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Journey to Heal: Seven Essential Steps of Recovery for Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
A path of hope and healing for survivors of childhood sexual abuseA woman who was sexually abused as a child is confronted with many internal Am I worthless? Will I get past the pain? Do I matter to God? These and similar questions can carve a deep hole in an already wounded soul. Too often, the lies of worthlessness are believed, the pain becomes too much to handle, and survivors find themselves making choices that lead to more heartbreak. With over 42 million survivors (both male and female) in the United States alone, the need for a clear path to healing is great. Crystal Sutherland—herself a survivor of CSA—knows that while the recovery process is complex, healing is possible with God’s help. For women who want to progress from simply coping to living abundantly, Journey to Heal guides readers through seven essential steps to recovery found in Scripture. Candid and open about her personal journey of healing, Crystal comes alongside her reader as a friend who understands. Infused with biblical truths, stories of hope from other survivors, and practical wisdom, this book leads women to discover the life of wholeness God has for them.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 27, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
May 31, 2016
Over the past four years, it has been my unfortunate experience to come across many people who have suffered through the trauma of an early childhood sexual assault. What is even more unfortunate is that most of these people came from a church background. What surprised me even more was that many of these people came from what appeared to be good, healthy families. The one common denominator in all these cases is that the initial assault was covered up. It would take years to unravel all the pieces if indeed all the pieces could even be unraveled. I am more than certain there are many others ought there whose stories have yet to be told. The avalanche is coming, church. Are you ready for it?
It was with all of this in mind that I accepted the opportunity to review Journey to Heal: Seven Essential Steps of Recovery for Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse here on this blog. The church needs to be prepared to uncover and expose sexual assault within its own walls and then be able to love and minister to those victims. So far, it seems as though we have done a terrible job in the area.
The major strength of this book is its tone. This is written by a survivor for other survivors. The author’s tone is one of comfort and sympathy. She not only shares her story but the story of several others. She does this in a way as to let the listener know, you are not alone. What happened to you has happened to others. They survived, and so can you. From my limited experience, this is a crucial barrier that must be first broken down for any healing to begin.
Another great strength of the book is the notion that his will not be fixed in a few short sessions or with some neat coping tricks. Neither is this healing obtained by memorizing a few Bible passages and throwing up a few prayers to heaven. This is a journey not a moment. This will take time. I know many victims who feel the intense pressure to simply get over all this and simply move on through the power of Christ. I wish it were that simple. By way, placing such pressure on a person only adds to the guilt and shame that comes with such abuse. We expect people to be champions but fail to give them the support they need which can only lead to defeat and failure.
Practicality is the other strength that is worth noting. Throughout these pages you will find practical advice that will help those who are struggling. A heavy emphasis is placed on journaling which I believe could be extremely helpful. I especially appreciate Sutherland’s admonition to share your stories with others. You were never meant to bar this burden by yourself. You can’t handle it. You need others in the body of Christ to lift you up and support you. This also opens the door for others victims to come forward and get the help they need.
Finally, one of the most helpful aspects of this book is constant theme of hope. There is hope for those who can’t see through their shame, guilt and embarrassment. For those struggling with feelings they feel can never be resolved, Christ provides hope for a normal life.
However, what I found lacking in this book was any serious engagement with the Word of God.
There are verses sprinkled throughout, but they are only accompanied by a shallow, brief application. My personal pet peeve is the constant use of Jeremiah 29:11, one of the most misunderstood and misapplied verses in the Bible. Yet, the gospel is highlighted and there are some helpful passages referenced from time to time.
I was also disappointed not to see the church referenced until the very end of the book. The Church ought to play a crucial role in the life of any Christian. She never mentions to seek counsel from one’s pastor. I would think for a Christian, this is where we would begin. Yet, I do realize that for some it may be difficult to even get to this stage of the journey. But, it should be a step somewhere along the way. The pastor is a gift to the church and ought to be utilized in the way our Lord intended.
With all this being said, I believe this book would be quite useful in helping those who struggle with past sexual assault. I would use this book to get the ball rolling and to begin a journey down the road to healing.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
It was with all of this in mind that I accepted the opportunity to review Journey to Heal: Seven Essential Steps of Recovery for Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse here on this blog. The church needs to be prepared to uncover and expose sexual assault within its own walls and then be able to love and minister to those victims. So far, it seems as though we have done a terrible job in the area.
