Sexual Abuse Counselling in Sheffield

Photo of Susan Coldwell - Susan Coldwell Counselling and Supervision Online, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Susan Coldwell Counselling and Supervision Online
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Sheffield S6  (Online Only)
I work with survivors of physical, psychological and sexual abuse, building trust to create a safe helping relationship where people can work through complex emotions and traumatic experiences giving rise to depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and mental health problems.
In counselling you can speak to someone in confidence, who will listen as you talk through your thoughts feelings and problems. I offer a safe space where I will work with you to understand your difficulties without criticism or judgement. I can help you explore the things that are causing you trouble and come to a better understanding of yourself. Learning to accept and trust in yourself and your own natural inner resources, you will grow in confidence and self-esteem and draw on your own strengths to bring about real, meaningful change and growth.
I work with survivors of physical, psychological and sexual abuse, building trust to create a safe helping relationship where people can work through complex emotions and traumatic experiences giving rise to depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and mental health problems.
In counselling you can speak to someone in confidence, who will listen as you talk through your thoughts feelings and problems. I offer a safe space where I will work with you to understand your difficulties without criticism or judgement. I can help you explore the things that are causing you trouble and come to a better understanding of yourself. Learning to accept and trust in yourself and your own natural inner resources, you will grow in confidence and self-esteem and draw on your own strengths to bring about real, meaningful change and growth.
0114 478 2504 View 0114 478 2504
Photo of Sam Robb-King, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Sam Robb-King
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sheffield S7
I work for the UK's largest parenting charity, counsel survivors of sexual abuse in Derbyshire and have volunteered for Cruse, the national bereavement charity.
I welcome hearing from all new clients, but I have particular experience in bereavement, sexual abuse and pregnancy, birth, early parenthood (sometimes called the perinatal period) and baby loss. Has something happened to you that you feel like you should be able to cope with, but find yourself stuck, not able to move on, feeling frustrated or ashamed by your response? Perhaps that's because you've not had a space in which you can say the things you need to say to someone who is not connected with what happened. I will welcome how you really feel with warmth, respect and compassion and we will collaborate on how things might change
I work for the UK's largest parenting charity, counsel survivors of sexual abuse in Derbyshire and have volunteered for Cruse, the national bereavement charity.
I welcome hearing from all new clients, but I have particular experience in bereavement, sexual abuse and pregnancy, birth, early parenthood (sometimes called the perinatal period) and baby loss. Has something happened to you that you feel like you should be able to cope with, but find yourself stuck, not able to move on, feeling frustrated or ashamed by your response? Perhaps that's because you've not had a space in which you can say the things you need to say to someone who is not connected with what happened. I will welcome how you really feel with warmth, respect and compassion and we will collaborate on how things might change
0114 697 1084 View 0114 697 1084
Photo of Zareeda Rashid, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Zareeda Rashid
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S9
Hello, I'm Zareeda and I work with people on issues ranging from rape and sexual abuse to stress, bereavement, anxiety and depression. If you are struggling to find meaning in life you may be feeling disconnected from yourself and/or those around you. This loss of contact with yourself, your needs, values and beliefs may decrease your trust in your ability to form and build meaningful relationships and achieve personal goals.
Hello, I'm Zareeda and I work with people on issues ranging from rape and sexual abuse to stress, bereavement, anxiety and depression. If you are struggling to find meaning in life you may be feeling disconnected from yourself and/or those around you. This loss of contact with yourself, your needs, values and beliefs may decrease your trust in your ability to form and build meaningful relationships and achieve personal goals.
0115 697 1567 View 0115 697 1567
Photo of Bex Fennell, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Bex Fennell
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S8
I have experience of working with additional needs, specifically Autism/ ADHD and have worked for agencies offering counselling for survivors of sexual abuse, bereavement and loss and adolescent trauma.
Hi, I am Bex and I am an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist (NCPS) and Counsellor with over 20 years’ experience of working within mental health. I work with both adults and children. I know that seeking counselling can be a daunting process, however, I offer a warm, supportive and non- judgemental space where we can explore any issues that could be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. My years of training and experience in becoming a counsellor have taught me that each client is unique with their own perspective and understanding- it is my work to sit alongside you and understand your pain.
