Sexual Abuse Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Markia Hearst, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Markia Hearst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216
I specialize in treating PTSD in adults and have specialty in sexual abuse and domestic violence.
You are incredibly brave for seeking help. You are doing the best you can and are still hurting. The hurt may be a result of current circumstances, past experiences, familial discord, or societal nonacceptance. We're here to help. My name is Markia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults. I own Hearst Psychotherapy in Charlotte, NC. At Hearst Psych, we believe in the power of human connection and value the life experience of each client we serve. Our style is gentle and honest. Our role is to come alongside you by providing a safe, peaceful space for healing.
I specialize in treating PTSD in adults and have specialty in sexual abuse and domestic violence.
You are incredibly brave for seeking help. You are doing the best you can and are still hurting. The hurt may be a result of current circumstances, past experiences, familial discord, or societal nonacceptance. We're here to help. My name is Markia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults. I own Hearst Psychotherapy in Charlotte, NC. At Hearst Psych, we believe in the power of human connection and value the life experience of each client we serve. Our style is gentle and honest. Our role is to come alongside you by providing a safe, peaceful space for healing.
(980) 289-6278 View (980) 289-6278
Photo of Mary Gail Frawley-O'Dea, PhD, Psychologist
Mary Gail Frawley-O'Dea
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
As a trauma specialist, I work with survivors of sexual abuse, rape, clergy sexual misconduct.
No two therapeutic journeys are alike. They reflect the unique interactions of the individuals involved in the process. Therapist and patient enter into a relationship through which, when things go well, "more" becomes possible: more life, more love, more play, more feelings, more thought, more choice, more reflection. Specializing in work with adult survivors of childhood & adolescent sexual abuse, I combine psychodynamic, developmental, and trauma perspectives. The past can truly become past and the present freed to become reflective of the genuine talents, hopes, yearnings of the person with whom I journey.
As a trauma specialist, I work with survivors of sexual abuse, rape, clergy sexual misconduct.
No two therapeutic journeys are alike. They reflect the unique interactions of the individuals involved in the process. Therapist and patient enter into a relationship through which, when things go well, "more" becomes possible: more life, more love, more play, more feelings, more thought, more choice, more reflection. Specializing in work with adult survivors of childhood & adolescent sexual abuse, I combine psychodynamic, developmental, and trauma perspectives. The past can truly become past and the present freed to become reflective of the genuine talents, hopes, yearnings of the person with whom I journey.
(704) 315-5019 x304 View (704) 315-5019 x304
Photo of Alexxis Longmore, MEd, LCMHC, Counselor
Alexxis Longmore
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
I am experienced with clients aged 3+ addressing such issues as trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, sexual identity, life transitions, grief/loss, codependency, relationship challenges and family dynamics.
Reaching out to receive help is often the hardest step. I am passionate about my work and enjoy having an open and collaborative relationship so that you can begin your journey. I believe that emotional and personal growth is different for everyone and will meet you where you’re at. I understand that therapy can be challenging and I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for you to grow and achieve your goals.
I am experienced with clients aged 3+ addressing such issues as trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, sexual identity, life transitions, grief/loss, codependency, relationship challenges and family dynamics.
Reaching out to receive help is often the hardest step. I am passionate about my work and enjoy having an open and collaborative relationship so that you can begin your journey. I believe that emotional and personal growth is different for everyone and will meet you where you’re at. I understand that therapy can be challenging and I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for you to grow and achieve your goals.
(704) 327-0990 View (704) 327-0990
Photo of Cori Goldstein - Safe Alliance, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Safe Alliance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Our Sexual Trauma Resource Center specializes in providing affordable counseling for those impacted by sexual assault, child abuse, and domestic violence.
You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. -Martin Luther King Jr. Healing is not a linear journey. Our clinicians specialize in assisting clients who have experienced trauma find their path to hope and healing through a client-centered and trauma-informed approach.
Our Sexual Trauma Resource Center specializes in providing affordable counseling for those impacted by sexual assault, child abuse, and domestic violence.
