Sexual Abuse Therapists in Downtown, San Francisco, CA

Photo of Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
(510) 319-0688 View (510) 319-0688
Photo of Zoe Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Zoe Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
(347) 514-6386 View (347) 514-6386
Photo of Natalie M. Mills, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Natalie M. Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
I specialize in working with people who have survived relational traumas like sexual abuse and attachment trauma.
I work with individuals and couples who want to shift relational problem patterns by healing from trauma, deepening their self-awareness, and strengthening their connections with others. I offer tools to help people gain insight into their behavior, learn how to effectively manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and ameliorate destructive cycles. Collaboratively, my clients and I improve their self-concepts. I use a relational, attachment-based framework and draw on EMDR therapy when indicated.
I specialize in working with people who have survived relational traumas like sexual abuse and attachment trauma.
I work with individuals and couples who want to shift relational problem patterns by healing from trauma, deepening their self-awareness, and strengthening their connections with others. I offer tools to help people gain insight into their behavior, learn how to effectively manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and ameliorate destructive cycles. Collaboratively, my clients and I improve their self-concepts. I use a relational, attachment-based framework and draw on EMDR therapy when indicated.
(415) 301-7713 View (415) 301-7713
Photo of Mary Joye, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Mary Joye
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
Trauma, Anxiety, Codependency, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Couples and marriage counseling, Family counseling, Grief counseling , Highly sensitive person (empath), Personality disorders, Narcissistic abuse, Domestic violence recovery, Sexual abuse recovery, Career counseling, Divorce counseling, Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Hello, I'm Mary Joye, and I am here to help you listen to yourself from a new and nonjudgmental perspective. We will work together to make connections between the past and the present to help you enjoy a brighter and better future.
Trauma, Anxiety, Codependency, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Couples and marriage counseling, Family counseling, Grief counseling , Highly sensitive person (empath), Personality disorders, Narcissistic abuse, Domestic violence recovery, Sexual abuse recovery, Career counseling, Divorce counseling, Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Hello, I'm Mary Joye, and I am here to help you listen to yourself from a new and nonjudgmental perspective. We will work together to make connections between the past and the present to help you enjoy a brighter and better future.
(415) 993-3792 View (415) 993-3792
Photo of Erma Kyriakos Couples Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Erma Kyriakos Couples Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
My approach is client-centered, warm and engaged. I am direct but not directive. I support individuals and couples to increase awareness, improve communication skills, and strengthen relationship capacities. I have experience supporting grief processing, affect/mood regulation, religious trauma, survivors of sexual assault, and can help those experiencing anxiety, and depression. I believe you deserve a therapist that will both listen and offer meaningful and caring feedback. I see us as co-explorers in this work and believe the research that shows a good relationship between client and therapist is key to the self-growth process.
My approach is client-centered, warm and engaged. I am direct but not directive. I support individuals and couples to increase awareness, improve communication skills, and strengthen relationship capacities. I have experience supporting grief processing, affect/mood regulation, religious trauma, survivors of sexual assault, and can help those experiencing anxiety, and depression. I believe you deserve a therapist that will both listen and offer meaningful and caring feedback. I see us as co-explorers in this work and believe the research that shows a good relationship between client and therapist is key to the self-growth process.
(415) 761-3494 View (415) 761-3494
Photo of Gregory R Tompkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Gregory R Tompkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101
I have over ten years experience working with clients in their teens or twenties who have: attachment issues; ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. They suffer relational trauma for a variety of reasons, such as: emotional abuse and neglect; physical or sexual abuse; and sexual assault. I help my clients resolve past trauma; heal attachment wounds; replace unhealthy habits with healthy ones; and to progress towards their life goals. This results in them having healthier and more satisfying relationships; a greater sense of connection and belonging; and higher functioning in every day life.
I have over ten years experience working with clients in their teens or twenties who have: attachment issues; ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. They suffer relational trauma for a variety of reasons, such as: emotional abuse and neglect; physical or sexual abuse; and sexual assault. I help my clients resolve past trauma; heal attachment wounds; replace unhealthy habits with healthy ones; and to progress towards their life goals. This results in them having healthier and more satisfying relationships; a greater sense of connection and belonging; and higher functioning in every day life.
(415) 818-9493 View (415) 818-9493
Photo of Amy Green, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Amy Green, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in CA, OR and WA, with over 15 years of experience. I practice as an attachment and relationship based therapist and I specialize in supporting those who have experienced loss, trauma, narcissistic abuse, sexual abuse, physical/emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, co-dependency, relationship issues, work and life stress, and difficult life transitions. Together, we will focus on your strengths, prior successes, and your future hopes and wishes. I will provide empathic support, coping tools and strategies to promote change, so you can reach your goals and live the life that you wish to live!
