Sexual Abuse Therapists in Atlanta, GA

Photo of Laura Hamilton, MA, LAPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Hamilton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30345
I have extensive experience working with individuals healing from sexual abuse and exploitation, individuals overcoming addiction and substance abuse, as well as those seeking support related to LGBTQIA+ issues.
I specialize in working with individuals to address trauma, substance use, burnout, grief, and identity. I am committed to meeting each of my clients where they are and joining with them to support them in reaching their goals. If you ever feel like it's all too much, or like no one truly understands...you're not alone. I approach my work with each of my clients from a place of curiosity and compassion, recognizing that each individual is the expert of her or his own story. I seek to help each of my clients discover their areas of strength to build upon as together we work to re-write the stories that define you.
I have extensive experience working with individuals healing from sexual abuse and exploitation, individuals overcoming addiction and substance abuse, as well as those seeking support related to LGBTQIA+ issues.
I specialize in working with individuals to address trauma, substance use, burnout, grief, and identity. I am committed to meeting each of my clients where they are and joining with them to support them in reaching their goals. If you ever feel like it's all too much, or like no one truly understands...you're not alone. I approach my work with each of my clients from a place of curiosity and compassion, recognizing that each individual is the expert of her or his own story. I seek to help each of my clients discover their areas of strength to build upon as together we work to re-write the stories that define you.
(404) 856-6593 View (404) 856-6593
Photo of Guneeta Singh, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Guneeta Singh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
I have focused my career on providing services and working with clients suffering from various forms of trauma. I work with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and adult survivors of childhood abuse. My clients are resilient people who are willing to make changes in their lives by making the choices to put themselves first in their lives, making healthy decisions for themselves, and work on their own self worth. My clients are folks who embrace their humanness and gather the courage to work through their toxic emotions such as shame and guilt that hold them back.
I have focused my career on providing services and working with clients suffering from various forms of trauma. I work with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and adult survivors of childhood abuse. My clients are resilient people who are willing to make changes in their lives by making the choices to put themselves first in their lives, making healthy decisions for themselves, and work on their own self worth. My clients are folks who embrace their humanness and gather the courage to work through their toxic emotions such as shame and guilt that hold them back.
(404) 620-3545 View (404) 620-3545
Photo of Cassi Haberler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassi Haberler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counseling Supervisor in the state of Georgia, with over 16 years of experience working with survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault/abuse, child abuse, and human trafficking. I also have experience with family systems and women's issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counseling Supervisor in the state of Georgia, with over 16 years of experience working with survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault/abuse, child abuse, and human trafficking. I also have experience with family systems and women's issues.
(470) 748-6493 View (470) 748-6493
Photo of Rand Basma, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rand Basma
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
I work with individuals ages 14+ experiencing a myriad of clinical concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and grief. Additionally, I have a passion for working with individuals overcoming complex trauma as well as sexual abuse. Some of my other clinical experiences include working with substance use, HIV/AIDS, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation. Many of my clients are seeking out culturally sensitive care where their identities are given the space to be seen and heard. During our time together we will work on building awareness of thought patterns, beliefs, and narratives that no longer serve you.
I work with individuals ages 14+ experiencing a myriad of clinical concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and grief. Additionally, I have a passion for working with individuals overcoming complex trauma as well as sexual abuse. Some of my other clinical experiences include working with substance use, HIV/AIDS, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation. Many of my clients are seeking out culturally sensitive care where their identities are given the space to be seen and heard. During our time together we will work on building awareness of thought patterns, beliefs, and narratives that no longer serve you.
(404) 777-4366 View (404) 777-4366
Photo of Chandra J Blakely, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chandra J Blakely
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303
My particular passion is working with children and adolescents whose behavioral challenges are exacerbated by a history of physical and/ or sexual abuse.
Hello! My name is Chandra Blakely. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master's degree in Psychology, specializing in Professional Counseling, and a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology. I have over 17 years of comprehensive experience providing Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered counseling across the lifespan, from ages 3-65+. My services have primarily been focused on providing individual, couples and family counseling.
My particular passion is working with children and adolescents whose behavioral challenges are exacerbated by a history of physical and/ or sexual abuse.
