Sexual Abuse Counselling in Bonnyrigg

Photo of Suzanne Andrade - Amani Counselling and Hypnotherapy , Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Amani Counselling and Hypnotherapy
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life is made up of challenges, some are easy for us to coordinate, others seem to be harder to overcome. We are all products of our lived experiences and have challenges that are unique to us as individuals.There are so many things that impact us in the now that stem from our past experiences of life. Not all experiences may seem to be important, however, each day we have lived has given us an experience which has been either positive or negative. As unique individuals our needs are so important and I will offer a safe, non judgmental space to share your thoughts.
Life is made up of challenges, some are easy for us to coordinate, others seem to be harder to overcome. We are all products of our lived experiences and have challenges that are unique to us as individuals.There are so many things that impact us in the now that stem from our past experiences of life. Not all experiences may seem to be important, however, each day we have lived has given us an experience which has been either positive or negative. As unique individuals our needs are so important and I will offer a safe, non judgmental space to share your thoughts.
0131 381 4752 View 0131 381 4752
Photo of Mhairi Spence, Counsellor, MBACP
Mhairi Spence
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you have a strong desire to lead a happier, more fulfilling life? If you struggle with managing your emotions and feel overwhelmed by life’s demands I can help you navigate the issues you face. You may be experiencing a range of challenges such as anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, trauma, addiction, or grief. If you would like to develop effective coping strategies, gain deeper self-understanding, and build resilience I will be there to help you implement change to achieve emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
Do you have a strong desire to lead a happier, more fulfilling life? If you struggle with managing your emotions and feel overwhelmed by life’s demands I can help you navigate the issues you face. You may be experiencing a range of challenges such as anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, trauma, addiction, or grief. If you would like to develop effective coping strategies, gain deeper self-understanding, and build resilience I will be there to help you implement change to achieve emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
01655 509988 View 01655 509988

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachel An Vu, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Rachel An Vu
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
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 Marc Johnson, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Marc Johnson
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Cupar KY14
I specialise in supporting individuals who have been affected by trauma; particularly those who have experienced sexual abuse and/or rape.
I am a pluralistic psychotherapist and therefore my approach is deeply influenced by pluralistic values and principles. My practice is based around the idea that there is not a “one size fits all” approach to therapy. I work to the understanding that different things work for different people at different times.
I specialise in supporting individuals who have been affected by trauma; particularly those who have experienced sexual abuse and/or rape.
I am a pluralistic psychotherapist and therefore my approach is deeply influenced by pluralistic values and principles. My practice is based around the idea that there is not a “one size fits all” approach to therapy. I work to the understanding that different things work for different people at different times.
01337 327005 View 01337 327005
Photo of Marnie Collin, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Marnie Collin
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
My experience comes from the work that I have undertaken in a range of settings - CRUSE bereavement care, Relationships Scotland, HIV/HCV services, sexual abuse and trauma services, in-care survivors services, learning disability services.
I have over 20 years experience working in varied settings responding to a range of issues: anxiety, depression, chronic illness, stress, relationship difficulties, bereavement, minority issues, trauma and abuse and end of life care. I've also worked with neurodiversity, and with women's experiences of infertility, IVF and menopause. I aim to build an accepting and trusting relationship where we can generate a practice of gentle curiosity towards whatever is emerging. Through this an understanding of the client’s inner world and its influence over past and present can come into awareness and introduce the possibility of change.
My experience comes from the work that I have undertaken in a range of settings - CRUSE bereavement care, Relationships Scotland, HIV/HCV services, sexual abuse and trauma services, in-care survivors services, learning disability services.
I have over 20 years experience working in varied settings responding to a range of issues: anxiety, depression, chronic illness, stress, relationship difficulties, bereavement, minority issues, trauma and abuse and end of life care. I've also worked with neurodiversity, and with women's experiences of infertility, IVF and menopause. I aim to build an accepting and trusting relationship where we can generate a practice of gentle curiosity towards whatever is emerging. Through this an understanding of the client’s inner world and its influence over past and present can come into awareness and introduce the possibility of change.
