Sexual Abuse Therapists in Takoma Park, MD
These include trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and difficult pregnancy & birth-related experiences.
In addition to talk therapy, I use EMDR & somatic experiencing, powerful methods that tap into our mind-body connection for sustained healing. I also support clients with my certification in perinatal mental health. Working together, we discover what best supports you to feel alive & well in your daily life and in what you hope for the future.
These include trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and difficult pregnancy & birth-related experiences.
In addition to talk therapy, I use EMDR & somatic experiencing, powerful methods that tap into our mind-body connection for sustained healing. I also support clients with my certification in perinatal mental health. Working together, we discover what best supports you to feel alive & well in your daily life and in what you hope for the future.
Welcome. I'm letting you know that the emotion, emptiness, noise, or pain doesn’t need to be this extreme. It is possible to feel other ways.
In therapy, we will work on creating a space in which you feel truly comfortable sharing. Then, we can look at your pain in a measured and safe way. We will work to make change, whether it’s finding hope, easing pain, or making meaning.
I am an art therapist and a psychotherapist. You need zero experience or skill to engage in art therapy. It is not about making a masterpiece, it's a way to communicate.
I do have a waiting list for in-person, so please connect for availability
Welcome. I'm letting you know that the emotion, emptiness, noise, or pain doesn’t need to be this extreme. It is possible to feel other ways.
In therapy, we will work on creating a space in which you feel truly comfortable sharing. Then, we can look at your pain in a measured and safe way. We will work to make change, whether it’s finding hope, easing pain, or making meaning.
I am an art therapist and a psychotherapist. You need zero experience or skill to engage in art therapy. It is not about making a masterpiece, it's a way to communicate.
I do have a waiting list for in-person, so please connect for availability
Healing and change are possible for all of us. I am reminded daily of people's innate ability to mend and grow if they are provided with the right tools in a supportive and compassionate environment. Past events can leave scars and behavior patterns that can get in the way of people leading the life that they choose. I create a safe space where we can work together to allow scars to heal and for transformative change to take place. My clients experience healing from sexual trauma, adverse life events, relationship issues, and dissociative symptoms. They find freedom from feeling "stuck".
Healing and change are possible for all of us. I am reminded daily of people's innate ability to mend and grow if they are provided with the right tools in a supportive and compassionate environment. Past events can leave scars and behavior patterns that can get in the way of people leading the life that they choose. I create a safe space where we can work together to allow scars to heal and for transformative change to take place. My clients experience healing from sexual trauma, adverse life events, relationship issues, and dissociative symptoms. They find freedom from feeling "stuck".
“If Light is in your heart, you will find your way home.” - Rumi
Through 25 years designing & engaging in community health programs in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Ukraine, I have acquired a multicultural lens through which to perceive the strengths and sensitivities of teenagers and adults from a diverse array of upbringings.
Moreover, my perceptivity is deepened by an interfaith spiritual practice I have followed since I was a teen.
My clients and I have focused on traumatic events experienced during infancy, early childhood, teenage and adulthood. It is an inspiration to witness the courage & strength of my clients.
“If Light is in your heart, you will find your way home.” - Rumi
Through 25 years designing & engaging in community health programs in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Ukraine, I have acquired a multicultural lens through which to perceive the strengths and sensitivities of teenagers and adults from a diverse array of upbringings.
Moreover, my perceptivity is deepened by an interfaith spiritual practice I have followed since I was a teen.
My clients and I have focused on traumatic events experienced during infancy, early childhood, teenage and adulthood. It is an inspiration to witness the courage & strength of my clients.
You don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I use Internal Family Systems to help clients reconnect with their authentic selves, manage the challenges of their professional careers, and nurture the relationships that matter most—building a foundation for deeper connection and greater emotional security. I work with couples, families, teens, and individuals. I am a Maryland Board-Approved Supervisor with specialized training in IFS (Level 1) and IFIO (Level 2), committed to providing a safe, supportive space for lasting change.
You don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I use Internal Family Systems to help clients reconnect with their authentic selves, manage the challenges of their professional careers, and nurture the relationships that matter most—building a foundation for deeper connection and greater emotional security. I work with couples, families, teens, and individuals. I am a Maryland Board-Approved Supervisor with specialized training in IFS (Level 1) and IFIO (Level 2), committed to providing a safe, supportive space for lasting change.
