Sexual Abuse Counselling in Selsey

Photo of Jessica Willock - Efflorescence Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Efflorescence Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Does life ever feel completely overwhelming, as if navigating it is an impossible task? Finding someone who truly listens can seem daunting, especially when it’s hard to hear your thoughts whilst disconnected from your own voice, amid the noise of daily life, past experiences, and the heavy weight of expectation—whether your own or those of others. Self-discovery can often feel like untangling knots, especially when the journey feels like it’s not straightforward or easy, but, having a safe and supportive space for this process is invaluable.
Does life ever feel completely overwhelming, as if navigating it is an impossible task? Finding someone who truly listens can seem daunting, especially when it’s hard to hear your thoughts whilst disconnected from your own voice, amid the noise of daily life, past experiences, and the heavy weight of expectation—whether your own or those of others. Self-discovery can often feel like untangling knots, especially when the journey feels like it’s not straightforward or easy, but, having a safe and supportive space for this process is invaluable.
01243 212606 View 01243 212606
Photo of Caz Anderson, Counsellor, MBACP
Caz Anderson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
It's Time For You! Are you always there for everyone else, and now need someone to be there for you? Then you have come to the right place! We all need help sometimes, and taking the first step of asking for help is often the hardest. I know, because I’ve been there too. You need time for yourself. How can you be there for others if you are feeling burnt-out? Have you suffered a loss or bereavement? Are you feeling low and anxious? Whatever difficulties you are facing, my job is not to diagnose you, give you advice, or tell you how to fix things. My job is to be by your side as we explore ways to help you find your own answers.
It's Time For You! Are you always there for everyone else, and now need someone to be there for you? Then you have come to the right place! We all need help sometimes, and taking the first step of asking for help is often the hardest. I know, because I’ve been there too. You need time for yourself. How can you be there for others if you are feeling burnt-out? Have you suffered a loss or bereavement? Are you feeling low and anxious? Whatever difficulties you are facing, my job is not to diagnose you, give you advice, or tell you how to fix things. My job is to be by your side as we explore ways to help you find your own answers.
01243 974676 View 01243 974676

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Catarina M Rato, Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Catarina M Rato
Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Hove BN3
I work with individuals presenting with a wide range of issues and I have extensive experience in safely working with trauma, sexual abuse as well as addictions, bereavement and loss.
Sharing your thoughts and feelings with an experienced counsellor can help you make sense of life circumstances and lead you on a journey of self-awareness and personal growth.
I work with individuals presenting with a wide range of issues and I have extensive experience in safely working with trauma, sexual abuse as well as addictions, bereavement and loss.
Sharing your thoughts and feelings with an experienced counsellor can help you make sense of life circumstances and lead you on a journey of self-awareness and personal growth.
01273 974792 View 01273 974792
Photo of Jeni Gill, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Jeni Gill
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
I have experience in working with anxiety, low self esteem, pre and post bereavement, fostering and adoption (life story work) neurodiversity and survivors of sexual assault
I am led by the likes and needs of each individual client. If you are into art, we can do some art, or creative writing, if you do just want to talk that is also fine. I will be led by you, maintaining respect at all times, and looking to build trust in order for you to be able to use the space as you need and in order to reach your goals.
I have experience in working with anxiety, low self esteem, pre and post bereavement, fostering and adoption (life story work) neurodiversity and survivors of sexual assault
I am led by the likes and needs of each individual client. If you are into art, we can do some art, or creative writing, if you do just want to talk that is also fine. I will be led by you, maintaining respect at all times, and looking to build trust in order for you to be able to use the space as you need and in order to reach your goals.
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Photo of Sarah Jones, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Sarah Jones
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Hove BN3
I have experience in a wide range of issues such as: Bereavement, Anxiety, Substance Misuse, Anger, Relationships, Self Harm, Low Self Esteem and Sexual Abuse.
I have a flexible and adaptable way of working drawing upon the core models of my training - Person Centred, Gestalt and Transactional Analysis. This enables me to work in a way that is comfortable and right for you providing a confidential space where you can find your answers, feel heard and understood and find inner resources to make positive change.
I have experience in a wide range of issues such as: Bereavement, Anxiety, Substance Misuse, Anger, Relationships, Self Harm, Low Self Esteem and Sexual Abuse.
I have a flexible and adaptable way of working drawing upon the core models of my training - Person Centred, Gestalt and Transactional Analysis. This enables me to work in a way that is comfortable and right for you providing a confidential space where you can find your answers, feel heard and understood and find inner resources to make positive change.
