TRIGGER WARNING! Child Sexual Abuse

Every parent’s greatest hope is that when they send their child out into the world, he/she will return safely. But unfortunately, as we know all too well, that will not always be the case; and often the harm will come from within one’s family circle. While in an ideal world we would be able to prevent all cases of abuse, the ability to support and help a child to heal if the unthinkable happens is an essential part of our mission; and when done properly, this can ensure a person’s path to a hopeful and happy future.

Yael* reached out to Amudim distraught and feeling heartbroken after learning that her eight year-old son, Moshe*, had been sexually assaulted by his older cousin. Yael felt overwhelmed and alone, not knowing how to answer Moshe’s questions about what had occurred or how to react to his interpretations and emotions surrounding this traumatic event, or how to deal with her own.

Our case manager spoke to Yael with compassion and care, setting in motion a plan to get both mother and son the help they needed. She connected Moshe with a child trauma therapist, whom he immediately began seeing on a weekly basis. We also recommended that Yael herself begin therapy to process her own feelings about what had occurred and to learn about tools that could help her best support her son.

Both Yael and Moshe are still in treatment and making slow but steady progress. Their case manager continues to follow up and provides Yael with guidance and resources regarding psychoeducation to trauma responses. We are hopeful that with continued support, this family unit will find its way back to a secure and content place. We cannot control the events that bring clients to our door, but we will work tirelessly to ensure that they get the help they need to make it past them.

If you or someone you know is hurting, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Amudim is just a phone call away and here to help.

*Names and details have been changed for privacy purposes