Sexual Abuse Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Veroniki Usherenko, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veroniki Usherenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128  (Online Only)
Life’s journey includes many difficulties, including challenges for individuals, couples, and families. Therapy provides a confidential and safe space where feelings can be explored, new skills can be acquired, and healing can begin. Seeking guidance is an important first step. I have experience working with those involved in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other trauma. Trauma often surfaces in ways as we do not always know how to articulate and process our emotions. I take a collaborative approach with my clients to reinforce safety, identify problem areas, set goals, and learn to identify and express feelings.
Life’s journey includes many difficulties, including challenges for individuals, couples, and families. Therapy provides a confidential and safe space where feelings can be explored, new skills can be acquired, and healing can begin. Seeking guidance is an important first step. I have experience working with those involved in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other trauma. Trauma often surfaces in ways as we do not always know how to articulate and process our emotions. I take a collaborative approach with my clients to reinforce safety, identify problem areas, set goals, and learn to identify and express feelings.
(858) 683-1072 View (858) 683-1072
Photo of Jennifer V Kulka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer V Kulka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I help folks cope and heal from sexual and relationship trauma. Trauma can fracture who you are as a person. It can make you feel unlike yourself, distant from others, and changed forever. This does not have to be permanent. Together, we can build resilience, access your strengths, and let your past stay in the past. Learning to understand your trauma, manage symptoms, change patterns, and increase self-esteem can help you cultivate the life and meaningful relationships that you want. Most of my clients have experienced rape, sexual assault, childhood abuse, systemic oppression, and/or violence from a partner.
I help folks cope and heal from sexual and relationship trauma. Trauma can fracture who you are as a person. It can make you feel unlike yourself, distant from others, and changed forever. This does not have to be permanent. Together, we can build resilience, access your strengths, and let your past stay in the past. Learning to understand your trauma, manage symptoms, change patterns, and increase self-esteem can help you cultivate the life and meaningful relationships that you want. Most of my clients have experienced rape, sexual assault, childhood abuse, systemic oppression, and/or violence from a partner.
(442) 245-5162 View (442) 245-5162
Photo of Miyoung Son, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miyoung Son
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help can be challenging for many. As psychotherapy aims at positive changes you desire, I am honored to provide a safe place for your self-exploration and reflection in which you can gain your inner peace and change you long for. Being specialized in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence, I can offer some resolution in your trauma work. Trauma can penetrate not only your emotional well-being but also almost every facet of your life. My warm and peaceful presence would guide you through an effective treatment you deserve. My other specialties include performance anxiety, and psychological impotence (ED).
Reaching out for help can be challenging for many. As psychotherapy aims at positive changes you desire, I am honored to provide a safe place for your self-exploration and reflection in which you can gain your inner peace and change you long for. Being specialized in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence, I can offer some resolution in your trauma work. Trauma can penetrate not only your emotional well-being but also almost every facet of your life. My warm and peaceful presence would guide you through an effective treatment you deserve. My other specialties include performance anxiety, and psychological impotence (ED).
(619) 485-6056 View (619) 485-6056
Photo of Morgan Shaw, PsyD, Psychologist
Morgan Shaw
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced significant trauma in their lives, particularly child sexual abuse, child maltreatment, and intimate partner violence.
I believe that we all experience our own unique traumas in life, and it's how we respond to them that shapes our view of the world and ourselves. I'm here to help you see things from a different lens, or perhaps just help you develop new ways of responding to your own individual experiences. Healing your traumas allows you to regain your sense of power and strengthen your sense of self. I take a holistic approach to healing and wellness and believe that each client requires a unique, person-centered approach.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced significant trauma in their lives, particularly child sexual abuse, child maltreatment, and intimate partner violence.