You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. -Martin Luther King Jr. Healing is not a linear journey. Our clinicians specialize in assisting clients who have experienced trauma find their path to hope and healing through a client-centered and trauma-informed approach.
(704) 935-2353 View (704) 935-2353
Photo of Constance Wallace, LPC
Constance Wallace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
How do you talk about something so painful? I have worked extensively with clients whom have experienced sexual abuse.
You have been able to stuff your trauma deep down for a long time and either pretend that it didn’t happen, ignore that it happened or minimize your trauma. Until now. Angry outbursts, sleepless nights, anxiety, spontaneous crying, and/or intimacy difficulties are becoming difficult to ignore. You are ready to stop feeling angry, sad, or confused. But it is scary to address trauma that you have either never discussed before or others have dismissed or minimized your traumatic experience(s).
How do you talk about something so painful? I have worked extensively with clients whom have experienced sexual abuse.
You have been able to stuff your trauma deep down for a long time and either pretend that it didn’t happen, ignore that it happened or minimize your trauma. Until now. Angry outbursts, sleepless nights, anxiety, spontaneous crying, and/or intimacy difficulties are becoming difficult to ignore. You are ready to stop feeling angry, sad, or confused. But it is scary to address trauma that you have either never discussed before or others have dismissed or minimized your traumatic experience(s).
(980) 340-7728 View (980) 340-7728
Photo of Latasha G. Gary, LCMHC, MACC, Counselor
Latasha G. Gary
Counselor, LCMHC, MACC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I work with childhood sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, traffic accidents, medical trauma and domestic violence.
Trauma doesn’t often show it's effects immediately or plainly. It is often hidden in patterns of sleepless nights, negative thinking, anxious worry, and feelings of despair and emptiness. It casts a long shadow that begins to de-color every aspect of life. Activities that were previously enjoyed are scheduled less often. You've noticed not only effects but that it has changed who you are. You’ve noticed that the way you feel about the world & others is very different. The thoughts you have about yourself are no better. And every part of life is categorized by whether it happened “before”. “Before the accident, before the bullying".
I work with childhood sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, traffic accidents, medical trauma and domestic violence.
Trauma doesn’t often show it's effects immediately or plainly. It is often hidden in patterns of sleepless nights, negative thinking, anxious worry, and feelings of despair and emptiness. It casts a long shadow that begins to de-color every aspect of life. Activities that were previously enjoyed are scheduled less often. You've noticed not only effects but that it has changed who you are. You’ve noticed that the way you feel about the world & others is very different. The thoughts you have about yourself are no better. And every part of life is categorized by whether it happened “before”. “Before the accident, before the bullying".
(704) 741-8592 View (704) 741-8592
Photo of Dr. Leigh Hicks, PhD, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Leigh Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223
My passion is working with clients age 13-18 as well as young & early adults. I love to work to empower clients, build insight, heal relationships & provide practical tools for clients to use as they develop into young adulthood. I use family therapy for family system work. My other client focus is on victims of sexual exploitation including victims of Human Trafficking & sexual abuse. I incorporate the dynamics of race & ethnicity into my practice and like to work with people from these marginalized populations & addressing how these factors impact treatment and resilience. My ideal client is motivated and committed to treatment.
My passion is working with clients age 13-18 as well as young & early adults. I love to work to empower clients, build insight, heal relationships & provide practical tools for clients to use as they develop into young adulthood. I use family therapy for family system work. My other client focus is on victims of sexual exploitation including victims of Human Trafficking & sexual abuse. I incorporate the dynamics of race & ethnicity into my practice and like to work with people from these marginalized populations & addressing how these factors impact treatment and resilience. My ideal client is motivated and committed to treatment.
(704) 237-6798 View (704) 237-6798
Photo of Chinetta Neal, PhD, LCCP
Chinetta Neal
PhD, LCCP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
Trauma; Sexual Abuse; Grief; Anxiety.
