Sexual Abuse Therapists in Tucson, AZ

Photo of Stacey Gonzales, LAC, MA, Counselor
Stacey Gonzales
Counselor, LAC, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you a Christian man struggling with trauma symptoms, sex addiction or no purpose? As a man, I know how difficult it is to seek help, so I'm grateful you're at this point. My masters is in Christian Counseling, and I professionally help men overcome their most vulnerable challenges. I've worked with men from all backgrounds including inmates, NFL players, first responders, politicians, neurosurgeons, and many more. From my Christian faith I bring a loving, genuine and truthful approach, and I specialize with victims of sexual abuse, trauma, and sex addiction. I also work with adolescents on a case by case basis.
Are you a Christian man struggling with trauma symptoms, sex addiction or no purpose? As a man, I know how difficult it is to seek help, so I'm grateful you're at this point. My masters is in Christian Counseling, and I professionally help men overcome their most vulnerable challenges. I've worked with men from all backgrounds including inmates, NFL players, first responders, politicians, neurosurgeons, and many more. From my Christian faith I bring a loving, genuine and truthful approach, and I specialize with victims of sexual abuse, trauma, and sex addiction. I also work with adolescents on a case by case basis.
(520) 214-8165 View (520) 214-8165
Photo of Jennifer Rollins, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Rollins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
Additional training includes play therapy, sand tray therapy, sexual assault, adoption, Birth-to-5, parent-child relationship and EMDR.
When children and young adults struggle their loved ones struggle too. That is why I work with children, adolescents, young adults and their families to help promote strong relationships and foster healthy individuals. When working with small children I specialize in using play therapy and providing a safe, confidential and calming environment. When working with young adults there is always a need to help dalth with past traumas while working to promote the skills to transition to a health adulthood. I offer a variety of services, including therapy, consultation, and assessment in a relaxed and comfortable setting.
Additional training includes play therapy, sand tray therapy, sexual assault, adoption, Birth-to-5, parent-child relationship and EMDR.
When children and young adults struggle their loved ones struggle too. That is why I work with children, adolescents, young adults and their families to help promote strong relationships and foster healthy individuals. When working with small children I specialize in using play therapy and providing a safe, confidential and calming environment. When working with young adults there is always a need to help dalth with past traumas while working to promote the skills to transition to a health adulthood. I offer a variety of services, including therapy, consultation, and assessment in a relaxed and comfortable setting.
(520) 477-7455 View (520) 477-7455
Photo of Casey Swenson, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Swenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include trauma, including childhood trauma, neglect, and sexual abuse.
Have you been struggling with trauma, abuse, emotional pain, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or lack of support? Or have you experienced grief, loss, or complications in your relationships? Whether these feelings are temporary or lifelong, we do not need to continue with struggling alone. If life has been difficult or unmanageable, we can come together to find balance, understanding, and relief. In addition to therapy services, I offer Clinical Supervision to therapy licensees to guide them on their journey of licensure, providing ethical and compassionate supervision. Sessions offered in person or telehealth, weekends and evenings.
My specialties include trauma, including childhood trauma, neglect, and sexual abuse.
Have you been struggling with trauma, abuse, emotional pain, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or lack of support? Or have you experienced grief, loss, or complications in your relationships? Whether these feelings are temporary or lifelong, we do not need to continue with struggling alone. If life has been difficult or unmanageable, we can come together to find balance, understanding, and relief. In addition to therapy services, I offer Clinical Supervision to therapy licensees to guide them on their journey of licensure, providing ethical and compassionate supervision. Sessions offered in person or telehealth, weekends and evenings.
(520) 379-7351 View (520) 379-7351
Photo of Jesus Camacho, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesus Camacho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Working with domestic violence survivors, sexual assault victims and grief and loss has helped me to understand that the journey towards healing requires time and to take things one step at a time.
My ideal client is typically someone who may be facing significant life challenges. They may be professionals, parents or individuals navigating major life transitions. They are likely someone who is experiencing behavioral health issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss or have endured domestic violence or abuse. They need a safe space where they can express their emotions without judgment, feeling validated in their experiences and struggles. Ultimately, this ideal client wants to feel whole again—emotionally, mentally and physically. They desire a return to joy and fulfillment in their life.
Working with domestic violence survivors, sexual assault victims and grief and loss has helped me to understand that the journey towards healing requires time and to take things one step at a time.
My ideal client is typically someone who may be facing significant life challenges. They may be professionals, parents or individuals navigating major life transitions. They are likely someone who is experiencing behavioral health issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss or have endured domestic violence or abuse. They need a safe space where they can express their emotions without judgment, feeling validated in their experiences and struggles. Ultimately, this ideal client wants to feel whole again—emotionally, mentally and physically. They desire a return to joy and fulfillment in their life.
