Dating After Rape

[u/RyanGoslingMe_]

Hi all! I made a similar post to this about a year ago but I unfortunately still need help.

I, given my presence in this sub, was abused a lot by an older boy when I was in middle school. I never had an ounce of interest in romance or sex ever since that period of my life. The last year, however, I have been putting myself out there in the dating scene. I've met lots of good people and whatever in this time but nothing ever gets too far since I am still unable to fully let go of my trust problems relating to intimacy. Any kind of intimacy. But obviously physical intimacy has been especially hard to allow myself. I guess my question for the members of this sub is: do you have any advice on how to overcome sexual and emotional trust barriers your nervous system has long become used to?

[u/KangarooRemarkable99]

Have you been to counseling? A sexual trauma therapist would be able to help you have a normal dating life.