I have experience of working with additional needs, specifically Autism/ ADHD and have worked for agencies offering counselling for survivors of sexual abuse, bereavement and loss and adolescent trauma.
Hi, I am Bex and I am an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist (NCPS) and Counsellor with over 20 years’ experience of working within mental health. I work with both adults and children. I know that seeking counselling can be a daunting process, however, I offer a warm, supportive and non- judgemental space where we can explore any issues that could be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. My years of training and experience in becoming a counsellor have taught me that each client is unique with their own perspective and understanding- it is my work to sit alongside you and understand your pain.
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Photo of Rachel An Vu, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Rachel An Vu
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1  (Online Only)
My work includes helping adult clients of all ages with a broad range of issues such as childhood abuse, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, identity, relationship problems, feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, life transitions, loss, and death.
I am a bilingual psychotherapist offering ongoing and time-limited therapy both in ​​​​​​English and Vietnamese. To me, therapy is an opportunity for us to explore ourselves, and search for meanings in life. My aim is to offer you a place where you can talk about your concerns freely and reflect on the situations that you find yourself in. I attempt to help you make some sense of your experiences, and through this process, possibilities might come to light, and you can then decide what you would like to do next.
My work includes helping adult clients of all ages with a broad range of issues such as childhood abuse, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, identity, relationship problems, feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, life transitions, loss, and death.
I am a bilingual psychotherapist offering ongoing and time-limited therapy both in ​​​​​​English and Vietnamese. To me, therapy is an opportunity for us to explore ourselves, and search for meanings in life. My aim is to offer you a place where you can talk about your concerns freely and reflect on the situations that you find yourself in. I attempt to help you make some sense of your experiences, and through this process, possibilities might come to light, and you can then decide what you would like to do next.
020 3917 4775 View 020 3917 4775
Photo of Austen Miall, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Austen Miall
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1
My name is Austen and I provide Psychotherapy to individuals & couples in Manchester and Online. I qualified as a therapist in 2011 and my particular skill is helping clients to process sensitive or embarrassing issues. I have undertaken training in Trauma, Emotional Regulation and Sexuality related problems. My specialist areas are; Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sex/Porn Addiction, Erectile Dysfunction and Kink-Related Shame. Many of my clients have previous experience of therapy and are seeking a therapist with specific skills and a therapeutic approach that is focused. I'm Gay and my clients are heterosexual and LGBT+.
My name is Austen and I provide Psychotherapy to individuals & couples in Manchester and Online. I qualified as a therapist in 2011 and my particular skill is helping clients to process sensitive or embarrassing issues. I have undertaken training in Trauma, Emotional Regulation and Sexuality related problems. My specialist areas are; Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sex/Porn Addiction, Erectile Dysfunction and Kink-Related Shame. Many of my clients have previous experience of therapy and are seeking a therapist with specific skills and a therapeutic approach that is focused. I'm Gay and my clients are heterosexual and LGBT+.
01484 627039 View 01484 627039
Photo of Katy Gilardi, MBACP, Counsellor
Katy Gilardi
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S6
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 Kate Green, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Kate Green
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S11
I am also experienced in working with trauma, childhood sexual abuse, bullying issues (parental, adolescent, adult relationships, work-related, elder) and issues of shame.
I am a counsellor, psychotherapist and specialist in addictions of 35 years experience as a front-line practitioner working within the public sector. I can assist with a broad-spectrum of issues. I provide one to one counselling, couple and family therapy. I am experienced in working with adults of all ages and from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, sexual orientation, and physical and mental ability. It is my belief evidenced from my work with a great many unique and wonderful persons that all of us have the innate ability to heal ourselves. I see my role as merely an assistant in this self-healing process.
I am also experienced in working with trauma, childhood sexual abuse, bullying issues (parental, adolescent, adult relationships, work-related, elder) and issues of shame.
