Sexual Abuse Therapists in Ottawa, ON
See all counsellors in Ottawa
Aurela (Ela) Vangjeli
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified
Verified
My specialty is helping people with lived experiences of childhood trauma,
sexual abuse
, and anxiety.
You cannot do it alone and no one can do it for you" P.L. You may have noticed that your mood fluctuates between feeling anxious and/or depressed. And you don't know how to navigate or interrupt this cycle. Life is nudging you towards seeking support because at times holding it all by yourself feels like too much. In therapy with me, you will feel heard, and understood. You will learn what is overwhelming your internal system (thoughts, feelings and experiences in the body) and be able to move towards regulation, ease and balance. I bring a sense of curiosity and compassion and empower you to lead with courage and confidence.
Not accepting new clients

Rebecca Minish
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I come to the practice of psychotherapy with over a decade of combined experience as a Social Worker and therapist in community organizations, including extensive experience with a variety of mental health, trauma, and addictions issues. I am particularly passionate about and experienced in working with survivors of sexual
assault
, childhood
sexual abuse
, and other relational traumas. My approach to therapy is informed and guided by attachment and feminist theories, and anti-oppressive frameworks.

Ashley MacLellan
Counsellor, MEd, RP, SEP-T
1 Endorsed
1 Endorsed
I am certified in Complex Trauma and Child
Sexual Abuse
Intervention in addition to a Masters degree in Counselling.
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it" (H. Keller) is a statement which motivates me to be versatile and adaptive so I may best meet my client's needs in an integrated practice, to facilitate empowerment and holistic well-being. I utilize strength-based, somatic, creative and expressive modes of therapy tailored to suit the unique needs of individuals from various walks of life.
Not accepting new clients

Chelsea Graham
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I have experience working with individuals who are faced with addiction, sexual
assault
and domestic violence, as well as those seeking support for self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, stress and anger management, grief/loss, self-harm and other obstacles that present themselves at any stage of life.
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Q), I pride myself on creating a safe and compassionate environment for clients to begin their healing process. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is most effective when it is based on collaboration, trust, and openness. In my experience, all clients are unique and my priority is to mold my therapeutic approach to suit each individual's needs. I focus on building every client’s strengths in order to assist them in enriching all areas of life and and help them move toward whole-hearted living. I take a holistic approach by incorporating techniques from various treatment modalities.
Waitlist for new clients

Wesley Moore
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified
4 Endorsed
Verified
4 Endorsed
Born and raised in the Maritimes, Ottawa has been home since 2004. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Locally, I have worked in mental health since 2006 and opened my practice in 2010. A specialization is work with men whom identify as survivors of sexual trauma and/or childhood
sexual abuse
. Additionally, I can address addiction, anxiety, anger management, depression, and relational problems. Other areas in which I work include sexuality, men's issues, and LGBT concerns. Presently, I am close to completing certification as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP).
Waitlist for new clients

Jathina Blais
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I have worked for over 10 years with survivors of
sexual abuse
/
assault
and domestic violence, as well as with people experiencing self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues.
Many of us silently cope with difficulties in our lives. But you don't have to. Reaching out to a counsellor for support gives you the opportunity to explore what is holding you back and start improving your quality of life. People have the capacity to make positive changes in their lives with the right support and guidance. With support, you will tap into your strengths, find hope and heal emotional wounds. I work with individual adults who are experiencing mental health issues, trauma, negative self-esteem, sleep issues and relationship issues.

Kara Peet
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Verified
Verified
The body keeps the score. I help trauma survivors live full, and connected lives. I have many years of experience working with survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual
assault
, as well as harmful, abusive, or neglectful childhood experiences. Trauma may impact your self-esteem, or create relationship issues, anxiety, alienation from the body, feelings of being disconnected from yourself and others. A central focus of my work has been supporting clients impacted by trauma without the lens of pathology. That’s to say: there’s nothing wrong with you at all. Your way of being in the world was developed as means of protection.
Office is near:
Ottawa, ON K1N & Online

Palvi B. Kohli
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a trauma-informed therapist and have worked with clients struggling with intergenerational trauma,
sexual abuse
, domestic violence, dysfunctional family systems, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, workplace stress, and more.
“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity”; although that can be true for some, it is not true for most people, therefore it is easier said than done. Life can be challenging at times and we often suffer alone due to complex emotions of shame and helplessness, but I am here to tell you that you do not have to go through difficult times alone!

Cassandra Tenneriello
MACP, RP, CCC
Verified
4 Endorsed
Verified
4 Endorsed
I have over six years of experience working with individuals of all ages who are faced with trauma, addiction, sexual
assault
, and intergenerational trauma.
It takes great courage to begin taking steps towards starting therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey. My initial goal is to create a safe and compassionate environment for you to begin your healing process. From experience, all clients are unique, and my priority is to mould my therapeutic approach to suit your individual needs and goals. I use a strength-based, client-centred and collaborative approach meeting you where you are in your journey and empowering you to achieve growth.

Kaysia Saliba
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified
Verified
My experience includes working in mental health clinics, with First Responders, survivors of sexual
assault
and domestic violence.
Welcoming new clients (please note I provide therapy for individuals, not couples)- Trauma, anxiety and difficulties within relationships can affect your life in so many ways. In my practice, I can help you become "unstuck", to work through and move forward from the feelings, behaviors, memories or situations that are preventing you from living how you want to. I use effective treatment approaches in a welcoming, safe and nonjudgmental environment so that we can work together towards the changes you want to make.

