Sexual Abuse Therapists in Illinois
Masters in Counseling (National Certification) The Seattle School of Psychology - sexual abuse and trauma.
Every individual has the skill, heart, and capability to engage in their own healing. My commitment is to walk with you in your counseling process and offer respect, safety, and acceptance in every way possible. I offer individual counseling to help clients recover from any pressing issues that affect your ability to grow and thrive. These issues may include depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, shame, sexual addictions, poor self-esteem, grief or career direction. I have been immersed in working with men's issues for over 20 years. I also support first responders struggling with PTSD.
Masters in Counseling (National Certification) The Seattle School of Psychology - sexual abuse and trauma.
Every individual has the skill, heart, and capability to engage in their own healing. My commitment is to walk with you in your counseling process and offer respect, safety, and acceptance in every way possible. I offer individual counseling to help clients recover from any pressing issues that affect your ability to grow and thrive. These issues may include depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, shame, sexual addictions, poor self-esteem, grief or career direction. I have been immersed in working with men's issues for over 20 years. I also support first responders struggling with PTSD.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (average age 13 to 25) who struggle with anxiety symptoms related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have extensive experience in treating survivors of sexual abuse. I utilize exposure-based interventions, which are designed to help confront fears, expand comfort zones, and extinguish avoidance behaviors. I help to achieve trauma resolution by processing traumatic incidents, reducing the associated anxiety and anger, and assisting in therapeutic corrective experiences.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (average age 13 to 25) who struggle with anxiety symptoms related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have extensive experience in treating survivors of sexual abuse. I utilize exposure-based interventions, which are designed to help confront fears, expand comfort zones, and extinguish avoidance behaviors. I help to achieve trauma resolution by processing traumatic incidents, reducing the associated anxiety and anger, and assisting in therapeutic corrective experiences.
Judith C. Wherley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villa Park, IL 60181 (Online Only)
I have years of specialized training in the treatment of addiction, codependency, sexual assault and other trauma.
Healing happens in relationships. I value compassion, empathy and trust. My office is a safe and nonjudgmental space. My goal is to empower you as you walk through the difficult times in your life. There is no time like the present to begin or renew the journey.
I have years of specialized training in the treatment of addiction, codependency, sexual assault and other trauma.
Healing happens in relationships. I value compassion, empathy and trust. My office is a safe and nonjudgmental space. My goal is to empower you as you walk through the difficult times in your life. There is no time like the present to begin or renew the journey.
I have assisted individuals with overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, identity issues, depression, sexual offenses, and complex grief.
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.
I have assisted individuals with overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, identity issues, depression, sexual offenses, and complex grief.
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.
Merari E Fernandez Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201 (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to look at your deepest fears and face them with the support of an experienced and trusted therapist. At the Healing Journey Psychotherapy, I am committed to work with you and support you through a style that is relational, inquisitive, compassionate and challenging. My areas of expertise include surviving sexual abuse, domestic violence, chronic pain and the after effects of traumatic experiences in relationships.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to look at your deepest fears and face them with the support of an experienced and trusted therapist. At the Healing Journey Psychotherapy, I am committed to work with you and support you through a style that is relational, inquisitive, compassionate and challenging. My areas of expertise include surviving sexual abuse, domestic violence, chronic pain and the after effects of traumatic experiences in relationships.
Rachel Bunyard is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LPC) and specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma and want to improve their coping skills and overall mental health. Emotional and psychological trauma can make you feel helpless and Rachel is here to help you find hope and heal from your trauma. She has worked with clients with a wide range of life challenges such as sexual assault, sexual violence, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-harm, personality disorders, Executive Functioning Disorders, and others,
Rachel Bunyard is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LPC) and specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma and want to improve their coping skills and overall mental health. Emotional and psychological trauma can make you feel helpless and Rachel is here to help you find hope and heal from your trauma. She has worked with clients with a wide range of life challenges such as sexual assault, sexual violence, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-harm, personality disorders, Executive Functioning Disorders, and others,
There is hope and healing; even though it might not feel like it. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with everything from anxiety and relationship issues to trauma and sexual abuse. It would be a privilege to work with you or your child towards healing, tailoring the counseling process to best fit your needs.
There is hope and healing; even though it might not feel like it. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with everything from anxiety and relationship issues to trauma and sexual abuse. It would be a privilege to work with you or your child towards healing, tailoring the counseling process to best fit your needs.
I'm drawn to working with individuals who have experienced trauma, childhood abuse, sexual abuse or domestic violence. Oftentimes, those who have endured these types of traumas end up struggling with setting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships. I’m also passionate about working with people who are religious/spiritual or who feel their religion/spirituality may have been affected by trauma. I enjoy working with mothers to help navigate the identity shift as well as manage past childhood traumas that may come to the forefront as a result of having children.
