Sexual Abuse Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Carolyn H Bray - Carolyn H. Bray, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Carolyn H. Bray, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
In my 30+ years practicing psychotherapy, I have had extensive experience working with adults who are trying to adjust to the problems that life presents to us---a difficult childhood, trauma, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, stress, working with a child who has a difficult mental illness, sexual abuse,couples' relationship struggles (heterosexual, gay, and lesbian), and grief from the loss of someone treasured. Always my treatment goal is to facilitate the improvement in the quality of life for each individual and to look for the creative aspect within the destruction. Healing is a natural process, but sometimes it is difficult to remember that fact.
In my 30+ years practicing psychotherapy, I have had extensive experience working with adults who are trying to adjust to the problems that life presents to us---a difficult childhood, trauma, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, stress, working with a child who has a difficult mental illness, sexual abuse,couples' relationship struggles (heterosexual, gay, and lesbian), and grief from the loss of someone treasured. Always my treatment goal is to facilitate the improvement in the quality of life for each individual and to look for the creative aspect within the destruction. Healing is a natural process, but sometimes it is difficult to remember that fact.
(415) 689-1012 View (415) 689-1012
Photo of Bianca Aarons - Bianca Aarons Integrative Psychotherapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bianca Aarons Integrative Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Bianca Aarons is a San Francisco based Couples Therapist and Individual Therapist who works in an integrative way, incorporating a psychoanalytic, relational, and somatic styles of working. Bianca treats couples who struggle with communication, survivors of sexual abuse, and others to help people find their voice, to feel empowered, and to access healthy anger and boundaries. Bianca also works with people who struggle within relationships because of anxiety and past family issues which may have let to lower self esteem and perfectionism. She works in a direct and honest way while also being very compassionate and empathetic.
Bianca Aarons is a San Francisco based Couples Therapist and Individual Therapist who works in an integrative way, incorporating a psychoanalytic, relational, and somatic styles of working. Bianca treats couples who struggle with communication, survivors of sexual abuse, and others to help people find their voice, to feel empowered, and to access healthy anger and boundaries. Bianca also works with people who struggle within relationships because of anxiety and past family issues which may have let to lower self esteem and perfectionism. She works in a direct and honest way while also being very compassionate and empathetic.
(415) 319-6218 View (415) 319-6218
Photo of Anna Teresa Mejia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Teresa Mejia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Hi! I'm Anna Mejia , a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the greater Los Angeles Area practicing for 8 years. I use Cognitive based and Holistic Approaches in therapy while also applying Psycho Education throughout. I have worked with a wide range of needs. My experience ranges from Severe Mental Illness to people experiencing every day stressors such as Parental Stress and Organizational Skills. I am passionate and very comfortable working with Couples, Parents, Teenagers, Individuals with Relationship Stress, Sexual Abuse Trauma, Cultural Trauma, Work Stress, Depression and Anxiety and Attachments Issues/Impairments.
Hi! I'm Anna Mejia , a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the greater Los Angeles Area practicing for 8 years. I use Cognitive based and Holistic Approaches in therapy while also applying Psycho Education throughout. I have worked with a wide range of needs. My experience ranges from Severe Mental Illness to people experiencing every day stressors such as Parental Stress and Organizational Skills. I am passionate and very comfortable working with Couples, Parents, Teenagers, Individuals with Relationship Stress, Sexual Abuse Trauma, Cultural Trauma, Work Stress, Depression and Anxiety and Attachments Issues/Impairments.
(559) 934-5567 View (559) 934-5567
Photo of Kim Gengler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Gengler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you often feel “unloveable," "wrong," or "not enough?" Are you stuck in shame spirals? You know, those intense self-loathing narratives and overwhelming emotions that erode your ability to live well. If this sounds familiar, I’m here to help. I support people who want to live bigger and brighter, but have struggled with self-esteem, relationship challenges, neurodiversity, sexual abuse/ assault, and body-image issues. By showing you how to bring compassion to these issues, and the shame spirals they cause, I can help you learn to love yourself, others, and the world around you.
