Body & Soul, Healed & Whole:
An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality
after Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control
by Tabitha Westbrook
Referenced in Show Notes: Safe to Hope podcast – Domestic Abuse Recponciled – Episode 2
A Compassionate Resource for Leaders, Counselors, and Survivors
Body & Soul, Healed & Whole: An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality after Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control by Tabitha Westbrook is a vital resource for leaders, counselors, and those dedicated to supporting victims and survivors of abuse within the Christian context. This book addresses a topic often overlooked in the church—sexual abuse including interventions with the perpetrator—and offers a path to healing that is both compassionate and deeply rooted in faith. Westbrook’s approach is particularly relevant for those in crisis or post-trauma processing, offering practical guidance that resonates with the lived experiences of survivors.
A Faith-Based Path to Healing
In Body & Soul, Healed & Whole, Westbrook exegetes God’s precepts for healing, emphasizing that true restoration involves more than just spiritual platitudes. She challenges the church to speak openly about sexual abuse, particularly among single women, a group often neglected in these discussions. Westbrook doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of sexual abuse, whether it occurs within or outside of marriage. Instead, she confronts these issues head-on, offering readers a way forward through God’s love and grace. Her message is clear: Jesus is not distant from our pain; He is present with us in the mess, offering compassionate healing.
Equipping Caregivers with Practical Wisdom
For those in leadership and counseling roles, Body & Soul, Healed & Whole provides essential tools for addressing the complex issues surrounding sexual abuse and trauma. Westbrook’s insights equip caregivers to better support those they serve, offering guidance that aligns with biblical principles while acknowledging the nuanced realities of abuse. She emphasizes that healing is not a one-size-fits-all process, urging leaders to walk alongside survivors with empathy and understanding. The book also tackles the often-ignored topic of healthy sexuality for single women, offering a holistic approach that respects their dignity and worth.
A Pathway to Wholeness
Westbrook’s book is a lifeline for victims and survivors of trauma and abuse. She speaks directly to the deep wounds inflicted by sexual abuse, offering a message of hope and restoration. Body & Soul, Healed & Whole is not just about overcoming the past; it’s about reclaiming one’s God-given identity and sexuality in a way that honors the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. The book also addresses the unique challenges faced by single women, providing guidance on how to develop a healthy sense of sexuality even when not in a marital relationship. Westbrook’s compassionate approach ensures that every reader feels seen, understood, and valued.
A Must-Read for Healing and Restoration
Body & Soul, Healed & Whole is an essential read for anyone involved in supporting survivors of trauma, as well as for the survivors themselves. Tabitha Westbrook’s blend of faith-based wisdom and practical, empathetic guidance makes this book a powerful tool for fostering true healing and wholeness. Whether you are a leader, counselor, or someone on your own healing journey, this book offers the insights and encouragement needed to navigate the complexities of trauma recovery. Explore further through this affiliate link and take the next step toward healing.
