(HS Anderson 096294 2023) To Forgive or Not to Forgive? Releasing the Pain of Relational Trauma

Course overview

Forgiveness is often a triggering and complicated issue, particularly as it relates to relational trauma or complex PTSD. Some clients dont want to forgive their abusers, even after theyve severed all ties. Others hold onto anger and resentment but stay in unhealthy relationships. And some will forgive and struggle with not getting what theyd hoped for as a response. In this session, well explore different dimensions of forgiveness: when its premature and when its forced, when its used to avoid feelings of pain and betrayal, whether its necessary to fully heal from abuse, whether it serves the victim or the perpetrator, and when it leads to true acceptance and freedom. Youll discover how to help clients: Release the wounds that another has caused, so theyre freed to no longer carry the trauma inside Heal and name their internal wounds by learning to speak up for what they know to be true Determine whether forgiveness may be helpful for them to fully heal from relational violations