I'm drawn to working with individuals who have experienced trauma, childhood abuse, sexual abuse or domestic violence. Oftentimes, those who have endured these types of traumas end up struggling with setting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships. I’m also passionate about working with people who are religious/spiritual or who feel their religion/spirituality may have been affected by trauma. I enjoy working with mothers to help navigate the identity shift as well as manage past childhood traumas that may come to the forefront as a result of having children.
I specialize in helping children and families develop new strategies and coping skills to work through difficult life transitions and overcome emotional and behavioral problems that impede ideal functioning. My expertise is in working with families dealing with sexual abuse and divorce issues. I provide individual and group support for children and adults navigating through the painful process of coping with these issues. Utilizing a family systems approach, I have a collaborative and interactive style and focus on each individual's assets and problem solving strengths. I have worked extensively with the judicial system providing evaluation, mediation,and parenting plans.
I specialize in helping children and families develop new strategies and coping skills to work through difficult life transitions and overcome emotional and behavioral problems that impede ideal functioning. My expertise is in working with families dealing with sexual abuse and divorce issues. I provide individual and group support for children and adults navigating through the painful process of coping with these issues. Utilizing a family systems approach, I have a collaborative and interactive style and focus on each individual's assets and problem solving strengths. I have worked extensively with the judicial system providing evaluation, mediation,and parenting plans.
I am particularly attuned to individuals from the LGBTQ community, persons who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse or domestic violence, and persons living with HIV/AIDS or other chronic or life-threatening diseases.
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
I am particularly attuned to individuals from the LGBTQ community, persons who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse or domestic violence, and persons living with HIV/AIDS or other chronic or life-threatening diseases.
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
As a skilled and compassionate therapist, I specialize in working with persons having experienced trauma, sexual abuse, and domestic violence, offering a safe place for individuals to heal and rediscover their strength. With many years of experience in the field, I have committed myself to supporting survivors on their path towards healing and empowerment.
As a skilled and compassionate therapist, I specialize in working with persons having experienced trauma, sexual abuse, and domestic violence, offering a safe place for individuals to heal and rediscover their strength. With many years of experience in the field, I have committed myself to supporting survivors on their path towards healing and empowerment.
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Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, IL 60002
Waitlist for new clients
I have expertise in working with survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
I am committed to helping families, individuals,adolescents, and children find solutions for their lives.
I have expertise in working with survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
I am committed to helping families, individuals,adolescents, and children find solutions for their lives.
I have a passion for working with those struggling with incidents of domestic violence, incidents of sexual assault, anxiety, complex trauma/PTSD, relationship and attachment struggles, and sexual identity/expression struggles.
Hi! My name is Breanna Todd, and I am an experienced trauma therapist and EMDR practitioner, who wholeheartedly believes in therapy being a very human experience. I want to be a partner with you in this healing process, and I am passionate about meeting each and every client exactly where they are. I want clients to feel safe, respected, and authentically cared for in the presence of their therapist. I fully believe that healing is possible when the therapeutic process is tailored to you, and your mind, body, and soul are being honored.
I have a passion for working with those struggling with incidents of domestic violence, incidents of sexual assault, anxiety, complex trauma/PTSD, relationship and attachment struggles, and sexual identity/expression struggles.
Hi! My name is Breanna Todd, and I am an experienced trauma therapist and EMDR practitioner, who wholeheartedly believes in therapy being a very human experience. I want to be a partner with you in this healing process, and I am passionate about meeting each and every client exactly where they are. I want clients to feel safe, respected, and authentically cared for in the presence of their therapist. I fully believe that healing is possible when the therapeutic process is tailored to you, and your mind, body, and soul are being honored.
Hadassah Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704 (Online Only)
I help individuals who are experiencing suffering and who want to experience healing and lasting change. Maybe you've experienced trauma, sexual abuse, religious abuse, chronic pain or illness, relational conflict, feeling lost, alone, stuck, or simply feeling like some part of your life isn't working. Maybe you're struggling to feel your emotions, or you're confused about how your behavior and emotions are connected. I will work with you to help you understand the root of the issue and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected and we'll work together to create greater awareness, freedom, and health in your life.
I help individuals who are experiencing suffering and who want to experience healing and lasting change. Maybe you've experienced trauma, sexual abuse, religious abuse, chronic pain or illness, relational conflict, feeling lost, alone, stuck, or simply feeling like some part of your life isn't working. Maybe you're struggling to feel your emotions, or you're confused about how your behavior and emotions are connected. I will work with you to help you understand the root of the issue and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected and we'll work together to create greater awareness, freedom, and health in your life.
I have both state certified 40 hour trainings in sexual assault and domestic violence.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who need emotional support for a variety of reasons but have expertise in the area of sexual violence. I believe creating a safe and supportive space is so important to be able to process the full impact of trauma. I am fully bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural (Latinx) and provide services from a culturally informed lens. I identify my therapeutic style as compassionate and non- judgmental.