(520) 783-7876 View (520) 783-7876
Photo of Dr. Jodi Tudisco, DSW, LPC, MS, EMDR, TRE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jodi Tudisco
Licensed Professional Counselor, DSW, LPC, MS, EMDR, TRE
Verified Verified
Online Only
Using an eclectic approach to therapy, I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, sexual abuse, OCD, self-esteem and family conflict, among other issues.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson. Using a holistic approach in therapy we will explore the mind, body and spirit connection. We will learn balance and build resilience through the power of self-discovery, thus improving your quality of life. Negative thought patterns and beliefs will be identified and challenged through DBT, mindfulness, and EMDR. When needed we may create healthy eating habits and a healthy relationship with exercise. Cultivating your spirituality to relieve fear and nurture an attitude of gratitude and abundance is encouraged.
Using an eclectic approach to therapy, I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, sexual abuse, OCD, self-esteem and family conflict, among other issues.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson. Using a holistic approach in therapy we will explore the mind, body and spirit connection. We will learn balance and build resilience through the power of self-discovery, thus improving your quality of life. Negative thought patterns and beliefs will be identified and challenged through DBT, mindfulness, and EMDR. When needed we may create healthy eating habits and a healthy relationship with exercise. Cultivating your spirituality to relieve fear and nurture an attitude of gratitude and abundance is encouraged.
(520) 441-8865 View (520) 441-8865
Photo of Sylvia K Neal - Sylvia K Neal LCSW, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sylvia K Neal LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85741
Sylvia K. Neal, MSW, LCSW, PLLC, is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the field of sexual abuse and trauma. She has worked in this area for over 20 years starting with female adult survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault and has dedicated much of her work to the area of sexual abuse, incest, perpetration and sexual acting out. She has extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, anger, violence and abuse.
Sylvia K. Neal, MSW, LCSW, PLLC, is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the field of sexual abuse and trauma. She has worked in this area for over 20 years starting with female adult survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault and has dedicated much of her work to the area of sexual abuse, incest, perpetration and sexual acting out. She has extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, anger, violence and abuse.
(520) 704-9137 View (520) 704-9137
Photo of Shoshana Elkins - Sequoia Springs Trauma Healing Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sequoia Springs Trauma Healing Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
We are focused on treating people and their loved ones impacted by traumatic events, including sexual assault, abuse, injury, illness, divorce, addictions, grief and loss, being a victim or witness to a crime, and combat.
Sequoia Springs Trauma Healing Center is here to help by providing therapy services to individuals, couples and families as they find their path into healing and recovery. We specialize in the treatment of trauma and work with people who would like to improve their sense of connection, communication, empowerment and healing in the challenges that create stress, conflict, isolation, and addiction. Together we can work to challenge defenses and patterns that create disconnect, dissatisfaction, and overall unhappiness - at school, work, relationships, home or in yourself.
We are focused on treating people and their loved ones impacted by traumatic events, including sexual assault, abuse, injury, illness, divorce, addictions, grief and loss, being a victim or witness to a crime, and combat.
Sequoia Springs Trauma Healing Center is here to help by providing therapy services to individuals, couples and families as they find their path into healing and recovery. We specialize in the treatment of trauma and work with people who would like to improve their sense of connection, communication, empowerment and healing in the challenges that create stress, conflict, isolation, and addiction. Together we can work to challenge defenses and patterns that create disconnect, dissatisfaction, and overall unhappiness - at school, work, relationships, home or in yourself.
(520) 447-4164 View (520) 447-4164
Photo of Sherri Mikels-Romero, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherri Mikels-Romero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I specialize in working with *trauma, * sexual abuse and incest, domestic violence- families, offenders, and victims, first responders and their families, people with personality disorders, individuals and families in crisis.
I have a commitment to work that furthers the growth and wholeness of individuals and facilitates individuals and families in identifying strengths and increasing levels of functioning. I treat adults, children, and families and I prefer to involve parents when treating their children.
I specialize in working with *trauma, * sexual abuse and incest, domestic violence- families, offenders, and victims, first responders and their families, people with personality disorders, individuals and families in crisis.
I have a commitment to work that furthers the growth and wholeness of individuals and facilitates individuals and families in identifying strengths and increasing levels of functioning. I treat adults, children, and families and I prefer to involve parents when treating their children.