The major strength of this book is its tone. This is written by a survivor for other survivors. The author’s tone is one of comfort and sympathy. She not only shares her story but the story of several others. She does this in a way as to let the listener know, you are not alone. What happened to you has happened to others. They survived, and so can you. From my limited experience, this is a crucial barrier that must be first broken down for any healing to begin.
Another great strength of the book is the notion that his will not be fixed in a few short sessions or with some neat coping tricks. Neither is this healing obtained by memorizing a few Bible passages and throwing up a few prayers to heaven. This is a journey not a moment. This will take time. I know many victims who feel the intense pressure to simply get over all this and simply move on through the power of Christ. I wish it were that simple. By way, placing such pressure on a person only adds to the guilt and shame that comes with such abuse. We expect people to be champions but fail to give them the support they need which can only lead to defeat and failure.
Practicality is the other strength that is worth noting. Throughout these pages you will find practical advice that will help those who are struggling. A heavy emphasis is placed on journaling which I believe could be extremely helpful. I especially appreciate Sutherland’s admonition to share your stories with others. You were never meant to bar this burden by yourself. You can’t handle it. You need others in the body of Christ to lift you up and support you. This also opens the door for others victims to come forward and get the help they need.
Finally, one of the most helpful aspects of this book is constant theme of hope. There is hope for those who can’t see through their shame, guilt and embarrassment. For those struggling with feelings they feel can never be resolved, Christ provides hope for a normal life.
However, what I found lacking in this book was any serious engagement with the Word of God.
There are verses sprinkled throughout, but they are only accompanied by a shallow, brief application. My personal pet peeve is the constant use of Jeremiah 29:11, one of the most misunderstood and misapplied verses in the Bible. Yet, the gospel is highlighted and there are some helpful passages referenced from time to time.
I was also disappointed not to see the church referenced until the very end of the book. The Church ought to play a crucial role in the life of any Christian. She never mentions to seek counsel from one’s pastor. I would think for a Christian, this is where we would begin. Yet, I do realize that for some it may be difficult to even get to this stage of the journey. But, it should be a step somewhere along the way. The pastor is a gift to the church and ought to be utilized in the way our Lord intended.
With all this being said, I believe this book would be quite useful in helping those who struggle with past sexual assault. I would use this book to get the ball rolling and to begin a journey down the road to healing.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
June 16, 2016
(*DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FOR FREE AS PART OF THE LITFUSE PUBLICITY BLOGGERS PROGRAM, IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. NO OTHER FORM OF COMPENSATION WAS GIVEN, AND ALL OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS REVIEW ARE MY OWN.)
Honestly, this review is one of the most difficult articles I have ever written. The topic this book tackles is holds massive weight, as much as its ignored by the majority of the public. However, those affected by it are the ones bringing attention to the issue. Mostly.
One in ten (1 in 10) girls will be abused by age eighteen. That statistic means that one out of every ten females you pass on the street was probably abused. If you, my reader, are one of those girls, know that I will be speaking directly to you in this article. First, I want you to know that the fact that you are reading this review indicates that you are already on the Journey to Heal.
So, is this book worthy of being one of your traveling companions on the journey? Well, let us find out.
Introduction:
This is a short read, its length suitable for a weekend reading binge. However, I don't recommend tackling this non-intimidating book in two days. Journey to Heal takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, and you will be better off reading through the chapters on a weekly basis.
The author speaks to you as a friend, as her words resonate with abuse survivors much more than if they were coming from an abuse-free history. My copy is sprinkled with tears. Hearing from another survivor that the abuse wasn't your fault - that phrase means so much more when the person who speaks it suffered through the same things. This wording is repeated throughout the book, as Crystal strives to speak the truth. Each chapter is accompanied by encouraging words and personal anecdotes, constantly reminding you that no matter how much the journey hurts, you've got this. And those words are what keep you going.
About a quarter into the book, I arrived at the section where Crystal speaks of her PTSD diagnosis. I lost it. I had to close the book to keep from rendering it useless due to my onslaught of tears. In the Introduction, Crystal writes of the start of her abuse. While our perpetrators differ vastly, the beginnings of our stories are similar in substance. I lost it there as well. Again, the book closed - and I cried. I cried a lot.
