Welcome back to another episode of The Anchored by the Sword Podcast. Today’s conversation is a heavy one, but it is also one filled with hope.

I’m joined by Veronica Thompson, a licensed clinical social worker, Christian therapist, and survivor of childhood trauma. Veronica’s story includes childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, instability, and growing up in environments that were anything but safe. Yet through it all, God was writing a story of healing, restoration, and purpose. 

This conversation is one I believe every parent, ministry leader, teacher, pastor, grandparent, and survivor needs to hear.

Because the reality is that trauma impacts far more people than we often realize. And sometimes the church has not always known how to respond.

In this episode, we talk about:

-Childhood trauma and its lasting impact

-How trauma changes the way people see themselves, others, and even God
-Why shame keeps so many survivors silent
-The difference between surviving and healing
-How Christian counseling can be a powerful part of the healing journey
-Why the church should be leading these conversations, not avoiding them
-Supporting children and adults who have experienced abuse
-The importance of being seen, believed, and heard

One thing Veronica said that really stood out to me was this:

Trauma is an encounter with evil.

And because of that, healing isn't simply about "getting over it." It's about confronting the lies that trauma planted and replacing them with the truth of who God says you are.

We also discuss the reality that many survivors carry messages such as:

• It was your fault.
• Nobody will believe you.
• Nobody cares.
• You should stay silent.

Friend, if you've ever carried those thoughts, I want you to hear this:

What happened to you was not your fault.

And what happened to you is not your identity.

One of my favorite parts of this conversation was discussing how healing happens when survivors are finally seen by people who know their story and still love them. Because that is exactly how Jesus meets us.

Friend, if you are walking through trauma, shame, abuse, or painful experiences from your past, please know this:

You do not have to carry it alone.

There is hope.
There is healing.
And there are people who will walk beside you.

Bio:

Veronica Thompson, LCSW, is a trauma therapist, a committed Christian, and a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. She has dedicated more than twenty years to helping children, teens, and families navigate and overcome the trauma of sexual abuse. In her writing and clinical work, Veronica explores the intersection of the Christian faith with the best clinical psychotherapy practices.

Veronica earned her Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University (New York, NY) and minored in law. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University (New Haven, CT).

Anchor Verses:

Deuteronomy 30:19-20

Ephesians 6: 10-18

Romans 12:2

Connect with Veronica:

Website: http://veronicathompson.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicathompsonlcsw/

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