Sexual Abuse Therapists in Polk County, FL

Photo of Lauren Spencer, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA
Lauren Spencer
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
I have a passion for issues such as childhood sexual abuse, trauma, relational struggles, stress, infertility, post-partum depression, and grief.
To know and be known. This is a core longing of all of ours. We deeply desire to understand our own brokenness and woundedness, and we yearn to be known and to have others walk with us in our sorrows and struggles. Counseling is a safe and empowering place to come as you are, to process your unique story, and to be deeply known in order to experience healing, growth, hope, and celebration.
I have a passion for issues such as childhood sexual abuse, trauma, relational struggles, stress, infertility, post-partum depression, and grief.
To know and be known. This is a core longing of all of ours. We deeply desire to understand our own brokenness and woundedness, and we yearn to be known and to have others walk with us in our sorrows and struggles. Counseling is a safe and empowering place to come as you are, to process your unique story, and to be deeply known in order to experience healing, growth, hope, and celebration.
(863) 485-6436 View (863) 485-6436
Photo of Jennifer Franco, Counselor, CMHC
Jennifer Franco
Counselor, CMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a licensed therapist at Grandview Family Counseling, specializing in support for aviation professionals and therapists facing high-responsibility roles. My practice provides a confidential, non-judgmental space for open conversation, with a focus on non-reportable care and avoiding unnecessary diagnoses. My collaborative, evidence-based approach helps you address anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Together, we’ll build insight, coping skills, and lasting positive change. Seeking support is courageous, and I’m here to help you move forward.
I am a licensed therapist at Grandview Family Counseling, specializing in support for aviation professionals and therapists facing high-responsibility roles. My practice provides a confidential, non-judgmental space for open conversation, with a focus on non-reportable care and avoiding unnecessary diagnoses. My collaborative, evidence-based approach helps you address anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Together, we’ll build insight, coping skills, and lasting positive change. Seeking support is courageous, and I’m here to help you move forward.
(385) 293-3357 View (385) 293-3357
Photo of Kevin Berry, Counselor, LMHC
Kevin Berry
Counselor, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
I have experience in treating trauma related to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as notable experience working with clients to heal from religious trauma and abuse.
As a mental health therapist, I love having the opportunity to help people work through the challenges that life can bring. Having a safe place to express ourselves and feel supported and validated can be a primary and meaningful catalyst to healing. Adverse experiences and past trauma can have a far-reaching impact on our ability to thrive in life and have positive relationships. I am experienced in working with individuals, couples, ethical non-monogamy, and fully affirming of LGBTQIA+. I am also skilled in working with all forms of trauma, including sexual and religious trauma. You are safe and accepted here exactly as you are!
I have experience in treating trauma related to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as notable experience working with clients to heal from religious trauma and abuse.
As a mental health therapist, I love having the opportunity to help people work through the challenges that life can bring. Having a safe place to express ourselves and feel supported and validated can be a primary and meaningful catalyst to healing. Adverse experiences and past trauma can have a far-reaching impact on our ability to thrive in life and have positive relationships. I am experienced in working with individuals, couples, ethical non-monogamy, and fully affirming of LGBTQIA+. I am also skilled in working with all forms of trauma, including sexual and religious trauma. You are safe and accepted here exactly as you are!
(863) 592-2597 View (863) 592-2597
Photo of Brittany Cannioto, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, QS
Brittany Cannioto
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, QS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
First off, if you are reading this it means you are wanting to take some steps to better yourself and I commend you for that. I have two main specialties: trauma (in its many different forms) and addiction (both substance and behavioral in nature). I also have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, stress from life changes, grief, toxic relationships, bipolar disorder, disordered eating and other struggles.
First off, if you are reading this it means you are wanting to take some steps to better yourself and I commend you for that. I have two main specialties: trauma (in its many different forms) and addiction (both substance and behavioral in nature). I also have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, stress from life changes, grief, toxic relationships, bipolar disorder, disordered eating and other struggles.
(863) 592-2615 View (863) 592-2615
Photo of Andi Griffith, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Andi Griffith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
7 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
Tired of feeling stuck or repeating the same patterns without understanding why you can’t seem to break free? Influences from a previous or current relationship may take away the ability to trust yourself or your partner. It may feel like you’re constantly playing tug of war on the inside or in constant fight or flight mode. Let me help you create the relationship you want that is healthy and long lasting. Let’s develop the skills that will help you get to the root of the problem. Every relationship has conflict. It's how you handle that conflict that matters. You are not alone in this and it won’t always feel this way.