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in CA, OR and WA, with over 15 years of experience. I practice as an attachment and relationship based therapist and I specialize in supporting those who have experienced loss, trauma, narcissistic abuse, sexual abuse, physical/emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, co-dependency, relationship issues, work and life stress, and difficult life transitions. Together, we will focus on your strengths, prior successes, and your future hopes and wishes. I will provide empathic support, coping tools and strategies to promote change, so you can reach your goals and live the life that you wish to live!
(360) 615-3066 View (360) 615-3066
Photo of Mártir Therapy – Helping Families, Couples, Adults, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Mártir Therapy – Helping Families, Couples, Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, AAMFT, 98858
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101
Are you or your family having a difficult time? Have you been affected by sexual assault or community- level violence? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move forward in your life or your relationships? Anxiety, marital problems, family conflict, relationship difficulties, depression, and other emotional challenges can be the result of abuse or violence that you or your family experienced. In therapy, we will build towards empowerment, meaning, and identity so that you can achieve your goals. You can function better at work and at home. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
Are you or your family having a difficult time? Have you been affected by sexual assault or community- level violence? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move forward in your life or your relationships? Anxiety, marital problems, family conflict, relationship difficulties, depression, and other emotional challenges can be the result of abuse or violence that you or your family experienced. In therapy, we will build towards empowerment, meaning, and identity so that you can achieve your goals. You can function better at work and at home. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
(858) 751-4392 View (858) 751-4392
Photo of Jennifer M. Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Jennifer M. Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW, MSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, childhood/adult trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, aging and end of life, and Marriage Counseling.
Currently accepting new clients. Reaching out for support can feel scary and takes courage. I use a strengths-based approach when working collaboratively with clients to identify goals and develop a plan to move forward. I believe a safe and comfortable therapy environment is created through empathy, teaching, and humor.
My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, childhood/adult trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, aging and end of life, and Marriage Counseling.
Currently accepting new clients. Reaching out for support can feel scary and takes courage. I use a strengths-based approach when working collaboratively with clients to identify goals and develop a plan to move forward. I believe a safe and comfortable therapy environment is created through empathy, teaching, and humor.
(949) 799-4334 View (949) 799-4334
Photo of Jess Adam Converse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Jess Adam Converse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, Depression and anxiety- whether it’s due to sexual abuse, relationship struggles, or challenges from your upbringing.
Whether you have tried other forms of therapy in the past or this is your first time exploring options EMDR has proven to be an effective intervention for resolving mental health symptoms and restoring a positive outlook. This combined with conducting sessions virtually means less hassle to connect with these progressive mental health approaches. Let's set up an initial 15 minute session to consider the best way forward.
I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, Depression and anxiety- whether it’s due to sexual abuse, relationship struggles, or challenges from your upbringing.
Whether you have tried other forms of therapy in the past or this is your first time exploring options EMDR has proven to be an effective intervention for resolving mental health symptoms and restoring a positive outlook. This combined with conducting sessions virtually means less hassle to connect with these progressive mental health approaches. Let's set up an initial 15 minute session to consider the best way forward.
(323) 417-6921 View (323) 417-6921
Photo of Colleen Cotter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Colleen Cotter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101
Clients that find me usually feel that trauma has informed or altered their life in some way. Or they face personal or relational distress. I meet each client with their unique challenges and life experiences and offer a place to explore what you are needing in therapy. My ideal client wants to understand and grow to their full potential and I am here as a guide to offer tools, options, a place to process your emotions and/or trauma. Adults that have been through child abuse, mental illness in family, addiction, sexual abuse, relationship distress, anxiety and depression.
Clients that find me usually feel that trauma has informed or altered their life in some way. Or they face personal or relational distress. I meet each client with their unique challenges and life experiences and offer a place to explore what you are needing in therapy. My ideal client wants to understand and grow to their full potential and I am here as a guide to offer tools, options, a place to process your emotions and/or trauma. Adults that have been through child abuse, mental illness in family, addiction, sexual abuse, relationship distress, anxiety and depression.
(916) 237-9292 View (916) 237-9292
Photo of Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
I specialize in embodied intimacy and sexuality: relationships, childhood sexual abuse, sexual shame, body image, gender questioning, LGBTQIA, boundary setting in the nuances of consent, inhibition, sexual body concerns (i.
