Sexual Abuse Counselling in Holland Park West, QLD

Photo of Una L Window, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland Park West, QLD
Una L Window
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Holland Park West, QLD 4121
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
(07) 4243 4713 View (07) 4243 4713

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Liz Saolotoga, Counsellor in Holland Park West, QLD
Liz Saolotoga
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Other areas I counsel in are; survivors of sexual abuse, 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, infertility and IVF pathway.
My counselling approach is to find the critic voices within and bring them to the fore. Whether your dealing with anxiety, anger, depression, an addiction to pornography, infidelity or you just need a bit of guidance to find you again, we can work through those together. Life loves to throw a million curve balls and sometimes we don't have the capacity or tools to handle them. Or sometimes we think we are doing the right thing and handle it the best way we know how but then we make it worse. It becomes exhausting. I get it, have been there more than a few times myself. I invite you to Book an appointment today via my website link.
Other areas I counsel in are; survivors of sexual abuse, 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, infertility and IVF pathway.
My counselling approach is to find the critic voices within and bring them to the fore. Whether your dealing with anxiety, anger, depression, an addiction to pornography, infidelity or you just need a bit of guidance to find you again, we can work through those together. Life loves to throw a million curve balls and sometimes we don't have the capacity or tools to handle them. Or sometimes we think we are doing the right thing and handle it the best way we know how but then we make it worse. It becomes exhausting. I get it, have been there more than a few times myself. I invite you to Book an appointment today via my website link.
(07) 3477 9344 View (07) 3477 9344
Photo of Charmaine Dunn Counselling & Trauma Therapy, Counsellor in Holland Park West, QLD
Charmaine Dunn Counselling & Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122
I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and complex PTSD including childhood trauma and sexual abuse trauma.
Hi! I am Charmaine, thanks for stopping by. Are you feeling stuck? Can’t move forward? Either living in the past, hating the present or wishing for a different future? Life is tough, and sometimes we all need a little help, but finding the right person to support you is essential. For the last 10 years, I have been working with individuals to clear the patterns of the past, helping them get unstuck and move forward into the future. I work with both conscious (talk therapies) and sub-conscious (experiential therapies) to find resolution, finding the unique therapy that best suits you and your circumstances.
I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and complex PTSD including childhood trauma and sexual abuse trauma.
Hi! I am Charmaine, thanks for stopping by. Are you feeling stuck? Can’t move forward? Either living in the past, hating the present or wishing for a different future? Life is tough, and sometimes we all need a little help, but finding the right person to support you is essential. For the last 10 years, I have been working with individuals to clear the patterns of the past, helping them get unstuck and move forward into the future. I work with both conscious (talk therapies) and sub-conscious (experiential therapies) to find resolution, finding the unique therapy that best suits you and your circumstances.
0406 411 466 View 0406 411 466
Photo of Dianne Margaret Gibson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland Park West, QLD
Dianne Margaret Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woolloongabba, QLD 4102
Di’s specialised areas of Counselling are: Anxiety and Phobias, Depression, Sleep Hygiene, Trauma, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Relationship issues (individuals and couples) Work and Career, Domestic Violence, Sexual abuse.
She is passionate about the links between our mental health and wellbeing and physical health and self-care. She supports older teen and adult clients of all ages, cultures, gender and sexual orientation and socio-economic backgrounds. She utilises Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to assist clients to become more present in their daily lives and to explore ways of increasing their capacity to experience a rich and meaningful life.
Di’s specialised areas of Counselling are: Anxiety and Phobias, Depression, Sleep Hygiene, Trauma, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Relationship issues (individuals and couples) Work and Career, Domestic Violence, Sexual abuse.
She is passionate about the links between our mental health and wellbeing and physical health and self-care. She supports older teen and adult clients of all ages, cultures, gender and sexual orientation and socio-economic backgrounds. She utilises Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to assist clients to become more present in their daily lives and to explore ways of increasing their capacity to experience a rich and meaningful life.
(07) 2100 4217 View (07) 2100 4217
Photo of Veronica Woolcott, Counsellor in Holland Park West, QLD
Veronica Woolcott
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Salisbury, QLD 4107
I am an NDIS and PACFA registered counsellor, specializing in counselling and therapy for children (up to 12 years old) who have experienced sexual abuse, displaying sexualized behaviours or have been exposed to such.