The Inner Workings:
In the book as a whole, you are given seven steps to take on the road to healing. These steps are akin to rest stops on a roadtrip - but less fun. These rest stops are broken down into manageable chunks, like an itinerary. These itinerary items never leave God out of the recovery equation, as Crystal states, "Only the Lord can fill the gap in your soul that the abuse left." (Of course, the exact quote is more eloquent, but the gist is still there.) Each chapter, you are tasked with reflection upon a relevant given prompt, reading several Bible verses, writing in your Truth Journal, and other such tasks.
While the book's length might fool you, this is one book that you will want to read slowly. I recommend completing one task each day, or one chapter a week. There's no reason to rush through this book. It reads like a companion guide, not a be-all-end-all.
Conclusion:
In the dark void of non-fiction, books like Journey to Heal are difficult to find - both in terms of subject matter and quality. There are innumerable quantities of inspirational books and a good half of those employ Christian themes. A quarter of those inspirational books revolve around abuse, and half of those revolve specifically around childhood sexual abuse, and half of those involve Christian themes. So, as you can see, Journey to Heal is in a small niche and is made even more rare by involving Christianity. And it's a good book, okay. It's a really good book. Crystal is inspirational, and I wish her wondrous success in all her future endeavors.
If you suffered through childhood sexual abuse, or if you know someone who has, I recommend adding this book to your library or giving this book to someone who would benefit from it.
And now, if you will excuse me, I need to write the daily entry in my Truth Journal.
Recommended For:
Women childhood sexual abuse survivors
The above who desire a companion guide to therapy that involves the Christian faith
The above who developed PTSD as a result of their abuse
Honestly, this review is one of the most difficult articles I have ever written. The topic this book tackles is holds massive weight, as much as its ignored by the majority of the public. However, those affected by it are the ones bringing attention to the issue. Mostly.
One in ten (1 in 10) girls will be abused by age eighteen. That statistic means that one out of every ten females you pass on the street was probably abused. If you, my reader, are one of those girls, know that I will be speaking directly to you in this article. First, I want you to know that the fact that you are reading this review indicates that you are already on the Journey to Heal.
So, is this book worthy of being one of your traveling companions on the journey? Well, let us find out.
Introduction:
This is a short read, its length suitable for a weekend reading binge. However, I don't recommend tackling this non-intimidating book in two days. Journey to Heal takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, and you will be better off reading through the chapters on a weekly basis.
The author speaks to you as a friend, as her words resonate with abuse survivors much more than if they were coming from an abuse-free history. My copy is sprinkled with tears. Hearing from another survivor that the abuse wasn't your fault - that phrase means so much more when the person who speaks it suffered through the same things. This wording is repeated throughout the book, as Crystal strives to speak the truth. Each chapter is accompanied by encouraging words and personal anecdotes, constantly reminding you that no matter how much the journey hurts, you've got this. And those words are what keep you going.
About a quarter into the book, I arrived at the section where Crystal speaks of her PTSD diagnosis. I lost it. I had to close the book to keep from rendering it useless due to my onslaught of tears. In the Introduction, Crystal writes of the start of her abuse. While our perpetrators differ vastly, the beginnings of our stories are similar in substance. I lost it there as well. Again, the book closed - and I cried. I cried a lot.
The Inner Workings:
In the book as a whole, you are given seven steps to take on the road to healing. These steps are akin to rest stops on a roadtrip - but less fun. These rest stops are broken down into manageable chunks, like an itinerary. These itinerary items never leave God out of the recovery equation, as Crystal states, "Only the Lord can fill the gap in your soul that the abuse left." (Of course, the exact quote is more eloquent, but the gist is still there.) Each chapter, you are tasked with reflection upon a relevant given prompt, reading several Bible verses, writing in your Truth Journal, and other such tasks.
While the book's length might fool you, this is one book that you will want to read slowly. I recommend completing one task each day, or one chapter a week. There's no reason to rush through this book. It reads like a companion guide, not a be-all-end-all.
Conclusion:
In the dark void of non-fiction, books like Journey to Heal are difficult to find - both in terms of subject matter and quality. There are innumerable quantities of inspirational books and a good half of those employ Christian themes. A quarter of those inspirational books revolve around abuse, and half of those revolve specifically around childhood sexual abuse, and half of those involve Christian themes. So, as you can see, Journey to Heal is in a small niche and is made even more rare by involving Christianity. And it's a good book, okay. It's a really good book. Crystal is inspirational, and I wish her wondrous success in all her future endeavors.