Arktos Wellness Services Canada
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Arktos is a diverse group of Registered Social Workers and Certified Canadian Counsellors who continue to work in healthcare centres across Canada. Our clients are: survivors of abuse, those who are highly successful but who feel like they just don't fit in, caretakers who are burnt out trying to keep everything afloat, single parents who show up to everything but are exhausted. Some of our clients have symptoms of ADHD, Depression/Anxiety, PTSD, Post-partum depression, trauma, childhood
sexual abuse
, addictions/problematic substance-use. We work with individuals, families and communities to build hope and a life worth living

Reesa Packard
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified
4 Endorsed
Verified
4 Endorsed
Specialities: mood, anxiety, emotions, ADHD; couple, family, relational; work & career; healing past, sexual
assault
, childhood abuse/neglect; self-relationship, intimacy/authenticity; meaning & purpose, mortality, connectedness; grief, bereavement, chronic illness, parenting sick child; women's issues, queer experiences; yoga & martial art-informed therapy.
Hello, feel free to browse below and contact me with questions (email only). I am a Ph.D. Registered Psychotherapist practicing at, and directing, a quaint Psychotherapy Center in Ottawa’s downtown core. I see myself make the most meaningful contributions in Crisis & Trauma, work that first called me to the profession over a decade ago, and with advancing Self-Growth & Self-Development through emotional, relational, professional, somatic, spiritual, or sexual focus. I use proven techniques to manage difficulties in the now, while promoting growth overall. I also research, teach & train so that I, too, can continue to grow.

Lucie Brandt
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC, RP
Verified
Verified
Welcome to Lucie Brandt Psychotherapy Services. Since I began my counselling practice in 2010 my areas of focus have included: single and multiple incident traumas, accidents on work sites, childhood trauma,
sexual abuse
, medical trauma, serious or terminal illness, fertility stress, pregnancy loss, physical & emotional violence, experiences in war and conflict zones. I work with grieving clients, including persons impacted by a sudden death, suicide, homicide, and those whose family members have gone missing. I work with persons impacted by the Indian residential school system in Canada, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Amber Lust
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified
Verified
Being a trauma-informed, client-centered, and strength-based therapist, I understand that you are the expert of your experiences, and I’m here to listen, and support you in your healing. I specialize in working with people who have experienced
sexual abuse
, sexual
assault
, and intimate partner violence. While my focus is generally towards this population, I also work with clients who wish to work through more generalized concerns. Treatment styles can vary, and will be tailored to your needs. My practice is sex positive, and affirming of all identities, including sex workers, and individuals in the kink-BDSM lifestyle.
Ottawa, ON K2H
& Online

Makayla Chartrand
Registered Social Worker, MA, OCSWSSW
Verified
Verified
I have experience in social housing, supporting sex-trafficking survivors, sexual
assault
and crisis, and mental health.
I aim to work collaboratively with clients on various issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship counselling, substance use and addiction, 2SLGBTQ+ support, life transitions and more. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness into my interventions with clients, acknowledging that each client holds a unique and individualized life story. I value compassion, empathy, empowerment, and the development of coping skills and emotional regulation.

Sandra E LeBlanc
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified
Verified
I have extensive training in areas such as anxiety, depression, attachment issues, foster care, adoption, trauma, including treatment of child
sexual abuse
, sexualized behaviours, bullying issues, grief and loss, separation, divorce issues, and LGBTQ2s+.
I am a registered social worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over 25 years experience providing therapy with, children, adolescents, adults and families. I am very passionate about my work and feel blessed to have walked alongside my clients over the years and share in their journey of growth and healing. My life experiences and role as a parent have also helped me become the clinician I am today.
Not accepting new clients

Samantha Whittle
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified
Verified
Hi, I'm Sam! I got my start in the social services world over a decade ago working with survivors of sexualized violence and
assault
. I continue to be incredibly passionate about supporting people as they heal from trauma and the effects that it has, including triggers and dissociation. I am also a sex therapist with a strong background in the world of sexual health. I believe that sex, at its best, is about connection, play, and liberation, and that most of us could use more of all those things in our lives.
Ottawa, ON K2P
Not accepting new clients

Kris Cormier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
Are you struggling with addiction to alcohol, drugs, gambling, or shopping? Are you hoping to better manage anxiety or regulate overwhelming emotions? Would you like support for traumatic events like sexual
assault
or childhood abuse? Do you want to discuss relationship issues, family conflict, or parenting concerns? We might be a good match... Connect to therapy that is calming, mindful, client-centered, feminist, sex-positive, queer-, trans-, & gender-affirming. I primarily work with women, 2SLGBTQ+ folks, &/or non-binary teens/adults. Accepting new clients (March 2023), with new in-person evening spots coming soon!

Ken Raymond
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, RP(Q)
Verified
5 Endorsed
Verified
5 Endorsed
IN-PERSON and ONLINE sessions are now available in Ontario and Western Quebec. Your decision to start therapy is a courageous first step toward personal understanding, healing, and growth. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD,
sexual abuse
(current or past), chronic pain, or are overwhelmed by events that seem out of your control, I can help. I would be honoured to be your therapist and help resolve these issues. You will be welcomed in a non-judgmental, warm, safe, and secure space for your therapeutic experience.

Michael Holuj
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, CCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I provide help to clients that have experienced issues that include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma,
sexual abuse
, and PTSD.
Hello, thanks for visiting! My goal is to work together with you to develop a safe place and a strong alliance so we can understand where you are now, define your goals, and how we can get there. With a focus on developing a resilient, positive mindset, we will explore your emotional cycles, generate corrective experiences, and ultimately, help you live your values. I primarily work with individuals and couples.
See more therapy options for Ottawa
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.