01273 005924 View 01273 005924
Photo of Fiona Elizabeth Hewkin, Counsellor, MBACP
Fiona Elizabeth Hewkin
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Haslemere GU27
I often work with issues of trauma, which may be a one off event such as an assault or long term events such as childhood neglect or abuse.
Are past experiences or traumas impacting your life? Do you feel like you should be “over it” by now, but the past still keeps affecting the present? My name is Fi and I can help you unravel the hurt from past trauma. I'm not your typical therapist. I've been known to drop a well-placed swear word or three, because sometimes life's challenges call for a hearty dose of real talk. I specialise in Trauma Counselling but see clients with a wide range of issues. Trauma can be an overwhelming and complex experience, affecting every aspect of our lives. My own personal life experience, has shown me how healing counselling can be.
I often work with issues of trauma, which may be a one off event such as an assault or long term events such as childhood neglect or abuse.
Are past experiences or traumas impacting your life? Do you feel like you should be “over it” by now, but the past still keeps affecting the present? My name is Fi and I can help you unravel the hurt from past trauma. I'm not your typical therapist. I've been known to drop a well-placed swear word or three, because sometimes life's challenges call for a hearty dose of real talk. I specialise in Trauma Counselling but see clients with a wide range of issues. Trauma can be an overwhelming and complex experience, affecting every aspect of our lives. My own personal life experience, has shown me how healing counselling can be.
01428 771344 View 01428 771344
Photo of Del Atkins, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Del Atkins
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Fareham PO16
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with clients on their journeys who are experiencing bereavement, depression, eating disorders, self confidence worries, sexuality, self image issues, trauma, rape & sexual assault etc....
I have an interest in Trauma Counselling which is an area where I have completed much of my client hours. Please visit my website for my training records www.djacounselling.uk . I am registered with many of the main insurance companies e.g. Bupa, Aviva....please contact me for further details.
I have worked with clients on their journeys who are experiencing bereavement, depression, eating disorders, self confidence worries, sexuality, self image issues, trauma, rape & sexual assault etc....
I have an interest in Trauma Counselling which is an area where I have completed much of my client hours. Please visit my website for my training records www.djacounselling.uk . I am registered with many of the main insurance companies e.g. Bupa, Aviva....please contact me for further details.
01329 557308 View 01329 557308
Photo of George Dickinson, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
George Dickinson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I am a specialist in working with trauma and sexual abuse, and, consequently, have extensive experience working with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, intimacy issues, shame, feeling stuck and low self-esteem.
In my practice, the therapeutic relationship is a space where difficult life experiences can be worked through. I take an integrative approach, in which I encourage you to be curious about how your difficulties relate to previous experiences and your expectations for yourself and others. This often brings up feelings that can seem unwelcome and I work with you to help you understand unwanted emotions and connect to your body. My approach aims to deepen your self-awareness in the here-and-now as this helps you to understand and feel compassion for yourself, and be okay in who you are.
I am a specialist in working with trauma and sexual abuse, and, consequently, have extensive experience working with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, intimacy issues, shame, feeling stuck and low self-esteem.
In my practice, the therapeutic relationship is a space where difficult life experiences can be worked through. I take an integrative approach, in which I encourage you to be curious about how your difficulties relate to previous experiences and your expectations for yourself and others. This often brings up feelings that can seem unwelcome and I work with you to help you understand unwanted emotions and connect to your body. My approach aims to deepen your self-awareness in the here-and-now as this helps you to understand and feel compassion for yourself, and be okay in who you are.
01273 092819 View 01273 092819
Photo of Chrissie Collingwood, Counsellor, BACP
Chrissie Collingwood
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with clients who may have experienced historic or recent sexual abuse, grief and loss, anxiety and depression.
Hi, my name is Chrissie and I run Mirror of Hope Counselling service, a service here with you, for you.. Counselling offers an opportunity for you to discover your peace. Holding a safe space for you to explore your world, at your pace. It takes real courage to reach out and take steps towards healing, it feels important to acknowledge that any step you take towards discovering your peace is a step to be proud of!
I work with clients who may have experienced historic or recent sexual abuse, grief and loss, anxiety and depression.
Hi, my name is Chrissie and I run Mirror of Hope Counselling service, a service here with you, for you.. Counselling offers an opportunity for you to discover your peace. Holding a safe space for you to explore your world, at your pace. It takes real courage to reach out and take steps towards healing, it feels important to acknowledge that any step you take towards discovering your peace is a step to be proud of!
