How Sexual Assault Survivors Reclaim Their Lives -- Healing Loudly with Sarra Lashhaab

Sexual assault can leave survivors questioning what happened, blaming themselves for how they responded, and wondering whether their experience was serious enough to deserve help. Brian Granneman is joined by Sarra Lashhab, LCSW, EMDR therapist and founder of Healing Loudly, who shares her own experience of sexual assault at 17 and the importance of being believed. They explore why survivors freeze or comply during an assault, how shame and self-blame develop, and what happens when family members dismiss or minimize a disclosure. The conversation also examines how childhood emotional injuries shape identity, attachment, boundaries, and the ability to trust others.

Brian and Sarra discuss sexual intimacy after trauma, genuine consent, coercion within relationships, anger, forgiveness, and the difficult process of surrendering the search for justice or accountability that may never come. They explore EMDR therapy, self-compassion, substance use as a coping mechanism, and the gradual work of rebuilding safety and autonomy. Sarra also shares the story behind her Dear Survivor Campaign, her personal experience with EMDR, and how self-defense helped her reclaim confidence in her body. Throughout the conversation, they examine what meaningful recovery looks like and how survivors can develop lives that extend beyond what happened to them.

Connect with Sarra Lashhab:

Healing Loudly: https://www.healingloudly.com

Dear Survivor Campaign: https://www.healingloudly.com/dear-survivor-campaign

Instagram: @sessionswithsarra

Check out the website for articles published weekly:

www.naplesintegratedrecovery.com

Want to work together? I see psychotherapy clients in Florida:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/brian-granneman-naples-fl/1153470

I also offer accountability, coaching, and sober companion services. Send an email:

brian@naplesintegratedrecovery.com