Quote Originally Posted by mythicat
I don't think BDSM is a substitute for psychiatry, but by the same token sometimes psychiatry is no substitute for a safe and loving relationship built on trust and acceptance.
But you must also realize that for a person from a background of trauma to form a safe and loving relationship based on trust and acceptance is nearly impossible.

A great number of people with abusive backgrounds have trust issues and can never form a "normal" relationship. And what feels safe and loving for a person that has been abused is otfen abuse.

It's when these people are shown kind, caring relationships that they begin to feel uncomfortable.

I'm happy that your friend found a good relationship and that things worked out for her, but she is one of the very, very few for whom things do work out.

Also, there are licensed sex therapists that can help with sexual problems and not lose their licenses.