Sexual Abuse Therapists in Washington, DC
Healing and change are possible for all of us. I am reminded daily of people's innate ability to mend and grow if they are provided with the right tools in a supportive and compassionate environment. Past events can leave scars and behavior patterns that can get in the way of people leading the life that they choose. I create a safe space where we can work together to allow scars to heal and for transformative change to take place. My clients experience healing from sexual trauma, adverse life events, relationship issues, and dissociative symptoms. They find freedom from feeling "stuck".
Healing and change are possible for all of us. I am reminded daily of people's innate ability to mend and grow if they are provided with the right tools in a supportive and compassionate environment. Past events can leave scars and behavior patterns that can get in the way of people leading the life that they choose. I create a safe space where we can work together to allow scars to heal and for transformative change to take place. My clients experience healing from sexual trauma, adverse life events, relationship issues, and dissociative symptoms. They find freedom from feeling "stuck".
Every client I work with is multifaceted and has many identities. I adapt my approach to meet people where they are, and honor the differences between us. People often come to therapy looking for change. I aim to provide a supportive space where change can safely occur. I have training in Somatic Experiencing, and believe that supporting the mind-body connection can be a fundamental part of a full healing and growth process. I believe every person has an innate capacity to heal, adapt, and thrive, once genuine support and safety are in place. Whether you reach out to me or another therapist, I hope you find what you need.
Every client I work with is multifaceted and has many identities. I adapt my approach to meet people where they are, and honor the differences between us. People often come to therapy looking for change. I aim to provide a supportive space where change can safely occur. I have training in Somatic Experiencing, and believe that supporting the mind-body connection can be a fundamental part of a full healing and growth process. I believe every person has an innate capacity to heal, adapt, and thrive, once genuine support and safety are in place. Whether you reach out to me or another therapist, I hope you find what you need.
My therapy work is focused on emotional health and wellbeing. I work individually with clients and tailor treatment to best fit each person's concerns, character and goals. I do this by integrating insight-oriented treatment and establishing new ways of being in the present. This combines the exploration of long-standing maladaptive patterns and a focus on present-day functioning. I help also people examine and improve relationship dynamics.
My therapy work is focused on emotional health and wellbeing. I work individually with clients and tailor treatment to best fit each person's concerns, character and goals. I do this by integrating insight-oriented treatment and establishing new ways of being in the present. This combines the exploration of long-standing maladaptive patterns and a focus on present-day functioning. I help also people examine and improve relationship dynamics.
I have experience working with survivors of sexual assault and certified in trauma-informed therapy.
Everyone comes to therapy to work out a problem, but unsure where to begin. I give you lots of space to voice your emotions. Active listening and compassion are paramount in each session. Support is offered by validating your feelings and understanding your point of view.
I have experience working with survivors of sexual assault and certified in trauma-informed therapy.
Everyone comes to therapy to work out a problem, but unsure where to begin. I give you lots of space to voice your emotions. Active listening and compassion are paramount in each session. Support is offered by validating your feelings and understanding your point of view.
I’ve had the privilege of working in the mental health field for over 18 years, supporting individuals with a wide range of life experiences. I bring an eclectic and individualized approach to therapy, honoring the uniqueness of each person’s story and the strengths they carry into the healing process. My work is deeply rooted in trauma care, and I specialize in supporting survivors of sexual violence, childhood abuse, domestic violence, and military combat trauma. I pay close attention to how trauma impacts both the brain and body, and I integrate that mind-body connection into our work together in meaningful and empowering ways.
I’ve had the privilege of working in the mental health field for over 18 years, supporting individuals with a wide range of life experiences. I bring an eclectic and individualized approach to therapy, honoring the uniqueness of each person’s story and the strengths they carry into the healing process. My work is deeply rooted in trauma care, and I specialize in supporting survivors of sexual violence, childhood abuse, domestic violence, and military combat trauma. I pay close attention to how trauma impacts both the brain and body, and I integrate that mind-body connection into our work together in meaningful and empowering ways.
Have overwhelming experiences left you feeling scared, flooded with emotions, or disconnected? Trauma, whether from abuse, violence, injustice, or a sense of powerlessness, can greatly impact how you see yourself and the world. You might experience anger, sadness, shame, fear, or numbness that feels confusing, isolating, and uncontrollable. If you're ready to start processing these experiences, find clarity, and move towards a life where you feel safe, understood, in control, and connected with yourself, I can help.
Have overwhelming experiences left you feeling scared, flooded with emotions, or disconnected? Trauma, whether from abuse, violence, injustice, or a sense of powerlessness, can greatly impact how you see yourself and the world. You might experience anger, sadness, shame, fear, or numbness that feels confusing, isolating, and uncontrollable. If you're ready to start processing these experiences, find clarity, and move towards a life where you feel safe, understood, in control, and connected with yourself, I can help.
I specialize in providing clinical services to adult survivors of trauma, including sexual abuse, physical abuse, and witnesses to violence.
