How They Recover: A Qualitative Study of Female Adult Clergy Sexual Abuse Survivors Using AI

Adult Clergy Sexual Abuse (ACSA) is a profound betrayal of trust and power that produces complex psychological, spiritual, and relational injuries for survivors. While much of the literature has focused on the abuse itself and its consequences, less attention has been given to recovery and resilience. This qualitative study draws on in-depth interviews with 27 female survivors of ACSA to explore how they heal and recover. Using artificial intelligence to support thematic analysis, nine key recovery processes were identified: 1. therapy, 2. supportive relationships and community, 3. faith and spirituality, 4. survivor organizations, 5. education and understanding, 6. justice and accountability, 7. sharing their stories, 8. time and patience, and 9. practical support and advocacy. Across experiences, the most potent factor undergirding recovery was being believed and validated, which addressed survivors’ core wounds of self-blame and isolation. Findings highlight survivors’ capacity for healing and underscore the critical role of supportive, informed communities.