We recently had the privilege of hosting a deeply inspiring and insightful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, where we delved into the profound topic of reclaiming strength after sexual abuse. Our special guest, Marie McKenzie, brought her unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to the table, offering invaluable insights and support to survivors everywhere.

Meet Marie McKenzie

Marie McKenzie is not only a registered nurse but also a dedicated sexual assault recovery coach and an author. As a survivor of sexual abuse herself, Marie’s journey of healing and empowerment is both touching and motivating. Her professional background in nursing, especially her experience in caring for survivors of sexual violence, adds a profound depth to her understanding of the recovery process.

Key Highlights from the Episode

Marie’s Personal Journey:
Marie opened up about her personal experience that led her to become a recovery coach. She shared how her own assault at the age of 11 shaped her path and how she didn’t disclose it until she was almost 60. Despite her role as a caregiver and advocate in her professional life, she struggled with her own healing for many years.

Minimizing Abuse:
One striking topic we explored was the tendency of survivors to minimize their abuse. Marie recounted a poignant story from her social media about a woman who said, “I wasn’t abused, I was just fondled.” This conversation highlighted how many survivors downplay their experiences due to a lack of understanding about what constitutes sexual assault and the various ways it manifests.

Common Triggers:
Marie explained the myriad of triggers that survivors might face, from certain smells and sounds to specific objects or situations that remind them of their trauma. She emphasized that these triggers can be deeply personal and vary widely among individuals.

Reactions to Trauma:
We also delved into the different reactions survivors might have, such as promiscuity or avoidance. Marie shared her insights on how these reactions are often misunderstood and the importance of recognizing them as part of the trauma response.

Taking the First Step

According to Marie, the first step to recovery is recognizing and accepting that the trauma does not define the survivor. Healing is a possible and ongoing journey, and it’s crucial to seek help and support. Marie’s message is clear: “You are not your trauma, and you don’t have to let it have the final say in your life”.

Marie’s Memoir: “Things That Keep Me Up at Night”

Marie also shared about her book, “Things That Keep Me Up at Night,” which is a memoir of her own experiences. Writing this book was a significant part of her healing journey and has become a beacon of hope for many others. It’s a raw and honest account that provides not only a window into her life but also a source of inspiration for others on similar paths.

Marie has graced us with a gift for all of us. Click on this link.

Tune In to the Full Episode

This episode of Thrive is more than just a conversation; it’s a lifeline for many survivors out there. Marie McKenzie’s wisdom and compassion shine through as she offers practical advice and emotional support. Don’t miss out on this powerful episode.

Click here to watch the full episode and join us in this vital conversation. Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from it.

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At Thrive by The Rising Muse, we are committed to supporting survivors and fostering discussions on faith, family, and mental health. Stay connected with us for more episodes that inspire and empower.

Let’s thrive together!