0131 381 5636 View 0131 381 5636
Photo of Tina MacDonald - Tina MacDonald Counselling, Counsellor, BACP
Tina MacDonald Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Online Only
I have some experience with survivors of Childhood sexual abuse but work with all aspects of life.
Working online UK wide I offer honest open counselling. A client who is looking for a 1 off session or a long term approach can find in our work a place to express their concerns and find it treated sensitively. I have experience of a range of counselling wants and needs. Change will not happen unless change is made and together my clients and I work out what their starting point and way forward will be to achieve what they are looking for.
I have some experience with survivors of Childhood sexual abuse but work with all aspects of life.
Working online UK wide I offer honest open counselling. A client who is looking for a 1 off session or a long term approach can find in our work a place to express their concerns and find it treated sensitively. I have experience of a range of counselling wants and needs. Change will not happen unless change is made and together my clients and I work out what their starting point and way forward will be to achieve what they are looking for.
01592 805661 View 01592 805661
Photo of Julie Vause, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Julie Vause
Counsellor, MCOSCA
I have specialised experience in helping people who have been impacted by experiencing childhood sexual abuse, ritualistic abuse, domestic abuse and family/childhood abuse.
I work within the Psychodynamic method, an approach that uses the relationship we build to safely help you understand your emotions and behaviours, bringing to light unconscious patterns of behaviour that are not working for you. This theory originates from Sigmund Freud, focusing on the unconscious mind as the source of psychological distress.
I have specialised experience in helping people who have been impacted by experiencing childhood sexual abuse, ritualistic abuse, domestic abuse and family/childhood abuse.
I work within the Psychodynamic method, an approach that uses the relationship we build to safely help you understand your emotions and behaviours, bringing to light unconscious patterns of behaviour that are not working for you. This theory originates from Sigmund Freud, focusing on the unconscious mind as the source of psychological distress.
01324 374517 View 01324 374517
Photo of Nadia Giannelou, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Nadia Giannelou
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you carrying the weight of past trauma from sexual abuse, relationships, childhood or other difficult life experiences?
My approach is person-centered with integrative elements and I welcome anything you bring. I have extensive experience in abuse & trauma settings and higher education, supporting adults, young adults, and students. I specialise in trauma, sexual &gender-based violence, (C)PTSD, emotional challenges, childhood adversity, relationships, anxiety & depression.
Are you carrying the weight of past trauma from sexual abuse, relationships, childhood or other difficult life experiences?
My approach is person-centered with integrative elements and I welcome anything you bring. I have extensive experience in abuse & trauma settings and higher education, supporting adults, young adults, and students. I specialise in trauma, sexual &gender-based violence, (C)PTSD, emotional challenges, childhood adversity, relationships, anxiety & depression.
01786 232286 View 01786 232286
Photo of Leah Jameson - Childhood Abuse Therapy for adults, Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Childhood Abuse Therapy for adults
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Online Only
No one size fits all when it comes to childhood sexual abuse trauma, there are so many different issues.
Therapy with me is purposeful and rooted in courage and clarity. From our very first session, we’ll define exactly what you want to get out of this process. You’re not here to drift. You’re here to grow and I am here to help you on your healing journey. If you’re looking for a therapist who nods quietly and offers soft reassurances, I may not be the right fit. But if you want someone who will help you face what’s painful, challenge what’s holding you back, and support you in building something new—then I might be the therapist you’re looking for.
No one size fits all when it comes to childhood sexual abuse trauma, there are so many different issues.
Therapy with me is purposeful and rooted in courage and clarity. From our very first session, we’ll define exactly what you want to get out of this process. You’re not here to drift. You’re here to grow and I am here to help you on your healing journey. If you’re looking for a therapist who nods quietly and offers soft reassurances, I may not be the right fit. But if you want someone who will help you face what’s painful, challenge what’s holding you back, and support you in building something new—then I might be the therapist you’re looking for.
01992 663319 View 01992 663319
Photo of Dr Robert Dow, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Dr Robert Dow
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
I also offer several specialised areas of expertise, working with issues around sexual abuse, shame, trauma, intimacy issues, pornography use and Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD).
