Sexual Abuse Therapists in Republic, PA

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Photo of Thomas Workman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Republic, PA
Thomas Workman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Uniontown, PA 15401  (Online Only)
Hello! I provide a non-judgmental space where you have the freedom to discuss your thoughts, emotions, and other important aspects of life that cause suffering and leave you feeling disconnected and distant. My experience is that therapy, while sometimes uncomfortable, is an enjoyable experience where we focus on growth and not spend all our time spinning in circles while experiencing more pain and suffering. I believe that truly effective and holistic counseling should not only focus on reducing symptoms, but it should also help you experience more joy while living with a sense of lightness and freedom.
Hello! I provide a non-judgmental space where you have the freedom to discuss your thoughts, emotions, and other important aspects of life that cause suffering and leave you feeling disconnected and distant. My experience is that therapy, while sometimes uncomfortable, is an enjoyable experience where we focus on growth and not spend all our time spinning in circles while experiencing more pain and suffering. I believe that truly effective and holistic counseling should not only focus on reducing symptoms, but it should also help you experience more joy while living with a sense of lightness and freedom.
(724) 598-9893 View (724) 598-9893
Photo of Katie Heckman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Republic, PA
Katie Heckman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Uniontown, PA 15401
Are you feeling tense or tearful? Insecure about yourself, your relationship or the future? I can help. As a licensed professional counselor skilled in managing difficult emotions, I can help you to alter your thoughts and behaviors in order to bring you a greater sense of calm, confidence and clarity.
Are you feeling tense or tearful? Insecure about yourself, your relationship or the future? I can help. As a licensed professional counselor skilled in managing difficult emotions, I can help you to alter your thoughts and behaviors in order to bring you a greater sense of calm, confidence and clarity.
(724) 686-1265 View (724) 686-1265
Photo of Robert Michael Behanna, Licensed Professional Counselor in Republic, PA
Robert Michael Behanna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCDP Di, MA
Verified Verified
Carmichaels, PA 15320
Does your present situation appear hopeless and without solution? Our hearts can become sick when we lose our sense of hope. Sometimes we need help in identifying and developing strategies for meaningful change. Hello, my name is Bob BeHanna and I currently work with adults and adolescents ages 5 and up suffering from many different issues. I primarily focus on issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, Trauma and relationship problems. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings.
Does your present situation appear hopeless and without solution? Our hearts can become sick when we lose our sense of hope. Sometimes we need help in identifying and developing strategies for meaningful change. Hello, my name is Bob BeHanna and I currently work with adults and adolescents ages 5 and up suffering from many different issues. I primarily focus on issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, Trauma and relationship problems. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings.
(724) 806-1055 View (724) 806-1055
Photo of Seth T Vargo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Seth T Vargo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uniontown, PA 15401
Sometimes, life hits Hard! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), who prides himself on listening and not judging my client's issues/problems. I look forward to working with you on taking control of your symptoms/issues (stress, worry, panic, anxiety, and depression) while focusing on your strengths and building positive coping strategies that will lead to improving overall wellness and a resilient life.
Sometimes, life hits Hard! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), who prides himself on listening and not judging my client's issues/problems. I look forward to working with you on taking control of your symptoms/issues (stress, worry, panic, anxiety, and depression) while focusing on your strengths and building positive coping strategies that will lead to improving overall wellness and a resilient life.
(878) 216-0385 View (878) 216-0385
Photo of Jess Storm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Jess Storm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
California, PA 15419  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You wake up exhausted, dreading the day ahead before you’ve even opened your eyes. You can’t tell if you’re hungry or sad or anxious or mad–maybe you’re all of those at once. You hide your truest self in exchange for acceptance and love. You struggle to say “no,” even when you know you need to, because the cost of disappointing others is greater than the cost of disappointing yourself. The world feels overwhelming–too fast, too bright, too unpredictable. Your brain tells you that if only you were stronger, tried harder, were less sensitive–the list goes on and on. If only–then maybe, if you were different, life would be easier.
You wake up exhausted, dreading the day ahead before you’ve even opened your eyes. You can’t tell if you’re hungry or sad or anxious or mad–maybe you’re all of those at once. You hide your truest self in exchange for acceptance and love. You struggle to say “no,” even when you know you need to, because the cost of disappointing others is greater than the cost of disappointing yourself. The world feels overwhelming–too fast, too bright, too unpredictable. Your brain tells you that if only you were stronger, tried harder, were less sensitive–the list goes on and on. If only–then maybe, if you were different, life would be easier.