Tired of feeling stuck or repeating the same patterns without understanding why you can’t seem to break free? Influences from a previous or current relationship may take away the ability to trust yourself or your partner. It may feel like you’re constantly playing tug of war on the inside or in constant fight or flight mode. Let me help you create the relationship you want that is healthy and long lasting. Let’s develop the skills that will help you get to the root of the problem. Every relationship has conflict. It's how you handle that conflict that matters. You are not alone in this and it won’t always feel this way.
(863) 563-2395 View (863) 563-2395
Photo of Callie Kvartek, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Callie Kvartek
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
7 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33813
Trained in EMDR and trauma-informed yoga, I bring a holistic approach to recovery, understanding of how life experiences shape the present. My goal is to support you in finding the healthiest version of your unique self, assisting you to identify and remove barriers while empowering you with tools and skills to change. I bring a nonjudgmental and flexible approach to counseling, using various modalities to meet each client’s needs. With experience working with a wide variety of concerns, I look forward to working with you individually or with your partner!
Trained in EMDR and trauma-informed yoga, I bring a holistic approach to recovery, understanding of how life experiences shape the present. My goal is to support you in finding the healthiest version of your unique self, assisting you to identify and remove barriers while empowering you with tools and skills to change. I bring a nonjudgmental and flexible approach to counseling, using various modalities to meet each client’s needs. With experience working with a wide variety of concerns, I look forward to working with you individually or with your partner!
(863) 563-5974 View (863) 563-5974
Photo of Sabrina Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CPC
Sabrina Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CPC
3 Endorsed
Winter Haven, FL 33880
You love each other, but something’s off. You want to restore what you once had, before everything got so hard. But the fights aren’t stopping, they aren’t productive, and you two can barely talk to each other now. Passion is missing. Trust is missing. Intimacy is missing. As much as you'd like to stay together, you can't see how it's going to happen if things stay the same. You're so ready for things to be different, but you're struggling on how to get there. I'm a Relationship Specialist providing therapy that can help.
You love each other, but something’s off. You want to restore what you once had, before everything got so hard. But the fights aren’t stopping, they aren’t productive, and you two can barely talk to each other now. Passion is missing. Trust is missing. Intimacy is missing. As much as you'd like to stay together, you can't see how it's going to happen if things stay the same. You're so ready for things to be different, but you're struggling on how to get there. I'm a Relationship Specialist providing therapy that can help.
(863) 277-6758 View (863) 277-6758
Photo of Daniel Moorey - Silver Lining Counseling, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA
Silver Lining Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA
Lakeland, FL 33813
Helping individuals become whole is central to fostering emotional health and well-being. I believe that integrating all parts of ourselves through evidence-based therapeutic approaches can lead to lasting peace and a greater sense of balance. My work is grounded in a compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative partnership with each client. I incorporate biofeedback—specifically neurofeedback—an evidence-based method that supports brain regulation and healing, particularly for those who have experienced trauma. This approach helps improve brain functioning and promotes resilience and recovery.
Helping individuals become whole is central to fostering emotional health and well-being. I believe that integrating all parts of ourselves through evidence-based therapeutic approaches can lead to lasting peace and a greater sense of balance. My work is grounded in a compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative partnership with each client. I incorporate biofeedback—specifically neurofeedback—an evidence-based method that supports brain regulation and healing, particularly for those who have experienced trauma. This approach helps improve brain functioning and promotes resilience and recovery.
(863) 204-1808 View (863) 204-1808
Photo of Kaylee Brenneman, Counselor, EdS, MEd
Kaylee Brenneman
Counselor, EdS, MEd
6 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
When emotions feel overwhelming, we sometimes act in ways that don't reflect our values. My goal is to support you as you work to engage in life more authentically using effective nervous system regulation and increasing skillfulness. I believe that people are always doing the best that they can with the resources that they have, and they also want and need to deal with the hardships of life more effectively - that's where I step in to accept, educate, and guide you. Some of my areas of specialization include Addiction, Anxiety, BPD, Depression, Identity Exploration, Trauma Processing, & Relationships and Communication.
When emotions feel overwhelming, we sometimes act in ways that don't reflect our values. My goal is to support you as you work to engage in life more authentically using effective nervous system regulation and increasing skillfulness. I believe that people are always doing the best that they can with the resources that they have, and they also want and need to deal with the hardships of life more effectively - that's where I step in to accept, educate, and guide you. Some of my areas of specialization include Addiction, Anxiety, BPD, Depression, Identity Exploration, Trauma Processing, & Relationships and Communication.