My practice is trauma-informed, relational and non-judgemental: it is rooted in empathy and acceptance. I am sex-positive, kink-aware and gender-affirming; I welcome people of all cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship styles, and individuals who are neurodivergent or are in the process of exploring their neurodivergent identity.
I also offer several specialised areas of expertise, working with issues around sexual abuse, shame, trauma, intimacy issues, pornography use and Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD).
My practice is trauma-informed, relational and non-judgemental: it is rooted in empathy and acceptance. I am sex-positive, kink-aware and gender-affirming; I welcome people of all cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship styles, and individuals who are neurodivergent or are in the process of exploring their neurodivergent identity.
0131 381 5405 View 0131 381 5405
Photo of Pauline Fielmar - RamLeaf Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
I'm trauma informed, have extensive experience, knowledge and training working with PTSD/Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Rape/Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Drug/Alcohol Issues, Bereavement and Loss having worked within the voluntary sector over 17 years.
Life often presents us with unexpected problems, often leaving us feeling distressed and overwhelmed. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, the impact of trauma, the weight of sorrow or loss, or want to build a deeper self-understanding and purpose, my approach is personalised to your specific needs. My values hold a strong focus on the therapeutic relationship, believing that a genuine, caring, safe, trusting, and compassionate connection is the foundation for effective growth in therapy. The goal is to help you develop a greater self-understanding and empower you to make decisions.
I'm trauma informed, have extensive experience, knowledge and training working with PTSD/Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Rape/Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Drug/Alcohol Issues, Bereavement and Loss having worked within the voluntary sector over 17 years.
Life often presents us with unexpected problems, often leaving us feeling distressed and overwhelmed. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, the impact of trauma, the weight of sorrow or loss, or want to build a deeper self-understanding and purpose, my approach is personalised to your specific needs. My values hold a strong focus on the therapeutic relationship, believing that a genuine, caring, safe, trusting, and compassionate connection is the foundation for effective growth in therapy. The goal is to help you develop a greater self-understanding and empower you to make decisions.
01592 858467 View 01592 858467
Photo of Kate Hogg - Kate Hogg Counselling, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Kate Hogg Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
  For 6 years I have worked in a third sector charity for people who have experience sexual assault, and childhood sexual abuse.
I believe everyone deserves a space where they feel truly heard.    Over the years of working in Mental Health, and therapy I've learned that understanding your story can be a powerful step towards to self-acceptance, healing and change.  I am here to walk alongside you as we untangle those stories and uncover your inner strengths. Are you feeling unheard or dismissed by your partner, stuck in the same unresolved arguments?  Perhaps trust has been broken, leaving you uncertain about your relationships future? In our sessions together I create a safe space where you can slow down, truly listen and start to reconnect.
  For 6 years I have worked in a third sector charity for people who have experience sexual assault, and childhood sexual abuse.
I believe everyone deserves a space where they feel truly heard.    Over the years of working in Mental Health, and therapy I've learned that understanding your story can be a powerful step towards to self-acceptance, healing and change.  I am here to walk alongside you as we untangle those stories and uncover your inner strengths. Are you feeling unheard or dismissed by your partner, stuck in the same unresolved arguments?  Perhaps trust has been broken, leaving you uncertain about your relationships future? In our sessions together I create a safe space where you can slow down, truly listen and start to reconnect.
01337 326983 View 01337 326983
Photo of Laura Beech, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Laura Beech
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialise in working with adverse childhood experiences (neglect or abuse), attachment difficulties, sexual abuse, bullying, parental breakup and other difficult experiences whilst growing up.
Do you feel like past events are affecting how you cope with life today leaving you feeling stuck and anxious or depressed? Are you having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep? Do you keep repeating the same negative patterns in relationships? My primary therapeutic approach is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a powerful and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of psychological distress stemming from traumatic experiences and other adverse life events. EMDR facilitates the brain's natural healing processes, allowing you to reprocess distressing memories and reduce their emotional impact.
I specialise in working with adverse childhood experiences (neglect or abuse), attachment difficulties, sexual abuse, bullying, parental breakup and other difficult experiences whilst growing up.
