Maribel, age 7, was molested repeatedly by a male relative who often cared for her during mother’s long work hours.   Upon discovering the abuse, Maribel’s mother sought help immediately.  Prior to treatment, Maribel experienced nightmares and extreme anxiety. Her mother felt so guilty about the molest that she needed help coping with her own feelings before she could be available for her daughter.

During therapy, mother and daughter learned that the molest was not their fault.  The little girl also mastered ways to better protect herself and became empowered about saying “no” to “bad touches,” even if it meant saying no to a (formerly) trusted adult. This was challenging for the little girl because, especially in her culture, adult males are to be respected and obeyed.

Maribel’s mother explored ways that she could work long hours and still create a safer, more nurturing environment for her daughter.  They both made peace with their feelings of shame, especially in group treatment where they met others who had experienced similar situations.

Prior to the incident, they lived an isolated lifestyle with very little support from family or friends.  In the group, they made new friends and have become part of a new, stronger “communidad” (community) where they are accepted and supported.  Maribel said about her work at FSA, “Therapy is a good way to get my bad feelings and thoughts out of my heart.”

FSA’s Childhood Trauma program provides therapy and education to children and their families who are victims of:

• Sexual Abuse
• Physical and Emotional Abuse
• Domestic Violence
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

For more information and contact for these valuable services, please visit http://www.fsamarin.org/ctp.html.

Marianne Gabelman, Director of Communication and Resource Development