Many of the men I've worked with spent years being the "dependable one". They work hard, care for their families, and largely keep their problems to themselves. Everyone around them may think they are fine, but inside they may be dealing with stress, anxiety, anger, loneliness, or a feeling that things aren't quite right. I have spent decades helping highly functional men who are struggling in difficult marriages, unfulfilling careers, or with a sense that there is more to this life.
Many of the men I've worked with spent years being the "dependable one". They work hard, care for their families, and largely keep their problems to themselves. Everyone around them may think they are fine, but inside they may be dealing with stress, anxiety, anger, loneliness, or a feeling that things aren't quite right. I have spent decades helping highly functional men who are struggling in difficult marriages, unfulfilling careers, or with a sense that there is more to this life.
With over 30 years of experience to offer, I'm pleased to say that most of my clients have been referred by their friends who are or have been clients. When mutual respect develops, it ensures the trust and comfort needed to address and resolve most problems. I have always felt blessed and privileged to be a therapist and to sit with someone who is grappling with some of the most meaningful aspects of their lives. When you contact me, I'll be happy to honestly explore whether or not this will be a good therapeutic relationship.
With over 30 years of experience to offer, I'm pleased to say that most of my clients have been referred by their friends who are or have been clients. When mutual respect develops, it ensures the trust and comfort needed to address and resolve most problems. I have always felt blessed and privileged to be a therapist and to sit with someone who is grappling with some of the most meaningful aspects of their lives. When you contact me, I'll be happy to honestly explore whether or not this will be a good therapeutic relationship.
Simone Jacobs - Takoma Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
3 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. Life can be overwhelming at times and it can feel as if you are not properly equipped to handle the difficulties you have to face. I believe that we all try to do the right thing, but sometimes old habits persist, unwanted feelings intrude, and we can feel like we are doing it all alone. If you choose to explore working with me, I hope to encourage your natural curiosity about your life, your relationships, and your current circumstances. I hope to encourage connections that lead you towards lasting change.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. Life can be overwhelming at times and it can feel as if you are not properly equipped to handle the difficulties you have to face. I believe that we all try to do the right thing, but sometimes old habits persist, unwanted feelings intrude, and we can feel like we are doing it all alone. If you choose to explore working with me, I hope to encourage your natural curiosity about your life, your relationships, and your current circumstances. I hope to encourage connections that lead you towards lasting change.
If you are new to therapy, reaching out for help is an act of courage and a demonstration of your inner strength and hope for a better tomorrow. If you are experienced with therapy, you have developed your lists of likes and dislikes based on your experiences in therapy. I know that therapy works from my own life's journey, and I have confidence therapy will work for you. Now the task is finding the right fit. I want to meet with you for a "no cost," 15 minute chat to see if I am a good fit for the situations in your life that are motivating you to seek help.
If you are new to therapy, reaching out for help is an act of courage and a demonstration of your inner strength and hope for a better tomorrow. If you are experienced with therapy, you have developed your lists of likes and dislikes based on your experiences in therapy. I know that therapy works from my own life's journey, and I have confidence therapy will work for you. Now the task is finding the right fit. I want to meet with you for a "no cost," 15 minute chat to see if I am a good fit for the situations in your life that are motivating you to seek help.
I can help people who are trying to manage their anxiety, or who have experienced trauma in their lives, or who are having difficulty in their relationships and are trying to figure out why. I also focus on helping you to accept aspects of yourself, even if the rest of the world doesn't always seem to accept you. I can help you to understand yourself better by exploring the past and present with you, to determine what does and does not work in your life, and to understand (and fully claim) aspects of your identity.
I can help people who are trying to manage their anxiety, or who have experienced trauma in their lives, or who are having difficulty in their relationships and are trying to figure out why. I also focus on helping you to accept aspects of yourself, even if the rest of the world doesn't always seem to accept you. I can help you to understand yourself better by exploring the past and present with you, to determine what does and does not work in your life, and to understand (and fully claim) aspects of your identity.
