Beginning to Heal: A First Book for Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse is a concise self-help guide by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis, first published in 1991. It serves as a gentler, more accessible introduction to the healing process compared to the authors' 600-page bestseller, The Courage to Heal.
Purpose and Audience
The book is designed for survivors of childhood sexual abuse who are just starting their recovery or are in a state of crisis and may find a comprehensive text overwhelming. It is often used by therapists as a "first step" to prepare patients for deeper trauma work.
Key Themes and Content
The guide maps out recognizable stages of the healing journey through a combination of clear explanations and first-person accounts from other survivors.
- Validation: Identifying what constitutes sexual abuse and emphasising that the survivor's pain counts.
Major Topics Include -
- The Decision to Heal: Encouraging survivors to break the silence and reach out for support.
- Healing Stages: Covering denial, remembering, grief, anger, and eventually moving on to "thriving".
- Practical Guidance: Offering "common-sense" advice and suggestions for handling each phase of recovery.
Softcover.
107 pages.
Harper Perennial.
Copyright 1993.
- Also by author - The Courage to Heal Workbook: A practical companion with exercises and art projects for both men and women. Available as a separate listing.
Good condition. May have markings on pages, staining and discolouration. Stickers on cover.
