A Letter to the Victim Service Center August 2015
I am writing to express my sincerest gratitude to the Victim Service Center of Central Florida and most particularly, my Therapist, Theresa. I would be remiss if I did not take the time to say “Thank You!” Theresa proved to be God-sent to me during a most difficult time in my life. She was professional, attentive, warm, caring and effective as she walked me out of the darkness and back into the light. I will be forever grateful for her and your organization!
When I first visited VSC for my first appointment, I felt so helpless, overwhelmed and confused about how to overcome the aftermath of sexual assault and harassment. I had undergone victim blaming and had started succumbing to all the emotional and psychological pressures. Theresa validated that I was the victim and helped me understand and cope with the situation. So many blessings and so much healing came with every session until I felt strong again. She also prepared me for any triggers that could blind-side me and send me back into emotional turmoil.
In addition to my healing concerning sexual assault and harassment in the workplace, Theresa was instrumental in encouraging a conversation with my younger sister who had been sexually assaulted as a child. After I left my session with Theresa on that particular day, I called my sister. I was finally able to understand her pain and why she had not fully healed after 30 plus years. Some of her behaviors and attitudes toward men were harsh, even if they loved her dearly. Most importantly, my sister lived with the fact that I did not fully understand how traumatic the experience was for her, and that in itself was a burden she was still carrying. That day on the phone, we cried and cried as we shared our feelings and experience. God was in the midst because we realized in that moment a heavy weight caused by misunderstanding and resentment had finally been lifted. I truly thank Theresa for being a vessel and having the insight to know my sister’s situation was not so unique to my own. What was meant for bad turned out to be for our good. I am confident Theresa can relate to this statement on a spiritual level.
I engaged in my final session with Theresa last week. It was indeed bittersweet. I will miss her and our sessions. I so enjoyed having her as my therapist. She was absolutely awesome. I wish her all the best with her future endeavors and her life. Please share this letter with her and her colleagues. I hope all can exemplify the wonderful work she performed in my life. She was truly a blessing!
As a token of my appreciation and special donation, please accept the enclosed check for $500.00. God bless you all and the wonderful service you provide!
Sincerely,
A Former VSC Client