Healing after Sexual Abuse: A Latter-day Saint Perspective

by Shirley Washenko

In describing His purpose during His earthly life, the Savior once said, “He hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives . . . to set at liberty them that are bruised” (Luke 4:18). We know that Christ’s remarkable Atonement covers all kinds of spiritual healing—everything from forgiving us of our sins to helping us recover from grievous injury inflicted on us by others. But how exactly can Christ’s Atonement help us find healing and peace after sexual abuse? Healing after Sexual Abuse is a book for anyone who has survived sexual abuse and is searching for help along their healing journey, or for anyone who strives to better support victims of abuse. Written jointly by experts in the subject and fellow survivors and supported by scripture as well as secular research, this book teaches how specific principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ create real healing after sexual abuse. Features a foreword by Reyna I. Aburto, former counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, and an afterword featuring Latter-day Saint survivors sharing their support, testimonies, and encouragement with fellow survivors.

154 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 16, 2025

Reviews

[Desi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here’s a book I didn’t know I needed! I listened to it & it brought up SO many thoughts & feelings of things I hadn’t previously considered about myself- I will definitely be talking to my therapist about my experience.

[M Summ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick and good read. I could have used this book 20+ years ago, but would I have read it?! I’ve come to these same conclusions through prayer and therapy.
I would suggest it for victims who struggle.
It made me wonder if any of my children have been abused and kept it quiet.