Do you often feel “unloveable," "wrong," or "not enough?" Are you stuck in shame spirals? You know, those intense self-loathing narratives and overwhelming emotions that erode your ability to live well. If this sounds familiar, I’m here to help. I support people who want to live bigger and brighter, but have struggled with self-esteem, relationship challenges, neurodiversity, sexual abuse/ assault, and body-image issues. By showing you how to bring compassion to these issues, and the shame spirals they cause, I can help you learn to love yourself, others, and the world around you.
(628) 265-8071 View (628) 265-8071
Photo of Jayn Rajandran - Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE
Verified Verified
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 H. Ameeta Singh - Virtual + In-Person Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
H. Ameeta Singh - Virtual + In-Person Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
I have supported clients to create healing & change in their lives around sexual abuse; incarceration trauma; substance use; unhealthy relationships; depression; anxiety & other challenges.
I work with clients to cultivate deeper insight & understanding about the ways our life experiences impact our choices & behaviors. I support clients to connect with their sense of agency & power to make changes to unhealthy behaviors & create proactive coping strategies for managing situations they may not be able to change yet. Additionally, I draw upon clients' strengths, culture, spirituality & community as a means of facilitating healing, empowerment & change. My therapeutic approach is grounded in anti-racist & social justice principles & I utilize talk & somatic therapy techniques centered in mindfulness.
I have supported clients to create healing & change in their lives around sexual abuse; incarceration trauma; substance use; unhealthy relationships; depression; anxiety & other challenges.
I work with clients to cultivate deeper insight & understanding about the ways our life experiences impact our choices & behaviors. I support clients to connect with their sense of agency & power to make changes to unhealthy behaviors & create proactive coping strategies for managing situations they may not be able to change yet. Additionally, I draw upon clients' strengths, culture, spirituality & community as a means of facilitating healing, empowerment & change. My therapeutic approach is grounded in anti-racist & social justice principles & I utilize talk & somatic therapy techniques centered in mindfulness.
(415) 723-4309 View (415) 723-4309
Photo of Aileen B. Cho, MA, LMFT, RDT/BCT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aileen B. Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT/BCT, CEDS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
My clinical experiences include: domestic violence and sexual assault shelters; the VA; community mental health; high school and middle school settings; inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive, and outpatient treatment programs for eating disorders.
In my practice, I offer support and guidance with responsiveness, empathy, creativity, and psychological insight as you face life's difficulties and transitions. I work with both trauma-related and pervasive mental illnesses to ordinary life events and challenges.  As your therapist, my job is to help you tap into the limitless storehouse of resilience inside of you and your innate ability to heal, move towards health and wholeness, and not just survive, but thrive in this world. Together, we can transform the poison in your life into the medicine of wisdom and compassion.
My clinical experiences include: domestic violence and sexual assault shelters; the VA; community mental health; high school and middle school settings; inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive, and outpatient treatment programs for eating disorders.
In my practice, I offer support and guidance with responsiveness, empathy, creativity, and psychological insight as you face life's difficulties and transitions. I work with both trauma-related and pervasive mental illnesses to ordinary life events and challenges.  As your therapist, my job is to help you tap into the limitless storehouse of resilience inside of you and your innate ability to heal, move towards health and wholeness, and not just survive, but thrive in this world. Together, we can transform the poison in your life into the medicine of wisdom and compassion.
(424) 587-3475 View (424) 587-3475
Photo of Christina Arguello, MA, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Arguello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with survivors of sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse.
Currently full - Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or a lack of well-being and can't stop thinking about past hurtful events? I provide compassionate mindfulness-based trauma-informed therapy to individuals struggling with family and relationship conflict, grief & loss, the impact of trauma, and stress reduction. I believe that you deserve to be in a therapeutic relationship that is safe, validating, and collaborative. We all deserve this :)
I specialize in working with survivors of sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse.