If you suffered through childhood sexual abuse, or if you know someone who has, I recommend adding this book to your library or giving this book to someone who would benefit from it.
And now, if you will excuse me, I need to write the daily entry in my Truth Journal.
Recommended For:
Women childhood sexual abuse survivors
The above who desire a companion guide to therapy that involves the Christian faith
The above who developed PTSD as a result of their abuse
December 22, 2020
Source: Free paperback copy from Kregel in exchange for a review.
Rating: 5 stars for excellent
Summary:
Crystal Sutherland, a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, has written a book of healing for other victims.
Sexual abuse is not something a person can "get over" and move-on, as if they've had the flu. It is a lifetime journey of working towards healing.
There is not a "simple formula for healing." It requires hard work and commitment.
There are 42 million survivors of childhood sexual abuse (male and female) in America. It is important to talk about, educate, counsel, pray, and work towards healing for the "walking wounded."
Chapter One Step 1: Commit to the Journey
Chapter Two Step 2: Face the Truth
Chapter Three There's No More Disgrace for You
Chapter Four Step 3: Share Your Story
Chapter Five Step 4: Settle the Unsettled
Chapter Six What is God's Role in Your Story?
Chapter Seven Step 5: Forgive and Let It God
Chapter Eight Step 6: Discover Your True Identity
Chapter Nine Step 7: Establish Your New Life in Christ
Chapter Ten There Is Hope for Experiencing Intimacy
My Thoughts:
My first impressions of Journey to Heal continued to stay with me throughout the book. It is approachable, examines a tough subject with sensitivity, organized well, and the author is transparent about her life.
Each chapter has a reading section, questions, and a "Journey Essentials."
In "Journey Essentials," four steps are included: pray, Bible verses to read, "document your journey," and "develop a thankful heart."
Bible verses are located throughout each chapter. While reading, I wrote down all of the Bible verses on a separate sheet of paper to keep for future study.
Sutherland utilizes five versions of the Bible: NKJV, NLT, NASB, NIV (2011), and ESV.
At the end of each chapter is a "move forward" section. This section is brief, only a few paragraphs. But, by ending on this element we are reminded of the goal: to "move forward" past the abuse and towards healing.
At the end of the book is Appendix A----"A Prayer for Salvation." Appendix B----"A Prayer for Sexual Healing." Appendix C----"The 'I Am' Statement of Worth." Appendix D "Additional Resources for Recovery."
The book's audience is adult female survivors of child abuse. My sexual abuse happened when I was 17, the perpetrator was a boyfriend. I was able to glean strong help from reading Journey to Heal.
Sutherland encourages the reader to keep a journal during the process of reading the book. The journal is where the questions can be written and answered.
Examples of questions:
"How has defining sexual abuse helped you?
"How has being abused affected me mentally and emotionally, even relationally?"
"Do you struggle with repressed anger and resentments? If so, where are those feelings coming from, exactly?"
One of my favorite sections of the book is learning "new truth." This section is located in chapter 6, and under the section of understanding our worth.
The last chapter is addressed to married women who are in healthy relationships. I agree with the material presented in this chapter, but for me, I needed a chapter for women who are in a difficult relationship.
A favorite quote:
After living with our wounds of abuse for so long, it can be easy to fall into a mind-set of coping with our pain, settling for mere survival instead of learning how to thrive. The notion of living free from the past may be enticing, but it can also seem frightening. The truth is, the familiarity of brokenness is easier to navigate than the unknown terrain of wholeness. For that reason, we may attempt to sabotage potential happiness because we fear what that might look like. I have seen this at work in my own life and in the lives of other survivors I know. Page 23.
Rating: 5 stars for excellent
Summary:
Crystal Sutherland, a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, has written a book of healing for other victims.
Sexual abuse is not something a person can "get over" and move-on, as if they've had the flu. It is a lifetime journey of working towards healing.
There is not a "simple formula for healing." It requires hard work and commitment.
There are 42 million survivors of childhood sexual abuse (male and female) in America. It is important to talk about, educate, counsel, pray, and work towards healing for the "walking wounded."