I am certified in EMDR therapy and use that in addition to traditional talk therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
I specialize in providing clinical services to adult survivors of trauma, including sexual abuse, physical abuse, and witnesses to violence.
I am certified in EMDR therapy and use that in addition to traditional talk therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, gun and community violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
Seen. Heard. Treasured. Our specialty is helping survivors of complex trauma whether it is sexual, military, domestic violence, gun and community violence, or bullying. Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
I am a LICSW/LCSW providing services in Washington, DC and Colorado who takes a genuine, open, and non-judgemental therapeutic approach. I specialize in relationships and sex, with a strong foundation in treating conflictual relationships, sexual trauma, and intimacy challenges.
I am a LICSW/LCSW providing services in Washington, DC and Colorado who takes a genuine, open, and non-judgemental therapeutic approach. I specialize in relationships and sex, with a strong foundation in treating conflictual relationships, sexual trauma, and intimacy challenges.
Accepting new clients in-person and via Telehealth. I strongly believe everyone deserves access to support in their own way, in their own time. I am a provider who encourages clients to address their concerns and heal in a supportive space. Starting or returning to therapy is brave, and I admire your choice to be here. Sometimes the thing we need most is to be heard, and I am honored that you might choose me to listen.
Accepting new clients in-person and via Telehealth. I strongly believe everyone deserves access to support in their own way, in their own time. I am a provider who encourages clients to address their concerns and heal in a supportive space. Starting or returning to therapy is brave, and I admire your choice to be here. Sometimes the thing we need most is to be heard, and I am honored that you might choose me to listen.
Navigating young adulthood can feel like a whirlwind—pressures from all sides, uncertainty about the future, and the weight of expectations can be exhausting. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of yourself. Whether it's grappling with your identity, feeling the strain of various relationships, healing from trauma, or battling with body image issues, I understand the unique challenges you face. Together, we'll unpack these struggles and find ways to navigate them with resilience and strength. It's okay to ask for help, and I'm here to support you every step of the way!
Navigating young adulthood can feel like a whirlwind—pressures from all sides, uncertainty about the future, and the weight of expectations can be exhausting. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of yourself. Whether it's grappling with your identity, feeling the strain of various relationships, healing from trauma, or battling with body image issues, I understand the unique challenges you face. Together, we'll unpack these struggles and find ways to navigate them with resilience and strength. It's okay to ask for help, and I'm here to support you every step of the way!
I’m Marissa Nelson, an award-winning, Relationship and Sex Therapist, TEDx speaker, and educator dedicated to helping couples and individuals thrive. You can catch me on Fox 5 or Good Day DC sharing insights on dating, or in the NY Times, Wall Street Journal, Glamour, and Women’s Health as a trusted relationship expert. I recently launched The Lovers Society, a community offering resources, courses, and content to help you level up your relationship. My mission is to help you reclaim pleasure and intimacy, and gain the clarity and support to make decisions that work for your future—because you deserve peace, joy, ease, and rest!
I’m Marissa Nelson, an award-winning, Relationship and Sex Therapist, TEDx speaker, and educator dedicated to helping couples and individuals thrive. You can catch me on Fox 5 or Good Day DC sharing insights on dating, or in the NY Times, Wall Street Journal, Glamour, and Women’s Health as a trusted relationship expert. I recently launched The Lovers Society, a community offering resources, courses, and content to help you level up your relationship. My mission is to help you reclaim pleasure and intimacy, and gain the clarity and support to make decisions that work for your future—because you deserve peace, joy, ease, and rest!
You’re successful at work, an active community member, and the first person your friends call in a crisis. But inside, there’s a part of you that’s not getting what she needs. You know you ‘should’ value solitude and self-care, but it’s hard to be alone. Whenever there’s a pause in your busy life, you notice a gnawing sense of emptiness. Pain over past relationships is taking up a lot of your mental real estate. You wonder: Am I choosing the wrong people? Or am I pushing the ‘right’ people away? You long to be part of a close-knit tribe — but sometimes it feels like you need your friends more than they need you.
You’re successful at work, an active community member, and the first person your friends call in a crisis. But inside, there’s a part of you that’s not getting what she needs. You know you ‘should’ value solitude and self-care, but it’s hard to be alone. Whenever there’s a pause in your busy life, you notice a gnawing sense of emptiness. Pain over past relationships is taking up a lot of your mental real estate. You wonder: Am I choosing the wrong people? Or am I pushing the ‘right’ people away? You long to be part of a close-knit tribe — but sometimes it feels like you need your friends more than they need you.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, specifically child sexual abuse.
I completed a one year postdoctoral fellowship in Trauma Focused-CBT at UMDNJ and I utilize this approach in treating children and adolescents. I have a strong interest in working with families and youth in communicating about sexual identification/orientation issues.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, specifically child sexual abuse.
I completed a one year postdoctoral fellowship in Trauma Focused-CBT at UMDNJ and I utilize this approach in treating children and adolescents. I have a strong interest in working with families and youth in communicating about sexual identification/orientation issues.