Seeking to deepen your intimacy in relationships with romantic and/or non-romantic partners? Desiring a fuller sexual expression & pleasure in your experience? Have you desired to enliven your sex life? Or, perhaps you are desiring restorative healing, justice, & repair from childhood sexual abuse / have had non-consensual, sexual experiences; either being the victim or the transgressor and require integral support. I can help you. I facilitate individuals and couples heal and recover from personal, collective, and intergenerational trauma to come back into authentic, embodied connection through intimacy from the inside out.
I specialize in embodied intimacy and sexuality: relationships, childhood sexual abuse, sexual shame, body image, gender questioning, LGBTQIA, boundary setting in the nuances of consent, inhibition, sexual body concerns (i.
Seeking to deepen your intimacy in relationships with romantic and/or non-romantic partners? Desiring a fuller sexual expression & pleasure in your experience? Have you desired to enliven your sex life? Or, perhaps you are desiring restorative healing, justice, & repair from childhood sexual abuse / have had non-consensual, sexual experiences; either being the victim or the transgressor and require integral support. I can help you. I facilitate individuals and couples heal and recover from personal, collective, and intergenerational trauma to come back into authentic, embodied connection through intimacy from the inside out.
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Photo of Recovering From Generational Trauma And Anxiety Maral Malekian Lmft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Recovering From Generational Trauma And Anxiety Maral Malekian Lmft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety symptoms, anger management, relationship difficulties, sexual abuse and other trauma related symptoms.
You want to feel heard but deep down you are struggling and it feels as if something is missing. Using a holistic, mindful approach to alleviate pain and unwanted symptoms, I can help guide you to build on self compassion and self-care. Working together we work toward improving anxiety, depressive symptoms, self-empowerment, self-esteem.
I specialize in anxiety symptoms, anger management, relationship difficulties, sexual abuse and other trauma related symptoms.
You want to feel heard but deep down you are struggling and it feels as if something is missing. Using a holistic, mindful approach to alleviate pain and unwanted symptoms, I can help guide you to build on self compassion and self-care. Working together we work toward improving anxiety, depressive symptoms, self-empowerment, self-esteem.
(818) 572-9616 View (818) 572-9616
Photo of Rosie Newton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Rosie Newton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
This is not easy—change always requires courage! I have specific training in trauma, including sexual assault and domestic abuse.
Have you noticed feeling stuck, confused, and frustrated? Symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety are difficult to face, and naturally we want to avoid them. But avoidance keeps us stuck in unhelpful patterns that make it difficult to fully enjoy life. Once you understand how and why your mind has created these patterns, you gain the ability to break free from them, and live a more intentional and joyful life.
This is not easy—change always requires courage! I have specific training in trauma, including sexual assault and domestic abuse.
Have you noticed feeling stuck, confused, and frustrated? Symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety are difficult to face, and naturally we want to avoid them. But avoidance keeps us stuck in unhelpful patterns that make it difficult to fully enjoy life. Once you understand how and why your mind has created these patterns, you gain the ability to break free from them, and live a more intentional and joyful life.
(707) 397-9276 View (707) 397-9276
Photo of Carmonique Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Carmonique Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94153  (Online Only)
I have 15+ years of experience supporting adults, couples, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse in their journey towards healing.
Are you dealing with daily anxiety, sadness, stress, trauma or difficult life transitions? Want peace in your life, but can't seem to attain it? Day to day we can be confronted with new challenges, stressors, and mental exhaustion. It is common to experience a range of emotional challenges individually or within your relationships during various phases of your life. Sometimes you just need a safe place to release and restore. I am committed to providing you a safe, supportive and confidential environment for your restoration and healing.
I have 15+ years of experience supporting adults, couples, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse in their journey towards healing.
Are you dealing with daily anxiety, sadness, stress, trauma or difficult life transitions? Want peace in your life, but can't seem to attain it? Day to day we can be confronted with new challenges, stressors, and mental exhaustion. It is common to experience a range of emotional challenges individually or within your relationships during various phases of your life. Sometimes you just need a safe place to release and restore. I am committed to providing you a safe, supportive and confidential environment for your restoration and healing.
(213) 674-5115 View (213) 674-5115
Photo of Nicholas K. Bennett, Psychologist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Nicholas K. Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I am licensed in both CA & WV. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, specific phobias, and trauma in clients pre-teen through late adulthood. I have served on integrative teams for parents and children in CPS cases as well as on collaborative teams providing treatment for clients residing in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with service members and Veterans, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender clients seeking gender reassignment surgeries.