Every one has come face to face with the fear of failure, or defeat. The fear that says we aren't good enough. We have been trained either we win or we lose, there are no other options. I challenge you to see the line between and give yourself permission to stand there, learn there, grow there. You only lose when you don't give yourself permission to take in the whole experience and receive from it.
Trauma; Sexual Abuse; Grief; Anxiety.
Every one has come face to face with the fear of failure, or defeat. The fear that says we aren't good enough. We have been trained either we win or we lose, there are no other options. I challenge you to see the line between and give yourself permission to stand there, learn there, grow there. You only lose when you don't give yourself permission to take in the whole experience and receive from it.
(772) 758-8990 View (772) 758-8990
Photo of Caitlin Eckert, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Eckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with survivors of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
Working with a therapist should feel safe, and that has remained one of my top priorities over my 10+ years of providing therapy. Some of my clients have had therapists before, some are changing therapists, and others are brand new to therapy. Many of my clients are working through previous trauma (childhood and adulthood), have experienced complicated loss, and many belong to a marginalized community. Some of my clients benefit from long-term therapy, while others engage in brief therapy to help get back on track to a better quality of life. Wherever you are in this process, I welcome you!
My specialties include working with survivors of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
Working with a therapist should feel safe, and that has remained one of my top priorities over my 10+ years of providing therapy. Some of my clients have had therapists before, some are changing therapists, and others are brand new to therapy. Many of my clients are working through previous trauma (childhood and adulthood), have experienced complicated loss, and many belong to a marginalized community. Some of my clients benefit from long-term therapy, while others engage in brief therapy to help get back on track to a better quality of life. Wherever you are in this process, I welcome you!
(984) 464-4597 View (984) 464-4597
Photo of Darnita D Samuels Lmft Supervisory Candidate, MSA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darnita D Samuels Lmft Supervisory Candidate
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
I am experienced in the following: pre-marital counseling, marriage/couples/individual therapies, grief/loss issues, inner child wounds, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family conflict, sexual abuse, racial justice issues, substance abuse recovery, stress management, work/life balance and change of life issues.
From time to time we all face challenges and may need someone to help us along the way. I provide a safe, supportive and collaborative environment to empower you in building the skills to manage your issues/concerns. It all starts with a conversation. Let's talk!!
I am experienced in the following: pre-marital counseling, marriage/couples/individual therapies, grief/loss issues, inner child wounds, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family conflict, sexual abuse, racial justice issues, substance abuse recovery, stress management, work/life balance and change of life issues.
From time to time we all face challenges and may need someone to help us along the way. I provide a safe, supportive and collaborative environment to empower you in building the skills to manage your issues/concerns. It all starts with a conversation. Let's talk!!
(919) 807-1692 View (919) 807-1692
Photo of Kara Riedl, LCSWA, CMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Riedl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, CMSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Kara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate who has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families for over 15 years. Prior to moving to North Carolina, Kara worked as a therapist in both outpatient and inpatient facilities in NY serving children and their families. Since moving to Charlotte, she has taught at UNC Charlotte and Wingate in their social work and Psychology programs. She has experience with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, child sexual abuse, anger management, and attachment issues. As a therapist, she believes in empowering individuals by providing them with resources and strategies to help
Kara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate who has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families for over 15 years. Prior to moving to North Carolina, Kara worked as a therapist in both outpatient and inpatient facilities in NY serving children and their families. Since moving to Charlotte, she has taught at UNC Charlotte and Wingate in their social work and Psychology programs. She has experience with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, child sexual abuse, anger management, and attachment issues. As a therapist, she believes in empowering individuals by providing them with resources and strategies to help
(704) 869-2163 View (704) 869-2163
Photo of Jaclyn Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211  (Online Only)
I help individuals who have experienced anxiety and/or trauma reclaim their lives. Trauma can take many forms whether it be: witnessing/experiencing domestic violence, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, community violence or tragic loss of a loved one- to name a few. For many, the end result is flashbacks, nightmares, dissociation, irritability, low-self-esteem and feeling disconnected from yourself and those around you. My clients have seen and been through some serious stuff. Despite being determined, caring and hard-working, they feel like they cannot get back to life before what happened- well happened.
