Sexual Abuse Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Sandra M Amat, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Sandra M Amat
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I specialize in Conscious Relationship. I help people learn how to show up as an adult for a conscious relationship with themselves and other people. We look at, excavate and rework personal and interpersonal dynamics, heal attachment wounding and past hurts and patterns that get in the way of healthy relating, developing the Emotional Intelligence necessary to show up. Please feel free to reach out or check out my website to learn more.
I specialize in Conscious Relationship. I help people learn how to show up as an adult for a conscious relationship with themselves and other people. We look at, excavate and rework personal and interpersonal dynamics, heal attachment wounding and past hurts and patterns that get in the way of healthy relating, developing the Emotional Intelligence necessary to show up. Please feel free to reach out or check out my website to learn more.
(650) 385-8967 View (650) 385-8967
Photo of Rhea St. Julien, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Rhea St. Julien
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Waitlist for new clients
My speciality is working with people who have experienced trauma. I use a range of modalities, including EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Talk Therapy, to help my patients see real change. My approach is engaged, relational, and embodied.
My speciality is working with people who have experienced trauma. I use a range of modalities, including EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Talk Therapy, to help my patients see real change. My approach is engaged, relational, and embodied.
(415) 858-6773 View (415) 858-6773
Photo of Deborah Caust - Deborah Caust, Ph.D., Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Deborah Caust, Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
San Francisco, CA 94123
As a Board-Certified Clinical Sexologist and a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist since 1981, I have the expertise to provide effective treatment of all sexual and relationship concerns. Therapy is interactive: I will listen to you, provide feedback, help you to understand why you are having difficulty, and use therapeutic techniques to make lasting change. I believe that therapy should be straightforward, solution-focused, and short-term. Please feel free to contact me to schedule an appointment or to get more information.
As a Board-Certified Clinical Sexologist and a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist since 1981, I have the expertise to provide effective treatment of all sexual and relationship concerns. Therapy is interactive: I will listen to you, provide feedback, help you to understand why you are having difficulty, and use therapeutic techniques to make lasting change. I believe that therapy should be straightforward, solution-focused, and short-term. Please feel free to contact me to schedule an appointment or to get more information.
(415) 233-6236 View (415) 233-6236
Photo of Elena Felder, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Elena Felder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I work with individuals to create a safe place to explore patterns in your relationships and areas where you are stuck in trauma or depression. I offer both brief and long-term therapy with individuals using a variety of techniques and modalities including deep listening, EMDR, hypnotherapy, relaxation training, exploring connections between current struggles and past experiences and increasing body awareness.
I work with individuals to create a safe place to explore patterns in your relationships and areas where you are stuck in trauma or depression. I offer both brief and long-term therapy with individuals using a variety of techniques and modalities including deep listening, EMDR, hypnotherapy, relaxation training, exploring connections between current struggles and past experiences and increasing body awareness.
(510) 907-6651 View (510) 907-6651
Photo of Yalith Fonfa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Yalith Fonfa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Francisco, CA 94102
Do you feel weighed down by the impact of past trauma—memories that intrude, a body that won’t relax, ways of coping that no longer serve you, or relationship patterns that feel hard to break? Trauma can leave you feeling disconnected and overwhelmed, but healing is possible. I specialize in trauma therapy that supports safety, relief, and lasting change. I see clients in person in my San Francisco office—often joined by my sweet therapy dog—and offer telehealth sessions across California and Nevada.
Do you feel weighed down by the impact of past trauma—memories that intrude, a body that won’t relax, ways of coping that no longer serve you, or relationship patterns that feel hard to break? Trauma can leave you feeling disconnected and overwhelmed, but healing is possible. I specialize in trauma therapy that supports safety, relief, and lasting change. I see clients in person in my San Francisco office—often joined by my sweet therapy dog—and offer telehealth sessions across California and Nevada.
(415) 363-6239 View (415) 363-6239
Photo of Naomi Muzac, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Naomi Muzac
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Hello and welcome! My name is Naomi and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker. I identify as a queer woman of color and my pronouns are she/her. My focus in this practice is to provide trauma informed, identity-affirming psychotherapy to individuals with mood disorders. I work with each person to understand their unique needs and to build a genuine connection based on mutual respect and transparency. I have worked with folks from diverse backgrounds and I strive to be inclusive of individual and community needs. I believe that through building a strong therapeutic alliance, considerable growth and healing are possible.
