Theology in the Raw Is it Possible to Heal from the Trauma of Sexual Abuse? Dr. Dan Allender
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Oct 23, 2025 Dr. Dan Allender, a leading expert on trauma and recovery, shares insights from over 30 years of helping sexual abuse survivors. He discusses the critical importance of naming abuse for healing and defines sexual abuse broadly, emphasizing the complexities involved. Dan highlights the emotional responses of anger and grief as valid and necessary in the recovery process. He also addresses the church's responsibility to create safe environments and hold abusers accountable, offering practical steps for prevention and healing.
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Unplanned Entry Into Trauma Work
- Dan Allender began work in sexual abuse after a client offered to teach him because he admitted he knew nothing about the topic.
- His path into trauma work was unplanned and grew from direct encounters with survivors and teaching about abuse.
Betrayal, Powerlessness, And Shame
- Betrayal, powerlessness, and shame form a destructive triad after sexual abuse that undermines faith, hope, and love.
- Shame is the most diabolic consequence because it foists arousal plus horror into a belief of being fouled or cursed.
Start By Naming The Abuse
- Name the abuse aloud: admitting "I have been sexually abused" is a crucial first step toward healing.
- Treat naming as the start of gradual exposure, not a one-time fix; return to the process even if it feels terrifying.
