Sexual Abuse Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Terri Flebotte (Theresa Huston) - Empowered Sol Wellness Center, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Empowered Sol Wellness Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210
Hey! I am Terri. So many people that I have met describe having been stuck. They have been unable, with the tools they have had, to get unstuck. Typically, it seems that trauma in one form or another is behind that. We all have a story, right? The one that led you here. Trauma can be big trauma, like we think of car accidents or sexual assault but it can also be things like grief or loss, divorce, emotional abuse, etc. Things that get stuck, that mold us in a sense... those same things also make us strong and build character, once we learn how to build from them.
Hey! I am Terri. So many people that I have met describe having been stuck. They have been unable, with the tools they have had, to get unstuck. Typically, it seems that trauma in one form or another is behind that. We all have a story, right? The one that led you here. Trauma can be big trauma, like we think of car accidents or sexual assault but it can also be things like grief or loss, divorce, emotional abuse, etc. Things that get stuck, that mold us in a sense... those same things also make us strong and build character, once we learn how to build from them.
(904) 441-5985 View (904) 441-5985
Photo of Kimberly Julia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Julia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I focused my work on serving survivors of childhood physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse, domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual violence.
Life comes in waves for all of us. If right now feels overwhelming and awful for you, I want you to know you're not alone. I offer trauma-informed, individualized, neurodivergence-affirming telehealth services to access you right where you are with nuanced care and concern. I'm here to support you on this healing journey. Reach out to me here through email or phone (please leave me a voicemail). You can find more about me on my website healingmindful.com.
I focused my work on serving survivors of childhood physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse, domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual violence.
Life comes in waves for all of us. If right now feels overwhelming and awful for you, I want you to know you're not alone. I offer trauma-informed, individualized, neurodivergence-affirming telehealth services to access you right where you are with nuanced care and concern. I'm here to support you on this healing journey. Reach out to me here through email or phone (please leave me a voicemail). You can find more about me on my website healingmindful.com.
(904) 383-7757 View (904) 383-7757
Photo of Kimberly Perez, MS , LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Perez
Counselor, MS , LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
(904) 720-4080 View (904) 720-4080
Photo of Constance Wallace, LPC
Constance Wallace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099
How do you talk about something so painful? I have worked extensively with clients whom have experienced sexual abuse.
You have been able to stuff your trauma deep down for a long time and either pretend that it didn’t happen, ignore that it happened or minimize your trauma. Until now. Angry outbursts, sleepless nights, anxiety, spontaneous crying, and/or intimacy difficulties are becoming difficult to ignore. You are ready to stop feeling angry, sad, or confused. But it is scary to address trauma that you have either never discussed before or others have dismissed or minimized your traumatic experience(s).
How do you talk about something so painful? I have worked extensively with clients whom have experienced sexual abuse.
You have been able to stuff your trauma deep down for a long time and either pretend that it didn’t happen, ignore that it happened or minimize your trauma. Until now. Angry outbursts, sleepless nights, anxiety, spontaneous crying, and/or intimacy difficulties are becoming difficult to ignore. You are ready to stop feeling angry, sad, or confused. But it is scary to address trauma that you have either never discussed before or others have dismissed or minimized your traumatic experience(s).
(980) 340-7728 View (980) 340-7728
Photo of Shon Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shon Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Are you feeling helpless, out of balance, not like yourself, afraid of life changes, living, or losing yourself, struggling at school, work, or with your purpose, experiencing nightmares and/or thoughts you are not normally having such as suicide? Please partner with us to live again, reduce anxiety, isolation, and face fears. We help individuals who are experiencing the following: considering marriage or divorce, life transitions, lost of interests, drained by military life, grief, need support to comfort for elderly parents, sexual abuse, trauma, DCF involvement, and/or struggling with school, work, finding purpose.