I am a counsellor, psychotherapist and specialist in addictions of 35 years experience as a front-line practitioner working within the public sector. I can assist with a broad-spectrum of issues. I provide one to one counselling, couple and family therapy. I am experienced in working with adults of all ages and from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, sexual orientation, and physical and mental ability. It is my belief evidenced from my work with a great many unique and wonderful persons that all of us have the innate ability to heal ourselves. I see my role as merely an assistant in this self-healing process.
0114 478 2604 View 0114 478 2604
Photo of Dr Rebecca Eaton, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rebecca Eaton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S7  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist that offers a range of specialist support for children, adolescents, young adults and families who are experiencing mental health difficulties, including anxiety, low mood, depression, OCD, PTSD and trauma. I frequently work with individuals with a variety of long-term physical health conditions following an accident, injury or diagnosis, such as spinal cord injury, brain injury, long-COVID or Chronic Fatigue. I have a range of experience supporting individuals and families following significant traumatic experiences, including sexual assault or bereavement.
I am a Clinical Psychologist that offers a range of specialist support for children, adolescents, young adults and families who are experiencing mental health difficulties, including anxiety, low mood, depression, OCD, PTSD and trauma. I frequently work with individuals with a variety of long-term physical health conditions following an accident, injury or diagnosis, such as spinal cord injury, brain injury, long-COVID or Chronic Fatigue. I have a range of experience supporting individuals and families following significant traumatic experiences, including sexual assault or bereavement.
0114 697 9736 View 0114 697 9736
Photo of Lisa Alhadeff, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lisa Alhadeff
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S6
These might include physical, emotional and sexual abuse, grief (including traumatic losses), shame, eating disorders and mental illness.
When many of my clients come to see me, they feel like there’s no hope – they’re finding it very difficult to cope with life. You might feel isolated, because you’ve been through so much but you feel like you can’t talk about it. Things might feel hopeless, and you may not be able to imagine what else to do. Therapy can feel like a last resort. Having to hide how you feel can make you feel alone, and unheard. You might have experienced an overwhelming single event, or have struggled for a long time. Living with high levels of distress, anxiety or low mood can be unbearable. I can support you in taking steps to make life feel easier.
These might include physical, emotional and sexual abuse, grief (including traumatic losses), shame, eating disorders and mental illness.
When many of my clients come to see me, they feel like there’s no hope – they’re finding it very difficult to cope with life. You might feel isolated, because you’ve been through so much but you feel like you can’t talk about it. Things might feel hopeless, and you may not be able to imagine what else to do. Therapy can feel like a last resort. Having to hide how you feel can make you feel alone, and unheard. You might have experienced an overwhelming single event, or have struggled for a long time. Living with high levels of distress, anxiety or low mood can be unbearable. I can support you in taking steps to make life feel easier.
07523 750204 View 07523 750204
Photo of Faye Marie Noyland - Faye Noyland Counselling, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Faye Noyland Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S35
I have experience in counselling for stress, depression, anxiety, family issues, bereavement, domestic violence, trauma, self harm and sexual abuse.
About me: There are times when we all need someone to listen and work alongside us for an issue that has become complex for us alone. I want to offer you time to be heard and explore issues that you are currently experiencing. It is important to me that we can collaborate and work together to develop a way with you of moving ahead. I think the relationship between counsellor and client is fundamental. I am happy to offer a free twenty minute session for assessment and to see if we are both happy to work together.
I have experience in counselling for stress, depression, anxiety, family issues, bereavement, domestic violence, trauma, self harm and sexual abuse.
About me: There are times when we all need someone to listen and work alongside us for an issue that has become complex for us alone. I want to offer you time to be heard and explore issues that you are currently experiencing. It is important to me that we can collaborate and work together to develop a way with you of moving ahead. I think the relationship between counsellor and client is fundamental. I am happy to offer a free twenty minute session for assessment and to see if we are both happy to work together.
0114 697 6622 View 0114 697 6622
Photo of Sonia Dixon, BACP, Counsellor
Sonia Dixon
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S8
For the past twenty years, I have worked with various forms of abuse, mainly presenting in relationships; such as physical, emotional and sexual abuse, and have supported individuals to work through experiences of trauma when it intersects with experiences of multiple disadvantages and complex mental health. I have extensive experience also working with anxiety, depression, bereavement and bereavement by suicide, as well as issues such as anger, sadness, shame and relationship issues.
