Imagine a warm, soothing light filling your body, starting at the crown of your head…
4. …and flowing down through your face, neck, and shoulders.
5. Allow your heart rate to slow, your breathing to deepen, and your mind to quiet.
6. Imagine any thoughts or worries floating away like clouds in the sky.
7. Allow your body to feel heavy, relaxed, and supported.
8. Imagine roots growing from the base of your spine, deep into the earth, anchoring you in stability and safety.
9. Feel your mind becoming clearer, more focused, and more calm.
10. You are now in a deep state of relaxation, ready to explore and heal.”
Accessing the Trauma
“Imagine yourself back in the situation where the sexual abuse occurred. See yourself in a specific environment or interaction where the trauma happened. Allow yourself to notice any sensations, emotions, or thoughts that arise. Notice any physical sensations, such as tension or numbness.
Now, imagine a representation of the abusive figure or situation. See them/it in front of you. Notice their expression, their tone, and their behavior. Allow yourself to feel any emotions that arise, but also remind yourself that you are safe and in control here.”
Reframing and Healing
“As you look at this representation, imagine that you are now an adult, strong and capable. See yourself standing in front of this figure, but this time, you are not a powerless victim. You are a survivor.
Imagine that you are surrounded by a warm, protective light. This light represents your inner strength, resilience, and courage. As you breathe in, imagine this light filling your body, nourishing and healing your cells.
Now, imagine that the abusive figure begins to fade away, becoming smaller and smaller until they disappear. You are left standing alone, surrounded by your protective light.
Repeat to yourself: ‘I am strong, capable, and deserving of love and respect.’ Allow these words to sink deeply into your mind and heart.”
Empowerment and Integration
“Imagine that you are now in a safe, nurturing environment. See yourself surrounded by people, objects, or situations that bring you comfort and joy. Allow yourself to feel happy, relaxed, and at peace.
As you continue to breathe deeply, imagine that you are integrating the lessons and insights from this experience. You are stronger, wiser, and more compassionate.
Repeat to yourself: ‘I am a survivor. I am resilient. I am empowered.’ Allow these words to become a mantra, guiding you forward in your journey towards healing and growth.”
Specific Affirmations for Sexual Abuse
“Repeat the following affirmations to yourself, allowing them to sink deeply into your mind and heart:
* ‘I am worthy of love, respect, and safety.’
* ‘I trust myself and my body.’
* ‘I am deserving of healthy relationships and boundaries.’
* ‘I am strong and capable of overcoming sexual trauma.’
* ‘I deserve to live a life free from sexual abuse and exploitation.'”
Counting Up
“When you’re ready, slowly begin to bring yourself back to a state of full awareness. Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, imagine yourself ascending the staircase of10 steps.
1. Feel your body becoming more alert, more refreshed.
2. Allow your mind to become clearer, more focused.
3. Imagine any residual emotions or sensations slowly dissipating.
4. Feel your heart rate returning to normal, your breathing becoming more relaxed.
5. Notice your surroundings, the chair beneath you, the air on your skin.
6. Take another deep breath in, feeling more refreshed, more renewed.
7. Allow your eyes to slowly open, when you’re ready.
Take your time, and when you’re ready, slowly return to your day, feeling more calm, more centered, and more empowered.”
Post-Hypnotic Suggestion
“Remember, you can return to this safe and peaceful space whenever you need to. You are strong, resilient, and capable of healing. Trust yourself, trust your process, and trust that you are deserving of love, care, and respect.
Please consult with a qualified hypnotherapist or mental health professional before using this script. They can help you tailor the script to your specific needs and ensure a safe and supportive environment for your healing journey.”
Note: This script is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional help. If you or someone you know has experienced trauma, it’s essential to seek help from a qualified mental health professional.