Are you feeling helpless, out of balance, not like yourself, afraid of life changes, living, or losing yourself, struggling at school, work, or with your purpose, experiencing nightmares and/or thoughts you are not normally having such as suicide? Please partner with us to live again, reduce anxiety, isolation, and face fears. We help individuals who are experiencing the following: considering marriage or divorce, life transitions, lost of interests, drained by military life, grief, need support to comfort for elderly parents, sexual abuse, trauma, DCF involvement, and/or struggling with school, work, finding purpose.
(904) 441-5156 View (904) 441-5156
Photo of Stephanie Peyton, LCSW-QS, DMCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Peyton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, DMCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Have you experienced difficult events, some beyond your control? Maybe you struggle adjusting to "new norms" in your life, endure panic attacks, or have to force yourself to face each day. At some point, most of us are affected by traumatic events. Complex grief; abuse; military combat; abandonment; assault; chronic pain; and divorce are just a few examples. These experiences can leave us depressed, anxious, fearful or battling post-traumatic stress. They can leave us exhausted without the strength or resources to manage them.
Have you experienced difficult events, some beyond your control? Maybe you struggle adjusting to "new norms" in your life, endure panic attacks, or have to force yourself to face each day. At some point, most of us are affected by traumatic events. Complex grief; abuse; military combat; abandonment; assault; chronic pain; and divorce are just a few examples. These experiences can leave us depressed, anxious, fearful or battling post-traumatic stress. They can leave us exhausted without the strength or resources to manage them.
(904) 872-8374 View (904) 872-8374
Photo of Dr. Michael Nackashi, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Michael Nackashi
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I'm Dr. Nackashi, a clinical psychologist, who earned a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. I trained in VA hospitals & community mental health & university counseling centers. I've spent the last five years providing individual and group psychotherapy to adolescents and young adults presenting with anxiety/panic, depression, interpersonal challenges, adjustment difficulty, ADHD, substance misuse, trauma/sexual assault, identity concerns, suicidality, and issues related to cultural discrimination. I also offer couples therapy to young adults and provide psychological assessments for students and young professionals.
I'm Dr. Nackashi, a clinical psychologist, who earned a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. I trained in VA hospitals & community mental health & university counseling centers. I've spent the last five years providing individual and group psychotherapy to adolescents and young adults presenting with anxiety/panic, depression, interpersonal challenges, adjustment difficulty, ADHD, substance misuse, trauma/sexual assault, identity concerns, suicidality, and issues related to cultural discrimination. I also offer couples therapy to young adults and provide psychological assessments for students and young professionals.
(904) 529-0277 View (904) 529-0277
Photo of Kalena Smith-Fulwiley, LMHC, Counselor
Kalena Smith-Fulwiley
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32218
My practice focuses on treating behavioral issues, trauma related issues, sexual abuse, work/life problems, and relationship issues.
Feeling overwhelmed? Nothing is going as planned? Relationships appear to be unfulfilling? Kids won't act right? Stuck between hating your job and needing to pay bills? Negative thoughts won't go away? No one understands you? Dreams are over deferred? Support system seems non-existent? Need someone to talk to and provide some guidance? Allow me to help provide some light at the end of the tunnel. Lets explore your thoughts and theories on how to live the life you've always wanted for yourself.
My practice focuses on treating behavioral issues, trauma related issues, sexual abuse, work/life problems, and relationship issues.
Feeling overwhelmed? Nothing is going as planned? Relationships appear to be unfulfilling? Kids won't act right? Stuck between hating your job and needing to pay bills? Negative thoughts won't go away? No one understands you? Dreams are over deferred? Support system seems non-existent? Need someone to talk to and provide some guidance? Allow me to help provide some light at the end of the tunnel. Lets explore your thoughts and theories on how to live the life you've always wanted for yourself.
(904) 512-0902 View (904) 512-0902
Photo of Carol L Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol L Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Clients address a wide range of issues from trauma related events including childhood trauma, family of origin issues, sexual abuse, crime, accidents, and traumatic natural events.
