Sexual Abuse Counselling in Leyburn

Photo of Beverley Ann D'Arcy - Changing Minds Psychotherapy, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Changing Minds Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Leyburn DL8
I offer therapy for anxiety, eating disorders, relationship problems, emotionally unstable moods, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, addictions, PTSD, complex PTSD, trauma, body image issues, bereavement and loss, chronic stress, work issues, social phobia, health issues, self-harm, emotional and sexual abuse.
17 years as a psychotherapist providing therapy to people with complex and enduring mental health problems (mainly NHS) and clients with mild to moderate mental health issues referred by organisations. I carry out in depth assessments, quickly identify key issues and tailor therapy according to client need. I offer a confidential setting where clients are free to talk without fear of rejection, criticism of blame. I aim to provide someone with resources they can draw on to manage current and future anxiety, stresses, disabling symptoms and unstable moods.
I offer therapy for anxiety, eating disorders, relationship problems, emotionally unstable moods, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, addictions, PTSD, complex PTSD, trauma, body image issues, bereavement and loss, chronic stress, work issues, social phobia, health issues, self-harm, emotional and sexual abuse.
17 years as a psychotherapist providing therapy to people with complex and enduring mental health problems (mainly NHS) and clients with mild to moderate mental health issues referred by organisations. I carry out in depth assessments, quickly identify key issues and tailor therapy according to client need. I offer a confidential setting where clients are free to talk without fear of rejection, criticism of blame. I aim to provide someone with resources they can draw on to manage current and future anxiety, stresses, disabling symptoms and unstable moods.
01969 607005 View 01969 607005

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carole Turner, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Carole Turner
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bedale DL8
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. With over 35 years experience I have helped hundreds of people like you to find greater peace and acceptance of themselves. The pandemic has revealed difficulties such as anxiety, depression, obsessiveness, and feelings of powerlessness to name but a few. Relationships with ourselves, with families and partners have been sorely tested. How we relate to ourselves is the building block for how we relate to others. People tell me that I am a good listener, warm, compassionate, wise with a sense of humour.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. With over 35 years experience I have helped hundreds of people like you to find greater peace and acceptance of themselves. The pandemic has revealed difficulties such as anxiety, depression, obsessiveness, and feelings of powerlessness to name but a few. Relationships with ourselves, with families and partners have been sorely tested. How we relate to ourselves is the building block for how we relate to others. People tell me that I am a good listener, warm, compassionate, wise with a sense of humour.
01609 716686 View 01609 716686
Photo of Dr Julie Hare, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Julie Hare
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Catterick Garrison DL9  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 18 years post qualified experience in the NHS. I am experienced in using psychological therapies to help individuals, couples, families and older people presenting with a wide range of mental health distress. I am interested in issues around self esteem/identity/culture, childhood neglect, trauma, difficult relationships, mood problems and managing long term health conditions. I also work with adults with ASD/ADHD. In addition to working with distress I offer ‘life reflection’ sessions for individuals who just need a space to ‘pause’ and think about their wellbeing, and for self development.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 18 years post qualified experience in the NHS. I am experienced in using psychological therapies to help individuals, couples, families and older people presenting with a wide range of mental health distress. I am interested in issues around self esteem/identity/culture, childhood neglect, trauma, difficult relationships, mood problems and managing long term health conditions. I also work with adults with ASD/ADHD. In addition to working with distress I offer ‘life reflection’ sessions for individuals who just need a space to ‘pause’ and think about their wellbeing, and for self development.
01544 301359 View 01544 301359
Photo of Nicola Jones - Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Richmond (North Yorkshire) DL10
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
01325 809788 View 01325 809788
Photo of Mike Scarano, MUKCP, Counsellor
Mike Scarano
Counsellor, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Richmond (North Yorkshire) DL10
I offer open-ended, long-term psychotherapy and time-limited, short-term counselling. Together, we can untangle troublesome thoughts and emotions, developing strategies to manage and triumph over roadblocks and reconnect with joy. We will work in a safe, non-judgmental, empathetic space. We will call upon your innate resources and empower you to live the life you desire - and deserve and discuss the skills needed to achieve the goals you set yourself.
I offer open-ended, long-term psychotherapy and time-limited, short-term counselling. Together, we can untangle troublesome thoughts and emotions, developing strategies to manage and triumph over roadblocks and reconnect with joy. We will work in a safe, non-judgmental, empathetic space. We will call upon your innate resources and empower you to live the life you desire - and deserve and discuss the skills needed to achieve the goals you set yourself.
020 4538 3279 View 020 4538 3279
Photo of Paula Haigh - Indigo Thinking Counselling, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
Paula Haigh - Indigo Thinking Counselling
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Catterick DL10
Hello and welcome. Are you feeling out of sorts, lost, or not yourself? You may be struggling with anxiety, grief, or other emotional difficulties. Maybe you're coming to terms with a recent separation, a health condition, or another traumatic life event. Life can be challenging at times and we can find it hard to see a way forward. Pressures placed on us can be unrelenting and take their toll. These can often manifest in unrealistic expectations of oneself, leading to high stress levels and burnout. Whatever you bring I will hear you.
Hello and welcome. Are you feeling out of sorts, lost, or not yourself? You may be struggling with anxiety, grief, or other emotional difficulties. Maybe you're coming to terms with a recent separation, a health condition, or another traumatic life event. Life can be challenging at times and we can find it hard to see a way forward. Pressures placed on us can be unrelenting and take their toll. These can often manifest in unrealistic expectations of oneself, leading to high stress levels and burnout. Whatever you bring I will hear you.
01325 808295 View 01325 808295

Online Therapists

Photo of Anthony Bedward - A2BTherapy , MBACP, Counsellor
A2BTherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
Hi I’m Anthony I have wanted to help others my whole life and now I’m in a position to do so. I am easy to talk to and very passionate and caring I’ve been told I’m a safe pair of hands which has stayed with me throughout my journey. I’m non judgmental with and very laid back I have dealt with many issues and able to manage anything that comes my way. I have dealt with -trauma, sexual abuse, domestic abuse childhood trauma, sexual identity,behavioural issues,complex needs,mental health issues . just to name a few
Hi I’m Anthony I have wanted to help others my whole life and now I’m in a position to do so. I am easy to talk to and very passionate and caring I’ve been told I’m a safe pair of hands which has stayed with me throughout my journey. I’m non judgmental with and very laid back I have dealt with many issues and able to manage anything that comes my way. I have dealt with -trauma, sexual abuse, domestic abuse childhood trauma, sexual identity,behavioural issues,complex needs,mental health issues . just to name a few
0115 647 7377 View 0115 647 7377
Photo of Roxanne Freeman - Roxanne Freeman Counsellor & EMDR Therapist, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Roxanne Freeman Counsellor & EMDR Therapist
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
I am a fully qualified and experienced counsellor and provide a friendly, warm, confidential, accepting environment to enable you to work through the things that may be troubling you. Issues such as Depression, Bereavement, Anxiety, Abuse, Addictions, Sexual Abuse, Grief, Stress, Trauma, Low Self Esteem or Relationship Issues. I also work as an EMDR therapist, EMDR can be used effectively to treat a wide range of issues. EMDR offers a way of precessing painful memories without re-traumatising or reliving the event. If you need further information please feel free call me or email me and I will be happy to talk it through with you.
I am a fully qualified and experienced counsellor and provide a friendly, warm, confidential, accepting environment to enable you to work through the things that may be troubling you. Issues such as Depression, Bereavement, Anxiety, Abuse, Addictions, Sexual Abuse, Grief, Stress, Trauma, Low Self Esteem or Relationship Issues. I also work as an EMDR therapist, EMDR can be used effectively to treat a wide range of issues. EMDR offers a way of precessing painful memories without re-traumatising or reliving the event. If you need further information please feel free call me or email me and I will be happy to talk it through with you.
0115 824 5721 View 0115 824 5721
Photo of Estar Wells - Estar Wells BSc (Hons) GMBPsS Dip.Couns Reg. MBACP, MBACP, Counsellor
Estar Wells BSc (Hons) GMBPsS Dip.Couns Reg. MBACP
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Deeside CH5
I have experience working with a wide range of issues including relationship difficulties, depression, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, family issues, sexual abuse and bereavement, mainly through a person centred approach.
I am a qualified, experienced and.. very human.. therapeutic counsellor registered with the BACP, BPS and NCS. I work with individuals, couples and families online and face to face through my private practice Counselling Choices. I am also a qualified supervisor for other counsellors.
I have experience working with a wide range of issues including relationship difficulties, depression, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, family issues, sexual abuse and bereavement, mainly through a person centred approach.
I am a qualified, experienced and.. very human.. therapeutic counsellor registered with the BACP, BPS and NCS. I work with individuals, couples and families online and face to face through my private practice Counselling Choices. I am also a qualified supervisor for other counsellors.
01352 860061 View 01352 860061
Photo of Vesna Pivcevic, MBACP, Counsellor
Vesna Pivcevic
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG3
I can help with abuse, anxiety, anger, childhood trauma, complex trauma, childhood sexual abuse, depression, difficult memories, loss, PTSD, self-harm, stress, sexual assault, sex as self-injury, relationship issues.
I am a professionally trained and qualified person-centred counsellor supporting clients with a wide range of issues. Reaching out for help can feel like a big step so I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to help you to make your decision. Being able to talk about everything that matters to you and feeling truly heard and understood, can help you to ease your burdens and feel able to cope again. I offer both long and short-term counselling, face to face or online.
I can help with abuse, anxiety, anger, childhood trauma, complex trauma, childhood sexual abuse, depression, difficult memories, loss, PTSD, self-harm, stress, sexual assault, sex as self-injury, relationship issues.
I am a professionally trained and qualified person-centred counsellor supporting clients with a wide range of issues. Reaching out for help can feel like a big step so I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to help you to make your decision. Being able to talk about everything that matters to you and feeling truly heard and understood, can help you to ease your burdens and feel able to cope again. I offer both long and short-term counselling, face to face or online.
0115 647 0049 View 0115 647 0049
Photo of Sarah Blay - Rainbow Counselling, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Rainbow Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Kinmel Bay LL18
My main field of work is based around all kinds of trauma, particularly rape and sexual abuse of men and women.
Hello and welcome to Rainbow Counselling. Rainbow Counselling was created to offer clients a safe space to explore and work on their difficulties, whilst being fully supported, and heard, without judgement.
My main field of work is based around all kinds of trauma, particularly rape and sexual abuse of men and women.
Hello and welcome to Rainbow Counselling. Rainbow Counselling was created to offer clients a safe space to explore and work on their difficulties, whilst being fully supported, and heard, without judgement.
01745 777973 View 01745 777973
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 Jayne Sudworth, MA, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Jayne Sudworth
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Widnes WA8
I have experience working with trauma, bereavement, PTSD, anxiety and depression, self esteem, domestic and sexual abuse, relationships.
Life can be really overwhelming and challenging. You might have decided that now is the time to heal the deep emotional wounds you carry. Would you like to feel heard, understood and accepted? Do you want to get to the bottom of why you feel and think the way you do? Develop a healthier way of thinking with a goal of finding inner peace. You might want to improve your self esteem with the goal of feeling empowered and accepted. Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, constant negative thoughts and over thinking? Feeling like this can lead us to struggle to focus on everyday situations and life. I can help you find your true self.
I have experience working with trauma, bereavement, PTSD, anxiety and depression, self esteem, domestic and sexual abuse, relationships.
Life can be really overwhelming and challenging. You might have decided that now is the time to heal the deep emotional wounds you carry. Would you like to feel heard, understood and accepted? Do you want to get to the bottom of why you feel and think the way you do? Develop a healthier way of thinking with a goal of finding inner peace. You might want to improve your self esteem with the goal of feeling empowered and accepted. Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, constant negative thoughts and over thinking? Feeling like this can lead us to struggle to focus on everyday situations and life. I can help you find your true self.
0151 453 5278 View 0151 453 5278
Photo of Dr Netalie Shloim Netalieshloim, PhD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Netalie Shloim Netalieshloim
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS17
I specialise in supporting people who suffer with Eating Disorders, Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Trauma, , Addictions, Learning Disabilities, Sexual Assault and Personality disorders.
Therapy is a key to life-changing habits that can help us cope with what life throws our way. We don’t have to do it all on our own, and there are times where we need to have an objective viewpoint to get us through the woods. If you are here, you are one step further in your journey. I am here to help you gain back abilities within you that give you the strength to overcome life’s lows and struggles with a wide range of psychological services.
I specialise in supporting people who suffer with Eating Disorders, Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Trauma, , Addictions, Learning Disabilities, Sexual Assault and Personality disorders.
Therapy is a key to life-changing habits that can help us cope with what life throws our way. We don’t have to do it all on our own, and there are times where we need to have an objective viewpoint to get us through the woods. If you are here, you are one step further in your journey. I am here to help you gain back abilities within you that give you the strength to overcome life’s lows and struggles with a wide range of psychological services.
0113 487 2909 View 0113 487 2909
Photo of Jess Maynard, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Jess Maynard
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
York YO42
I am an Integrative Therapist offering long-term and short-term therapy, in-person and online. I have a deep appreciation for the importance of relationship, and believe it is instrumental in both the challenges we encounter and how we facilitate change. I take a holistic view of people, and during your therapy journey I will hold space both for who you are as an individual, alongside the socio-cultural context that has shaped and formed your experience. I have worked in specialised clinical services with clients experiencing eating disorders, complex trauma and sexual abuse, amongst a wide range of other difficulties.
I am an Integrative Therapist offering long-term and short-term therapy, in-person and online. I have a deep appreciation for the importance of relationship, and believe it is instrumental in both the challenges we encounter and how we facilitate change. I take a holistic view of people, and during your therapy journey I will hold space both for who you are as an individual, alongside the socio-cultural context that has shaped and formed your experience. I have worked in specialised clinical services with clients experiencing eating disorders, complex trauma and sexual abuse, amongst a wide range of other difficulties.
01377 310957 View 01377 310957
Photo of Debbie Frost - Debbie Frost Counselling & Hypnotherapy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Debbie Frost Counselling & Hypnotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS13
I am a counsellor and hypnotherapist, working  with adults and teenagers, I work with issues such as adult survivors of sexual abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, suicide,confidence building, pain relief, depression, low self esteem, regression work, anger, domestic violence, sexual abuse, bereavement, trauma, bullying, self harm, phobia's, insomnia, weight loss, stopping smoking and other issues I am a qualified and experienced counsellor and hypnotherapist, I am a member of BACP. I have worked with DISC a drugs rehabilitation unit in Leeds and I also volunteered for BARCA Reaching out Counselling & psychotherapy services
I am a counsellor and hypnotherapist, working  with adults and teenagers, I work with issues such as adult survivors of sexual abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, suicide,confidence building, pain relief, depression, low self esteem, regression work, anger, domestic violence, sexual abuse, bereavement, trauma, bullying, self harm, phobia's, insomnia, weight loss, stopping smoking and other issues I am a qualified and experienced counsellor and hypnotherapist, I am a member of BACP. I have worked with DISC a drugs rehabilitation unit in Leeds and I also volunteered for BARCA Reaching out Counselling & psychotherapy services
01274 288625 View 01274 288625
Photo of Beverly James, MBACP, Counsellor
Beverly James
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rotherham S66
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 Eileen Moss, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Eileen Moss
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bishop Auckland DL14
This includes working with bullying, self-harm, OCD, anxiety, anger, bereavement, bullying, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, family and behavioural problems and school anxiety.
Are you feeling stressed? Anxious? Suffering the loss of a loved one? Going through a rough patch? I can offer you a safe, confidential place to explore your problems. You can be assured of being heard with understanding and without judgement. As an integrative counsellor, I have a wide variety of theories and styles to draw on to suit the needs of the individual. I offer counselling to adults, young people and children through Microsoft Teams or the Psychology Today platform. Home visits are available locally. Counselling is an opportunity to understand what is going on for you in your life and to explore a way forward.
This includes working with bullying, self-harm, OCD, anxiety, anger, bereavement, bullying, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, family and behavioural problems and school anxiety.
Are you feeling stressed? Anxious? Suffering the loss of a loved one? Going through a rough patch? I can offer you a safe, confidential place to explore your problems. You can be assured of being heard with understanding and without judgement. As an integrative counsellor, I have a wide variety of theories and styles to draw on to suit the needs of the individual. I offer counselling to adults, young people and children through Microsoft Teams or the Psychology Today platform. Home visits are available locally. Counselling is an opportunity to understand what is going on for you in your life and to explore a way forward.
01684 217891 View 01684 217891
Photo of Erica M Finlayson - Biscuits Tea & Therapy, BACP, Counsellor
Biscuits Tea & Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Huddersfield HD3
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 Tina Young - Tina Young Counselling Services, BACP, Counsellor
Tina Young Counselling Services
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Halifax HX4
I specialise in working with presenting concerns such as depression, abuse and sexual abuse, self-harm, eating disorders, relationship issues and anxiety.
Hi, I'm Tina and I work using the Person-Centred Approach offering one to one counselling, in a non-judgemental and non-directive way. I advocate this theory as I enjoy helping people realise their potential and become who they want to be! This particularly helps those who are drawn to exploring their own thoughts and feelings. Counselling is not about ‘fixing’ problems as such, it is about changing your understanding and view of the problems, enabling you to work towards living in a way that you find more satisfying.
I specialise in working with presenting concerns such as depression, abuse and sexual abuse, self-harm, eating disorders, relationship issues and anxiety.
Hi, I'm Tina and I work using the Person-Centred Approach offering one to one counselling, in a non-judgemental and non-directive way. I advocate this theory as I enjoy helping people realise their potential and become who they want to be! This particularly helps those who are drawn to exploring their own thoughts and feelings. Counselling is not about ‘fixing’ problems as such, it is about changing your understanding and view of the problems, enabling you to work towards living in a way that you find more satisfying.
01422 400611 View 01422 400611

See more therapy options for Leyburn

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.