Hello! My name is Chandra Blakely. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master's degree in Psychology, specializing in Professional Counseling, and a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology. I have over 17 years of comprehensive experience providing Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered counseling across the lifespan, from ages 3-65+. My services have primarily been focused on providing individual, couples and family counseling.
(678) 780-4250 View (678) 780-4250
Photo of Julie Christine Medlin, PhD, Psychologist
Julie Christine Medlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342
I also offer specialized evaluations to assess for sexual abuse and for people with sexual behavior problems.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 28 years of experience in providing counseling and psychological evaluations including forensic, sexual trauma, and psychosexual evaluations. I work with children, teens, and adults to help them cope with issues such as depression, anxiety, divorce, behavioral problems, sexual concerns, and trauma. I am a certified clinical trauma professional. I also serve as the Director of Medlin Treatment Center, a counseling center with 19 therapists on staff. If I'm not available or the best fit, I can refer you to another therapist in my office. I can practice via telehealth in 40 states.
I also offer specialized evaluations to assess for sexual abuse and for people with sexual behavior problems.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 28 years of experience in providing counseling and psychological evaluations including forensic, sexual trauma, and psychosexual evaluations. I work with children, teens, and adults to help them cope with issues such as depression, anxiety, divorce, behavioral problems, sexual concerns, and trauma. I am a certified clinical trauma professional. I also serve as the Director of Medlin Treatment Center, a counseling center with 19 therapists on staff. If I'm not available or the best fit, I can refer you to another therapist in my office. I can practice via telehealth in 40 states.
(770) 691-0260 View (770) 691-0260
Photo of Miriam Matthews, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with many, who have faced challenges related to family conflict/discord, minority groups who face cultural/racial concerns, and sexual abuse (incest/external).
First, I'd like to say that there is strength in reaching out for support! My clients are diverse and have unique backgrounds and challenges. Many of my clients are young to middle-aged adult women, whom I've greatly enjoyed working with. Though many of our challenges may be interconnected, my work with clients mostly focuses on empowerment, self-compassion, and confidence. My clients are AMAZED by how their focus on increasing self-love, positively reverberates in every aspect of their lives. My clients appreciate my organized yet flexible style and are comforted that our work together is a solution-focused, safe collaboration!
I have worked with many, who have faced challenges related to family conflict/discord, minority groups who face cultural/racial concerns, and sexual abuse (incest/external).
First, I'd like to say that there is strength in reaching out for support! My clients are diverse and have unique backgrounds and challenges. Many of my clients are young to middle-aged adult women, whom I've greatly enjoyed working with. Though many of our challenges may be interconnected, my work with clients mostly focuses on empowerment, self-compassion, and confidence. My clients are AMAZED by how their focus on increasing self-love, positively reverberates in every aspect of their lives. My clients appreciate my organized yet flexible style and are comforted that our work together is a solution-focused, safe collaboration!
(757) 699-4377 View (757) 699-4377
Photo of Dr. Vernon T. Scott, EdD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Vernon T. Scott
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am passionate about working with Black men; however, I also have a strong passion for working with survivors of sexual violence, adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and kink-friendly couples.
Are you having issues communicating with your partner and expressing your wants and needs? Are you experiencing a decline or issues with sexual satisfaction or pleasure? Are you a survivor of sexual violence or an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse? Are you a Black male at the beginning stages of your therapeutic journey? I work with clients that are over the age of 18, all orientations/identities, and all relationship structures.
I am passionate about working with Black men; however, I also have a strong passion for working with survivors of sexual violence, adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and kink-friendly couples.
Are you having issues communicating with your partner and expressing your wants and needs? Are you experiencing a decline or issues with sexual satisfaction or pleasure? Are you a survivor of sexual violence or an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse? Are you a Black male at the beginning stages of your therapeutic journey? I work with clients that are over the age of 18, all orientations/identities, and all relationship structures.
(470) 441-8427 View (470) 441-8427
Photo of Arielle Crain, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arielle Crain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am so encouraged that you are here. I enjoy assisting adolescent and adult women who are struggling with issues related to self-esteem, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, body image, trauma, sexual assault survivors, grief, and relationship issues. I provide client-centered therapy and believe that successful treatment begins with building a strong client-therapist relationship. From this secure base, I can support you in working through pain towards growth and change. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process defined by trust, safety, warmth, empathy, and unconditional acceptance.