Chapter One Step 1: Commit to the Journey
Chapter Two Step 2: Face the Truth
Chapter Three There's No More Disgrace for You
Chapter Four Step 3: Share Your Story
Chapter Five Step 4: Settle the Unsettled
Chapter Six What is God's Role in Your Story?
Chapter Seven Step 5: Forgive and Let It God
Chapter Eight Step 6: Discover Your True Identity
Chapter Nine Step 7: Establish Your New Life in Christ
Chapter Ten There Is Hope for Experiencing Intimacy
My Thoughts:
My first impressions of Journey to Heal continued to stay with me throughout the book. It is approachable, examines a tough subject with sensitivity, organized well, and the author is transparent about her life.
Each chapter has a reading section, questions, and a "Journey Essentials."
In "Journey Essentials," four steps are included: pray, Bible verses to read, "document your journey," and "develop a thankful heart."
Bible verses are located throughout each chapter. While reading, I wrote down all of the Bible verses on a separate sheet of paper to keep for future study.
Sutherland utilizes five versions of the Bible: NKJV, NLT, NASB, NIV (2011), and ESV.
At the end of each chapter is a "move forward" section. This section is brief, only a few paragraphs. But, by ending on this element we are reminded of the goal: to "move forward" past the abuse and towards healing.
At the end of the book is Appendix A----"A Prayer for Salvation." Appendix B----"A Prayer for Sexual Healing." Appendix C----"The 'I Am' Statement of Worth." Appendix D "Additional Resources for Recovery."
The book's audience is adult female survivors of child abuse. My sexual abuse happened when I was 17, the perpetrator was a boyfriend. I was able to glean strong help from reading Journey to Heal.
Sutherland encourages the reader to keep a journal during the process of reading the book. The journal is where the questions can be written and answered.
Examples of questions:
"How has defining sexual abuse helped you?
"How has being abused affected me mentally and emotionally, even relationally?"
"Do you struggle with repressed anger and resentments? If so, where are those feelings coming from, exactly?"
One of my favorite sections of the book is learning "new truth." This section is located in chapter 6, and under the section of understanding our worth.
The last chapter is addressed to married women who are in healthy relationships. I agree with the material presented in this chapter, but for me, I needed a chapter for women who are in a difficult relationship.
A favorite quote:
After living with our wounds of abuse for so long, it can be easy to fall into a mind-set of coping with our pain, settling for mere survival instead of learning how to thrive. The notion of living free from the past may be enticing, but it can also seem frightening. The truth is, the familiarity of brokenness is easier to navigate than the unknown terrain of wholeness. For that reason, we may attempt to sabotage potential happiness because we fear what that might look like. I have seen this at work in my own life and in the lives of other survivors I know. Page 23.
September 5, 2016
I would recommend this book to all females who have been abused. Men could also benefit from reading this book! I especially liked how this book stated truths to encourage and remind readers that they aren’t alone in their journey and also how the abuse wasn’t their fault and they couldn’t have prevented it. The statistics shared in this book was heartbreaking and it’s shocking to see how the number are only rising! I liked how this one contained scriptures verses and passages the readers could engage in to help them in their healing. I also liked how this one has a special prayers after each chapter to help readers to grow more spiritually. I also liked the layout of the book and how she included steps for each chapter.
“I received a review copy of Naming Our Abuse and Journey to Heal from Litfuse for this review."
“I received a review copy of Naming Our Abuse and Journey to Heal from Litfuse for this review."
June 13, 2016
This book was such a personal journey that is powerful. I found that this book would be healing to anyone who has suffered such horrible abuse as Crystal utilizes scripture to take people from a place of shame and brokenness to help them discover that God loves them. She is practical, but insightful and knows the journey as she has gone through childhood sexual abuse. I appreciate her willingness to be vulnerable and share with others. I give this book 4 stars. Thank you to the publisher for providing me a complimentary copy for review. I was not compensated for a positive review.
June 15, 2016
I've been following Crystal for a while, and her heart for these women is just so darn beautiful. Her words resonate truth and speak life. This book isn't "preachy" but filled with compassionate and empathy. Journey to Heal is such a gift.
*I received this book in exchange for my honest review*
*I received this book in exchange for my honest review*
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews