Sexual Abuse Support Groups in Silver Spring, MD

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Photo of Vicki Lynn Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Sexual Abuse/Assault Treatment Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified
Verified
"Overcome your suffering from the trauma of sexual abuse or sexual assault in a group format, which can be supplemented with individual treatment as needed. This group utilizes a very effective holistic approach to healing combined with group support in ..."
(301) 979-7311
View
Group meets in:
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Photo of Vicki Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Sexual Abuse/Assault Treatment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified
Verified
"Overcome your suffering from the trauma of sexual abuse or sexual assault in a group format, which can be supplemented with individual treatment as needed. This group utilizes a very effective holistic approach to healing combined with group support in ..."
(301) 684-8194
View
Group meets in:
Silver Spring, MD 20901

More Groups Nearby

Photo of Vicki Lynn Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Sexual Abuse/Assault Treatment Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified
Verified
"Overcome your suffering from the trauma of sexual abuse or sexual assault in a group format, which can be supplemented with individual treatment as needed. This group utilizes a very effective holistic approach to healing combined with group support in ..."
(301) 979-7311
View
Group meets in:
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Photo of Vicki Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Sexual Abuse/Assault Treatment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified
Verified
"Overcome your suffering from the trauma of sexual abuse or sexual assault in a group format, which can be supplemented with individual treatment as needed. This group utilizes a very effective holistic approach to healing combined with group support in ..."
(301) 684-8194
View
Group meets in:
Silver Spring, MD 20901

Sexual Abuse Support Groups

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.




What is the difference between Group Therapy and a Support Group?
Silver Spring Support Groups and Group Therapy both offer a safe place to explore important issues. It is important, however, to understand the difference between the two.

Group therapy in Silver Spring is led by a therapist, group psychotherapist, or group counselor, and is generally structured around an issue. The therapist guides the group through a program as the group works together to better understand thoughts and feelings. Experienced therapists lead psychotherapy groups for various ages, such as adults, and specific issues including anger management, anxiety, and coping skills.

Support groups in Silver Spring are usually facilitated by a therapist or counselor, but can also be led by members with lived experiences. Generally, a support group is less structured than a therapy group. Support groups bring together members to provide support and strength to each other, often around a common challenge such as addiction or grief.

Most therapy groups will meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.