(520) 837-1283 View (520) 837-1283
Photo of Kimberly A Mahr, MSc, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CCFP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly A Mahr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CCFP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Online Only
Wouldn't it be nice if you had someone safe to unburden your heart with? Someone who is not only well-trained, but cares deeply and respects you and your journey? Someone who can help you sift through old stories and patterns, helping you re-write them and uncover the best version of yourself that you always knew was there?? I am a 𝘾𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙙 𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙪𝙢𝙖 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙛𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 and specialize in working with adults with mood challenges, grief, relationship challenges, divorce & dating, codependency, eating disorders, recent & complex trauma, sexual assault, and more.
Wouldn't it be nice if you had someone safe to unburden your heart with? Someone who is not only well-trained, but cares deeply and respects you and your journey? Someone who can help you sift through old stories and patterns, helping you re-write them and uncover the best version of yourself that you always knew was there?? I am a 𝘾𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙙 𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙪𝙢𝙖 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙛𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 and specialize in working with adults with mood challenges, grief, relationship challenges, divorce & dating, codependency, eating disorders, recent & complex trauma, sexual assault, and more.
(623) 500-6543 View (623) 500-6543
Photo of Raul Espericueta, LMSW, CCTSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raul Espericueta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTSI
Verified Verified
Online Only
Raul's trained in assisting men with trauma history, anxiety, depression, professional coaching, marital issues, self esteem, addictions and sexual abuse.
As a seasoned nonprofit executive, educator and family man, Raul's been immersed in the helping profession all of his career. As a recent licensed Master's level Social Work therapist he's prepared to listen attentively, and assist men and couples in promoting healthy and holistic practices for personal development. Currently Telehealth only. Bilingual - Spanish
Raul's trained in assisting men with trauma history, anxiety, depression, professional coaching, marital issues, self esteem, addictions and sexual abuse.
As a seasoned nonprofit executive, educator and family man, Raul's been immersed in the helping profession all of his career. As a recent licensed Master's level Social Work therapist he's prepared to listen attentively, and assist men and couples in promoting healthy and holistic practices for personal development. Currently Telehealth only. Bilingual - Spanish
(602) 780-2710 View (602) 780-2710
Photo of Ginger Butcher, LCSW, CCTS-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginger Butcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
With 16 years of experience as a Social Worker I have dedicated my career to helping survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other traumatic experiences.
Life can be challenging, especially when dealing with past trauma, major life changes, or relationship issues. If you're seeking to heal, grow, and build a brighter future, you’ve come to the right place. I specialize in supporting women, trans, and nonbinary individuals who are committed to overcoming their pasts and empowering themselves. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, ensuring that you feel safe and affirmed throughout your journey.
With 16 years of experience as a Social Worker I have dedicated my career to helping survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other traumatic experiences.
Life can be challenging, especially when dealing with past trauma, major life changes, or relationship issues. If you're seeking to heal, grow, and build a brighter future, you’ve come to the right place. I specialize in supporting women, trans, and nonbinary individuals who are committed to overcoming their pasts and empowering themselves. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, ensuring that you feel safe and affirmed throughout your journey.
(480) 771-3222 View (480) 771-3222
Photo of Wendy J Pauluk, PsyD, Psychologist
Wendy J Pauluk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, & coping w/ situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of Psychological credential in Psychology & Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, & coping w/ situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of Psychological credential in Psychology & Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
(928) 267-6122 View (928) 267-6122
Photo of Thomas Macewicz, MA, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Macewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
I work with a variety of clients who experience a variety of concerns related to unhealthy or poor coping skills, life transitions, and finding personal meaning.Whether the concern feels minute or overwhelming, I believe that most concerns can be addressed, reversed, or reduced by changing the way that one thinks about the situation and implementing new strategies of problem solving. If a client is willing to change, and persistent in their efforts towards changing, they can make their goals a reality.
I work with a variety of clients who experience a variety of concerns related to unhealthy or poor coping skills, life transitions, and finding personal meaning.Whether the concern feels minute or overwhelming, I believe that most concerns can be addressed, reversed, or reduced by changing the way that one thinks about the situation and implementing new strategies of problem solving. If a client is willing to change, and persistent in their efforts towards changing, they can make their goals a reality.
(520) 357-9052 View (520) 357-9052
Photo of Carol D Warner, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol D Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I work with a range of issues from substance abuse, stress, depression, couples issues, trauma and abuse, parent guidance issues and more. I have been in private practice for more than 25 years, working both short term and long term with a variety of clients. Therapy is not lightly undertaken. My job is to help you with the problems you bring to the table, and help you discover the answers that are hiding within you. I work in a warm client-centered, interactional style, and actively verbally engage in the process with you. I blend traditional techniques with modern.