(724) 997-4259 View (724) 997-4259
Photo of Margaret Christopher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Margaret Christopher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
California, PA 15419
As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 40 years experience of working with families and individuals of all ages, I find that the most effective approach is one that is strengths-based with a strong emphasis on helping clients solve the problems that bring them to me for therapy and also on helping them develop powerful resiliency characteristics that allow for future problem-solving, conflict resolution, goal-attainment, wellness, and life satisfaction. My ideal client is one who likes to learn. Trauma survivors, in particular, do well with this approach.
As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 40 years experience of working with families and individuals of all ages, I find that the most effective approach is one that is strengths-based with a strong emphasis on helping clients solve the problems that bring them to me for therapy and also on helping them develop powerful resiliency characteristics that allow for future problem-solving, conflict resolution, goal-attainment, wellness, and life satisfaction. My ideal client is one who likes to learn. Trauma survivors, in particular, do well with this approach.
(724) 227-0660 View (724) 227-0660
Photo of Kimberly S. Ruth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Republic, PA
Kimberly S. Ruth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
California, PA 15419
As we journey through life we all experience challenges. As a counselor, i aim to provide a safe, non judgmental, supportive setting to allow people to work through life's difficulties. Whether you face emotional challenges, physical challenges or both, through the use of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness, you will gain the tools necessary to improve your life and grow as an individual no matter what life throws at you.
As we journey through life we all experience challenges. As a counselor, i aim to provide a safe, non judgmental, supportive setting to allow people to work through life's difficulties. Whether you face emotional challenges, physical challenges or both, through the use of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness, you will gain the tools necessary to improve your life and grow as an individual no matter what life throws at you.
(724) 426-4014 View (724) 426-4014

Online Therapists

Photo of Tami G Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Tami G Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
Areas of special concentration include sexual abuse, child management and assisting middle school, high school and college athletes cope with sports injuries.
Take care of yourself.... All too often we neglect our emotional health. Increased stress, worry and conflicts can all take their toll. The emotional impact of traumatic events affects the mind body and soul. I have 17 years experience in private practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to use to your benefit. You may just need a guide to help define what needs to be different in your life. I'll help you develop the skills you need to make changes for a satisfying life. I welcome the opportunity to help you resolve more deeply painful events with respect and my best skills possible.
Areas of special concentration include sexual abuse, child management and assisting middle school, high school and college athletes cope with sports injuries.
Take care of yourself.... All too often we neglect our emotional health. Increased stress, worry and conflicts can all take their toll. The emotional impact of traumatic events affects the mind body and soul. I have 17 years experience in private practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to use to your benefit. You may just need a guide to help define what needs to be different in your life. I'll help you develop the skills you need to make changes for a satisfying life. I welcome the opportunity to help you resolve more deeply painful events with respect and my best skills possible.
(724) 471-4679 View (724) 471-4679
Photo of Barbara Kline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Barbara Kline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, trauma, sexual abuse, grief and loss, anger, divorce, life transitions, low self-esteem, relationships, and identity.
Modern life has allowed us to communicate with others in unprecedented new ways, and yet not enough opportunities to be truly heard and understood. My goal in working with you is to create an environment where you are heard and understood, to facilitate your journey in overcoming difficulties, and to enable you to reach your full potential to have a satisfying life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, trauma, sexual abuse, grief and loss, anger, divorce, life transitions, low self-esteem, relationships, and identity.
Modern life has allowed us to communicate with others in unprecedented new ways, and yet not enough opportunities to be truly heard and understood. My goal in working with you is to create an environment where you are heard and understood, to facilitate your journey in overcoming difficulties, and to enable you to reach your full potential to have a satisfying life.
(412) 888-0420 View (412) 888-0420
Photo of Nicole Grabowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Nicole Grabowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I am a Social Worker (licensed in both Massachusetts, LICSW and Pennsylvania, LCSW) who earned my Master’s Degree from the University of Chicago. I work with adolescents and adults who are impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, grief, and conflict. I have experience working in a variety of settings, including residential programs, sexual assault crisis centers, and community health centers. My practice is rooted in trauma-informed and anti-oppressive frameworks and I utilize a person-centered approach that is welcoming of intersecting identities and experiences.