I work with adults who experienced childhood trauma, emotional neglect, or grew up in "complicated" families. You may not use the word “trauma”—maybe it just felt chaotic or unsafe. These early experiences shape how we connect, trust, and see ourselves. My clients often want to heal their inner child or understand their internal parts and systems, feel more secure in relationships, and let go of shame and self-blame. Together, we work to rewrite painful stories, regulate the nervous system, and build a more grounded, compassionate sense of self.
I work with adults who experienced childhood trauma, emotional neglect, or grew up in "complicated" families. You may not use the word “trauma”—maybe it just felt chaotic or unsafe. These early experiences shape how we connect, trust, and see ourselves. My clients often want to heal their inner child or understand their internal parts and systems, feel more secure in relationships, and let go of shame and self-blame. Together, we work to rewrite painful stories, regulate the nervous system, and build a more grounded, compassionate sense of self.
You’ve survived deep wounds—abuse that has shaped how you see yourself, your relationships, and the world. Maybe you struggle with overwhelming emotions, dissociation, panic, or feeling disconnected from your body and identity. You might find yourself in unhealthy relationships, battling self-doubt, or feeling like healing is out of reach. But trauma does not define you. I specialize in supporting survivors of sexual, physical, & emotional abuse reclaim their sense of self using EMDR, IFS, Somatic Experiencing, and a relational, psychodynamic approach. With nearly a decade of experience, I am here to affirm that healing is possible.
You’ve survived deep wounds—abuse that has shaped how you see yourself, your relationships, and the world. Maybe you struggle with overwhelming emotions, dissociation, panic, or feeling disconnected from your body and identity. You might find yourself in unhealthy relationships, battling self-doubt, or feeling like healing is out of reach. But trauma does not define you. I specialize in supporting survivors of sexual, physical, & emotional abuse reclaim their sense of self using EMDR, IFS, Somatic Experiencing, and a relational, psychodynamic approach. With nearly a decade of experience, I am here to affirm that healing is possible.
I am passionate about mental health and believe everyone deserves access to care that can improve quality of life. As a therapist, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where individuals feel empowered to pursue healing and growth. I draw from CBT, person-centered, and solution-focused approaches to guide my work.
I am passionate about mental health and believe everyone deserves access to care that can improve quality of life. As a therapist, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where individuals feel empowered to pursue healing and growth. I draw from CBT, person-centered, and solution-focused approaches to guide my work.
Have you or a member of your family experienced a trauma, suffered a loss or are having trouble overcoming past events? I meet all children, individuals and families where they are. I try to put everyone at ease, answer all your questions and begin to instill hope that the problems will get better. I also have a specialty in forensic psychology and can put my assessment and clinical skills to use in the courtroom to help you achieve justice in the criminal or civil arena.
Have you or a member of your family experienced a trauma, suffered a loss or are having trouble overcoming past events? I meet all children, individuals and families where they are. I try to put everyone at ease, answer all your questions and begin to instill hope that the problems will get better. I also have a specialty in forensic psychology and can put my assessment and clinical skills to use in the courtroom to help you achieve justice in the criminal or civil arena.
Every one of us, at some point in our lives, encounters difficulty and hardship. At times, the challenges we find ourselves facing may seem insurmountable. Perhaps you had a difficult and painful childhood that interferes with your ability to find happiness and comfort. Maybe your current or past relationships have been draining and confusing—full of conflict and hurt. Have you recently experienced something life-altering or traumatic? Or, are you struggling with unwelcome feelings and behaviors that impact your health, relationships, or career? Whatever obstacles you’re facing, therapy can be an invaluable and freeing experience.
Every one of us, at some point in our lives, encounters difficulty and hardship. At times, the challenges we find ourselves facing may seem insurmountable. Perhaps you had a difficult and painful childhood that interferes with your ability to find happiness and comfort. Maybe your current or past relationships have been draining and confusing—full of conflict and hurt. Have you recently experienced something life-altering or traumatic? Or, are you struggling with unwelcome feelings and behaviors that impact your health, relationships, or career? Whatever obstacles you’re facing, therapy can be an invaluable and freeing experience.
I specialize in recovery from trauma (particularly childhood abuse/neglect, sexual assault and domestic violence), successful movement through life transitions (young adulthood, career, parenthood, mid-life and loss), and repair of interpersonal relationships (including a specialty in couples therapy).
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore unresolved issues, vulnerabilities and relational difficulties that interfere with happiness. I work creatively and collaboratively with clients, drawing upon client's strengths and experiences, and meeting individuals and couples where they are in their journey.
I specialize in recovery from trauma (particularly childhood abuse/neglect, sexual assault and domestic violence), successful movement through life transitions (young adulthood, career, parenthood, mid-life and loss), and repair of interpersonal relationships (including a specialty in couples therapy).
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore unresolved issues, vulnerabilities and relational difficulties that interfere with happiness. I work creatively and collaboratively with clients, drawing upon client's strengths and experiences, and meeting individuals and couples where they are in their journey.
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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.