Are you or someone you love carrying the hidden weight of childhood sexual abuse and trauma? In this powerful, hope-filled conversation, I sit down with certified trauma therapist Veronica Thompson — a CSA survivor turned healer — to talk about what the church must do differently, how to understand trauma (Big T vs little T), and the real tools that bring freedom.
She shares her deeply personal story of childhood sexual abuse, growing up in unstable environments, and ultimately finding healing through faith in Jesus.
We talk about what trauma actually does to the brain and body, why so many Christians silently suffer, and how outdated mindsets in the church may unintentionally allow harm to continue.
This episode isn’t about condemnation—it’s about awareness, healing, and protecting future generations.
If you’ve ever struggled with your past, questioned why healing feels so hard, or want to understand trauma through a biblical lens better… this conversation is for you.
👉 Listen all the way through—and share this with someone who needs hope and healing.
Chapters:
[00:00] Podcast Preview
[01:37] Topic and Guest Introduction
[04:10] Veronica's Story: Trauma, Abuse & Finding Faith
[08:05] Bridging Generations: The Church, Shame & Silence
[13:10] The Stats: How Many Children Are Affected by CSA?
[14:45] Understanding PTSD: Big T Trauma vs. Little T Trauma
[17:42] PTSD Symptoms Through a Spiritual Warfare Lens
[19:36] Avoidance, Lies & the Battlefield of the Mind
[21:02] Emotional Abuse vs. Sexual Abuse: How Children Respond
[24:00] Living Proof: Veronica's Marriage & Life After Healing
[25:32] Healing Tools: Breathwork, Nervous System Regulation & Showing Up Daily
[27:10] Setting Boundaries: What They Are & How to Set Them
[30:13] Isolation After Trauma: What to Do If You've Shut Everyone Out
[32:42] The Power of Inner Healing Prayer + Stacking Your Healing Tools
[37:34] When CSA Is Disclosed: The First Step the Church Should Take
[39:55] What Happens When a Child Gets Justice: Stopping PTSD Before It Starts
[42:40] Church Ministries & Organizations Resources for Survivors
[44:20] A Word of Encouragement: Take Action, Get Your Healing
[45:40] Veronica's Book: The Age of the Child
[46:30] Closing Prayer and Final Words
Resources mentioned:
Veronica Thompson's website: veronicathompson.com (check here for book updates on The Age of the Child)
Connect with today's guest:
Instagram: @veronicathompsonlcsw
Veronica Thompson, LCSW, is a certified 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.
P.S. If you're just checking out the show to see if it's a good fit for you, welcome!
If you're really serious about becoming Visibly Fit, you'll get the best experience if you download the worksheets available at https://wendiepett.com/visiblyfitpodcast.