For over two decades, I've been privileged to offer therapeutic support to clients across all age groups. I have had the opportunity to work with clients across the lifespan to process early attachments, traumas, and current and past life stressors. All of my work with children, adolescents, parents, and individual adults is informed by Internal Family Systems theory, which posits that the mind is composed of various parts, each with its own positive intention and motivation. My goal in all therapeutic interactions is to empower clients to experience greater autonomy and harmony with their internal parts.
For over two decades, I've been privileged to offer therapeutic support to clients across all age groups. I have had the opportunity to work with clients across the lifespan to process early attachments, traumas, and current and past life stressors. All of my work with children, adolescents, parents, and individual adults is informed by Internal Family Systems theory, which posits that the mind is composed of various parts, each with its own positive intention and motivation. My goal in all therapeutic interactions is to empower clients to experience greater autonomy and harmony with their internal parts.
I offer compassionate individual and couples counseling services that help you to access greater wellness in life. I enjoy supporting my clients in navigating a range of life transitions and relationship chapters. I believe deeply in the healing role of an authentic and warm therapeutic relationship. I have a passion for helping my clients to gain new levels of insight, collaborating around creative ways to address personal and professional concerns, facilitating a safe space to explore important identities and cultural experiences, as well as supporting the development of healthy relationships that can foster long-term growth.
I offer compassionate individual and couples counseling services that help you to access greater wellness in life. I enjoy supporting my clients in navigating a range of life transitions and relationship chapters. I believe deeply in the healing role of an authentic and warm therapeutic relationship. I have a passion for helping my clients to gain new levels of insight, collaborating around creative ways to address personal and professional concerns, facilitating a safe space to explore important identities and cultural experiences, as well as supporting the development of healthy relationships that can foster long-term growth.
Satisfaction, joy and self-awareness are key elements to a fulfilling life. Although that seems easier said than done, I believe that we can find these elements with encouraging support and guidance. I am a committed, compassionate therapist who is ready to help you uncover your inner strengths to make the changes you want and live a more gratifying life. I believe that we all take a journey to find ourselves, but it becomes even more difficult when we are burdened by depression, addiction and/or trauma. Finding the right fit can help us get through difficult times, creating positive relationship is paramount to our happiness.
Satisfaction, joy and self-awareness are key elements to a fulfilling life. Although that seems easier said than done, I believe that we can find these elements with encouraging support and guidance. I am a committed, compassionate therapist who is ready to help you uncover your inner strengths to make the changes you want and live a more gratifying life. I believe that we all take a journey to find ourselves, but it becomes even more difficult when we are burdened by depression, addiction and/or trauma. Finding the right fit can help us get through difficult times, creating positive relationship is paramount to our happiness.
Many of us struggle to make decisions or build deeper relationships because we learned early on to prioritize others’ needs over our own. While this was adaptive, it can lead to disappointment and resentment. I work with individuals and couples who feel stuck in these cycles and want to create more fulfilling patterns. Since lasting change takes intention and reflection our work will focus on identifying your relational patterns—how they support you, and how they also get in the way. I also specialize in supporting clients who are navigating chronic medical conditions—either personally or within their families - with compassion.
Many of us struggle to make decisions or build deeper relationships because we learned early on to prioritize others’ needs over our own. While this was adaptive, it can lead to disappointment and resentment. I work with individuals and couples who feel stuck in these cycles and want to create more fulfilling patterns. Since lasting change takes intention and reflection our work will focus on identifying your relational patterns—how they support you, and how they also get in the way. I also specialize in supporting clients who are navigating chronic medical conditions—either personally or within their families - with compassion.
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
I connect deeply and empathically with my clients, and challenge them towards greater self-awareness that leads to happiness and peace of mind internally and within relationships. Individuals and couples inevitably reach periods of frustration and conflict that signal the need for change. Whether these problems are grounded in past loss or current misfortune, outside intervention can offer immediate relief. I specialize in treating mood disorders, couples in gridlock, and adult children with a legacy of trauma, neglect or codependency. Working with adults and couples, I approach difficulties compassionately and non-pathologically. Psychotherapy helps restore emotional balance and well-being.