Welcome! I am so encouraged that you are here. I enjoy assisting adolescent and adult women who are struggling with issues related to self-esteem, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, body image, trauma, sexual assault survivors, grief, and relationship issues. I provide client-centered therapy and believe that successful treatment begins with building a strong client-therapist relationship. From this secure base, I can support you in working through pain towards growth and change. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process defined by trust, safety, warmth, empathy, and unconditional acceptance.
(704) 810-2128 View (704) 810-2128
Photo of Erica D Walker, PhD, Psychologist
Erica D Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I specialize in treating survivors of trauma ( sexual abuse, physical abuse) and children who are acting out sexually.
Are you having difficulty managing your child's behavior at home? Does your child's teacher have concerns about listening skills, impulsivity, or social awkwardness? Has your child experienced a significant change in mood, appetite, or sleep patterns? Has your child experienced a major life stressor (e.g., sexual abuse, death of loved one, parental divorce) or transition (e.g., a recent move)? If your child is experiencing any of these issues, together we can find a solution.
I specialize in treating survivors of trauma ( sexual abuse, physical abuse) and children who are acting out sexually.
Are you having difficulty managing your child's behavior at home? Does your child's teacher have concerns about listening skills, impulsivity, or social awkwardness? Has your child experienced a significant change in mood, appetite, or sleep patterns? Has your child experienced a major life stressor (e.g., sexual abuse, death of loved one, parental divorce) or transition (e.g., a recent move)? If your child is experiencing any of these issues, together we can find a solution.
(404) 994-5215 View (404) 994-5215
Photo of Barbara Anne Thomason, PhD, Psychologist
Barbara Anne Thomason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308
Relationship issues, sexual abuse and associated trauma, gay and lesbian concerns, and grief and loss continue to be major areas of focus.
Having been trained in a humanistic/holistic model of therapy (Experiential, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Family Systems), I have adhered to what is now called an “integrative” approach to mental health issues. Specifically, when I engage with a client we focus on the interaction of all the dimensions of his or her life, i.e., biological, psychological, social, behavioral, and spiritual. Subsequently, we embark on an exciting journey together to explore a path that leads to a more optimal state of well-being and a greater sense of wholeness.
Relationship issues, sexual abuse and associated trauma, gay and lesbian concerns, and grief and loss continue to be major areas of focus.
Having been trained in a humanistic/holistic model of therapy (Experiential, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Family Systems), I have adhered to what is now called an “integrative” approach to mental health issues. Specifically, when I engage with a client we focus on the interaction of all the dimensions of his or her life, i.e., biological, psychological, social, behavioral, and spiritual. Subsequently, we embark on an exciting journey together to explore a path that leads to a more optimal state of well-being and a greater sense of wholeness.
(678) 710-3380 View (678) 710-3380
Photo of Jessica Henry, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
, physical and sexual abuse, grief and loss, violence exposure).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of therapy experience. I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
, physical and sexual abuse, grief and loss, violence exposure).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of therapy experience. I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
(770) 824-0690 View (770) 824-0690
Photo of Rebecca Pardal, APC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Pardal
Licensed Professional Counselor, APC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306
My primary areas of focus are depression, anxiety, grief, self harm, addiction, and trauma (PTSD, sexual abuse/ assault, domestic violence, etc.
I enjoy working with clients looking for a unique and personalized approach to therapy. While I am well versed in traditional approaches, I also specialize in animal assisted therapy, art therapy, and play therapy. These tools allow me to tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual and take an integrative approach to counseling. Everyone is different, and it is important that we find an approach that is a good fit for you. I am a therapist at Acorn Center for Counseling Growth, & Healing LLC supervised by Rebecca Ahmadi LPC008726.
My primary areas of focus are depression, anxiety, grief, self harm, addiction, and trauma (PTSD, sexual abuse/ assault, domestic violence, etc.
