Sexual Abuse Counselling in Sans Souci, NSW

Photo of Kim Shade - Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
(02) 9159 6172 View (02) 9159 6172
Photo of Anastasia Hronis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Anastasia Hronis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
(02) 8105 5006 View (02) 8105 5006
Photo of Georgia Ashworth, Psychologist
Georgia Ashworth
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Georgia is a psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a genuine and empathetic therapeutic style, committed to providing a non-judgemental space to achieve therapeutic goals through evidence-based psychological therapy. Georgia is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar who completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as well as previous studies in psychology at Macquarie University (MQ) and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP). She has an interest in public health, having completed research on gambling and drug addictions.
Georgia is a psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a genuine and empathetic therapeutic style, committed to providing a non-judgemental space to achieve therapeutic goals through evidence-based psychological therapy. Georgia is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar who completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as well as previous studies in psychology at Macquarie University (MQ) and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP). She has an interest in public health, having completed research on gambling and drug addictions.
(02) 8105 5765 View (02) 8105 5765
Photo of Anthony Colantuono, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Anthony Colantuono
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Counselling sessions with me are non-judgmental, kind, empathic and confidential. I utilise Medicare approved focused psychological strategies and recovery-based principles. This includes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma informed principles, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and EMDR. A Counsellor should be appropriately qualified, genuine and authentic to facilitate a therapeutic alliance which should help you with moving forward with life. Working with the mind's plasticity takes due care and skill. I strictly adhere to the AASW code of ethics.
Counselling sessions with me are non-judgmental, kind, empathic and confidential. I utilise Medicare approved focused psychological strategies and recovery-based principles. This includes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma informed principles, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and EMDR. A Counsellor should be appropriately qualified, genuine and authentic to facilitate a therapeutic alliance which should help you with moving forward with life. Working with the mind's plasticity takes due care and skill. I strictly adhere to the AASW code of ethics.
(02) 9538 7967 View (02) 9538 7967

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tracey Jarvis, Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Tracey Jarvis
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialise in the treatment of trauma, PTSD, sexual assault trauma, anxiety, grief and depression.
I am a highly experienced and compassionate therapist, working with people who have trauma and mental health issues. I work with people to enhance happiness and find positive solutions. Everybody is different so I listen and tailor my work to each person's individual personality.
I specialise in the treatment of trauma, PTSD, sexual assault trauma, anxiety, grief and depression.
I am a highly experienced and compassionate therapist, working with people who have trauma and mental health issues. I work with people to enhance happiness and find positive solutions. Everybody is different so I listen and tailor my work to each person's individual personality.
(02) 8403 0506 View (02) 8403 0506
Photo of Sonja Keller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Sonja Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Kingswood, NSW 2747
I specialise in Trauma, Child Sexual Abuse and Personality Disorders.
Everybody wants to be heard, believed, validated and respected. I teach strategies to manage complicated and overwhelming feelings. I love to help individuals grow and develop interpersonally and learn how to have better more satisfying relationships with themselves and others. I am passionate about working with people to unpack and explore early childhood trauma, facilitate self-exploration, examine emotional blind spots and understand relationship patterns in order to have a functional, happy and healthy existence.
I specialise in Trauma, Child Sexual Abuse and Personality Disorders.
Everybody wants to be heard, believed, validated and respected. I teach strategies to manage complicated and overwhelming feelings. I love to help individuals grow and develop interpersonally and learn how to have better more satisfying relationships with themselves and others. I am passionate about working with people to unpack and explore early childhood trauma, facilitate self-exploration, examine emotional blind spots and understand relationship patterns in order to have a functional, happy and healthy existence.
(02) 8776 3814 View (02) 8776 3814
Photo of Monika Hammerle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Monika Hammerle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I have over 20 years experience working in a variety of counselling roles in non-government organisations around issues of childhood trauma, child sexual abuse, as well as a generalist counsellor providing counselling to improve the emotional and psychological well-being of my clients .