There sometimes comes a season in life when an individual, couple or family experience a "stuck point". In times like these it helps to know that you are not alone and you do have choices. One choice is to enlist the help of a caring professional to work with you in establishing therapeutic goals to help you move through such difficult times with confidence. I bring 30 + years of experience in providing therapeutic interventions using: Family Systems Therapy, Marriage Therapy, and a variety of individual therapeutic strategies with adults to assist you in finding answers that make sense to you.
Clients address a wide range of issues from trauma related events including childhood trauma, family of origin issues, sexual abuse, crime, accidents, and traumatic natural events.
There sometimes comes a season in life when an individual, couple or family experience a "stuck point". In times like these it helps to know that you are not alone and you do have choices. One choice is to enlist the help of a caring professional to work with you in establishing therapeutic goals to help you move through such difficult times with confidence. I bring 30 + years of experience in providing therapeutic interventions using: Family Systems Therapy, Marriage Therapy, and a variety of individual therapeutic strategies with adults to assist you in finding answers that make sense to you.
(904) 290-1920 View (904) 290-1920
Photo of Laura Roland, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Roland
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am Laura Roland, a licensed mental health therapist with over 20 years of experience. I am very warm, direct, and caring, and create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to begin or continue their healing journey. I am trained in Complex PTSD and telehealth EMDR. I am a Certified Informed Sexual Professional and I am continuing my education to obtain my Sex and Relationship certification. I work well with those struggling with anxiety, trauma, abuse, sexual abuse, veterans, relationship issues, and women's issues.
Hello, I am Laura Roland, a licensed mental health therapist with over 20 years of experience. I am very warm, direct, and caring, and create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to begin or continue their healing journey. I am trained in Complex PTSD and telehealth EMDR. I am a Certified Informed Sexual Professional and I am continuing my education to obtain my Sex and Relationship certification. I work well with those struggling with anxiety, trauma, abuse, sexual abuse, veterans, relationship issues, and women's issues.
(904) 650-3210 View (904) 650-3210
Photo of Millie Sagesse - Metropolitan Behavioral Services, LMHC, Counselor
Metropolitan Behavioral Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Ms. Millie Sagesse, LMHC. I value each individual and have the ability to work with all individuals regardless of background, gender, and religion. My goal is to provide different forms of intervention to meet each client's needs. Services include treatment for those who have been victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse, and/or emotional abuse. Additional services include treatment for anger management, domestic violence, substance abuse and voluntary or court ordered therapy. Military and law enforcement personnel and their families can have their counseling needs met at Metropolitan Behavioral Services.
Ms. Millie Sagesse, LMHC. I value each individual and have the ability to work with all individuals regardless of background, gender, and religion. My goal is to provide different forms of intervention to meet each client's needs. Services include treatment for those who have been victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse, and/or emotional abuse. Additional services include treatment for anger management, domestic violence, substance abuse and voluntary or court ordered therapy. Military and law enforcement personnel and their families can have their counseling needs met at Metropolitan Behavioral Services.
(904) 875-4767 View (904) 875-4767
Photo of Stephanie H Kohn, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie H Kohn
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My therapeutic training is concentrated in trauma and women's issues as a result of many years experience working with sexual assault survivors at the Women's Center of Jacksonville.
“Awareness is all about restoring your freedom to choose what you want instead of what your past imposes on you.” Deepak Chopra. Choosing a therapist is probably the most important part of your therapy experience as research indicates the client-therapist relationship creates the environment and foundation for change to be possible.
My therapeutic training is concentrated in trauma and women's issues as a result of many years experience working with sexual assault survivors at the Women's Center of Jacksonville.
“Awareness is all about restoring your freedom to choose what you want instead of what your past imposes on you.” Deepak Chopra. Choosing a therapist is probably the most important part of your therapy experience as research indicates the client-therapist relationship creates the environment and foundation for change to be possible.