My practice at Silverthorn provides a safe and calm therapeutic space, where privacy and comfort are paramount. I offer each of my clients an individualised plan of consultation and evidence-based therapies designed to support their journey toward healing, recovery and a renewed sense of control. I believe in the value of authentic truth and honesty, where the core feelings of anxiety and fear – so typically related to trauma and distress – can be tended to and moderated, allowing for the steady restoration of trust and confidence.
I am an NDIS and PACFA registered counsellor, specializing in counselling and therapy for children (up to 12 years old) who have experienced sexual abuse, displaying sexualized behaviours or have been exposed to such.
My practice at Silverthorn provides a safe and calm therapeutic space, where privacy and comfort are paramount. I offer each of my clients an individualised plan of consultation and evidence-based therapies designed to support their journey toward healing, recovery and a renewed sense of control. I believe in the value of authentic truth and honesty, where the core feelings of anxiety and fear – so typically related to trauma and distress – can be tended to and moderated, allowing for the steady restoration of trust and confidence.
(07) 2100 4801 View (07) 2100 4801
Photo of Sussy Hollaway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland Park West, QLD
Sussy Hollaway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122
I am a trauma informed accredited mental health senior social worker providing counselling and advocacy services to children, adolescents, adults, and their families. I have experience working with people on the whole continuum of mental health concerns. I support people who have experienced trauma, sexual assault, drugs and alcohol, life transitions, suicidal thoughts and behaviour, and family and relationship issues, including domestic and family violence concerns and adjusting to parenthood.
I am a trauma informed accredited mental health senior social worker providing counselling and advocacy services to children, adolescents, adults, and their families. I have experience working with people on the whole continuum of mental health concerns. I support people who have experienced trauma, sexual assault, drugs and alcohol, life transitions, suicidal thoughts and behaviour, and family and relationship issues, including domestic and family violence concerns and adjusting to parenthood.
(07) 3113 9981 View (07) 3113 9981
Photo of Satori Counselling Services, Counsellor in Holland Park West, QLD
Satori Counselling Services
Counsellor, AASW
Verified Verified
Greenslopes, QLD 4120
As a social worker, I firmly believe that within every individual resides an incredible story of strength and resilience waiting to unfold and shine. In my practice I provide healing support and genuine empathy as we journey together through paths of transformation and growth. My experience working with women who have endured traumatic events from sexual abuse and violence has granted me invaluable insight into the profound dynamics of human resilience and vulnerability. Before specialising in trauma care, I worked in the community services sector, supporting individuals and families from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
As a social worker, I firmly believe that within every individual resides an incredible story of strength and resilience waiting to unfold and shine. In my practice I provide healing support and genuine empathy as we journey together through paths of transformation and growth. My experience working with women who have endured traumatic events from sexual abuse and violence has granted me invaluable insight into the profound dynamics of human resilience and vulnerability. Before specialising in trauma care, I worked in the community services sector, supporting individuals and families from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
(07) 2100 4137 View (07) 2100 4137
Photo of Amy Della-Torre, Psychotherapist in Holland Park West, QLD
Amy Della-Torre
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Woolloongabba, QLD 4102
Hello! My name is Amy, nice to meet you :) I am a Gestalt Psychotherapist and my priority when working together is making sure our relationship is based in trust and supporting you to feel heard and understood. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of reclaiming bodily awareness and exploring personal meaning making as a path towards healing and empowerment. By developing a deeper understanding of how our stories have been shaped by our contexts, we can begin to unravel and challenge old patterns of engagement with the environment, and experiment with new ways of being.
Hello! My name is Amy, nice to meet you :) I am a Gestalt Psychotherapist and my priority when working together is making sure our relationship is based in trust and supporting you to feel heard and understood. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of reclaiming bodily awareness and exploring personal meaning making as a path towards healing and empowerment. By developing a deeper understanding of how our stories have been shaped by our contexts, we can begin to unravel and challenge old patterns of engagement with the environment, and experiment with new ways of being.