I enjoy working with clients looking for a unique and personalized approach to therapy. While I am well versed in traditional approaches, I also specialize in animal assisted therapy, art therapy, and play therapy. These tools allow me to tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual and take an integrative approach to counseling. Everyone is different, and it is important that we find an approach that is a good fit for you. I am a therapist at Acorn Center for Counseling Growth, & Healing LLC supervised by Rebecca Ahmadi LPC008726.
(404) 445-4057 View (404) 445-4057
Photo of Anique S Whitmore, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anique S Whitmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
20 years experience has allowed me to specialize in working with sexual abuse survivors, adolescents finding their unique path in life, individual & family systems, co-parenting sessions, Guardian ad Litem, and therapeutic interventions helping individuals find out 'who they are' and their most productive mode of function .
At some time in our life we all struggle with some sort of adversity. I believe we are not judged by adversity but how we handle it. Asking for help is not always easy but it is a sign of strength. Therapy is a process of self discovery that enables you to recognize unhealthy patterns of behavior and learn effective coping strategies for optimal health and well-being. Life happens to each of us and much of life is out of our control - but how we respond to life's events is completely within our control.
20 years experience has allowed me to specialize in working with sexual abuse survivors, adolescents finding their unique path in life, individual & family systems, co-parenting sessions, Guardian ad Litem, and therapeutic interventions helping individuals find out 'who they are' and their most productive mode of function .
At some time in our life we all struggle with some sort of adversity. I believe we are not judged by adversity but how we handle it. Asking for help is not always easy but it is a sign of strength. Therapy is a process of self discovery that enables you to recognize unhealthy patterns of behavior and learn effective coping strategies for optimal health and well-being. Life happens to each of us and much of life is out of our control - but how we respond to life's events is completely within our control.
(404) 890-7263 View (404) 890-7263
Photo of Sarah Postich, EdS, NCC, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Postich
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Sarah provides counseling services to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, adults diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders and individuals in recovery from addiction.
I see counseling as a collaborative process between individuals. I consider it a privilege to walk with you on your journey, whether it consists of management of symptoms, self-discovery, healing, or growth. My vision is to empower you to make decisions that best accommodate your life style and current situation, and with which you are comfortable. I believe that you know yourself best and therefore, we create a personalized approach to your counseling that includes the goals you have for yourself. I seek to provide you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can be who you are and accepted completely.
Sarah provides counseling services to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, adults diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders and individuals in recovery from addiction.
I see counseling as a collaborative process between individuals. I consider it a privilege to walk with you on your journey, whether it consists of management of symptoms, self-discovery, healing, or growth. My vision is to empower you to make decisions that best accommodate your life style and current situation, and with which you are comfortable. I believe that you know yourself best and therefore, we create a personalized approach to your counseling that includes the goals you have for yourself. I seek to provide you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can be who you are and accepted completely.
(678) 498-1377 View (678) 498-1377
Photo of Carman Clark, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carman Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331
Dr. Carman S. Clark, LPC. My approach is interpersonal, compassionate, and healing. I focus on issues of sexual abuse trauma, anxiety, major depression, grief, and medical issues. Everyone has a story to tell and I am here to listen and help you heal. I work mainly with adult individuals who are dealing with childhood trauma, stress on the job, grief, anxiety, depression, medical issues, or wants life coaching and positive transformation. I am most comfortable treating all of the above. My approach is cognitive-behavioral; mindfulness; strengths-based; and trauma-focused awareness and healing.
Dr. Carman S. Clark, LPC. My approach is interpersonal, compassionate, and healing. I focus on issues of sexual abuse trauma, anxiety, major depression, grief, and medical issues. Everyone has a story to tell and I am here to listen and help you heal. I work mainly with adult individuals who are dealing with childhood trauma, stress on the job, grief, anxiety, depression, medical issues, or wants life coaching and positive transformation. I am most comfortable treating all of the above. My approach is cognitive-behavioral; mindfulness; strengths-based; and trauma-focused awareness and healing.
(678) 573-4901 View (678) 573-4901
Photo of Tamekia Meko Howard, LPC, NCC, ICAADC, MAC, DOT-SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamekia Meko Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ICAADC, MAC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My specialties include suicide prevention for combat Veterans, sexual assault survivors, conflicts, and dual diagnosis.
