NARM Training Institute

In the webinar, NARM Master Therapist, Sherri Sharkins and Dr. Laurence Heller discuss working with sexual trauma using the NARM approach. They differentiate between sexual  trauma caused by strangers versus family members or individuals in positions of trust, emphasizing the profound betrayal that accompanies the latter. For stranger-inflicted trauma, the focus is on re-establishing the fight response, while for familial trauma, the dynamics of narcissistic versus sadistic abuse are explored. The family's reaction to the revelation of abuse is also critical, as is addressing the client's anger and potential collapse. Larry and Sherri also explore how shame, identity, and the client's relationship to their body are impacted.

The speakers' discussion covers various clinical approaches, including the emotional completion process and creating a safe space for clients to express their protest, even murderous rage. They emphasize the importance of working with the fight response without encouraging acting it out, and explore the complexities of working with rage towards family members. Larry and Sherri address the potential for clients to shame themselves for not fighting back during the initial event and discuss strategies for working with this. The webinar also touches on client symptoms, triggers and the impact on relationships.