01329 756743 View 01329 756743
Photo of Simon James Carpenter - Emdr Consultant ddp Psych Therapist, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Simon James Carpenter - Emdr Consultant ddp Psych Therapist
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
This therapeutic approach allows me to support clients that may be experiencing PTSD from traumatic incidents in their life (such as car accidents, drowning, violence) , phobias, Anxiety, sudden loss sexual abuse.
I am BACP, EMDR Europe accredited Consultant for adults and children and young people. I work within the professional standards required for these professional bodies. I have 19 years experience providing therapeutic intervention for adults, children and young people who have experienced trauma from a wide range of difficulties, such as bereavement, abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety . This enables me to be creative and flexible in relation to the way my clients wish to work. I recognise the importance of working within the BACP ethical framework, which informs me of best practice and professional integrity.
This therapeutic approach allows me to support clients that may be experiencing PTSD from traumatic incidents in their life (such as car accidents, drowning, violence) , phobias, Anxiety, sudden loss sexual abuse.
I am BACP, EMDR Europe accredited Consultant for adults and children and young people. I work within the professional standards required for these professional bodies. I have 19 years experience providing therapeutic intervention for adults, children and young people who have experienced trauma from a wide range of difficulties, such as bereavement, abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety . This enables me to be creative and flexible in relation to the way my clients wish to work. I recognise the importance of working within the BACP ethical framework, which informs me of best practice and professional integrity.
023 8214 8966 View 023 8214 8966
Photo of Ellie Strange, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Ellie Strange
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Ellie has worked with physical and learning disabilities, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and acute mental health diagnosis using these techniques.
Ellie has worked over the last 8 years within the charity sector and the NHS working with clients through the ages of 17-75. She has trained in Art Psychotherapy with an integrative approach, meaning that she can tailor therapy to meet your needs and who you are. An integrative approach can be used to treat any number of psychological problems and disorders, including abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety and personality disorders. I work online and face to face. My face-to-face days are Tuesday and Wednesday's in Twyford near Winchester.
Ellie has worked with physical and learning disabilities, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and acute mental health diagnosis using these techniques.
Ellie has worked over the last 8 years within the charity sector and the NHS working with clients through the ages of 17-75. She has trained in Art Psychotherapy with an integrative approach, meaning that she can tailor therapy to meet your needs and who you are. An integrative approach can be used to treat any number of psychological problems and disorders, including abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety and personality disorders. I work online and face to face. My face-to-face days are Tuesday and Wednesday's in Twyford near Winchester.
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Photo of Samantha Jones, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Samantha Jones
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have 8 years experience in working with adults around various presentations of complex trauma, sexual abuse and domestic abuse and hold additional certifications in trauma informed therapy, attachment theory and abuse and neglect.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, recognizing how abuse and neglect can deeply impact the mind, emotions, and nervous system. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or more complex mental health challenges, trauma-informed care is essential for healing. My approach focuses on understanding relational patterns shaped by past trauma. We’ll explore how current triggers connect to past experiences, helping you reframe memories in a way that promotes healing. This process allows you to access difficult emotions and integrate them in a healthy way.
I have 8 years experience in working with adults around various presentations of complex trauma, sexual abuse and domestic abuse and hold additional certifications in trauma informed therapy, attachment theory and abuse and neglect.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, recognizing how abuse and neglect can deeply impact the mind, emotions, and nervous system. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or more complex mental health challenges, trauma-informed care is essential for healing. My approach focuses on understanding relational patterns shaped by past trauma. We’ll explore how current triggers connect to past experiences, helping you reframe memories in a way that promotes healing. This process allows you to access difficult emotions and integrate them in a healthy way.
01258 444857 View 01258 444857
Photo of Julie Pike - www.juliepikecounselling.co.uk, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
www.juliepikecounselling.co.uk
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I worked 10 years with adults & young people for Rape Crisis so have extensive experience of domestic violence, rape, grooming, childhood sexual abuse & trauma.
Based in Hilsea Portsmouth Work face to face, online & phone BA(Hons)Humanistic Counsellor BACP Accredited 17 years I work in a building at the end of my garden which is very quiet & peaceful. .....Sessions are an hour, I work short & long term. I'm a Humanistic counsellor who works eclectically, also with CBT, dreams and creatively. .......I work with addictions, drug, alcohol, gambling etc. I also work with other addictions & phobias. I may offer concessions to young adults.
I worked 10 years with adults & young people for Rape Crisis so have extensive experience of domestic violence, rape, grooming, childhood sexual abuse & trauma.