(850) 790-5527 View (850) 790-5527
Photo of Jessica Valencia, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Valencia
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
As your therapist, I specialize in providing support to individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly sexual assault, and are grappling with high functioning anxiety and depression.
My ideal client is seeking a therapist who can provide trauma-informed support, help them manage their anxiety and depression, and guide them on their journey towards healing and self-empowerment. They want a therapist who can offer validation, understanding, and practical tools to navigate the complexities of their trauma and mental health challenges. Their ultimate desire is to regain a sense of control, resilience, and fulfillment in their life.
As your therapist, I specialize in providing support to individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly sexual assault, and are grappling with high functioning anxiety and depression.
My ideal client is seeking a therapist who can provide trauma-informed support, help them manage their anxiety and depression, and guide them on their journey towards healing and self-empowerment. They want a therapist who can offer validation, understanding, and practical tools to navigate the complexities of their trauma and mental health challenges. Their ultimate desire is to regain a sense of control, resilience, and fulfillment in their life.
(561) 250-7291 View (561) 250-7291
Photo of Albert Simpson Jr. - Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy, PhD, Pastoral Counselor
Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32219
I help individuals from a Christ Centered Therapy Model, addressing the body, soul, and spiritual factors from the science of psychology integrated with theology to treat chronic disorders, marriage problems, premarital initiatives, human development, gender dysphoria, sexual addiction, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, sexual abuse, conflict factors.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and Board Certified as a Temperament Specialist and Clinical Supervisor by the National Christian Counselors Association. In addition, I'm Supreme Court Certified County, Family, and Circuit-Civil Mediator and Court appointed Child Custody Evaluator; Certified Thinking for a Change Facilitator. Also, I facilitate and provides counseling and coping mechanism, and adjustments techniques to the reentry individuals transitioning from jails and prisons as well as helping their family members with the life adjustments and understanding chronic disorders, pharmacological regimens and management.
I help individuals from a Christ Centered Therapy Model, addressing the body, soul, and spiritual factors from the science of psychology integrated with theology to treat chronic disorders, marriage problems, premarital initiatives, human development, gender dysphoria, sexual addiction, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, sexual abuse, conflict factors.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and Board Certified as a Temperament Specialist and Clinical Supervisor by the National Christian Counselors Association. In addition, I'm Supreme Court Certified County, Family, and Circuit-Civil Mediator and Court appointed Child Custody Evaluator; Certified Thinking for a Change Facilitator. Also, I facilitate and provides counseling and coping mechanism, and adjustments techniques to the reentry individuals transitioning from jails and prisons as well as helping their family members with the life adjustments and understanding chronic disorders, pharmacological regimens and management.
(904) 344-0689 View (904) 344-0689
Photo of LaVon M Gainey, LMHC, Counselor
LaVon M Gainey
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
One of my key areas of expertise lies in addressing the sensitive and complex issues surrounding childhood trauma, specifically those who have experienced sexual abuse.
Welcome to my profile! With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. My practice is rooted in providing specialized care to the diverse population of Fl, and I am particularly adept at working with teenagers, adolescents, adults, and couples. Allow me to be part of your journey of healing!
One of my key areas of expertise lies in addressing the sensitive and complex issues surrounding childhood trauma, specifically those who have experienced sexual abuse.
Welcome to my profile! With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. My practice is rooted in providing specialized care to the diverse population of Fl, and I am particularly adept at working with teenagers, adolescents, adults, and couples. Allow me to be part of your journey of healing!
(904) 297-2540 View (904) 297-2540
Photo of Remonde Lopez, LMHC, Counselor
Remonde Lopez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, stress management, behavioral issues, relationship issues, trauma, women’s issues, marital and premarital counseling, divorce, mood disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, sexual abuse, self esteem, eating disorders.
