Sexual Abuse Therapists in Fort Severn, ON

Photo of Alec Toller, Pre-Licensed Professional, MPsy
Alec Toller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPsy
Online Only
My career as a therapist started as a career in theatre and film due to my love of narrative and storytelling. Over time, I became more interested in how the stories we believe about ourselves shape how we live our lives. I use scientifically supported treatments like CBT to explore these stories and see how helpful or not they are. Of course, we often already know that something isn't working, but it can be hard to believe anything different. To that end, our sessions usually include seeking out new experiences to develop new perspectives. My clients tell me they're surprised by how much more they can do than they first thought.
My career as a therapist started as a career in theatre and film due to my love of narrative and storytelling. Over time, I became more interested in how the stories we believe about ourselves shape how we live our lives. I use scientifically supported treatments like CBT to explore these stories and see how helpful or not they are. Of course, we often already know that something isn't working, but it can be hard to believe anything different. To that end, our sessions usually include seeking out new experiences to develop new perspectives. My clients tell me they're surprised by how much more they can do than they first thought.
(437) 500-6649 View (437) 500-6649
Photo of Mary Hugessen, Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Mary Hugessen
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Reaching out for help can be scary, so I am glad you are taking the first step. We all face times in our life where things seem overwhelming, stressful or hopeless. Whether you are feeling that way because of anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, bullying or parenting challenges, I am here to help. With over 7 years of experience working with individuals with developmental, intellectual and learning disabilities, I know everyone moves at their own pace and that is okay! If you are facing problems that seem too big to handle on your own, we can work together to find solutions that work for you.
Reaching out for help can be scary, so I am glad you are taking the first step. We all face times in our life where things seem overwhelming, stressful or hopeless. Whether you are feeling that way because of anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, bullying or parenting challenges, I am here to help. With over 7 years of experience working with individuals with developmental, intellectual and learning disabilities, I know everyone moves at their own pace and that is okay! If you are facing problems that seem too big to handle on your own, we can work together to find solutions that work for you.
(226) 286-8453 View (226) 286-8453

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hilary Jackson, Registered Social Worker, MFT, MSW/RSW, BSW, BA, YTT200
Hilary Jackson
Registered Social Worker, MFT, MSW/RSW, BSW, BA, YTT200
Serves Area
Hilary is a highly skilled therapist who has been supporting individuals, couples and families in Kenora and surrounding areas for over 15 years. Registered provider with Indigenous Services, and many insurance companies. Whether the concerns stem from communication, stress, grief, trauma, mental health, or addiction, Hilary uses a variety of counselling techniques to help create the changes you are seeking. In person, secure video or phone sessions are available. Support is just a click away - https://www.outofthewoodscounselling.com/
Hilary is a highly skilled therapist who has been supporting individuals, couples and families in Kenora and surrounding areas for over 15 years. Registered provider with Indigenous Services, and many insurance companies. Whether the concerns stem from communication, stress, grief, trauma, mental health, or addiction, Hilary uses a variety of counselling techniques to help create the changes you are seeking. In person, secure video or phone sessions are available. Support is just a click away - https://www.outofthewoodscounselling.com/
(807) 790-2665 View (807) 790-2665
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.