Whispers On My Skin: A rape survivors guide to relearning intimate touch

by Charlene Smith

Intimacy, whether shared coffee with a friend and great conversation, or lying close to a lover, skin to skin is one of life's joys. After trauma, however, relationships may become tense because of the fears of the survivor, or his or her partner. This practical guide to removing the obstacles to fulfilling love, affectionate relationships and great sex after experiencing harm looks at sex and sexuality, PTSS, overcoming trauma, creating happiness, and tussling with forgiveness. Case studies drawn from three decades of trauma counseling are used as well as the latest research into the brain, trauma, sexology and psychology. It also helps those who love you. Charlene Smith is a multi-award winning writer and rape survivor, as well as a certified trauma counselor who has counseled trauma survivors across the world. She has worked with major research organizations including the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization and addresses conferences across the world. Profiled twice by Time magazine, CBS 60 Minutes and others she believes that pain can open the door to the best years of your life, once you find the tools.

114 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

Charlene Smith, a South African-born United States citizen worked as a political journalist in South Africa, Japan, Argentina, and the USA. A powerful writer with an empathetic heart, Smith is respected globally for her writing and her voluntary work around HIV and AIDS, gender violence and sex trafficking.
She has been a guest of the Swedish government twice, and the Australian government once. She has been profiled twice by Time magazine, once each by CBS 60 Minutes, ABC 20/20, BBC often, Le Monde, etc.
In the mid-1980s she resigned her work as a journalist to become active against apartheid. As such she has unique access to South Africa’s liberation leaders and a close and respectful friendship with such icons as Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Her international bestselling book, Mandela: In Celebration of a Great Life has also been translated into Mandarin.
Her first book, Robben Island went into its 14th reprint in 2017.

A recognized international expert on HIV and AIDS as well as gender violence she speaks at conferences around the world and influenced the Centers for Disease Control decision to write a protocol for post-exposure prophylaxis after sexual assault. She has worked extensively, as a volunteer, with those incarcerated on death row or among lifers.

She teaches writing in Massachusetts and online. She is often asked to teach writing at schools, colleges and financial or research institutions in the U.K., South Africa, and U.S.A.

Reviews

[Bridgette Mongeon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very difficult subject. It is heavy. However, the confidence and genuine love that Charlene Smith has for those individuals who have gone through rape is tremendous. She has this because of her own experiences. I was delighted to talk to Charlene Smith on a recent podcast. If you are thinking about this book, give a listen to the podcast. Charlene has a true heart to help others and it comes across in her interview and her experiences. I would recommend the book not only for those who have been raped, but also for those who have a loved one trying to heal from rape.

Here is a link to the blog post about this podcast
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