Pastor Deborah Schleich: From Trauma to Triumph
But if you have the goal to be healed, okay, if you work steadily towards that, it might take you years. And some people need to be in therapy, group therapy. And what happens is it's trying to sort of come out of the closet for you to deal with it. Okay, maybe you need to pry over it and it's gone.
Imagine growing up in a household where your mother’s mental illness casts a long shadow over your childhood. That’s the reality Pastor Deborah Schleich faced, moving from place to place in a military family. Now based in Pensacola, Florida, Deborah has turned her painful past into a mission of healing and support for others.
In this episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now', she opens up about her journey from trauma to recovery and how she has harnessed her experiences to help others heal. Deborah wears many hats—minister, mental health advocate, trauma-informed social worker—and she’s deeply involved in her community. Her unique perspective as both a survivor and a professional brings a wealth of insight into the complexities of childhood trauma.
She emphasizes the importance of addressing all aspects of our being: spirit, soul, and body. Each part needs care, and neglecting any one can hinder the healing process. One of the standout themes of this episode is the role of spirituality in recovery. For Deborah, faith has been a cornerstone in her journey, providing strength and comfort through the toughest times. But she doesn’t stop there; she also highlights the critical role of therapy and support networks.
Whether it’s individual therapy or group sessions, finding the right resources can make all the difference. The episode also tackles dissociation, a coping mechanism where the mind detaches from reality to protect itself from trauma. Deborah shares her own experiences with dissociation and offers practical advice on how to navigate this complex issue. She also addresses the skepticism that survivors often encounter, urging listeners to become advocates for themselves and others.
Deborah’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, no matter how deep the wounds. She encourages listeners to never lose hope and to keep striving for recovery, no matter how long it takes. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith, therapy, and community support.