In Chapter Six of The Dissociate: A Memoir of Secrets and Survival of Childhood Sexual Abuse I talk about my healing continuum to the journey to wellness.

The common question amongst many survivors is, “Where am I on the healing continuum?” A question I’ve asked many specialists and therapists in the field of childhood trauma.

I believe that everyone’s journey is different but there are key areas or stages that one must go through. I remember a time when I had difficulties speaking of the abuse without crying and sobbing uncontrollably. While I can still be emotional, I’ve worked through my feelings and adjusted so I’m not tearing up all the time. That’s growth.

Here is the continuum I created plotting the different stages I experienced.

The Ehrstien Index may help you.