Hello and welcome! My name is Naomi and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker. I identify as a queer woman of color and my pronouns are she/her. My focus in this practice is to provide trauma informed, identity-affirming psychotherapy to individuals with mood disorders. I work with each person to understand their unique needs and to build a genuine connection based on mutual respect and transparency. I have worked with folks from diverse backgrounds and I strive to be inclusive of individual and community needs. I believe that through building a strong therapeutic alliance, considerable growth and healing are possible.
(415) 843-6237 View (415) 843-6237
Photo of Roshanda Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Roshanda Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I believe in using your strengths to motivate you and intern assist you in obtaining the positive outcomes you desire. My counseling style is warm and interactive, and can also include a holistic and mindfulness approach. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, while decreasing the negative stigma associated with mental illness. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focus, and client-centered counseling. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs while working collaboratively with you it takes courage to seek a more fulfilling life and to take
I believe in using your strengths to motivate you and intern assist you in obtaining the positive outcomes you desire. My counseling style is warm and interactive, and can also include a holistic and mindfulness approach. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, while decreasing the negative stigma associated with mental illness. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focus, and client-centered counseling. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs while working collaboratively with you it takes courage to seek a more fulfilling life and to take
(415) 300-2164 View (415) 300-2164
Photo of Erika Shershun, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Erika Shershun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Imagine waking up to greet the day with curiosity or excitement, feeling good about yourself rather than judging, comparing, and rejecting parts of yourself. It's been said that our essence, our soul, is ever present like the sun, yet like the sun, it can become obscured by clouds. These clouds represent the wounds and trauma you've experienced throughout your life, along with the defenses that have helped you survive, yet these defenses (people pleasing, dissociation, rage...) may no longer serve you. Together we can begin to relax these defenses allowing more of your gifts, your ever-present essence to shine through.
Imagine waking up to greet the day with curiosity or excitement, feeling good about yourself rather than judging, comparing, and rejecting parts of yourself. It's been said that our essence, our soul, is ever present like the sun, yet like the sun, it can become obscured by clouds. These clouds represent the wounds and trauma you've experienced throughout your life, along with the defenses that have helped you survive, yet these defenses (people pleasing, dissociation, rage...) may no longer serve you. Together we can begin to relax these defenses allowing more of your gifts, your ever-present essence to shine through.
(415) 801-0456 x415608 View (415) 801-0456 x415608
Photo of Aida Colocho, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Aida Colocho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I have extensive experience addressing trauma in women who have been victims of domestic violence. My approach is mostly Psychodynamic with Cognitive Restructuring to help clients process past trauma and gain insight into establishing healthy boundaries. This has helped many gain self-confidence and self-empowerment to move forward as survivors. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychoeducation, and skill training to help clients develop tools to manage somatic and emotional symptoms, fostering a sense of control and self in their lives.
I have extensive experience addressing trauma in women who have been victims of domestic violence. My approach is mostly Psychodynamic with Cognitive Restructuring to help clients process past trauma and gain insight into establishing healthy boundaries. This has helped many gain self-confidence and self-empowerment to move forward as survivors. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychoeducation, and skill training to help clients develop tools to manage somatic and emotional symptoms, fostering a sense of control and self in their lives.
(415) 329-3752 View (415) 329-3752
Photo of Emily Pellegrino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Emily Pellegrino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Living in the current state of our world is heartbreaking and terrifying, it’s hard to hold onto hope or see that change is possible, but it is. I work with highly sensitive folks who are feeling overwhelmed, scared, uncertain, but who also want to hold onto or find the joy, vivaciousness and hope that can still exist in our world. I have a focus in working with the LGBTQ+ community and in particular those who are questioning their sexuality, wondering where they might fit in or feel disconnected from parts of themself.
Living in the current state of our world is heartbreaking and terrifying, it’s hard to hold onto hope or see that change is possible, but it is. I work with highly sensitive folks who are feeling overwhelmed, scared, uncertain, but who also want to hold onto or find the joy, vivaciousness and hope that can still exist in our world. I have a focus in working with the LGBTQ+ community and in particular those who are questioning their sexuality, wondering where they might fit in or feel disconnected from parts of themself.
(341) 212-6766 View (341) 212-6766
Photo of Leopoldo F. Villela, Psychologist, PhD
Leopoldo F. Villela
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
The issues on spirituality, mental health and psychology are part of my practice and interests. The frames I use are Psychodynamic and Tibetan Buddhism. How to overcome psychological conditioning and personal narratives that are too extreme and unrealistic. Many times some people find themselves in situations that aggravate their emotional pain, no way out but rather than look inside of themselves look out there, hoping that their live will change.