For the past twenty years, I have worked with various forms of abuse, mainly presenting in relationships; such as physical, emotional and sexual abuse, and have supported individuals to work through experiences of trauma when it intersects with experiences of multiple disadvantages and complex mental health. I have extensive experience also working with anxiety, depression, bereavement and bereavement by suicide, as well as issues such as anger, sadness, shame and relationship issues.
01724 514379 View 01724 514379
Photo of Lee Raven, MBACP, Counsellor
Lee Raven
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S26
My clients include Children & Young People, Neurodivergent Adults and Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse.
I specialise in working with people who find themselves misunderstood, unwanted and even frightening to others. Relationships are almost impossible and always full of conflict. When you work with me I will support you to manage your emotions, navigate the mysterious world of relationships and find your path.
My clients include Children & Young People, Neurodivergent Adults and Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse.
I specialise in working with people who find themselves misunderstood, unwanted and even frightening to others. Relationships are almost impossible and always full of conflict. When you work with me I will support you to manage your emotions, navigate the mysterious world of relationships and find your path.
0114 697 7711 View 0114 697 7711
Photo of Beverly James, MBACP, Counsellor
Beverly James
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S25
I have supported clients from a range of ages and backgrounds, working with issues including anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, anger, loneliness, relationships, domestic / sexual abuse, loss and trauma.
It can sometimes seem worrying to share your deepest, most personal thoughts and feelings. I'm here to offer a warm, welcoming and confidential therapeutic space where you will have your time to talk and where hopefully we can build a trusting therapeutic relationship, one in which you can feel comfortable to share your worries and thoughts. Every client and every therapeutic process is different and I will always value you as a unique individual, with the utmost respect for the journey you have navigated and the place you find yourself in now.
I have supported clients from a range of ages and backgrounds, working with issues including anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, anger, loneliness, relationships, domestic / sexual abuse, loss and trauma.
It can sometimes seem worrying to share your deepest, most personal thoughts and feelings. I'm here to offer a warm, welcoming and confidential therapeutic space where you will have your time to talk and where hopefully we can build a trusting therapeutic relationship, one in which you can feel comfortable to share your worries and thoughts. Every client and every therapeutic process is different and I will always value you as a unique individual, with the utmost respect for the journey you have navigated and the place you find yourself in now.
01709 288852 View 01709 288852
Photo of Erica M Finlayson - Biscuits Tea & Therapy, BACP, Counsellor
Biscuits Tea & Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1
I am experienced in working with a number of issues including anxiety, depression, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, generational trauma, bereavement, relationship difficulties and more.
Oh love- I'll get you a brew. Sound familiar? As much as I love a good cup of tea, it doesn't fix everything. Perhaps you are struggling with upsetting memories, tension in relationships or in doubt about the decisions you have made in life? My aim is to build a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, empowering you to continue on your own healing journey.
I am experienced in working with a number of issues including anxiety, depression, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, generational trauma, bereavement, relationship difficulties and more.
Oh love- I'll get you a brew. Sound familiar? As much as I love a good cup of tea, it doesn't fix everything. Perhaps you are struggling with upsetting memories, tension in relationships or in doubt about the decisions you have made in life? My aim is to build a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, empowering you to continue on your own healing journey.
01484 627736 View 01484 627736
Photo of Sharon Andrea Shaw, MBBS, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sharon Andrea Shaw
Psychotherapist, MBBS, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1
Feeling SAD, CONFUSED and/or ANGRY? Feeling stuck/trapped? What's the point? Nothing changes? I know the fears of opening up emotionally or mentally. I also know now of how beneficial it is for YOU. To have time to understand your 'self' so that YOU can process and heal, change YOUR future. It's empowering. I have studied for 6 years, to Masters level. Committed to my own personal development. Losing nearly three stone in weight (an emotional eater). Unattached from drinking 5 times a week to now occasionally socially or sometimes I just drink water and ice! Smoking and a fitter body is next. YOU are important! Take control back!
