PTSD: What physiotherapists need to know.
Sexuality is an essential part of our being. When things are going well, it fits within our other many identities. However, if our sexuality is not going how we would like it, it can become overwhelming and cloud all aspects of our life. Unfortunately, in our society there remains so much shame around sexual expression, and we are hemmed in by social expectations steaming from ridged views on masculinity and femininity and 'normal sexual behaviour'.
As professionals, we work within our culture, as such you may also experience your own shame or fear about asking questions about sexual trauma. That's understandable. We are not taught how to talk about sex when it is going well, let alone when it is not.
However, physiotherapists are in a unique position to help people heal from their sexual shame. In doing your job, touching client's bodies, you can trigger memories of sexual trauma. Triggering is not the problem, in fact it offers an opportunity for restoration and healing. You don't have to be an expert. Empathy dissolves shame. Empathy can be communicated by giving permission to speak, by asking questions, acknowledging the physical reactions, with non-judgemental listening and validation, without trying to fix any feeling, empathy is what helps people heal.
Please note: This is a live webinar. Login instructions including link details will be sent to registrants on the day of the event. If login instructions are not received by midday on the day of the lecture to contact us on nsw.pd@australian.physio
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