I believe that we all experience our own unique traumas in life, and it's how we respond to them that shapes our view of the world and ourselves. I'm here to help you see things from a different lens, or perhaps just help you develop new ways of responding to your own individual experiences. Healing your traumas allows you to regain your sense of power and strengthen your sense of self. I take a holistic approach to healing and wellness and believe that each client requires a unique, person-centered approach.
(858) 437-5596 View (858) 437-5596
Photo of Darlene Hourany, LFMT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darlene Hourany
Marriage & Family Therapist, LFMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
As a survivor of sexual assault, you're not alone.
Are you grappling with the aftermath of sexual assault? It's common to experience a range of intense and confusing emotions, from fear and anger to guilt and sadness. These feelings can deeply affect your studies, relationships, and self-image. My focus is on providing a safe, understanding space where your feelings are heard and validated. We'll work together to navigate these complex emotions, helping you regain a sense of empowerment and control over your life.
As a survivor of sexual assault, you're not alone.
Are you grappling with the aftermath of sexual assault? It's common to experience a range of intense and confusing emotions, from fear and anger to guilt and sadness. These feelings can deeply affect your studies, relationships, and self-image. My focus is on providing a safe, understanding space where your feelings are heard and validated. We'll work together to navigate these complex emotions, helping you regain a sense of empowerment and control over your life.
(858) 786-0472 View (858) 786-0472
Photo of Leticia Isabel Bane, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leticia Isabel Bane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I also have a specialty in child sexual abuse.
Are you concerned about your child after having experienced something traumatic? Domestic violence, accidents, assault, child physical abuse, child sexual abuse, neglect, and other traumatic events take time and support to heal from. Many children are left with depression, anxiety, PTSD, defiance, opposition, and many other issues after the trauma.
I also have a specialty in child sexual abuse.
Are you concerned about your child after having experienced something traumatic? Domestic violence, accidents, assault, child physical abuse, child sexual abuse, neglect, and other traumatic events take time and support to heal from. Many children are left with depression, anxiety, PTSD, defiance, opposition, and many other issues after the trauma.
(619) 547-0995 View (619) 547-0995
Photo of C. Allen Ruyle, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
C. Allen Ruyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
One out of every six men in the United States has been sexually abused and millions more are sexually assaulted as adults. Unfortunately, most sexual trauma treatment programs are designed for women, making them a poor fit for male clients. I have spent my career offering a safe environment and treatment specifically designed for male survivors of sexual trauma. I help men throughout California confront their trauma, understand the impact it has on them and their relationships, build healthier coping strategies, and start to heal from the wounds inflicted by the abuse/ assault.
One out of every six men in the United States has been sexually abused and millions more are sexually assaulted as adults. Unfortunately, most sexual trauma treatment programs are designed for women, making them a poor fit for male clients. I have spent my career offering a safe environment and treatment specifically designed for male survivors of sexual trauma. I help men throughout California confront their trauma, understand the impact it has on them and their relationships, build healthier coping strategies, and start to heal from the wounds inflicted by the abuse/ assault.
(619) 821-2477 View (619) 821-2477
Photo of Heather Johns - Anxiety And Trauma Therapist, MA, LPCC
Heather Johns - Anxiety And Trauma Therapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
I have a passion for working with survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other traumas experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.
If you are a survivor of trauma, I am here to help you regain a sense of safety and wholeness. Together we can significantly reduce the negative effects that these events continue to have on your life. As a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I work to create a safe and judgement-free space where my client and I can walk along their healing journey together, gaining insight, learning coping skills, and building resiliency along the way.
I have a passion for working with survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other traumas experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.
If you are a survivor of trauma, I am here to help you regain a sense of safety and wholeness. Together we can significantly reduce the negative effects that these events continue to have on your life. As a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I work to create a safe and judgement-free space where my client and I can walk along their healing journey together, gaining insight, learning coping skills, and building resiliency along the way.