I am a Social Worker (licensed in both Massachusetts, LICSW and Pennsylvania, LCSW) who earned my Master’s Degree from the University of Chicago. I work with adolescents and adults who are impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, grief, and conflict. I have experience working in a variety of settings, including residential programs, sexual assault crisis centers, and community health centers. My practice is rooted in trauma-informed and anti-oppressive frameworks and I utilize a person-centered approach that is welcoming of intersecting identities and experiences.
(412) 455-8012 View (412) 455-8012
Photo of Mindful Matters Counseling Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Republic, PA
Mindful Matters Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am an LPC experienced working with survivors of sexual violence (rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse) grief/loss, other interpersonal traumas, anxiety, depression, gambling issues and relationship issues.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
I am an LPC experienced working with survivors of sexual violence (rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse) grief/loss, other interpersonal traumas, anxiety, depression, gambling issues and relationship issues.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
(412) 357-4035 View (412) 357-4035
Photo of Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to individuals across the lifespan, specializing in Trauma. Sarah has spent years working with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assaults, sexual abuse, and child abuse and neglect. Sarah is also dedicated to supporting LGBT+ individuals and parents of LGBT+ children in growing their understanding of how to lovingly support their child.
Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to individuals across the lifespan, specializing in Trauma. Sarah has spent years working with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assaults, sexual abuse, and child abuse and neglect. Sarah is also dedicated to supporting LGBT+ individuals and parents of LGBT+ children in growing their understanding of how to lovingly support their child.
(412) 900-5241 View (412) 900-5241
Photo of Dawn Covington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Republic, PA
Dawn Covington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
My experience is helping individuals and families overcome emotional, mental and spiritual challenges. I will help you identify unhealthy patterns that get in the way of you having a healthy and enjoyable life. We will learn and use positive coping skills and self-awareness skills to help you have satisfaction, fulfillment, growth and to experience new ways of being. My specialties include family problems, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, problems with self-esteem, relationship difficulties, grief and loss issues, trauma/sexual abuse, work issues, life transition issues, parenting, women's issues and anger management.
My experience is helping individuals and families overcome emotional, mental and spiritual challenges. I will help you identify unhealthy patterns that get in the way of you having a healthy and enjoyable life. We will learn and use positive coping skills and self-awareness skills to help you have satisfaction, fulfillment, growth and to experience new ways of being. My specialties include family problems, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, problems with self-esteem, relationship difficulties, grief and loss issues, trauma/sexual abuse, work issues, life transition issues, parenting, women's issues and anger management.
(412) 961-8349 View (412) 961-8349
Photo of JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Republic, PA
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
(484) 334-4170 View (484) 334-4170
Photo of Edwards Clinical Therapy Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Edwards Clinical Therapy Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Natrona Heights, PA 15065
Areas of specialty include extensive treatment for children and families who have experienced child physical and/or sexual abuse and neglect.
Our practice consists of outpatient clinical therapy for individuals, children, & families. Our experience lies in working with those experiencing trauma, as well as mood disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress, & anxiety disorders. Child & family sessions focus on behavioral issues, ADHD, peer issues, oppositional defiance, & family relational problems. Our main area of practice is to give the client the hope that with the skills taught during session, coupled with the empathy and validation given, they will be able to hold on to the skills and understanding in order to work through the difficulties that may arise, even after therapy has been completed.
Areas of specialty include extensive treatment for children and families who have experienced child physical and/or sexual abuse and neglect.
Our practice consists of outpatient clinical therapy for individuals, children, & families. Our experience lies in working with those experiencing trauma, as well as mood disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress, & anxiety disorders. Child & family sessions focus on behavioral issues, ADHD, peer issues, oppositional defiance, & family relational problems. Our main area of practice is to give the client the hope that with the skills taught during session, coupled with the empathy and validation given, they will be able to hold on to the skills and understanding in order to work through the difficulties that may arise, even after therapy has been completed.