Feeling SAD, CONFUSED and/or ANGRY? Feeling stuck/trapped? What's the point? Nothing changes? I know the fears of opening up emotionally or mentally. I also know now of how beneficial it is for YOU. To have time to understand your 'self' so that YOU can process and heal, change YOUR future. It's empowering. I have studied for 6 years, to Masters level. Committed to my own personal development. Losing nearly three stone in weight (an emotional eater). Unattached from drinking 5 times a week to now occasionally socially or sometimes I just drink water and ice! Smoking and a fitter body is next. YOU are important! Take control back!
01302 496594 View 01302 496594
Photo of Nichola Marchant, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Nichola Marchant
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S17  (Online Only)
I work predominantly with adults who have experienced trauma or negative life experiences which have impacted on their sexual functioning, mental health, emotional well-being and relationships. I offer both short and long term therapy for clients wishing to gain a better understanding of their lives and experiences and provide strategies and interventions to enable my clients to live the lives they want to live. I work with people who have sexual problems and who wish to achieve a happy and healthy sexual identity.
I work predominantly with adults who have experienced trauma or negative life experiences which have impacted on their sexual functioning, mental health, emotional well-being and relationships. I offer both short and long term therapy for clients wishing to gain a better understanding of their lives and experiences and provide strategies and interventions to enable my clients to live the lives they want to live. I work with people who have sexual problems and who wish to achieve a happy and healthy sexual identity.
07771 391614 View 07771 391614
Photo of Edel Dewhurst, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Edel Dewhurst
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10
Supporting a person towards improving their quality of life has always been at the heart of my therapeutic practice. When we are anxious, depressed, or when we're going through changes in our lives, we can find that we are not living the way we would like. Finding our way through this can sometimes be too difficult on our own. Your therapeutic experience will involve coming to an understanding of the connections between the past and present and developing a commitment to change where necessary.
Supporting a person towards improving their quality of life has always been at the heart of my therapeutic practice. When we are anxious, depressed, or when we're going through changes in our lives, we can find that we are not living the way we would like. Finding our way through this can sometimes be too difficult on our own. Your therapeutic experience will involve coming to an understanding of the connections between the past and present and developing a commitment to change where necessary.
0114 697 1220 View 0114 697 1220
Photo of Dr Sheila Evetts, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sheila Evetts
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S10
Hi, I’m Sheila. I’m a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience working as a therapist in the NHS with people of all ages with a diverse range of problems and from a variety of backgrounds. I have particular expertise in issues of later life including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief/bereavement, adjustment to illness, carer burden, living with dementia and other life limiting conditions. I continue to work part-time in the NHS as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Head of Service specialising in older people’s mental health. I draw on a range of approaches including CBT and EMDR.
Hi, I’m Sheila. I’m a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience working as a therapist in the NHS with people of all ages with a diverse range of problems and from a variety of backgrounds. I have particular expertise in issues of later life including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief/bereavement, adjustment to illness, carer burden, living with dementia and other life limiting conditions. I continue to work part-time in the NHS as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Head of Service specialising in older people’s mental health. I draw on a range of approaches including CBT and EMDR.
01283 372645 View 01283 372645
Photo of Paul A Green, MBACP, Counsellor
Paul A Green
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S3
My role, as a psychodynamic therapist, is to provide an environment that is confidential and safe. This is why I do what I do. I provide an outside perspective to help you understand how your past influences present behaviours; your use of defences to avoid reality and awareness of how unconscious reoccurrence operates in your life. With your assistance my aim is to develop different strategies in making better choices to existing problems and explore beliefs of past feelings, memories. This doesn’t mean all your life is broken, but certain grey areas compromising the relationships you’re having with self and others.
My role, as a psychodynamic therapist, is to provide an environment that is confidential and safe. This is why I do what I do. I provide an outside perspective to help you understand how your past influences present behaviours; your use of defences to avoid reality and awareness of how unconscious reoccurrence operates in your life. With your assistance my aim is to develop different strategies in making better choices to existing problems and explore beliefs of past feelings, memories. This doesn’t mean all your life is broken, but certain grey areas compromising the relationships you’re having with self and others.
01226 610188 View 01226 610188
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See more therapy options for Sheffield

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.