Overwhelmed by life's challenges and seeking a compassionate guide to navigate life? I'm a Nova Southeastern University Graduate, LMHC. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor with 30 years experience in Mental Health providing therapy for individuals, couples and families. I worked in various settings including community mental health (crisis unit), residential treatment facilities, PHP, IOP and OP settings. I have helped adults of all ages deal with a wide range of problems including; grief and loss, substance abuse, anger management, family conflict, divorce, life transitions, and trauma.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, stress management, behavioral issues, relationship issues, trauma, women’s issues, marital and premarital counseling, divorce, mood disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, sexual abuse, self esteem, eating disorders.
Overwhelmed by life's challenges and seeking a compassionate guide to navigate life? I'm a Nova Southeastern University Graduate, LMHC. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor with 30 years experience in Mental Health providing therapy for individuals, couples and families. I worked in various settings including community mental health (crisis unit), residential treatment facilities, PHP, IOP and OP settings. I have helped adults of all ages deal with a wide range of problems including; grief and loss, substance abuse, anger management, family conflict, divorce, life transitions, and trauma.
(786) 661-1069 View (786) 661-1069
Photo of Niti Patel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Niti Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I have extensive training and experience in the fields of domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance abuse.
Ever feel like being human isn’t always enough? Like you’re supposed to have superpowers that haven’t “kicked in” yet? Have you ever felt stuck? As human beings, we are met with obstacles. When those obstacles become overwhelming, we may feel stuck or confined to thoughts and feelings of failure, defeat, or hopelessness. I believe that our experiences allow us to create unique narratives that tell the stories of our lives. I work with clients to rewrite the stories they feel confined to. I respect the distinct narratives shared by each client and thrive to help them achieve the success they are in search of.
I have extensive training and experience in the fields of domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance abuse.
Ever feel like being human isn’t always enough? Like you’re supposed to have superpowers that haven’t “kicked in” yet? Have you ever felt stuck? As human beings, we are met with obstacles. When those obstacles become overwhelming, we may feel stuck or confined to thoughts and feelings of failure, defeat, or hopelessness. I believe that our experiences allow us to create unique narratives that tell the stories of our lives. I work with clients to rewrite the stories they feel confined to. I respect the distinct narratives shared by each client and thrive to help them achieve the success they are in search of.
(678) 973-1998 View (678) 973-1998
Photo of Lynnell Moss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynnell Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
(407) 759-3429 View (407) 759-3429
Photo of Karen Klein, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Karen Klein
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32225
I have been a therapist for more than 25 years working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. I have worked extensively with those who have issues with substance abuse, childhood sexual abuse and relationship conflicts.
I have been a therapist for more than 25 years working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. I have worked extensively with those who have issues with substance abuse, childhood sexual abuse and relationship conflicts.
(904) 614-2353 View (904) 614-2353
Photo of Mitzy K Neel Galer, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Mitzy K Neel Galer
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32227
I also specialize in working with Survivors of Sexual Abuse, both individually and in groups.
I'm here to help you become the best version of you emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. I'm able to provide you with resources, referrals, individual, couple, group and family therapy sessions in order help you to achieve your goals in a positive, accepting and safe environment. I work with tweens, teenagers and adults of all ages, races, genders and sexual orientations struggling with various life stressors/issues. Some of these include academics, occupation, family conflict, social relationships, gender confusion and identity, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, parenting, addictions, poor body- image, disordered eating patterns, and eating disorders.
I also specialize in working with Survivors of Sexual Abuse, both individually and in groups.
I'm here to help you become the best version of you emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. I'm able to provide you with resources, referrals, individual, couple, group and family therapy sessions in order help you to achieve your goals in a positive, accepting and safe environment. I work with tweens, teenagers and adults of all ages, races, genders and sexual orientations struggling with various life stressors/issues. Some of these include academics, occupation, family conflict, social relationships, gender confusion and identity, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, parenting, addictions, poor body- image, disordered eating patterns, and eating disorders.
(904) 748-2925 View (904) 748-2925
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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.