(07) 2100 4671 View (07) 2100 4671
Photo of Cynthia Dunn, Psychologist in Holland Park West, QLD
Cynthia Dunn
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Upper Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122
Cynthia is offering Face2Face sessions at 13 Vanessa Boulevard, Springwood & Telehealth, including EMDR Online. Cynthia is passionate about working with people, from all walks of life, who have experienced complex trauma and uncovering their path to post-traumatic growth. For those who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, attachment or dissociative disorders, PTSD, personality, gender and identity issues, anger, substance misuse, or gambling problems and want change, Artemis can help. Remote & F2F sessions of the Safe & Sound Protocol by Dr Stephen Porges are now available. Book online here: W:artemispsychologyservices/contact
Cynthia is offering Face2Face sessions at 13 Vanessa Boulevard, Springwood & Telehealth, including EMDR Online. Cynthia is passionate about working with people, from all walks of life, who have experienced complex trauma and uncovering their path to post-traumatic growth. For those who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, attachment or dissociative disorders, PTSD, personality, gender and identity issues, anger, substance misuse, or gambling problems and want change, Artemis can help. Remote & F2F sessions of the Safe & Sound Protocol by Dr Stephen Porges are now available. Book online here: W:artemispsychologyservices/contact
(07) 2100 4051 View (07) 2100 4051
Photo of Dr Amirah Shah, Counsellor in Holland Park West, QLD
Dr Amirah Shah
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Tarragindi, QLD 4121
Recovering from trauma, or any form of grief and loss, is no easy task. Living with a disability also comes with experiences of loss and trauma. You need to make sense of your daily life, your past, your identity, and your relationships all over again. Finding support, and re-evaluating life after loss and trauma can be daunting, especially when people in your life may be contributing to these challenges. Living in a multicultural society also inevitably highlights the nuances of our conflicts. Only in a safe space can we then explore our deepest worries, our racing thoughts, distressing emotions, and spiritual concerns.
Recovering from trauma, or any form of grief and loss, is no easy task. Living with a disability also comes with experiences of loss and trauma. You need to make sense of your daily life, your past, your identity, and your relationships all over again. Finding support, and re-evaluating life after loss and trauma can be daunting, especially when people in your life may be contributing to these challenges. Living in a multicultural society also inevitably highlights the nuances of our conflicts. Only in a safe space can we then explore our deepest worries, our racing thoughts, distressing emotions, and spiritual concerns.
(07) 4887 3383 View (07) 4887 3383
Photo of Anne Castles - Holistic Women's Counselling, Counsellor in Holland Park West, QLD
Anne Castles - Holistic Women's Counselling
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Moorooka, QLD 4105
Are you seeking support with: anxiety; depression; sleep issues, relationship challenges; recovery from trauma (childhood abuse/neglect, sexual violence, intimate partner violence); sexuality/intimacy issues; or pregnancy, birth, or postnatal challenges? Are you wanting to be more compassionate towards yourself and reclaim an authentic life that’s aligned to your values? I work with women/folks who are seeking an integrative, holistic (body/mind/spirit) approach to therapy and who are curious about exploring trauma-informed, mindfulness, somatic (body-based) and creative methods of healing.
Are you seeking support with: anxiety; depression; sleep issues, relationship challenges; recovery from trauma (childhood abuse/neglect, sexual violence, intimate partner violence); sexuality/intimacy issues; or pregnancy, birth, or postnatal challenges? Are you wanting to be more compassionate towards yourself and reclaim an authentic life that’s aligned to your values? I work with women/folks who are seeking an integrative, holistic (body/mind/spirit) approach to therapy and who are curious about exploring trauma-informed, mindfulness, somatic (body-based) and creative methods of healing.
(07) 3060 8230 View (07) 3060 8230
Photo of Kristy Chamberlain, Psychotherapist in Holland Park West, QLD
Kristy Chamberlain
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Annerley, QLD 4103
Having trouble with relationships (intimate, friends and/or family)? Holding down a job? It’s hard to feel relaxed? Or getting out of bed feels like a monstrous task? Contact me so we can have a chat over the phone to ensure the type of therapy I provide will meet your needs. If you feel comfortable at this stage, we will make an initial assessment appointment so we can meet to discuss things in more detail. This is your opportunity to get a feel for therapy and if you feel comfortable with me.
Having trouble with relationships (intimate, friends and/or family)? Holding down a job? It’s hard to feel relaxed? Or getting out of bed feels like a monstrous task? Contact me so we can have a chat over the phone to ensure the type of therapy I provide will meet your needs. If you feel comfortable at this stage, we will make an initial assessment appointment so we can meet to discuss things in more detail. This is your opportunity to get a feel for therapy and if you feel comfortable with me.