Do you feel like past events are affecting how you cope with life today leaving you feeling stuck and anxious or depressed? Are you having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep? Do you keep repeating the same negative patterns in relationships? My primary therapeutic approach is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a powerful and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of psychological distress stemming from traumatic experiences and other adverse life events. EMDR facilitates the brain's natural healing processes, allowing you to reprocess distressing memories and reduce their emotional impact.
0121 817 7042 View 0121 817 7042
Photo of Gillian Wardhaugh, Counsellor
Gillian Wardhaugh
Counsellor
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Having worked as a CBT therapist for individuals affected by childhood sexual abuse, I am well equipped to help individuals cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, bereavement, sleep disturbances, phobias, health anxiety, panic, social anxiety, stress and many other issues.
I am an integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapist passionate about helping individuals shape day-to-day struggles into a happier, calmer, more fulfilling life. I can provide CBT therapy while keeping your needs at the forefront of our treatment plan, including using creative ways to adapt traditional therapies for neurodiverse clients who may struggle with traditional CBT therapy structures, completing homework or attending sessions. Therapy sessions offer a calm, non-judgmental atmosphere where you're in control of your healing journey and together, we'll develop a customised plan based on what matters most to you.
Having worked as a CBT therapist for individuals affected by childhood sexual abuse, I am well equipped to help individuals cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, bereavement, sleep disturbances, phobias, health anxiety, panic, social anxiety, stress and many other issues.
I am an integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapist passionate about helping individuals shape day-to-day struggles into a happier, calmer, more fulfilling life. I can provide CBT therapy while keeping your needs at the forefront of our treatment plan, including using creative ways to adapt traditional therapies for neurodiverse clients who may struggle with traditional CBT therapy structures, completing homework or attending sessions. Therapy sessions offer a calm, non-judgmental atmosphere where you're in control of your healing journey and together, we'll develop a customised plan based on what matters most to you.
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Photo of Tracey Hutcheon, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Tracey Hutcheon
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
I have worked extensively with anxiety, trauma, flashbacks, depression, stress, dissociation, domestic abuse, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, family breakdown and trauma from sexual assault/abuse.
Welcome, I am a qualified Pluralistic and Psychotherapist counsellor. I offer a warm, caring and genuine space, ensuring that my clients have a physical and emotional ‘space’ to be heard and understood and their needs met. Being an experienced pluralistic therapist, I know that different people are helped by different therapeutic methods and activities at different times. Whatever difficulties you are facing at the moment, having someone to listen and help you understand your problems can make things feel more manageable.
I have worked extensively with anxiety, trauma, flashbacks, depression, stress, dissociation, domestic abuse, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, family breakdown and trauma from sexual assault/abuse.
Welcome, I am a qualified Pluralistic and Psychotherapist counsellor. I offer a warm, caring and genuine space, ensuring that my clients have a physical and emotional ‘space’ to be heard and understood and their needs met. Being an experienced pluralistic therapist, I know that different people are helped by different therapeutic methods and activities at different times. Whatever difficulties you are facing at the moment, having someone to listen and help you understand your problems can make things feel more manageable.
01334 237975 View 01334 237975
Photo of Godiva Sochima Ikpeka Princewill - Godiva's Counselling Home Ltd, Counsellor, DCounsPsych
Godiva's Counselling Home Ltd
Counsellor, DCounsPsych
Serves Area
We work with clients who are facing relationship, self esteem, depression, anxiety sexual abuse and anger issues.
Are you longing for support in navigating your mental and emotional challenges through the lens of your Christian faith? At GCH, we provide Christian Counselling Services. What sets us apart is our ability to apply both professional and Christian faith aspect in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in regaining your mental well-being or desired change. We can provide you with tailored support to successfully assist you in wide range of concerns, including depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues and other concerns.
We work with clients who are facing relationship, self esteem, depression, anxiety sexual abuse and anger issues.
Are you longing for support in navigating your mental and emotional challenges through the lens of your Christian faith? At GCH, we provide Christian Counselling Services. What sets us apart is our ability to apply both professional and Christian faith aspect in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in regaining your mental well-being or desired change. We can provide you with tailored support to successfully assist you in wide range of concerns, including depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues and other concerns.
