"THE HEALING YEARS"
Surviving Incest and Sexual Abuse

THE HEALING YEARS: SYNOPSIS
Without recovery, survivors of child sexual abuse face emotional struggle, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress, and the perpetration of abuse in their lives and families. This artfully produced documentary illustrates the poignant stories of incest survivors: former Miss America , Marilyn Van Derbur speaking out in the nation, Janice Mirikitani, President of Glide memorial Church, San Francisco , helping inner-city women substance abusers healing from incest, and Barbara Hamiliton, a 79-year old survivor ending three generations of incest in her family. For the sexually abused child, awareness and recovery is key to a secure and nourishing future. The Healing Years points the way.

"This documentary does the most difficult, almost impossible feat: it admits the sick and cruel past. In doing so, it becomes therapy for a healthy future. This is an exhibition of abundant courage and great heart. Thank you."
Maya Angelou

"This is one of the best videos on child sexual abuse and incest! The Healing Years is a powerful experience, which will make an excellent training tape for all interested in working with and for survivors. I'm using it in my classes!"
Dr. Jon Conte, Professor of Social Work
University of Washington

"These authentic voices are inspiration for everyone who has suffered abuse or who have family and friends who have survived sexual trauma."
Patricia Giggans, Executive Director, Rape Crisis Center
Los Angeles Commission on Assaults Against Women

"The Healing Years takes the shame and betrayal of child sexual abuse and turns this trauma into a message of hope, healing and empowerment."
William G. Steiner, Childhelp USA

"An excellent film...High recommended for child abuse and domestic violence professionals, therapists, and teachers."
Library Journal

"This powerhouse of a film profiles three strong, vibrant survivors of child sexual abuse who convincingly tell us -- once and for all -- that we must take back our lives. This documentary banishes shame & celebrates women's power."
Laura Davis, co-author, Courage to Heal

"After viewing The Healing Years documentary, I have ordered a copy for our Education Resource Center .  There is a clear correlation between adult substance abuse and addiction issues and childhood sexual abuse.  This film is an effective and powerful community teaching tool that promotes a healing message, yet also challenges the viewer by bringing them face to face with the pain that sexual abuse causes"
--Mary Pat Angelini, Executive Director, Substance Abuse Resources/Prevention and Education Network, A United Way Agency and the National council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence.

THE HEALING YEARS: AWARDS / SCREENINGS

THE HEALING YEARS: RECOMMENDED USES