I work with a range of issues from substance abuse, stress, depression, couples issues, trauma and abuse, parent guidance issues and more. I have been in private practice for more than 25 years, working both short term and long term with a variety of clients. Therapy is not lightly undertaken. My job is to help you with the problems you bring to the table, and help you discover the answers that are hiding within you. I work in a warm client-centered, interactional style, and actively verbally engage in the process with you. I blend traditional techniques with modern.
(520) 329-4065 View (520) 329-4065
Photo of Kimberly Anne Gay-Huynh, MS, LAC, NCC, CCTS-I, Counselor
Kimberly Anne Gay-Huynh
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
Online Only
Immediate openings for individual & couples counseling! Specializing in stress, trauma, PTSD, and abuse. Convenient online scheduling 24/7 at kimberly-gay-huynh.clientsecure.me. Limited spots available. Currently available via telehealth or Run Walk Talk sessions, with in-person seated sessions coming soon. I am the only advanced ART therapist and Run Walk Talk Level 1 certified practitioner in Tucson! Let's work together to help you get to the core of your symptoms instead of putting a bandaid over your pain.
Immediate openings for individual & couples counseling! Specializing in stress, trauma, PTSD, and abuse. Convenient online scheduling 24/7 at kimberly-gay-huynh.clientsecure.me. Limited spots available. Currently available via telehealth or Run Walk Talk sessions, with in-person seated sessions coming soon. I am the only advanced ART therapist and Run Walk Talk Level 1 certified practitioner in Tucson! Let's work together to help you get to the core of your symptoms instead of putting a bandaid over your pain.
(520) 523-6524 View (520) 523-6524
Photo of Tamara L Zuniga, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara L Zuniga
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85741
Things happen to us everyday which impact and change who we are and how we though the world. My twenty-five plus years of working in this field with individual's of diverse ages, cultures and back grounds have proven this to be true. I believe my role as a therapist is to support others in identifying "their" purpose while growing their mental, emotional and physical health. The passion for supporting others in the process of gaining insight and identifying positive changes toward their future is "my" purpose.
Things happen to us everyday which impact and change who we are and how we though the world. My twenty-five plus years of working in this field with individual's of diverse ages, cultures and back grounds have proven this to be true. I believe my role as a therapist is to support others in identifying "their" purpose while growing their mental, emotional and physical health. The passion for supporting others in the process of gaining insight and identifying positive changes toward their future is "my" purpose.
(520) 337-2125 View (520) 337-2125
Photo of Robin Memel Fox, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, Counselor
Robin Memel Fox
Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85715
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
(520) 332-6144 View (520) 332-6144
Photo of Mary Kay Irving, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Kay Irving
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85718
When you area ready to make big changes and get out of the rut you are stuck in, give me a call. I'm passionate about helping people move through and beyond their traumas, self defeating beliefs and habits to create the life and relationships they really want and deserve. Does any of this resonate? You sometimes feel like you are in the same old place, you know or suspect your past gets in the way of your happiness in the here and now. You know you're a good person and deserve better. You're intelligent and talented and now you are committed to creating a different and better life for yourself. Well, I'm here to help you.
When you area ready to make big changes and get out of the rut you are stuck in, give me a call. I'm passionate about helping people move through and beyond their traumas, self defeating beliefs and habits to create the life and relationships they really want and deserve. Does any of this resonate? You sometimes feel like you are in the same old place, you know or suspect your past gets in the way of your happiness in the here and now. You know you're a good person and deserve better. You're intelligent and talented and now you are committed to creating a different and better life for yourself. Well, I'm here to help you.
(520) 397-3332 View (520) 397-3332
Photo of Kristi Helgeson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Helgeson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
I know there are many reasons people come to therapy. Whatever has brought you to this space, welcome. Stepping into therapy is no small feat and I am honored that you are considering allowing me to join you on this courageous journey. As a licensed therapist, I strive to create a space in which you feel safe to bring all of you - the known and the unknown. Together, we will create a space each week that will allow you to move toward more of what you want and need in this moment.
I know there are many reasons people come to therapy. Whatever has brought you to this space, welcome. Stepping into therapy is no small feat and I am honored that you are considering allowing me to join you on this courageous journey. As a licensed therapist, I strive to create a space in which you feel safe to bring all of you - the known and the unknown. Together, we will create a space each week that will allow you to move toward more of what you want and need in this moment.
(520) 675-4166 View (520) 675-4166
Photo of Kathleen Young, PsyD, Psychologist
Kathleen Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? Are you struggling with unresolved past pain? Healing is possible. I can help. My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? Are you struggling with unresolved past pain? Healing is possible. I can help. My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
(520) 346-0915 View (520) 346-0915
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Sexual Abuse Therapists

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.