I regard being a counsellor as a privilege, working with my clients who show great courage and resilience in sharing their stories and striving to work on their personal issues to improve their psychological and emotional wellbeing. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives and by reaching out for professional support and counselling are able to learn evidence-based psychological strategies to cope with life's challenges and to enrich their own lives.
I have over 20 years experience working in a variety of counselling roles in non-government organisations around issues of childhood trauma, child sexual abuse, as well as a generalist counsellor providing counselling to improve the emotional and psychological well-being of my clients .
I regard being a counsellor as a privilege, working with my clients who show great courage and resilience in sharing their stories and striving to work on their personal issues to improve their psychological and emotional wellbeing. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives and by reaching out for professional support and counselling are able to learn evidence-based psychological strategies to cope with life's challenges and to enrich their own lives.
(02) 7804 4897 View (02) 7804 4897
Photo of Rose Vala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MC, AMHSW
Rose Vala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MC, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I can work with most issues, and have a special interest and expertise in working with adult survivors of child sexual abuse.
We can all have times in our lives when things can seem unmanageable, whether it is within our family or close relationships, divorce or bereavement, or our health, our work or in coming to terms with difficult events that have happened either recently or in the past , which still don’t feel resolved. You are not alone, as human beings we all have difficult times. It is a brave decision to try to resolve those issues in the best way you can. A counsellor is not there to judge you, or to give you text book solutions. They are there to help and guide you towards the solution that is right for you.
I can work with most issues, and have a special interest and expertise in working with adult survivors of child sexual abuse.
We can all have times in our lives when things can seem unmanageable, whether it is within our family or close relationships, divorce or bereavement, or our health, our work or in coming to terms with difficult events that have happened either recently or in the past , which still don’t feel resolved. You are not alone, as human beings we all have difficult times. It is a brave decision to try to resolve those issues in the best way you can. A counsellor is not there to judge you, or to give you text book solutions. They are there to help and guide you towards the solution that is right for you.
(02) 9100 0835 View (02) 9100 0835
Photo of Shareen Birges
Shareen Birges
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/ assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/ assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
(02) 9159 6730 View (02) 9159 6730
Photo of Lorraine Wright - EMDR Consultation and Supervision, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
EMDR Consultation and Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Ashfield, NSW 2131
She specializes in complex post-traumatic stress, childhood sexual assault survivors, and domestic violence.
As an Accredited EMDR consultant, I offer clinical supervision and EMDR consultation with a focus on assisting individuals and groups to build confidence and gain experience with EMDR and support individuals through the accreditation process.
She specializes in complex post-traumatic stress, childhood sexual assault survivors, and domestic violence.
As an Accredited EMDR consultant, I offer clinical supervision and EMDR consultation with a focus on assisting individuals and groups to build confidence and gain experience with EMDR and support individuals through the accreditation process.
(02) 8294 9667 View (02) 8294 9667
Photo of Jaz Forrester - Core Trauma Therapy, Counsellor, PACFA
Core Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with people navigating complex trauma, including sexual assault, domestic violence, PTSD, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief, family estrangement, substance use, and burnout.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly automated, I offer something deeply human - a space for real connection, meaning-making, and healing. I am here to support you as you reconnect with yourself, find your own voice, and move forward on your terms. You don’t need to have it all figured out, just need a safe space to land.
I work with people navigating complex trauma, including sexual assault, domestic violence, PTSD, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief, family estrangement, substance use, and burnout.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly automated, I offer something deeply human - a space for real connection, meaning-making, and healing. I am here to support you as you reconnect with yourself, find your own voice, and move forward on your terms. You don’t need to have it all figured out, just need a safe space to land.
(03) 7003 2361 View (03) 7003 2361
Photo of Elizabeth Chikako Crouch, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Elizabeth Chikako Crouch
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
My practice draws from feminist, attachment and trauma theory, and I use a number of different types of therapies in session depending on client need and what works for them.