(619) 612-5085 View (619) 612-5085
Photo of Dena Nelson O'Connor, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dena Nelson O'Connor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Hello, My name is Dena and I am a Certified EMDR therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am trauma informed and use an eclectic approach utilizing Person Centered, Mindfulness, Strength Based, EMDR (rapid eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and Flash to help with processing trauma. I specialize in working with issues to include: trauma, family of origin issues, early childhood physical/ sexual abuse and neglect, PTSD, anxiety, life transitions and relationship issues.
Hello, My name is Dena and I am a Certified EMDR therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am trauma informed and use an eclectic approach utilizing Person Centered, Mindfulness, Strength Based, EMDR (rapid eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and Flash to help with processing trauma. I specialize in working with issues to include: trauma, family of origin issues, early childhood physical/ sexual abuse and neglect, PTSD, anxiety, life transitions and relationship issues.
(619) 514-1501 View (619) 514-1501
Photo of Rhonda Okonkwo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhonda Okonkwo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92132  (Online Only)
I am a survivor who works with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual trauma and/or sex trafficking.
Hey there, I’m Rhonda Stephanie! Do you have trouble managing anxiety and feelings of depression? Do you need assistance in processing a very difficult situation that you experienced?
I am a survivor who works with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual trauma and/or sex trafficking.
Hey there, I’m Rhonda Stephanie! Do you have trouble managing anxiety and feelings of depression? Do you need assistance in processing a very difficult situation that you experienced?
(562) 685-9187 View (562) 685-9187
Photo of Amanda Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92132  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. My background is a combination of trauma and community-based mental health and I work with clients with an array of diverse backgrounds. My work with clients involves finding out how to address the concerns that stop you from living a fulfilling life. Finding answers to question such as: How can we move from surviving to thriving, becoming the best version of what we want for ourselves? Prior to becoming a psychotherapist I spent seven years in crisis work, working with individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. My background is a combination of trauma and community-based mental health and I work with clients with an array of diverse backgrounds. My work with clients involves finding out how to address the concerns that stop you from living a fulfilling life. Finding answers to question such as: How can we move from surviving to thriving, becoming the best version of what we want for ourselves? Prior to becoming a psychotherapist I spent seven years in crisis work, working with individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
(661) 449-9284 View (661) 449-9284
Photo of Sarah Izaguirre, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Izaguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
I have helped survivors of trauma including sexual abuse, child abuse, domestic violence and emotional abuse.
Working with children, teenagers, adults, and families has been my priority for the past decade in order to help them develop the skills they need to build healthy lives. My goal is to create a safe environment in which individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and free of judgment. I believe in working as a team in order to help each person develop insight in themselves and their situation, while cultivating their strengths, and highlighting their resiliency. When needed, I involve parents, families, psychiatrists, and physicians in order to ensure collaboration to increase the client's support within treatment.
I have helped survivors of trauma including sexual abuse, child abuse, domestic violence and emotional abuse.
Working with children, teenagers, adults, and families has been my priority for the past decade in order to help them develop the skills they need to build healthy lives. My goal is to create a safe environment in which individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and free of judgment. I believe in working as a team in order to help each person develop insight in themselves and their situation, while cultivating their strengths, and highlighting their resiliency. When needed, I involve parents, families, psychiatrists, and physicians in order to ensure collaboration to increase the client's support within treatment.
(619) 598-1117 View (619) 598-1117
Photo of Adrian Reveles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrian Reveles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
My focus, methods, and techniques align with the struggles of today's teens, young adults, and adults of all ages who may be experiencing or have experienced peer pressure, childhood trauma, sexual assault, substance abuse, abandonment, unstable living environments, domestic violence, toxic relationships, and socioeconomic issues.
My name is Adrian Reveles. I am a compassionate, seasoned, and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I specialize in reducing negative symptoms and behaviors stemming from traumatic experiences, grief & loss, substance abuse, work stress, partner/marital conflict, family conflict, and family stress due to gang involvement and substance abuse. I work with clients via telehealth, serving many populations, cultures, and groups. I aim to help (YOU) move forward through healing, learning how to manage anxiety, empowering (YOU), and psycho-education.