(863) 510-2624 View (863) 510-2624
Photo of Marisa McGrath, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Marisa McGrath
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 6 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals from widely diverse backgrounds, with varying symptoms and diagnoses. Throughout the past couple of years, I have been predominately working with women (adults and teens) who experience anxiety, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, and interpersonal and intrapersonal challenges. While many of the clients I support have experienced trauma, particularly in some form of abuse, I am equipped to work with clients with a wide range of additional concerns, as well.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 6 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals from widely diverse backgrounds, with varying symptoms and diagnoses. Throughout the past couple of years, I have been predominately working with women (adults and teens) who experience anxiety, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, and interpersonal and intrapersonal challenges. While many of the clients I support have experienced trauma, particularly in some form of abuse, I am equipped to work with clients with a wide range of additional concerns, as well.
(863) 282-2509 View (863) 282-2509
Photo of Kimber Burke, Counselor, LMHC
Kimber Burke
Counselor, LMHC
Lakeland, FL 33803
Please email, to set up phone consultation. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Lakeland, FL, that specializes in teen through young adult females. The goal of my practice is to help set my clients on path to success by helping them uncover their strengths, change unhealthy patterns, and discover what they are mentally capable of.
Please email, to set up phone consultation. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Lakeland, FL, that specializes in teen through young adult females. The goal of my practice is to help set my clients on path to success by helping them uncover their strengths, change unhealthy patterns, and discover what they are mentally capable of.
(863) 450-1193 View (863) 450-1193
Photo of Khalilah Garrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Khalilah Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Khalilah Garrett, LCSW, LICSW Khalilah has been providing Mental Health Treatment and Services to include program coordination/management, psychotherapy, coaching, and case management for over 20 years. Khalilah specializes in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use disorders), and unresolved emotional issues. Khalilah's therapeutic techniques include individual counseling for personal and emotional growth, creating more meaning and purpose in one's life; and include counseling to increase self-esteem and self-empowerment.
Khalilah Garrett, LCSW, LICSW Khalilah has been providing Mental Health Treatment and Services to include program coordination/management, psychotherapy, coaching, and case management for over 20 years. Khalilah specializes in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use disorders), and unresolved emotional issues. Khalilah's therapeutic techniques include individual counseling for personal and emotional growth, creating more meaning and purpose in one's life; and include counseling to increase self-esteem and self-empowerment.
(239) 310-3004 View (239) 310-3004
Photo of Cheryl A Cyr - Power Within - Cheryl Cyr, MA, NBCC, CMHIMP, LPC, LMHC
Power Within - Cheryl Cyr
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve carried the weight of trauma—whether it’s the kind that leaves deep scars from horrific experiences or the invisible wounds of growing up in a family shaped by addiction. The pain, the fear, the constant effort to hold it all together—it’s exhausting, and it’s not your fault. You deserve a space where you feel truly seen, where your story is honored without judgment, and where healing feels possible, even when it seems out of reach. I’m here to walk with you through the chaos, to help you find safety within yourself, and to uncover the strength you’ve always had, even when it feels buried.
You’ve carried the weight of trauma—whether it’s the kind that leaves deep scars from horrific experiences or the invisible wounds of growing up in a family shaped by addiction. The pain, the fear, the constant effort to hold it all together—it’s exhausting, and it’s not your fault. You deserve a space where you feel truly seen, where your story is honored without judgment, and where healing feels possible, even when it seems out of reach. I’m here to walk with you through the chaos, to help you find safety within yourself, and to uncover the strength you’ve always had, even when it feels buried.
(863) 877-4576 View (863) 877-4576
Photo of Julia M Borum - Borum and Associates LLC, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Borum and Associates LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33813
If you are on this page and reading this profile chances are that you or someone you love is going through a tough time. Searching for someone to talk with about your concerns can be a daunting task. There are so many choices and all counselors are not created equal. You want someone who will listen to your problems, won't judge you, and can offer some insight and guidance through the difficult times. Our counselors have over fifty years of experience in the helping fields and are here to help and guide you. Let's get started.
If you are on this page and reading this profile chances are that you or someone you love is going through a tough time. Searching for someone to talk with about your concerns can be a daunting task. There are so many choices and all counselors are not created equal. You want someone who will listen to your problems, won't judge you, and can offer some insight and guidance through the difficult times. Our counselors have over fifty years of experience in the helping fields and are here to help and guide you. Let's get started.