I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
My practice draws from feminist, attachment and trauma theory, and I use a number of different types of therapies in session depending on client need and what works for them.
(02) 8294 6092 View (02) 8294 6092
Photo of Jane Lumley - Jane Lumley - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Photo of Liz Saolotoga, Counsellor, PACFA
Liz Saolotoga
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Other areas I counsel in are; survivors of sexual assault, women suffering with endometriosis, anger, complex trauma, anxieties, depression, grief and loss, family and cultural expectations' and obligations, school concerns (bullying, career guidance) suicidal ideation & self-harming behavior's, emotion regulation.
Understanding that each journey is unique, I offer counselling services tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're seeking support for personal growth, facing relationship concerns, or navigating the complexities of life's transitions, my aim is to provide a safe, supportive space for exploration and growth. As a Pasifika woman with a deep passion for trauma work, I offer an empathetic ear and a respectful approach. Together, we will delve into your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to develop effective coping strategies and resilience tools. My goal is to ensure that you are heard, understood, and empowered to move forward.
Other areas I counsel in are; survivors of sexual assault, women suffering with endometriosis, anger, complex trauma, anxieties, depression, grief and loss, family and cultural expectations' and obligations, school concerns (bullying, career guidance) suicidal ideation & self-harming behavior's, emotion regulation.
Understanding that each journey is unique, I offer counselling services tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're seeking support for personal growth, facing relationship concerns, or navigating the complexities of life's transitions, my aim is to provide a safe, supportive space for exploration and growth. As a Pasifika woman with a deep passion for trauma work, I offer an empathetic ear and a respectful approach. Together, we will delve into your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to develop effective coping strategies and resilience tools. My goal is to ensure that you are heard, understood, and empowered to move forward.
(07) 3477 9344 View (07) 3477 9344
Photo of Julie Sweet, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Julie Sweet
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Single incident trauma, compound and complex trauma, adult survivors of child sexual abuse and domestic and family violence.
Julie is a practising clinical Counsellor/Psychotherapist, having been practising for over 13 years. She has a depth of practical experience in working with clients in both short and long-terms contexts. She works from a person centred and client focused framework. Julie subscribes to the client as the expert in their own life. Her professional approach is one of empowering the individual to achieve greater independence, improved mental health and positive well-being. Her areas of focus have been centred on how historic traumatic events impact people in their present-day relationships and sense of self-worth.
Single incident trauma, compound and complex trauma, adult survivors of child sexual abuse and domestic and family violence.
Julie is a practising clinical Counsellor/Psychotherapist, having been practising for over 13 years. She has a depth of practical experience in working with clients in both short and long-terms contexts. She works from a person centred and client focused framework. Julie subscribes to the client as the expert in their own life. Her professional approach is one of empowering the individual to achieve greater independence, improved mental health and positive well-being. Her areas of focus have been centred on how historic traumatic events impact people in their present-day relationships and sense of self-worth.
(02) 9541 8730 View (02) 9541 8730
Photo of Advaitha Sriramaneni, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Advaitha Sriramaneni
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have primarily worked with youth & adults who have, or are experiencing complex needs, including: Sexual assault, PTSD, Abuse/neglect, ADHD, Anxiety/Stress, Alcohol/drug concerns, Behavioural/anger concerns, cultural concerns, domestic violence, depression, trauma, or grief.
I’m an experienced mental health counsellor dedicated to helping individuals of all ages overcome mental health challenges. With a Master’s degree in Counselling, Mental Health, and Rehabilitation, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (Honours), I bring a solid educational foundation to my practice. I specialise in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief, and trauma, and I am equipped to help those navigating racial/ethnic identity crises, alcohol and drug dependency, school or work-related stress, and relationship difficulties.
I have primarily worked with youth & adults who have, or are experiencing complex needs, including: Sexual assault, PTSD, Abuse/neglect, ADHD, Anxiety/Stress, Alcohol/drug concerns, Behavioural/anger concerns, cultural concerns, domestic violence, depression, trauma, or grief.