(07) 2100 4848 View (07) 2100 4848
Photo of Brett Jacobson, Psychologist in Holland Park West, QLD
Brett Jacobson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Woolloongabba, QLD 4102
I understand the decision to begin psychotherapy can be daunting and is often prompted by a range of psychological difficulties, questions, and experiences. I offer individual psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults in-person at my Brisbane CBD office and by telehealth (for older adolescents and adults). I can assist young people and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss including non-death losses, relational trauma, sexuality and gender identity concerns, low self-esteem/ chronic life dissatisfaction, relationship difficulties, and drug and alcohol dependence.
I understand the decision to begin psychotherapy can be daunting and is often prompted by a range of psychological difficulties, questions, and experiences. I offer individual psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults in-person at my Brisbane CBD office and by telehealth (for older adolescents and adults). I can assist young people and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss including non-death losses, relational trauma, sexuality and gender identity concerns, low self-esteem/ chronic life dissatisfaction, relationship difficulties, and drug and alcohol dependence.
(07) 3186 8672 View (07) 3186 8672
Photo of Chelsea Perks Brisbane Psychologist, Psychologist in Holland Park West, QLD
Chelsea Perks Brisbane Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Woolloongabba, QLD 4102
At times we find ourselves feeling low, worried, anxious and stressed by life, it's many changes, and the relationships we have with others. Perhaps this isn't new, and you find yourself in the same pattern, over and over, fighting the same battles with the same types of people. Or perhaps this is new, and a profoundly disruptive event has occurred and altered your very reality and identity. I hope that we can work together to gain a deepened understanding of who you are, what you've been up against, and find real ways to invoke changes in your life.
At times we find ourselves feeling low, worried, anxious and stressed by life, it's many changes, and the relationships we have with others. Perhaps this isn't new, and you find yourself in the same pattern, over and over, fighting the same battles with the same types of people. Or perhaps this is new, and a profoundly disruptive event has occurred and altered your very reality and identity. I hope that we can work together to gain a deepened understanding of who you are, what you've been up against, and find real ways to invoke changes in your life.
(07) 3132 2848 View (07) 3132 2848
Photo of Our Space Psychology , Psychologist in Holland Park West, QLD
Our Space Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Annerley, QLD 4103
Our Space Psychology offers excellence in clinical psychology services working wirh children, adolescents and adults. We have a warm and supportive counselling approach with a focus on integrating the mind and body for maximum healing. We work in a beautiful and calming space where clients immediately relax. After 20 years in this field, I see my role as a guide promoting evidence based strategies to my clients. I work in all areas including depression, anxiety, work stress, eating disorders, postnatal depression and have a special interest in trauma. For further information see www.ourspacepsychology.com.au
Our Space Psychology offers excellence in clinical psychology services working wirh children, adolescents and adults. We have a warm and supportive counselling approach with a focus on integrating the mind and body for maximum healing. We work in a beautiful and calming space where clients immediately relax. After 20 years in this field, I see my role as a guide promoting evidence based strategies to my clients. I work in all areas including depression, anxiety, work stress, eating disorders, postnatal depression and have a special interest in trauma. For further information see www.ourspacepsychology.com.au
(07) 2100 4532 View (07) 2100 4532
Photo of Sathya Maniam, Psychologist in Holland Park West, QLD
Sathya Maniam
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woolloongabba, QLD 4102
I am a clinical psychologist who predominantly works with young adults, adults, clients from diverse cultural/linguistic/ethnic backgrounds, and individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community. I have an interest in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma and/or abuse. Through the collaborative process of therapy, you'll learn to identify your triggers, establish a sense of safety, reduce PTSD symptoms through trauma processing techniques, learn effective coping strategies, and work towards an improved quality of life beyond the trauma. I also work with a broad range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, attachment styles etc.
I am a clinical psychologist who predominantly works with young adults, adults, clients from diverse cultural/linguistic/ethnic backgrounds, and individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community. I have an interest in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma and/or abuse. Through the collaborative process of therapy, you'll learn to identify your triggers, establish a sense of safety, reduce PTSD symptoms through trauma processing techniques, learn effective coping strategies, and work towards an improved quality of life beyond the trauma. I also work with a broad range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, attachment styles etc.