Based in Hilsea Portsmouth Work face to face, online & phone BA(Hons)Humanistic Counsellor BACP Accredited 17 years I work in a building at the end of my garden which is very quiet & peaceful. .....Sessions are an hour, I work short & long term. I'm a Humanistic counsellor who works eclectically, also with CBT, dreams and creatively. .......I work with addictions, drug, alcohol, gambling etc. I also work with other addictions & phobias. I may offer concessions to young adults.
07947 351146 View 07947 351146
Photo of Nujoji Calvocoressi, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Nujoji Calvocoressi
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have extensive experience as a psychotherapist working with survivors of child sexual abuse.
Feeling lost or confused during emotional challenges, such as the end of a relationship, family issues, major life changes, or being overwhelmed by past events, is completely natural. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, you are not alone. These are common human experiences that many of us face. Psychotherapy offers a calm, non-judgemental space to reflect, explore, and address the challenges in your life.
I have extensive experience as a psychotherapist working with survivors of child sexual abuse.
Feeling lost or confused during emotional challenges, such as the end of a relationship, family issues, major life changes, or being overwhelmed by past events, is completely natural. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, you are not alone. These are common human experiences that many of us face. Psychotherapy offers a calm, non-judgemental space to reflect, explore, and address the challenges in your life.
020 3856 3166 View 020 3856 3166
Photo of Katy Gilardi, Counsellor, MBACP
Katy Gilardi
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My areas of expertise include mood disorders (such as anxiety and depression); difficulties in relationships; addictive and compulsive behaviours; intrusive thoughts and OCD; pregnancy loss, infertility and postpartum depression; a history of sexual abuse.
Thanks for stopping at my profile. I'm an experienced and dedicated psychodynamic therapist and I work primarily with adults in my private practice in Sheffield I am very passionate about helping people and believe the therapy I offer can help people overcome and resolve a variety of issues, from mild to severe. Psychodynamic therapy is an in-depth psychological intervention which is exploratory in nature and focused on free expression. Often open-ended, it offers rewards for those who undertake it that can be life-changing, including a robust sense of self, easier relationships and an ability to live free of fear
My areas of expertise include mood disorders (such as anxiety and depression); difficulties in relationships; addictive and compulsive behaviours; intrusive thoughts and OCD; pregnancy loss, infertility and postpartum depression; a history of sexual abuse.
Thanks for stopping at my profile. I'm an experienced and dedicated psychodynamic therapist and I work primarily with adults in my private practice in Sheffield I am very passionate about helping people and believe the therapy I offer can help people overcome and resolve a variety of issues, from mild to severe. Psychodynamic therapy is an in-depth psychological intervention which is exploratory in nature and focused on free expression. Often open-ended, it offers rewards for those who undertake it that can be life-changing, including a robust sense of self, easier relationships and an ability to live free of fear
0114 697 3739 View 0114 697 3739
Photo of Sarah Jack, Counsellor, MBACP
Sarah Jack
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I've been counselling since 1989, and have extensive experience of working with sexual abuse and trauma, parenting and attachment difficulties, identity and relationship issues, depression and anxiety, bereavement and loss.
Solution Focused conversations do not require us to delve into the past, so the number of sessions is typically fewer than with other forms of therapy and therefore provides good value for money. You will also learn some helpful techniques which you can apply to all aspects of your life, without the ongoing need of a therapist.
I've been counselling since 1989, and have extensive experience of working with sexual abuse and trauma, parenting and attachment difficulties, identity and relationship issues, depression and anxiety, bereavement and loss.
Solution Focused conversations do not require us to delve into the past, so the number of sessions is typically fewer than with other forms of therapy and therefore provides good value for money. You will also learn some helpful techniques which you can apply to all aspects of your life, without the ongoing need of a therapist.
01273 121296 View 01273 121296
Photo of Shanti Cussans - Shanti therapeutic practice , Counsellor, MBACP
Shanti therapeutic practice
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I cover a wide range of presenting issues; I specialise in obesity, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, addiction issue, sexual abuse and trauma, bereavement, low esteem and confidence, self harm and relationship problems.
I am here to help you through this difficult time, even if the issues you face feel insurmountable; we will use our time to develop a genuine and professional relationship which becomes the platform for your discovery and growth. The therapeutic space will make you feel comfortable, trusting and safe, and I will support you to make positive changes in your life. I use a wide range of creative therapies to provide every opportunity to explore your worries. Ultimately we all want to be happy and able to enjoy all that life has to offer; you have the power to take control of the problems weighing you down, let me help you achieve it.
I cover a wide range of presenting issues; I specialise in obesity, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, addiction issue, sexual abuse and trauma, bereavement, low esteem and confidence, self harm and relationship problems.