My focus, methods, and techniques align with the struggles of today's teens, young adults, and adults of all ages who may be experiencing or have experienced peer pressure, childhood trauma, sexual assault, substance abuse, abandonment, unstable living environments, domestic violence, toxic relationships, and socioeconomic issues.
My name is Adrian Reveles. I am a compassionate, seasoned, and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I specialize in reducing negative symptoms and behaviors stemming from traumatic experiences, grief & loss, substance abuse, work stress, partner/marital conflict, family conflict, and family stress due to gang involvement and substance abuse. I work with clients via telehealth, serving many populations, cultures, and groups. I aim to help (YOU) move forward through healing, learning how to manage anxiety, empowering (YOU), and psycho-education.
(858) 267-4609 View (858) 267-4609
Photo of Neda Khodaparast, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Neda Khodaparast
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I am well versed in a variety of treatment approaches and have a diverse clinical background in different areas including treatment of: Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Physical and Sexual Abuse/ Incest, PTSD, Domestic Violence,Infidelity Issues, Eating Disorder, and Adoption.
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
I am well versed in a variety of treatment approaches and have a diverse clinical background in different areas including treatment of: Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Physical and Sexual Abuse/ Incest, PTSD, Domestic Violence,Infidelity Issues, Eating Disorder, and Adoption.
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
(860) 615-9919 View (860) 615-9919
Photo of Kristen Zimmermann, MA, APCC, CCTS-I
Kristen Zimmermann
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety- whether it’s due to sexual abuse, relationship struggles, or challenges from your upbringing.
Do you find yourself stuck in unwanted patterns? Are you overwhelmed with past experiences that seem to still be lingering? Are you wrestling with anxiety and difficult emotions? I believe that healing is possible! I believe so many of us stay stuck because we do not have the right support for healing. While having an outlet to talk or vent can be helpful, my approach involves working more directly with the root cause of the issue, which is stored in our nervous system. I enjoy helping client’s make sense of what’s going on, so we can compassionately resolve the identified problems and achieve their goals.
I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety- whether it’s due to sexual abuse, relationship struggles, or challenges from your upbringing.
Do you find yourself stuck in unwanted patterns? Are you overwhelmed with past experiences that seem to still be lingering? Are you wrestling with anxiety and difficult emotions? I believe that healing is possible! I believe so many of us stay stuck because we do not have the right support for healing. While having an outlet to talk or vent can be helpful, my approach involves working more directly with the root cause of the issue, which is stored in our nervous system. I enjoy helping client’s make sense of what’s going on, so we can compassionately resolve the identified problems and achieve their goals.
(619) 639-8465 View (619) 639-8465
Photo of Rocio Ocampo Giancola, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rocio Ocampo Giancola
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have experience helping clients that have suffered Childhood sexual abuse trauma and assault.
Hi and thank you for visiting my page. Have you been feeling depressed, anxious or having trouble with relationships in your life? Have you been wanting to talk to someone about something heavy in your heart that burdens you but aren't sure. We ALL need support sometimes. This is the right place. I am committed to supporting your journey to peace, confidence and joy. Give me a call and let's talk briefly to see if this is a right fit. I am bilingual in English and Spanish.
I have experience helping clients that have suffered Childhood sexual abuse trauma and assault.
Hi and thank you for visiting my page. Have you been feeling depressed, anxious or having trouble with relationships in your life? Have you been wanting to talk to someone about something heavy in your heart that burdens you but aren't sure. We ALL need support sometimes. This is the right place. I am committed to supporting your journey to peace, confidence and joy. Give me a call and let's talk briefly to see if this is a right fit. I am bilingual in English and Spanish.
(619) 737-1658 View (619) 737-1658
Photo of Angela Reedy, AMFT, MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Angela Reedy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I have experience working with sexual assault, complex PTSD, combat and moral injury, addictions, grief, families, and a full spectrum of mental health challenges.