(07) 2100 4999 View (07) 2100 4999
Photo of Rhi Gibson Trauma Informed Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland Park West, QLD
Rhi Gibson Trauma Informed Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AASW
Verified Verified
Greenslopes, QLD 4120
Hi, I'm Rhi (they/them) an accredited social worker and therapist. As a queer, non-binary person I am dedicated to working alongside LGBTQA+ young people and adults. I am a gender and neurodivergent affirming practitioner that specialises in mental health, relationships, addictions, disability, experiences of violence, and professional supervision. I have 24+ years experience in working alongside people from a range of diverse backgrounds. I am also the founder of a trauma informed martial arts school. I provide compassionate, confidential and non-judgemental counselling, using a range of therapeutic modalities.
Hi, I'm Rhi (they/them) an accredited social worker and therapist. As a queer, non-binary person I am dedicated to working alongside LGBTQA+ young people and adults. I am a gender and neurodivergent affirming practitioner that specialises in mental health, relationships, addictions, disability, experiences of violence, and professional supervision. I have 24+ years experience in working alongside people from a range of diverse backgrounds. I am also the founder of a trauma informed martial arts school. I provide compassionate, confidential and non-judgemental counselling, using a range of therapeutic modalities.
(07) 3132 1774 View (07) 3132 1774
Photo of Kali Lohman, Psychologist in Holland Park West, QLD
Kali Lohman
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woolloongabba, QLD 4102
Many of us come to a time in our lives when we know we want things to be different. We may be tired of suffering and struggling, but need support to move forwards. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescents to help you identify your strengths, learn healthy coping strategies, heal from past and present difficulties, and live a life that feels rich, meaningful and happy. I also have a strong interest in cultivating and teaching mindfulness, which I see as a profound way to enhance psychological resilience and feelings of happiness and contentment for a broad range of people – including myself!
Many of us come to a time in our lives when we know we want things to be different. We may be tired of suffering and struggling, but need support to move forwards. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescents to help you identify your strengths, learn healthy coping strategies, heal from past and present difficulties, and live a life that feels rich, meaningful and happy. I also have a strong interest in cultivating and teaching mindfulness, which I see as a profound way to enhance psychological resilience and feelings of happiness and contentment for a broad range of people – including myself!
(07) 3184 4367 View (07) 3184 4367
Photo of Maggie Maylin, Counsellor in Holland Park West, QLD
Maggie Maylin
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, QLD 4103
If you're looking at this site you're probably trying to find something or someone to help you move on from a difficult patch. We can't always change the world or others but we can always, by looking within, reframe circumstances so they more fully reflect a happier and brighter world. We all crave to live in a world where we are more truly aligned with our heart and its deeper longing. We only find that world when we can honestly say we love ourselves, which in turn enables us to love others. What is it that prevents us loving our self? Lets journey in. this enquiry together.
If you're looking at this site you're probably trying to find something or someone to help you move on from a difficult patch. We can't always change the world or others but we can always, by looking within, reframe circumstances so they more fully reflect a happier and brighter world. We all crave to live in a world where we are more truly aligned with our heart and its deeper longing. We only find that world when we can honestly say we love ourselves, which in turn enables us to love others. What is it that prevents us loving our self? Lets journey in. this enquiry together.
(07) 2100 4298 View (07) 2100 4298
Photo of Centre for Human Potential, Psychologist in Holland Park West, QLD
Centre for Human Potential
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Woolloongabba, QLD 4102
We support our clients in dealing with a variety of conditions, examples are anxiety, depression, Alcohol and Drug use, LGBTIQ+ issues, stress, trauma and relationship problems. We offer various modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, EMDR and Emotion Focussed Therapy, we also look after NDIS clients. Psychologists at CFHP can provide services in English, Mandarin Chinese, Sinhalese, Italian, Portuguese and Japanese. 我們有中文心理學家可以提供諮詢與服務
We support our clients in dealing with a variety of conditions, examples are anxiety, depression, Alcohol and Drug use, LGBTIQ+ issues, stress, trauma and relationship problems. We offer various modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, EMDR and Emotion Focussed Therapy, we also look after NDIS clients. Psychologists at CFHP can provide services in English, Mandarin Chinese, Sinhalese, Italian, Portuguese and Japanese. 我們有中文心理學家可以提供諮詢與服務
(07) 3130 0047 View (07) 3130 0047
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.