I connect deeply and empathically with my clients, and challenge them towards greater self-awareness that leads to happiness and peace of mind internally and within relationships. Individuals and couples inevitably reach periods of frustration and conflict that signal the need for change. Whether these problems are grounded in past loss or current misfortune, outside intervention can offer immediate relief. I specialize in treating mood disorders, couples in gridlock, and adult children with a legacy of trauma, neglect or codependency. Working with adults and couples, I approach difficulties compassionately and non-pathologically. Psychotherapy helps restore emotional balance and well-being.
Mary Yvonne Ayers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Waitlist for new clients
My work begins with taking the time to understand each, unique individual. This collaborative, compassionate yet thought provoking process is called "the talking cure," and it can be life changing. I am a curious listener, and through our weekly conversations you will learn to reflect on what you are experiencing differently - this is why psychotherapy works. I am always sure to provide a safe and respectful environment in order to change maladaptive patterns of thinking, behaving or feeling that stem from past experiences and underlie presenting symptoms, while working on practical solutions to immediate problems.
My work begins with taking the time to understand each, unique individual. This collaborative, compassionate yet thought provoking process is called "the talking cure," and it can be life changing. I am a curious listener, and through our weekly conversations you will learn to reflect on what you are experiencing differently - this is why psychotherapy works. I am always sure to provide a safe and respectful environment in order to change maladaptive patterns of thinking, behaving or feeling that stem from past experiences and underlie presenting symptoms, while working on practical solutions to immediate problems.
As a relationally focused and trauma informed therapist, I have a passion for helping clients feel more connected, grounded and safe in their lives and relationships. Every person has the ability to move toward connection and healing, even in the face of difficult, challenging or traumatic experiences. I work with couples, individuals and families to help them reconnect with the healthiest and most grounded parts of themselves and to restore and rebuild connection and safety within themselves and with others. I use research based, experiential models to keep us focus on your goals and healing process.
As a relationally focused and trauma informed therapist, I have a passion for helping clients feel more connected, grounded and safe in their lives and relationships. Every person has the ability to move toward connection and healing, even in the face of difficult, challenging or traumatic experiences. I work with couples, individuals and families to help them reconnect with the healthiest and most grounded parts of themselves and to restore and rebuild connection and safety within themselves and with others. I use research based, experiential models to keep us focus on your goals and healing process.
If you lack compassion for self or are suffering from repeated patterns that are negatively impacting your life and desire freedom and space to heal and transform, I can help. I firmly believe that you possess the inner strength and self-love to overcome obstacles, and my role is to be your companion on this path to healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, identify patterns that may be overwhelming you, and work collaboratively towards meaningful change and personal growth.
If you lack compassion for self or are suffering from repeated patterns that are negatively impacting your life and desire freedom and space to heal and transform, I can help. I firmly believe that you possess the inner strength and self-love to overcome obstacles, and my role is to be your companion on this path to healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, identify patterns that may be overwhelming you, and work collaboratively towards meaningful change and personal growth.
Bloom Counseling - Liz Caritj
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
2 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
You're in a stressful job environment such as, big law, government work, consulting, etc. but all that is being asked of you at work or at home are overwhelming or now spark self-blame or sadness you can't quite shake. Your mind won't quiet down with looping thoughts, sleepless nights and a creeping sense you're failing while everyone else has it together. You're exhausted from holding it all together, and it's starting to cost you focus, confidence, and joy. You don't need to keep white-knuckling through this and fall into burnout.
You're in a stressful job environment such as, big law, government work, consulting, etc. but all that is being asked of you at work or at home are overwhelming or now spark self-blame or sadness you can't quite shake. Your mind won't quiet down with looping thoughts, sleepless nights and a creeping sense you're failing while everyone else has it together. You're exhausted from holding it all together, and it's starting to cost you focus, confidence, and joy. You don't need to keep white-knuckling through this and fall into burnout.
See more therapy options for Takoma Park
Nearby Sexual Abuse Therapists Searches for Takoma Park
- Beltsville
- Bethesda
- Burtonsville
- Cabin John
- Chevy Chase
- College Park
- Greenbelt
- Hyattsville
- Kensington
- North Bethesda
- Silver Spring
- Wheaton
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.