I am here to help you through this difficult time, even if the issues you face feel insurmountable; we will use our time to develop a genuine and professional relationship which becomes the platform for your discovery and growth. The therapeutic space will make you feel comfortable, trusting and safe, and I will support you to make positive changes in your life. I use a wide range of creative therapies to provide every opportunity to explore your worries. Ultimately we all want to be happy and able to enjoy all that life has to offer; you have the power to take control of the problems weighing you down, let me help you achieve it.
01243 974586 View 01243 974586
Photo of Svetlana Kelleher - Lana Kelleher Counselling, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Lana Kelleher Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
I highly specialise in trauma and post traumatic stress disorder, sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-confidence, eating disorders, relationship issues.
My job is to help you look after your emotional and mental wellbeing in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment. We will work together to understand and clarify your concerns, explore your difficulties and identify meaningful and lasting changes you would like to make in order to improve your life. My job will not stop there as I will empower you to achieve your goals, find your own solutions to your problems, develop your own strengths and skills that you can use when dealing with life challenges.
I highly specialise in trauma and post traumatic stress disorder, sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-confidence, eating disorders, relationship issues.
My job is to help you look after your emotional and mental wellbeing in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment. We will work together to understand and clarify your concerns, explore your difficulties and identify meaningful and lasting changes you would like to make in order to improve your life. My job will not stop there as I will empower you to achieve your goals, find your own solutions to your problems, develop your own strengths and skills that you can use when dealing with life challenges.
01243 957263 View 01243 957263
Photo of Rachel Bates, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Rachel Bates
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As an integrative psychotherapist I specialise in the treatment of complex mental illness that may be attributed to childhood sexual abuse, physical/emotional/mental abuse experienced during childhood or early adulthood, unaddressed grief and/or complicated trauma.
Life today seems to be overloaded by a variety of stress in many spheres of existence. What should be enjoyable and fulfilling sometimes turns out to be the very cause of suffering. In the midst of the busy-ness of life, we do not take the time to address this suffering and instead criticise and blame ourselves or others. This could potentially leave us feeling confused and ashamed. Shame does not heal the pain of suffering. Every human being has a need to be understood, accepted and validated because the human brain is wired to love and be loved.
As an integrative psychotherapist I specialise in the treatment of complex mental illness that may be attributed to childhood sexual abuse, physical/emotional/mental abuse experienced during childhood or early adulthood, unaddressed grief and/or complicated trauma.
Life today seems to be overloaded by a variety of stress in many spheres of existence. What should be enjoyable and fulfilling sometimes turns out to be the very cause of suffering. In the midst of the busy-ness of life, we do not take the time to address this suffering and instead criticise and blame ourselves or others. This could potentially leave us feeling confused and ashamed. Shame does not heal the pain of suffering. Every human being has a need to be understood, accepted and validated because the human brain is wired to love and be loved.
01293 301836 View 01293 301836
Photo of Lisa Haygarth, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Lisa Haygarth
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hove BN3
I am grounded in humanistic relational approaches such as Gestalt Therapy, Existential and Somatic practices, with specialist trauma training and experience working with individuals who identify as Neurodiverse, specifically ADHD and Autism, those who have experienced childhood adversity (ACEs), domestic or sexual abuse and other forms of trauma.
Do you feel anxious or stuck? Life can feel incredibly difficult at times, with past experiences of trauma, feelings of anxiety or low self-esteem keeping us stuck and uncertain of who we are or how to move forward. As a trauma-informed Humanistic therapist, I offer a safe, supportive space where we can help you explore and make sense of your past experiences in the present, without fear of judgment. Together, we can identify unhelpful beliefs and release patterns that no longer serve you, to create a greater awareness of your potential for growth, healing and self-acceptance.
I am grounded in humanistic relational approaches such as Gestalt Therapy, Existential and Somatic practices, with specialist trauma training and experience working with individuals who identify as Neurodiverse, specifically ADHD and Autism, those who have experienced childhood adversity (ACEs), domestic or sexual abuse and other forms of trauma.
Do you feel anxious or stuck? Life can feel incredibly difficult at times, with past experiences of trauma, feelings of anxiety or low self-esteem keeping us stuck and uncertain of who we are or how to move forward. As a trauma-informed Humanistic therapist, I offer a safe, supportive space where we can help you explore and make sense of your past experiences in the present, without fear of judgment. Together, we can identify unhelpful beliefs and release patterns that no longer serve you, to create a greater awareness of your potential for growth, healing and self-acceptance.
01273 110278 View 01273 110278
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.