(863) 659-4325 View (863) 659-4325
Photo of Brent Stamey, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Brent Stamey
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Winter Haven, FL 33880
Brent's calling and passion is to help people discover the fullness of what life is meant to be. Brent believes that God has a plan and purpose for every individual and family and that He gives us the gift and opportunity to co-author this epic story with Him. He has the ability to help clients become comfortable with themselves and the painful feelings that they may be carrying, in order to come to a place where they can deal with the past in order to change the future.
Brent's calling and passion is to help people discover the fullness of what life is meant to be. Brent believes that God has a plan and purpose for every individual and family and that He gives us the gift and opportunity to co-author this epic story with Him. He has the ability to help clients become comfortable with themselves and the painful feelings that they may be carrying, in order to come to a place where they can deal with the past in order to change the future.
(863) 703-0514 View (863) 703-0514
Photo of Omar Ali, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Omar Ali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello everyone! My name is Omar Ali, LCSW. I am a mental health practitioner who has provided treatment to individuals and families in Florida for many years. From a young age, I have always possessed a passion for being of service to others. In conjunction with my personal life experiences, education, and clinical training, I have developed the skills needed to make a new meaningful impact on the lives of others.
Hello everyone! My name is Omar Ali, LCSW. I am a mental health practitioner who has provided treatment to individuals and families in Florida for many years. From a young age, I have always possessed a passion for being of service to others. In conjunction with my personal life experiences, education, and clinical training, I have developed the skills needed to make a new meaningful impact on the lives of others.
(844) 698-3482 View (844) 698-3482
Photo of Quinton Aaron Clawson, Counselor, LMHC, QS
Quinton Aaron Clawson
Counselor, LMHC, QS
4 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
Maya Angelou said, "there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you". I seek to help my clients share their stories in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment so that they can process their experiences and find a path to a brighter tomorrow. I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and qualified supervisor (QS) in the state of Florida. I have vast experience in outpatient, inpatient, training, consulting, public speaking, and supervisory settings, and I have extensive training in various modalities such as EMDR.
Maya Angelou said, "there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you". I seek to help my clients share their stories in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment so that they can process their experiences and find a path to a brighter tomorrow. I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and qualified supervisor (QS) in the state of Florida. I have vast experience in outpatient, inpatient, training, consulting, public speaking, and supervisory settings, and I have extensive training in various modalities such as EMDR.
(863) 349-3303 View (863) 349-3303
Photo of Kimberly Favaro, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Kimberly Favaro
Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33813
In my time counseling I have gained great experience working with individuals through Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief, Behavioral issues, Identity, Major Life Changes, and Trauma as a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. I enjoy approaching life's many struggles empathetically and with hope for the future. Whether one is dealing with many inner demons, or simply trying to better understand themselves and their relationships; I am here to help you help yourself get unstuck and be able to better enjoy life.
In my time counseling I have gained great experience working with individuals through Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief, Behavioral issues, Identity, Major Life Changes, and Trauma as a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. I enjoy approaching life's many struggles empathetically and with hope for the future. Whether one is dealing with many inner demons, or simply trying to better understand themselves and their relationships; I am here to help you help yourself get unstuck and be able to better enjoy life.
(863) 606-5922 View (863) 606-5922
Photo of Shelby Gaudette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shelby Gaudette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
If OCD, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or perfectionism are making your world feel small, you’re not alone. I help adults untangle from fear so they can build a life rooted in freedom, meaning, and self-trust. Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed by their thoughts, stuck in “what-ifs,” or exhausted from trying to manage anxiety on their own. Therapy can be a place to breathe again, feel understood, and learn evidence-based tools that genuinely help.
If OCD, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or perfectionism are making your world feel small, you’re not alone. I help adults untangle from fear so they can build a life rooted in freedom, meaning, and self-trust. Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed by their thoughts, stuck in “what-ifs,” or exhausted from trying to manage anxiety on their own. Therapy can be a place to breathe again, feel understood, and learn evidence-based tools that genuinely help.
(863) 216-6454 View (863) 216-6454
Photo of Jay Ortiz, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Jay Ortiz
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Online Only
I'm a licensed mental health counselor with over 14 years of experience. I have a bachelors degree in psychology from The University of South Florida, and a masters in science focused on mental health counseling from Nova Southeastern University.
I'm a licensed mental health counselor with over 14 years of experience. I have a bachelors degree in psychology from The University of South Florida, and a masters in science focused on mental health counseling from Nova Southeastern University.
(863) 356-7035 View (863) 356-7035

See more therapy options for Polk County

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.