Currently full - Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or a lack of well-being and can't stop thinking about past hurtful events? I provide compassionate mindfulness-based trauma-informed therapy to individuals struggling with family and relationship conflict, grief & loss, the impact of trauma, and stress reduction. I believe that you deserve to be in a therapeutic relationship that is safe, validating, and collaborative. We all deserve this :)
(650) 282-3418 View (650) 282-3418
Photo of Zoe Nelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoe Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 adults and adolescents. 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 adults and adolescents. 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 Devan Haddad, MA, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Devan Haddad
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with all types of trauma survivors, particularly sexual assault survivors.
Welcome! I am a queer psychotherapist working from a social justice and anti-oppression framework. This means that we will work together to understand how the systems of the world and your environment contribute to your life. I strongly believe in the ability we each have to better understand ourselves and heal with the support we need - I am here to guide you in that process.
I have extensive experience working with all types of trauma survivors, particularly sexual assault survivors.
Welcome! I am a queer psychotherapist working from a social justice and anti-oppression framework. This means that we will work together to understand how the systems of the world and your environment contribute to your life. I strongly believe in the ability we each have to better understand ourselves and heal with the support we need - I am here to guide you in that process.
(818) 797-7271 View (818) 797-7271
Photo of Reika D Faust, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Reika D Faust
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My years of experience working with sexual assault survivors has helped me develop a compassionate and trauma-informed approach to therapy.
Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself longing to fully understand who you are and why you may make the choices that you make? Learning to love and accept yourself -and your choices- can seem like a challenge, but it is possible. I can help you on that journey.
My years of experience working with sexual assault survivors has helped me develop a compassionate and trauma-informed approach to therapy.
Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself longing to fully understand who you are and why you may make the choices that you make? Learning to love and accept yourself -and your choices- can seem like a challenge, but it is possible. I can help you on that journey.
(650) 733-2947 View (650) 733-2947
Photo of Rosa L. Casquino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosa L. Casquino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101
Psychedelic Assisted Therapy for survivors of trauma. Are past traumas making it hard for you to live the life you want? Whether you're healing from childhood sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, or navigating the challenges of a complex divorce, I'm here to offer support. Trauma can make it difficult to feel grounded and connect with others, but you don't have to face it alone. Together, we’ll work towards healing, emotional well-being, and personal growth. I also love working with other therapists. Let’s reclaim your sense of self and help you live with more peace and joy.
Psychedelic Assisted Therapy for survivors of trauma. Are past traumas making it hard for you to live the life you want? Whether you're healing from childhood sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, or navigating the challenges of a complex divorce, I'm here to offer support. Trauma can make it difficult to feel grounded and connect with others, but you don't have to face it alone. Together, we’ll work towards healing, emotional well-being, and personal growth. I also love working with other therapists. Let’s reclaim your sense of self and help you live with more peace and joy.
(323) 716-0578 View (323) 716-0578
Photo of Krystal Ying, MA, LMFT, LPCC, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krystal Ying
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
Krystal specializes in and is dedicated to helping trauma survivors, particularly of sexual abuse/ assault.
It is within your reach to live a life that is calmer, more grounded and satisfying - where you're not overwhelmed or completely detached - no matter how you are feeling right now or what happened before. You feel on guard, emotionally and physically flooded, disempowered, alone, and hijacked by triggers. Maybe you feel like you cannot trust yourself or others, and your self-confidence is suffering. Whether you're here because of a traumatic event or you have experienced multiple hardships in life, it is possible to get through this, reclaim your spirit and self, and help your mind/body be here in the present moment.
Krystal specializes in and is dedicated to helping trauma survivors, particularly of sexual abuse/ assault.