I am licensed in both CA & WV. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, specific phobias, and trauma in clients pre-teen through late adulthood. I have served on integrative teams for parents and children in CPS cases as well as on collaborative teams providing treatment for clients residing in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with service members and Veterans, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender clients seeking gender reassignment surgeries.
(805) 203-6673 View (805) 203-6673
Photo of Gregory Desierto, Psychologist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Gregory Desierto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
Growing up did you experience painful or confusing boundary violations? Did someone whom you trusted, respected, or even loved touch you or fondle you in a way that made you feel uncomfortable, scared, or perhaps even made you feel confused and pleasured? Do you feel embarrassed and bothered by your experience, and worry that others will not understand how you have been sexually violated and abused? Do you struggle with managing your romantic relationships, your friendships, as well as your emotions and thoughts because your past uncomfortable experience with sex have made sex and your sexuality confusing, uncomfortable or even overstimulating? You are not alone.
Growing up did you experience painful or confusing boundary violations? Did someone whom you trusted, respected, or even loved touch you or fondle you in a way that made you feel uncomfortable, scared, or perhaps even made you feel confused and pleasured? Do you feel embarrassed and bothered by your experience, and worry that others will not understand how you have been sexually violated and abused? Do you struggle with managing your romantic relationships, your friendships, as well as your emotions and thoughts because your past uncomfortable experience with sex have made sex and your sexuality confusing, uncomfortable or even overstimulating? You are not alone.
(415) 569-1434 View (415) 569-1434
Photo of Christine Valdez, Psychologist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Christine Valdez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Are you feeling paralyzed with overwhelming anxiety or shame? Are you stuck in negative thoughts and unhealthy patterns borne out of a traumatic past that deter you from making positive changes in your life for the future? Your suffering can end through transformative experiences in trauma-specific therapy. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where you feel safe, respected, and understood, and thus ready and open for change. You will develop a sense of safety in your body and relationships with others, learn to overcome overwhelming emotions and increase confidence in approaching life's challenges, and redefine your future.
Are you feeling paralyzed with overwhelming anxiety or shame? Are you stuck in negative thoughts and unhealthy patterns borne out of a traumatic past that deter you from making positive changes in your life for the future? Your suffering can end through transformative experiences in trauma-specific therapy. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where you feel safe, respected, and understood, and thus ready and open for change. You will develop a sense of safety in your body and relationships with others, learn to overcome overwhelming emotions and increase confidence in approaching life's challenges, and redefine your future.
(510) 478-9782 View (510) 478-9782
Photo of Teri 'sachi' Swanberg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Teri 'sachi' Swanberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94102
My belief is everything is interconnected. When we hurt in one area of our lives, often times the other areas hurt with it. As simple as it may sound, sometimes feeling our feelings can be hard work. Truly understanding and being honest with authentic selves can be challenging and sometimes scary. No one should have to do this alone. Together, we can deeply listen and nurture your authentic self to help you heal and grow. We are not just talking together, we are experiencing. To learn more, visit my website at: nakaimatherapy.com
My belief is everything is interconnected. When we hurt in one area of our lives, often times the other areas hurt with it. As simple as it may sound, sometimes feeling our feelings can be hard work. Truly understanding and being honest with authentic selves can be challenging and sometimes scary. No one should have to do this alone. Together, we can deeply listen and nurture your authentic self to help you heal and grow. We are not just talking together, we are experiencing. To learn more, visit my website at: nakaimatherapy.com
(415) 496-0915 View (415) 496-0915
Photo of Michelle Fontaine, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, San Francisco, CA
Michelle Fontaine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Downtown, San Francisco, CA 94125
Therapy is most successful when the work is done carefully and thoughtfully through a process of unfolding and bringing into light those parts of ourselves which have been hidden or misunderstood. It's a collaboration that includes tapping into your own wisdom while also considering new perspectives. We do this work with the utmost compassion and consideration for what is needed in each moment to produce the best possible long term outcome. There will be many new insights which lead to more satisfaction and a deeper understanding. It's my privilege to work with you as we take these steps together toward a higher quality of life.
Therapy is most successful when the work is done carefully and thoughtfully through a process of unfolding and bringing into light those parts of ourselves which have been hidden or misunderstood. It's a collaboration that includes tapping into your own wisdom while also considering new perspectives. We do this work with the utmost compassion and consideration for what is needed in each moment to produce the best possible long term outcome. There will be many new insights which lead to more satisfaction and a deeper understanding. It's my privilege to work with you as we take these steps together toward a higher quality of life.
(415) 798-9515 View (415) 798-9515

See more therapy options for Downtown, San Francisco

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.