I have a passion for coming alongside others and believe it's just part of my DNA as a human being. 25 years ago I began my career as a medical assistant and a teacher. In my late-20's I enlisted in the US Navy, where I served as a first responder and was part of the Sexual Assault Victims Intervention team. I've lived overseas with kids in tow, and have a deep understanding of the effects of betrayal, infidelity, and cross addictions. I've worked as a Hospice Spiritual and Bereavement Coordinator, a counselor at several crisis houses and transitional living centers, as well for non-profit agencies providing therapeutic services.
I have experience working with sexual assault, complex PTSD, combat and moral injury, addictions, grief, families, and a full spectrum of mental health challenges.
I have a passion for coming alongside others and believe it's just part of my DNA as a human being. 25 years ago I began my career as a medical assistant and a teacher. In my late-20's I enlisted in the US Navy, where I served as a first responder and was part of the Sexual Assault Victims Intervention team. I've lived overseas with kids in tow, and have a deep understanding of the effects of betrayal, infidelity, and cross addictions. I've worked as a Hospice Spiritual and Bereavement Coordinator, a counselor at several crisis houses and transitional living centers, as well for non-profit agencies providing therapeutic services.
(619) 627-1863 View (619) 627-1863
Photo of Ariana Rivera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariana Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
I have extensive experience in the treatment of trauma including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and PTSD.
Hello, I'm Ariana (she/her/ella). I'm a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and family systems who are experiencing life stressors, the aftermath of trauma, symptoms of depression or anxiety, or early childhood (0-5 years of age) social/emotional/behavioral concerns. I take a strength - based approach and work to create a safe and collaborative space for clients to share their range of feelings and thoughts while they work to reconnect to themselves and others.
I have extensive experience in the treatment of trauma including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and PTSD.
Hello, I'm Ariana (she/her/ella). I'm a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and family systems who are experiencing life stressors, the aftermath of trauma, symptoms of depression or anxiety, or early childhood (0-5 years of age) social/emotional/behavioral concerns. I take a strength - based approach and work to create a safe and collaborative space for clients to share their range of feelings and thoughts while they work to reconnect to themselves and others.
(858) 533-2546 View (858) 533-2546
Photo of Jennifer Konzen, PsyD, LMFT, CST, CCDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Konzen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CST, CCDC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120  (Online Only)
I work with couples to renew the fire in their love life and sexual relationship, couples affected by addiction, as well as couples who are no longer communicating or are on the brink of divorce. I counsel men and women who have experienced depression, anxiety, and OCD. I work with individuals dealing with grief, trauma, sexual abuse, and childhood or partner violence. I also work with parents and adolescents. I am a Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
I work with couples to renew the fire in their love life and sexual relationship, couples affected by addiction, as well as couples who are no longer communicating or are on the brink of divorce. I counsel men and women who have experienced depression, anxiety, and OCD. I work with individuals dealing with grief, trauma, sexual abuse, and childhood or partner violence. I also work with parents and adolescents. I am a Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
(858) 217-4992 View (858) 217-4992
Photo of Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92114
I have extensive experience working with individuals from all walks of life suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, life transitions, loss, and grief, living with a chronic illness, and problems related to parenting.
I’m Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, a licensed clinical social worker with more than 9 years of experience. I have a bachelor’s degree in human services, a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Work and Gerontology, and a master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic selves, develop compassion toward themselves and others, and live meaningful life through transformation and healing.
I have extensive experience working with individuals from all walks of life suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, life transitions, loss, and grief, living with a chronic illness, and problems related to parenting.
I’m Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, a licensed clinical social worker with more than 9 years of experience. I have a bachelor’s degree in human services, a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Work and Gerontology, and a master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic selves, develop compassion toward themselves and others, and live meaningful life through transformation and healing.
(619) 391-2771 View (619) 391-2771
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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.