(724) 569-6122 View (724) 569-6122
Photo of Joseph H Altman, Psychologist in Republic, PA
Joseph H Altman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I provide a positive, supportive, environment where clients have an opportunity to be heard, and to be healed of their emotional pain and fears. My approach is to meet people where they are and to encourage a shift in thinking from negative and fearful, to positive and hopeful. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD associated with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, losses and addictions. The goal is to help neutralize the anxiety, depression, guilt, shame and fears that are the symptoms of the trauma or addiction. The goal is to: "Learn to love, accept and forgive yourself because you are doing the best you can."
I provide a positive, supportive, environment where clients have an opportunity to be heard, and to be healed of their emotional pain and fears. My approach is to meet people where they are and to encourage a shift in thinking from negative and fearful, to positive and hopeful. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD associated with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, losses and addictions. The goal is to help neutralize the anxiety, depression, guilt, shame and fears that are the symptoms of the trauma or addiction. The goal is to: "Learn to love, accept and forgive yourself because you are doing the best you can."
(724) 505-4016 View (724) 505-4016
Photo of Angela Failor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Republic, PA
Angela Failor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, EEM-CLP
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Angela. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Clinical Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, Owner of Shine Your Light! LLC, and Board Member of OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit. I have a passion for helping people heal from the chronic effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit. I have a therapeutic background in domestic violence, sexual assault, and drug and alcohol counseling. I have a clinical certificate in an energy healing modality called The Eden Method. In my energy healing business, I specialize in soul and somatic healing for trauma survivors.
Hello! My name is Angela. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Clinical Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, Owner of Shine Your Light! LLC, and Board Member of OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit. I have a passion for helping people heal from the chronic effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit. I have a therapeutic background in domestic violence, sexual assault, and drug and alcohol counseling. I have a clinical certificate in an energy healing modality called The Eden Method. In my energy healing business, I specialize in soul and somatic healing for trauma survivors.
(412) 538-6128 View (412) 538-6128
Photo of Kim Weiner, Psychologist in Republic, PA
Kim Weiner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I worked for many years in college counseling, helping adults of all ages overcome problems arising from anxiety, poor mood, grief, life transitions, gender identity, sexual orientation, assault, and trauma among other concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist at Allegheny Mental Health Associates (AMHA), PC. with over 30 yrs of experience working with adults (18+) who encounter anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. I can help if you feel stressed and find it hard to be the person you want to be. I consider myself an integrative therapist and use a variety of therapeutic skills and techniques to best individualize treatment. My focus is to help you to discover, or recover, your sense of purpose and vitality, to enable you to re-connect with what matters most to you and teach you ways to relate to your life experiences with skill, insight and wisdom.
I worked for many years in college counseling, helping adults of all ages overcome problems arising from anxiety, poor mood, grief, life transitions, gender identity, sexual orientation, assault, and trauma among other concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist at Allegheny Mental Health Associates (AMHA), PC. with over 30 yrs of experience working with adults (18+) who encounter anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. I can help if you feel stressed and find it hard to be the person you want to be. I consider myself an integrative therapist and use a variety of therapeutic skills and techniques to best individualize treatment. My focus is to help you to discover, or recover, your sense of purpose and vitality, to enable you to re-connect with what matters most to you and teach you ways to relate to your life experiences with skill, insight and wisdom.
(412) 899-2510 View (412) 899-2510
Photo of Susie J. Balcom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Republic, PA
Susie J. Balcom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15233  (Online Only)
I'm a certified EMDR therapist, certified sexual assault counselor, and currently pursuing sex therapy certification.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
I'm a certified EMDR therapist, certified sexual assault counselor, and currently pursuing sex therapy certification.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
(412) 520-3576 View (412) 520-3576
Photo of DeMarquis Clarke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Republic, PA
DeMarquis Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am a capable, compassionate, experienced clinician that provides individual, couple/marital, and family therapy for a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, relational conflict, trauma and abuse recovery, parent-child conflict, anger management, and more. My specialties include: couple/marital therapy; sexual abuse and trauma recovery; as well as working with issues of religion/spirituality, race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am a capable, compassionate, experienced clinician that provides individual, couple/marital, and family therapy for a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, relational conflict, trauma and abuse recovery, parent-child conflict, anger management, and more. My specialties include: couple/marital therapy; sexual abuse and trauma recovery; as well as working with issues of religion/spirituality, race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
(412) 435-1347 View (412) 435-1347
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.