Thank you for taking time to review my profile. I am licensed to address severe, persistent and general mental health needs in Georgia. I hold international, national and dual local board approved advanced drug and alcohol certifications. I am a Qualified DOT-SAP. As the primary therapist and owner of Mind Elevation Keys for Overcomers, my services focus on aiding individuals, couples, and families in overcoming the effects of abuse, chemical addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and trauma. I offer tele-mental health services (video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and telephone). Eves/Weekends are available
My specialties include suicide prevention for combat Veterans, sexual assault survivors, conflicts, and dual diagnosis.
Thank you for taking time to review my profile. I am licensed to address severe, persistent and general mental health needs in Georgia. I hold international, national and dual local board approved advanced drug and alcohol certifications. I am a Qualified DOT-SAP. As the primary therapist and owner of Mind Elevation Keys for Overcomers, my services focus on aiding individuals, couples, and families in overcoming the effects of abuse, chemical addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and trauma. I offer tele-mental health services (video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and telephone). Eves/Weekends are available
(404) 800-3901 View (404) 800-3901
Photo of Susan Elizabeth Gulley, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Elizabeth Gulley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Any crisis whether it stems from relationship problems, the after effects of fighting in war, contemplating suicide, sexual/physical assault and the like can be a dark and lonely place to be in. This is especially true considering that sometimes when a person experiences a traumatic event, he/she may find unhealthy ways to cope with feelings that are too overwhelming to deal with. As a result, most people don't seek help until an area of their life has been negatively impacted or they have gotten to a place that they don't want to live anymore.
Any crisis whether it stems from relationship problems, the after effects of fighting in war, contemplating suicide, sexual/physical assault and the like can be a dark and lonely place to be in. This is especially true considering that sometimes when a person experiences a traumatic event, he/she may find unhealthy ways to cope with feelings that are too overwhelming to deal with. As a result, most people don't seek help until an area of their life has been negatively impacted or they have gotten to a place that they don't want to live anymore.
(470) 598-4407 View (470) 598-4407
Photo of Kristy Larkin Brewer, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristy Larkin Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm Kristy and I can help! For over two decades, I have been helping trauma survivors feel calm in the aftermath of childhood abuse and sexual assault.
You wish you could delete those moments from your life somehow. It was those moments that left you struggling the way you are now. You feel yourself holding your breath every day waiting and hoping things will improve with time. Every day is plagued by fear, sadness, helplessness, hopelessness, and brokenness in the aftermath of those traumatic events. You find yourself struggling to get through the day unable to focus or concentrate. You feel lonely, misunderstood, and unheard. You need relief!
Hi! I'm Kristy and I can help! For over two decades, I have been helping trauma survivors feel calm in the aftermath of childhood abuse and sexual assault.
You wish you could delete those moments from your life somehow. It was those moments that left you struggling the way you are now. You feel yourself holding your breath every day waiting and hoping things will improve with time. Every day is plagued by fear, sadness, helplessness, hopelessness, and brokenness in the aftermath of those traumatic events. You find yourself struggling to get through the day unable to focus or concentrate. You feel lonely, misunderstood, and unheard. You need relief!
(678) 608-3493 View (678) 608-3493
Photo of Katie Huber-Rhoades, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Huber-Rhoades
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30315
Hi. I'm Katie. My ultimate goal is to help people lead a more satisfying, compassionate, and authentic existence. My clients are folks who embrace their humanness and gather the courage to work through the root cause of their pain and recognize how it is showing up in the present moment. I work with adult individuals struggling with anxiety, systemic issues, religious trauma, sexual abuse and associated trauma, grief and loss. I also work with LGBTQIA+ teens (16+) who are struggling with identity, sexual orientation, and the stress of being a queer kid in the world we live in.
Hi. I'm Katie. My ultimate goal is to help people lead a more satisfying, compassionate, and authentic existence. My clients are folks who embrace their humanness and gather the courage to work through the root cause of their pain and recognize how it is showing up in the present moment. I work with adult individuals struggling with anxiety, systemic issues, religious trauma, sexual abuse and associated trauma, grief and loss. I also work with LGBTQIA+ teens (16+) who are struggling with identity, sexual orientation, and the stress of being a queer kid in the world we live in.
(470) 748-9649 View (470) 748-9649
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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.