The issues on spirituality, mental health and psychology are part of my practice and interests. The frames I use are Psychodynamic and Tibetan Buddhism. How to overcome psychological conditioning and personal narratives that are too extreme and unrealistic. Many times some people find themselves in situations that aggravate their emotional pain, no way out but rather than look inside of themselves look out there, hoping that their live will change.
(650) 530-0977 View (650) 530-0977
Photo of Deana Huddleston, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Deana Huddleston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Online Only
Therapy is a powerful tool to amplify your strengths while providing the support needed for growth and healing. I specialize in working with individuals facing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, sexual violence, domestic violence, family estrangement, divorce, and parenting challenges. I work with children, teens, and adults—helping you reconnect with the skills and resilience you already possess but may have lost sight of in times of stress. I provide individual, family therapy, along with professional training, program design, and consultation for mental health professionals, building self-worth and self-confidence.
Therapy is a powerful tool to amplify your strengths while providing the support needed for growth and healing. I specialize in working with individuals facing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, sexual violence, domestic violence, family estrangement, divorce, and parenting challenges. I work with children, teens, and adults—helping you reconnect with the skills and resilience you already possess but may have lost sight of in times of stress. I provide individual, family therapy, along with professional training, program design, and consultation for mental health professionals, building self-worth and self-confidence.
(805) 870-9865 View (805) 870-9865
Photo of Minerva Romano Correa, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Minerva Romano Correa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
It is not uncommon for someone to find themselves in a state of emotional reaction, due to negative childhood experiences, life challenges, trauma or constant relationship problems. This is not only an emotional response, but a physical and spiritual one as well. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). A very effective and helpful therapy that cuts talk time in half, and focuses on releasing present and past emotional distress. I also use the latest mindfulness techniques, among others, to provide you with a personalizad and comprehensive treatment. Avoid the commute and try Online therapy!
It is not uncommon for someone to find themselves in a state of emotional reaction, due to negative childhood experiences, life challenges, trauma or constant relationship problems. This is not only an emotional response, but a physical and spiritual one as well. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). A very effective and helpful therapy that cuts talk time in half, and focuses on releasing present and past emotional distress. I also use the latest mindfulness techniques, among others, to provide you with a personalizad and comprehensive treatment. Avoid the commute and try Online therapy!
(415) 234-5486 View (415) 234-5486
Photo of Kaia Anderson-Buckley, CCHT
Kaia Anderson-Buckley
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121
Anxiety is a universal and painful experience. Its causes are legion: abandonment, fear of failure (or success), transitions, traumas, aging and death. Supporting you in transforming your anxiety into positive growth will be our goal. Transpersonal hypnotherapy is invaluable in addressing grief, death and dying. In dealing with loss, we will create connections through hypnosis to address what remains incomplete. As my essential paradigm is empowerment, I serve as your guide, facilitating experiences in a grounded, safe way with your full participation. Hypnotherapy, free of the constraints of adult language patterns, offers a primary road to healing your deepest self.
Anxiety is a universal and painful experience. Its causes are legion: abandonment, fear of failure (or success), transitions, traumas, aging and death. Supporting you in transforming your anxiety into positive growth will be our goal. Transpersonal hypnotherapy is invaluable in addressing grief, death and dying. In dealing with loss, we will create connections through hypnosis to address what remains incomplete. As my essential paradigm is empowerment, I serve as your guide, facilitating experiences in a grounded, safe way with your full participation. Hypnotherapy, free of the constraints of adult language patterns, offers a primary road to healing your deepest self.
(628) 333-2287 View (628) 333-2287
Photo of Jenifer Butera, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jenifer Butera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to therapy is client-centered, with mindful tending to each client's psychological space, exploring answers to problems, and discovering how to respond most effectively to changes. I am person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based in my approach, and I work with all mental health concerns in adults, especially with trauma, anxiety, work-related stress, disordered thinking, personality disorders, and depression.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, with mindful tending to each client's psychological space, exploring answers to problems, and discovering how to respond most effectively to changes. I am person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based in my approach, and I work with all mental health concerns in adults, especially with trauma, anxiety, work-related stress, disordered thinking, personality disorders, and depression.
