Consent is an agreement between people to engage in a specific activity—freely, clearly, and enthusiastically given. It means both parties understand what’s happening and genuinely want to participate. In the context of sexual activity, consent must be mutual, informed, and ongoing.
It’s not just about saying “yes”—it’s about:
- Freely choosing to participate, without pressure, guilt, or fear
- Being of sound mind and body, meaning sober, alert, and aware
- Giving clear, unambiguous communication through words or actions
- Being able to change your mind at any time, even if things have already started
Consent is not silence, lack of resistance, or the absence of a “no.” It’s not valid if someone is afraid, unsure, or coerced. Everyone deserves the right to say yes, no, or stop at any point—and to have that respected. Therapy for sexual assault survivors often includes conversations around consent, boundaries, and reclaiming your right to say what happens to your body.