Healing in the
reaching
ABOUT THE RESTORE MOVEMENT
Welcome friend,
We want to take a minute to let you know how very glad we are that you are here. We know that this is the sort of thing that can bring on a whole host of emotions. On one hand, you might feel a sense of relief and thankfulness that this topic is finally being addressed openly with care and concern. On the other hand, you might feel a certain amount of fear and anxiety to be facing what has been unspoken for so long. It is perfectly understandable if you are feeling both at the same time. We have worked hard to planning an event with intentionality and awareness for each of you. From ensuring that it is all women led to create a sense of safety, to having begun to pray months ago for each heart that the Lord would lead here tonight. We want you to feel seen, known and loved. The Lord wants you to feel seen, known and loved. In case you have never heard it from the Church, God cares about what happened to you. He cares deeply. And it hurts His heart. Sexual trauma is not something He ever wanted for His Creation. Know that He is waiting to meet your heart with grace and truth and healing. Will you be brave with us for just a little while and open that hidden place in your heart to see what God might want to do through this event? I think you might be surprised with what you hear from Him. Let's link arms and hearts together to push back the darkness of sexual trauma so that we can soak in the beautiful warmth of God's tenderness and care. He is ready to make streams in our deserts and ways in our wastelands- if only we let him.
With you and for you,
The Restore Team
Restoration
A LETTER FROM OUR COUNSELOR
Dear Friend,
I want to begin by saying how grateful I am that you're here today. By doing so, you've already taken a powerful first step toward healing.
I'M READY TO HEAL. WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
The path to healing is unique for everyone, but the most crucial first step is seeking professional help. Find a counselor who resonates with you-someone you feel comfortable with and who can support you as you begin this transformative journey. You are so brave to take this step, and I am deeply proud of you for choosing to begin your healing process.
I KNOW I WAS ABUSED, BUT I'VE NEVER SHARED IT WITH ANYONE, NOT EVEN MY SPOUSE. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
If your spouse is someone you trust and feel supported by, I encourage you to share your story with them. Your spouse can become an important ally in your healing. While opening up may feel daunting, the connection and support it brings can be incredibly powerful in the long run.
WHAT IF MY SPOUSE IS NOT A SAFE PERSON
TO SHARE MY ABUSE WITH?
If you don't feel safe sharing your experience with your spouse, I strongly urge you to seek professional help. A licensed counselor can help you identify your triggers and offer tools to navigate difficult conversations. They can also assist you in finding other safe outlets to ensure that you feel heard and supported.
I LEFT THIS CONFERENCE FEELING OVERWHELMED AND DEPRESSED.
WHY AM I FEELING THIS WAY?
It's completely normal to feel emotionally drained after a conference like this. The discussions may have triggered difficult memories or emotions, and it's left you feeling exhausted. You might feel dissociated, unmotivated, or simply overwhelmed. Please don't judge yourself for not feeling okay. It's important to give yourself the space to process everything you've learned and experienced.
Take time to practice self-care: listen to calming music, take a warm bath, go for a walk, or simply rest. Speak to a trusted friend or try grounding techniques. You are allowed to feel what you feel. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate these emotions.
I'M FEELING SUICIDAL AND AFRAID I MIGHT HURT MYSELF. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
If you're having thoughts of self-harm or feel you might harm yourself, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. If you're struggling with these thoughts but don't have an immediate plan, reach out to a suicide hotline, or talk to someone you trust-whether it's a friend, family member, or counselor. Speaking about your feelings, even when it feels difficult, can be incredibly healing.
MY PRAYER FOR YOU
My prayer for each of you is that you will find the healing you so deeply deserve. Please remember that your trauma does not have to define your life or keep you stuck. You can heal. Tomorrow is a new day, and with time, your trauma will become a smaller part of your story-not the whole story.
I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers in the days ahead. You are strong, you are capable, and you can heal.
With love and support,
Erica Martino, MA, LPC, CFI, CFTS