(415) 322-3706 View (415) 322-3706
Photo of Bianca Aarons - Bianca Aarons Integrative Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Bianca Aarons Integrative Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Bianca treats couples who struggle with sexuality and communication, survivors of sexual abuse, and people who want to feel empowered, and to access healthy anger and boundaries.
My work is largely driven by attachment theory, and I love this theory when working with couples. Couples who would like to deepen their communication and work through stuck issues are welcome. I'm also trained in Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, PACT Therapy, Sex Therapy, the Developmental model, and Psychedelic Assisted therapy.
Bianca treats couples who struggle with sexuality and communication, survivors of sexual abuse, and people who want to feel empowered, and to access healthy anger and boundaries.
My work is largely driven by attachment theory, and I love this theory when working with couples. Couples who would like to deepen their communication and work through stuck issues are welcome. I'm also trained in Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, PACT Therapy, Sex Therapy, the Developmental model, and Psychedelic Assisted therapy.
(415) 319-6218 View (415) 319-6218
Photo of Nicole Nemiroff, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Nicole Nemiroff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Francisco, CA 94123
You might be someone who holds space for others but is now looking for space of your own. Many of my clients are women in helping professions—therapists, educators, healthcare workers—navigating anxiety, burnout, or the emotional weight of constant caretaking. You may be facing a life transition, adjusting to new motherhood, or managing a chronic condition. Deep down, you’re craving more balance, self-trust, and time to reconnect with who you are outside of your roles. Therapy is where that reconnection begins.
You might be someone who holds space for others but is now looking for space of your own. Many of my clients are women in helping professions—therapists, educators, healthcare workers—navigating anxiety, burnout, or the emotional weight of constant caretaking. You may be facing a life transition, adjusting to new motherhood, or managing a chronic condition. Deep down, you’re craving more balance, self-trust, and time to reconnect with who you are outside of your roles. Therapy is where that reconnection begins.
(415) 909-5217 View (415) 909-5217
Photo of Sherita N Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sherita N Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Francisco, CA 94108
I work best with resilient adults and couples carrying anxiety, church or family pressure, trauma, and patterns that feel generational. You want peace, healthier boundaries, and a legacy of love without abandoning your faith. Together we’ll untangle old stories, calm the nervous system, and practice practical tools for communication, mood, and self-worth. I bring a warm, down-to-earth, culturally sensitive lens so you feel seen and supported while you grow strong roots and new habits that last.
I work best with resilient adults and couples carrying anxiety, church or family pressure, trauma, and patterns that feel generational. You want peace, healthier boundaries, and a legacy of love without abandoning your faith. Together we’ll untangle old stories, calm the nervous system, and practice practical tools for communication, mood, and self-worth. I bring a warm, down-to-earth, culturally sensitive lens so you feel seen and supported while you grow strong roots and new habits that last.
(415) 881-4197 View (415) 881-4197
Photo of Dr. Audrey Lehmann - Audrey Lehmann, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CADCIII
Audrey Lehmann, PhD
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CADCIII
Online Only
I am committed to learning about who you truly are and working with you to make long lasting change. Based on 25 years clinical experience, I take an active role in the therapy process by helping you gain insight into patterns in your life. Therapy can also involve weekly homework assignments - this is optional.
I am committed to learning about who you truly are and working with you to make long lasting change. Based on 25 years clinical experience, I take an active role in the therapy process by helping you gain insight into patterns in your life. Therapy can also involve weekly homework assignments - this is optional.
(415) 366-1001 View (415) 366-1001
Photo of Kaycie Crossley, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kaycie Crossley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve always been the one who keeps it together, the strong one, the fixer, the one people lean on. But lately? You’re tired. Maybe it’s anxiety, burnout, relationship struggles, or that quiet dread that you’re not living the life you actually want. You feel deeply, love hard, and have been told you're “too much” for most of your life. On the outside, you hold it together. On the inside, you’re unraveling. Therapy with me isn’t about coping, it’s about untangling, unlearning, and coming home to yourself.
You’ve always been the one who keeps it together, the strong one, the fixer, the one people lean on. But lately? You’re tired. Maybe it’s anxiety, burnout, relationship struggles, or that quiet dread that you’re not living the life you actually want. You feel deeply, love hard, and have been told you're “too much” for most of your life. On the outside, you hold it together. On the inside, you’re unraveling. Therapy with me isn’t about coping, it’s about untangling, unlearning, and coming home to yourself.
(628) 200-3786 View (628) 200-3786

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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.