It is within your reach to live a life that is calmer, more grounded and satisfying - where you're not overwhelmed or completely detached - no matter how you are feeling right now or what happened before. You feel on guard, emotionally and physically flooded, disempowered, alone, and hijacked by triggers. Maybe you feel like you cannot trust yourself or others, and your self-confidence is suffering. Whether you're here because of a traumatic event or you have experienced multiple hardships in life, it is possible to get through this, reclaim your spirit and self, and help your mind/body be here in the present moment.
(707) 309-0699 View (707) 309-0699
Photo of Sage Swiatek, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sage Swiatek
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Healing isn't something we do best in isolation. As a therapist, I work with clients to build greater connection and community to support them on their path. My clients are women and LGBTQIA+ folks seeking therapy where they can show up and be seen as their authentic selves. Many have a history of trauma or have experienced interpersonal violence, such as domestic abuse or sexual assault. Others are working to manage chronic stress and anxiety at work or at home. Whatever concerns are bringing you to my (online) office today, I'll work with you from a place of respect, curiosity, and collaboration.
Healing isn't something we do best in isolation. As a therapist, I work with clients to build greater connection and community to support them on their path. My clients are women and LGBTQIA+ folks seeking therapy where they can show up and be seen as their authentic selves. Many have a history of trauma or have experienced interpersonal violence, such as domestic abuse or sexual assault. Others are working to manage chronic stress and anxiety at work or at home. Whatever concerns are bringing you to my (online) office today, I'll work with you from a place of respect, curiosity, and collaboration.
(415) 741-5533 View (415) 741-5533
Photo of Niki Khanna, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Niki Khanna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
With a background in Sex Education, Sexual Assault and Intimate Partner Abuse Prevention I have spent over 20 years helping people process both the joys and sorrows of relationships.
I take a very straightforward, yet warm and non-judgmental approach to my work. I offer client-centered therapy with an emphasis on helping individuals reach wholeness and authenticity. I do not believe I can be an authority on anyone else’s experience, but I might be able to offer a perspective that helps someone see their life in another way. We can explore together not just the thoughts you are having, but also the way you relate to others and the way you relate to your body and what it expresses.
With a background in Sex Education, Sexual Assault and Intimate Partner Abuse Prevention I have spent over 20 years helping people process both the joys and sorrows of relationships.
I take a very straightforward, yet warm and non-judgmental approach to my work. I offer client-centered therapy with an emphasis on helping individuals reach wholeness and authenticity. I do not believe I can be an authority on anyone else’s experience, but I might be able to offer a perspective that helps someone see their life in another way. We can explore together not just the thoughts you are having, but also the way you relate to others and the way you relate to your body and what it expresses.
(415) 886-0547 View (415) 886-0547
Photo of Julie B Robbins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie B Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121
I have had extensive experience in: child abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, divorce, adoption, fertility, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety, families with special needs, learning differences, school adjustments, career changes, sexual intimacy.
After over 30 years of clinical practice I realize that getting involved in therapy takes great strength, endurance, and commitment. I am always willing to offer clients a safe environment with my own strength and commitment to do the work that needs to be done. My work with children has helped me work more effectively with adults and my work with adults have helped me work more effectively with the children.Please note that during the virus crisis I am conducting sessions both in person(with some requirements) and on a Hippa approved video therapy network.
I have had extensive experience in: child abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, divorce, adoption, fertility, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety, families with special needs, learning differences, school adjustments, career changes, sexual intimacy.
After over 30 years of clinical practice I realize that getting involved in therapy takes great strength, endurance, and commitment. I am always willing to offer clients a safe environment with my own strength and commitment to do the work that needs to be done. My work with children has helped me work more effectively with adults and my work with adults have helped me work more effectively with the children.Please note that during the virus crisis I am conducting sessions both in person(with some requirements) and on a Hippa approved video therapy network.
(415) 802-0532 View (415) 802-0532
Photo of Marjorie Boggs Vazquez, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marjorie Boggs Vazquez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Are you exploring your sexuality or gender and need support? Are you healing from sexual assault or intimate partner violence and don't know how to talk about it? Are you in the kink and/or poly community and need nonjudgmental support? I get it. It can be scary to look for a therapist when your experiences are outside "the norm." I empower my clients to become more self-aware and to better understand and process their unique experiences in a collaborative, self-affirming environment.