0118 230 1915 View 0118 230 1915
Photo of Amy Hansen, Counsellor, MBACP
Amy Hansen
Counsellor, MBACP
My work supporting survivors of sexual assault has taught me the value of being trauma informed in my practice.
Hello, I’m Amy. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply curious about therapy, I offer a warm, collaborative space where we can reflect on what feels difficult, uncertain, or hard to name. I work with a wide range of concerns, guided by the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and met with care. I have a passion for supporting people navigating (in)fertility, pregnancy, and parenthood. We all need spaces to process and explore transformation. I'm here to offer support as you navigate change — wherever you find yourself in the process.
My work supporting survivors of sexual assault has taught me the value of being trauma informed in my practice.
Hello, I’m Amy. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply curious about therapy, I offer a warm, collaborative space where we can reflect on what feels difficult, uncertain, or hard to name. I work with a wide range of concerns, guided by the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and met with care. I have a passion for supporting people navigating (in)fertility, pregnancy, and parenthood. We all need spaces to process and explore transformation. I'm here to offer support as you navigate change — wherever you find yourself in the process.
01764 915790 View 01764 915790
Photo of Bennie Sanio - BeeSan Psychotherapy and Counselling Services, Psychotherapist, MBACP
I specialise in child sexual abuse, trauma/complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, loss relationship issues, and anger management.
Starting therapy may seem daunting at first as we try to make sense of our world, thoughts, feelings and emotions. We might be repeating patterns of behaviour in our present lives due to past experiences and patterns. I want to help you shift mental blocks, untangle complex emotions, resolve issues and reveal new perspectives. Whether it’s self-development, addressing emotional and psychological issues, or processing traumatic events, I will work with you to help you become more integrated in yourself. I offer both online and in-person appointments in the centre of Edinburgh where we will work together to help you achieve your goal.
I specialise in child sexual abuse, trauma/complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, loss relationship issues, and anger management.
Starting therapy may seem daunting at first as we try to make sense of our world, thoughts, feelings and emotions. We might be repeating patterns of behaviour in our present lives due to past experiences and patterns. I want to help you shift mental blocks, untangle complex emotions, resolve issues and reveal new perspectives. Whether it’s self-development, addressing emotional and psychological issues, or processing traumatic events, I will work with you to help you become more integrated in yourself. I offer both online and in-person appointments in the centre of Edinburgh where we will work together to help you achieve your goal.
0131 381 8083 View 0131 381 8083
Photo of Oriana Wallace-Johnson, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Oriana Wallace-Johnson
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I'm especially passionate about supporting those affected by abuse—whether it's control, coercion, domestic violence, or sexual abuse.
I also work with individuals navigating the aftermath of toxic or difficult relationships of all types. I understand that the effects of abuse can linger, impacting your confidence, self-worth, and ability to move forward. If you feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to start, please know that I’m here to help you find your way again.
I'm especially passionate about supporting those affected by abuse—whether it's control, coercion, domestic violence, or sexual abuse.
I also work with individuals navigating the aftermath of toxic or difficult relationships of all types. I understand that the effects of abuse can linger, impacting your confidence, self-worth, and ability to move forward. If you feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to start, please know that I’m here to help you find your way again.
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Photo of Zofia Zyborska, Counsellor, MSc, COSRT Accred
Zofia Zyborska
Counsellor, MSc, COSRT Accred
I have particular experience in working with those impacted by past sexual trauma, abuse or assault.
With 21 years’ experience, I use an integrative approach which involves understanding the causes of the difficulties whilst being solution focused. Regardless of your sexuality, gender identity relationship status or private situation, I strive to enlighten and support you whilst we work together to overcome your difficulties.
I have particular experience in working with those impacted by past sexual trauma, abuse or assault.
With 21 years’ experience, I use an integrative approach which involves understanding the causes of the difficulties whilst being solution focused. Regardless of your sexuality, gender identity relationship status or private situation, I strive to enlighten and support you whilst we work together to overcome your difficulties.
0131 357 6236 View 0131 357 6236
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.