Summary of Wendy Maltz's The Sexual Healing Journey

By IRB Media

Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Book Preview:

#1 When Sally and Jim began counseling, they were surprised to find that their lack of sexual interest in each other was caused by the molestation Sally had suffered years before.

#2 Sexual concerns are difficult to face. They are personal and embarrassing. When we have a sexual problem, we may try to deny it or hope it will just go away on its own. We may fear that admitting our problems will cause others to reject us or think less of us.

#3 The sexes can be very difficult for survivors to navigate. They may have unusual reactions to routine situations, and they may be shocked at their unconscious reactions to touch and sex.

#4 The survivor may realize their sexual behavior is inappropriate. They may become frustrated by their sexual behavior, as it may seem irrational and upsetting. But they must remember that awareness brings motivation to change.

• Language: English
• Publisher: IRB Media
• Release date: May 6, 2022
• ISBN: 9798822503724

IRB Media

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Insights on Wendy Maltz's The Sexual Healing Journey

Contents

Insights from Chapter 1

Insights from Chapter 2

Insights from Chapter 3

Insights from Chapter 1

#1

When Sally and Jim began counseling, they were surprised to find that their lack of sexual interest in each other was caused by the molestation Sally had suffered years before.

#2

Sexual concerns are difficult to face. They are personal and embarrassing. When we have a sexual problem, we may try to deny it or hope it will just go away on its own. We may fear that admitting our problems will cause others to reject us or think less of us.

#3

The sexes can be very difficult for survivors to navigate. They may have unusual reactions to routine situations, and they may be shocked at their unconscious reactions to touch and sex.

#4

The survivor may realize their sexual behavior is inappropriate. They may become frustrated by their sexual behavior, as it may seem irrational and upsetting. But they must remember that awareness brings motivation to change.

#5

Some survivors may repeatedly sabotage their own best efforts to form close relationships. They may fake enjoyment, focus solely on the partner’s pleasure, or not communicate what they need to feel satisfied sexually.

#6

Secrecy, shame, guilt, and fear are the by-products of being out of control with sex. These feelings can eat away at our sense of self-worth. We may become terrified to realize that the need to please a partner or get sexual attention could make us sick or lead to infertility, unwanted pregnancy, or even death.

#7

Partners of survivors often suffer from anxiety, depression, and emotional stress due to the sexual problems in their relationship. When survivors withdraw from physical intimacy or are not emotionally present during sex, partners can feel rejected, inadequate, and sexually unattractive.

#8

It can be difficult for a survivor to witness their partner’s emotional pain. Many survivors have a tendency to feel ashamed, angry at themselves, or responsible for their partner’s suffering. If this is you, remind yourself that the abuse that created stress in your relationship was not your fault.

#9

The last drop of water that makes a cup run over is when we acknowledge a sexual issue for the first time or in a new perspective. When we see our problem for the first time or in a new light, we may acknowledge it.

#10

As we progress in recovery, we may begin to recognize our sexual issues. These issues may hurt, but they tell us that we have reached a core issue in overall recovery. Once we admit something is wrong, we can direct our energy toward understanding and healing.

#11

It can be a difficult step for survivors to acknowledge past sexual abuse, but it is important to do so in order to make a connection between your present sexual issues and their original source.

#12

Once you’ve identified the abuse, you can move on to the real source of your problems.