I have both state certified 40 hour trainings in sexual assault and domestic violence.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who need emotional support for a variety of reasons but have expertise in the area of sexual violence. I believe creating a safe and supportive space is so important to be able to process the full impact of trauma. I am fully bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural (Latinx) and provide services from a culturally informed lens. I identify my therapeutic style as compassionate and non- judgmental.
Additionally I have knowledge about working with individuals impacted by ADHD, Conduct Disorder, ODD, depressive disorders, sexually problematic behaviors, sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues and self-harming behaviors.
Sometimes we all struggle with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, disconnected or sad. These thoughts and feelings can negatively impact our lives and our relationships with our loved ones. I can help. I am a clinical mental health counselor with experience working with children, individuals, couples and families. In practice, I tailor my approach to meet each clients needs in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. Choosing a counselor you can trust and feel comfortable with is an important part of your therapeutic journey. I encourage clients to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have before scheduling.
Additionally I have knowledge about working with individuals impacted by ADHD, Conduct Disorder, ODD, depressive disorders, sexually problematic behaviors, sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues and self-harming behaviors.
Sometimes we all struggle with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, disconnected or sad. These thoughts and feelings can negatively impact our lives and our relationships with our loved ones. I can help. I am a clinical mental health counselor with experience working with children, individuals, couples and families. In practice, I tailor my approach to meet each clients needs in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. Choosing a counselor you can trust and feel comfortable with is an important part of your therapeutic journey. I encourage clients to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have before scheduling.
I also specialize in trauma such as domestic violence and sexual assault/abuse.
I want to assist you in uncovering your true potential that allows you to lead a life that is worth celebrating. We cannot change difficult situations in the past, but we can work together to better understand and resolve these obstacles. We can work together to help you change relationships, behavior patterns, or negative outlook that may hold you back from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful life. If you are looking for support and guidance or you are ready to make changes in your life, I can help you work toward achieving your goals.
I also specialize in trauma such as domestic violence and sexual assault/abuse.
I want to assist you in uncovering your true potential that allows you to lead a life that is worth celebrating. We cannot change difficult situations in the past, but we can work together to better understand and resolve these obstacles. We can work together to help you change relationships, behavior patterns, or negative outlook that may hold you back from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful life. If you are looking for support and guidance or you are ready to make changes in your life, I can help you work toward achieving your goals.
Cheryl Stampley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, RN ret
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
Welcome! I am excited to share my passion and expertise working with college students, mid-life through geriatric age, professionals working in academic settings, and couples. My knowledge and understanding of diversity, inclusiveness, and equality are readily incorporated into my therapeutic practice. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief & loss, mood disorders, chronic emotional illness, addiction/chemical substances, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances. I also enjoy working with biracial / multicultural folx and parents with biracial kids.
Welcome! I am excited to share my passion and expertise working with college students, mid-life through geriatric age, professionals working in academic settings, and couples. My knowledge and understanding of diversity, inclusiveness, and equality are readily incorporated into my therapeutic practice. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief & loss, mood disorders, chronic emotional illness, addiction/chemical substances, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances. I also enjoy working with biracial / multicultural folx and parents with biracial kids.
While I am a generalist and work with a variety of presenting issues, my specialties include complex trauma, sexual abuse/ assault, self-harm, pregnancy/miscarriage/abortion/postpartum care, relationship concerns, and cultural dynamics.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
While I am a generalist and work with a variety of presenting issues, my specialties include complex trauma, sexual abuse/ assault, self-harm, pregnancy/miscarriage/abortion/postpartum care, relationship concerns, and cultural dynamics.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
I am passionate about providing anti-racist counseling to survivors of sexual assault/abuse, domestic violence, and complex trauma from childhood abuse and neglect.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where clients who have been traumatized and marginalized are allowed to share their stories and feelings. My therapy office is a judgment free zone where you will receive validation, support, and practical ways to manage difficult thoughts and experiences. I have had success counseling survivors of complex trauma, girls and women of all ages, and those that have felt marginalized and invalidated by their experience in the world. I am real and love to use humor in session when appropriate!
I am passionate about providing anti-racist counseling to survivors of sexual assault/abuse, domestic violence, and complex trauma from childhood abuse and neglect.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where clients who have been traumatized and marginalized are allowed to share their stories and feelings. My therapy office is a judgment free zone where you will receive validation, support, and practical ways to manage difficult thoughts and experiences. I have had success counseling survivors of complex trauma, girls and women of all ages, and those that have felt marginalized and invalidated by their experience in the world. I am real and love to use humor in session when appropriate!
See more therapy options for Illinois
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.