I’m an experienced mental health counsellor dedicated to helping individuals of all ages overcome mental health challenges. With a Master’s degree in Counselling, Mental Health, and Rehabilitation, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (Honours), I bring a solid educational foundation to my practice. I specialise in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief, and trauma, and I am equipped to help those navigating racial/ethnic identity crises, alcohol and drug dependency, school or work-related stress, and relationship difficulties.
(03) 7302 2470 View (03) 7302 2470
Photo of Imogen Rose Todd - Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy, MSc
Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support with their gender and sexuality.
I am a qualified Sexologist and Social Worker and am passionate about working with clients to increase connection, pleasure, and overall wellbeing. Through person-centred care and therapeutic intervention, I can support you to achieve your mental and sexual wellbeing and relationship goals.
I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support with their gender and sexuality.
I am a qualified Sexologist and Social Worker and am passionate about working with clients to increase connection, pleasure, and overall wellbeing. Through person-centred care and therapeutic intervention, I can support you to achieve your mental and sexual wellbeing and relationship goals.
(03) 8338 1600 View (03) 8338 1600
Photo of Anine Cummins - Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
I’m gender non-conforming, a proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’ve successfully overcome trauma. I work with clients everyday on self-acceptance and practical solutions to difficult emotional problems. My lived experience, qualifications and expertise make me an empathetic and insightful counsellor.
I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
I’m gender non-conforming, a proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’ve successfully overcome trauma. I work with clients everyday on self-acceptance and practical solutions to difficult emotional problems. My lived experience, qualifications and expertise make me an empathetic and insightful counsellor.
(03) 8338 1789 View (03) 8338 1789
Photo of (York) Xiang Yan Hong, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
(York) Xiang Yan Hong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Croydon, NSW 2132
I am experienced in working with crisis, trauma, men's issues, relationships, mental health, childhood sexual abuse and many other areas.
I am a clinical and forensically endorsed Asian male psychologist with over 10 years of experience. Offering treatments including EMDR to help clients clarify what’s truly important and meaningful to them through therapy or life coaching to learn skills that help handle difficult thoughts and feelings more effectively, so it doesn’t get in the way of us doing the things that we find important. I have helped clients treat and manage their mental health, improve their relationships, face crisis situations, change unhelpful behaviours and better cope with difficult thoughts and emotions, to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
I am experienced in working with crisis, trauma, men's issues, relationships, mental health, childhood sexual abuse and many other areas.
I am a clinical and forensically endorsed Asian male psychologist with over 10 years of experience. Offering treatments including EMDR to help clients clarify what’s truly important and meaningful to them through therapy or life coaching to learn skills that help handle difficult thoughts and feelings more effectively, so it doesn’t get in the way of us doing the things that we find important. I have helped clients treat and manage their mental health, improve their relationships, face crisis situations, change unhelpful behaviours and better cope with difficult thoughts and emotions, to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
(02) 8105 5213 View (02) 8105 5213
Photo of Barbara Gear - Harmony Online Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Harmony Online Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialise in Depression & Anxiety disorders, Complex Trauma, Grief and Loss, Sexual Abuse, Family Violence, Relationships, ADHD & Addictive Behaviours.
My expertise in therapeutic counselling includes; Psycho-therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma informed with a Narrative Approach. I provide a flexible online counselling service via Telehealth, Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Face Time from the safety and privacy from your own home. I also cater for Mental Health Plans.
I specialise in Depression & Anxiety disorders, Complex Trauma, Grief and Loss, Sexual Abuse, Family Violence, Relationships, ADHD & Addictive Behaviours.
My expertise in therapeutic counselling includes; Psycho-therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma informed with a Narrative Approach. I provide a flexible online counselling service via Telehealth, Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Face Time from the safety and privacy from your own home. I also cater for Mental Health Plans.
(03) 4236 5013 View (03) 4236 5013
Sexual Abuse Counsellors

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.