Are you exploring your sexuality or gender and need support? Are you healing from sexual assault or intimate partner violence and don't know how to talk about it? Are you in the kink and/or poly community and need nonjudgmental support? I get it. It can be scary to look for a therapist when your experiences are outside "the norm." I empower my clients to become more self-aware and to better understand and process their unique experiences in a collaborative, self-affirming environment.
(415) 663-2407 View (415) 663-2407
Photo of Manali Deolalkar, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Manali Deolalkar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I am specialised in South Asian Mental Health, Self-Esteem, Trauma, sex therapy and sexual misconduct (past perpetrator of sexual abuse or domestic violence).
Are you someone who is looking to get a deeper understanding into your thoughts, emotions and overall mental health well-being? I have a few years of experience working with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, self harm, relationship/dating issues, life transitions and sex-related issues. I work with BIPOC adults, South Asian immigrants, couples, college students, immigrants, tech workers, LGBTQ+ folks, other therapists, and first timers in therapy. I take into account your life experiences, cultural background and your goals, to be able to tailor therapy that meets your need.
I am specialised in South Asian Mental Health, Self-Esteem, Trauma, sex therapy and sexual misconduct (past perpetrator of sexual abuse or domestic violence).
Are you someone who is looking to get a deeper understanding into your thoughts, emotions and overall mental health well-being? I have a few years of experience working with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, self harm, relationship/dating issues, life transitions and sex-related issues. I work with BIPOC adults, South Asian immigrants, couples, college students, immigrants, tech workers, LGBTQ+ folks, other therapists, and first timers in therapy. I take into account your life experiences, cultural background and your goals, to be able to tailor therapy that meets your need.
(628) 216-7639 View (628) 216-7639
Photo of Stanley Fuller, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stanley Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work extensively with Queer and LGBT community, Kink Affirmative/ Sex Positive, Sexual abuse, Substance Use, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Chronic pain, Aging, Childhood Trauma, Grieving, and Couples.
You are unique. My approach is from a holistic lens through relational humanistic psychodynamics. I hope that we build a foundational relationship that is based on trust and acceptance. I will walk with you through your journey of healing and self-discovery. I utilize my self-reflective journey through humanistic transpersonal psychodynamics, meeting you where you are in the here and now, offering acceptance and understanding.
I work extensively with Queer and LGBT community, Kink Affirmative/ Sex Positive, Sexual abuse, Substance Use, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Chronic pain, Aging, Childhood Trauma, Grieving, and Couples.
You are unique. My approach is from a holistic lens through relational humanistic psychodynamics. I hope that we build a foundational relationship that is based on trust and acceptance. I will walk with you through your journey of healing and self-discovery. I utilize my self-reflective journey through humanistic transpersonal psychodynamics, meeting you where you are in the here and now, offering acceptance and understanding.
(415) 993-5146 View (415) 993-5146
Photo of Judith D Schiller, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith D Schiller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117
I have special experience in emotional and sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, and eating disorders.
If you are just beginning therapy or starting it again but would like to go deeper and make more progress, you will need to feel that the therapist "gets you." I believe that the number one curative factor in psychotherapy is the relationship that develops between the therapist and the client. The experience of being understood opens the way for self-reflection, learning and practicing new ways of being and disconfirming pathological beliefs.
I have special experience in emotional and sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, and eating disorders.
If you are just beginning therapy or starting it again but would like to go deeper and make more progress, you will need to feel that the therapist "gets you." I believe that the number one curative factor in psychotherapy is the relationship that develops between the therapist and the client. The experience of being understood opens the way for self-reflection, learning and practicing new ways of being and disconfirming pathological beliefs.
(415) 858-6891 View (415) 858-6891
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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.