I help individuals who have experienced anxiety and/or trauma reclaim their lives. Trauma can take many forms whether it be: witnessing/experiencing domestic violence, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, community violence or tragic loss of a loved one- to name a few. For many, the end result is flashbacks, nightmares, dissociation, irritability, low-self-esteem and feeling disconnected from yourself and those around you. My clients have seen and been through some serious stuff. Despite being determined, caring and hard-working, they feel like they cannot get back to life before what happened- well happened.
(704) 842-9775 View (704) 842-9775
Photo of Brittany Fuller, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Brittany Fuller
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
I specialize in supporting adolescents and adults who have experienced sexual assault and relationship abuse. Many of my clients feel lost, emotionally overwhelmed, and struggle with understanding how their identities have changed. They often experience a sense of isolation from their support networks and find it challenging to access joy and relaxation in their lives. Additionally, they may have developed a fear of men or relationships in general, making it difficult for them to feel connected and safe in their own bodies. I also work with clients who are wanting to heal childhood trauma from growing up in dysfunctional families.
I specialize in supporting adolescents and adults who have experienced sexual assault and relationship abuse. Many of my clients feel lost, emotionally overwhelmed, and struggle with understanding how their identities have changed. They often experience a sense of isolation from their support networks and find it challenging to access joy and relaxation in their lives. Additionally, they may have developed a fear of men or relationships in general, making it difficult for them to feel connected and safe in their own bodies. I also work with clients who are wanting to heal childhood trauma from growing up in dysfunctional families.
(704) 910-8381 View (704) 910-8381
Photo of Rachel Crawford, MA, ATR-BC, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
I currently offer services for individuals experiencing grief and loss; trauma including sexual abuse and gender based violence; corporate wellbeing issues including work-life imbalance, burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious traumatization; as well as reproductive issues including abortion, infertility, miscarriage, infant loss, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I currently offer services for individuals experiencing grief and loss; trauma including sexual abuse and gender based violence; corporate wellbeing issues including work-life imbalance, burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious traumatization; as well as reproductive issues including abortion, infertility, miscarriage, infant loss, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
(980) 577-1843 View (980) 577-1843
Photo of Yazmeen A Garcia, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Yazmeen A Garcia
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/ sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/ sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
(980) 261-3768 View (980) 261-3768
Photo of Jennifer Fadel, MA, LCMHCA
Jennifer Fadel
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I work with adults (young adults to seniors) dealing with anxiety and depression in reaction to trauma, life stage changes, relationships, divorce, parenting, career, death, illness, sexual abuse, body image, loneliness, and struggles with the loss of meaning, joy and direction in life.
I work with adults (young adults to seniors) dealing with anxiety and depression in reaction to trauma, life stage changes, relationships, divorce, parenting, career, death, illness, sexual abuse, body image, loneliness, and struggles with the loss of meaning, joy and direction in life.
(704) 703-5673 View (704) 703-5673
Photo of Kellyne Williams, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kellyne Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
Hello! My name is Kellyne Williams, and I appreciate you visiting my page and having the bravery to do so. “The past is in your head, but the future is in your hands.” Just as the past has a part in shaping who you are now, the present will shape who you become. I am a therapist that works with women, men, and adolescent who struggles with anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, grief, self-esteem, sexual abuse, sexual addiction, and stress. I look forward to walking alongside you in your journey.
Hello! My name is Kellyne Williams, and I appreciate you visiting my page and having the bravery to do so. “The past is in your head, but the future is in your hands.” Just as the past has a part in shaping who you are now, the present will shape who you become. I am a therapist that works with women, men, and adolescent who struggles with anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, grief, self-esteem, sexual abuse, sexual addiction, and stress. I look forward to walking alongside you in your journey.
(704) 850-6329 View (704) 850-6329
Photo of Cynthia P. Alston-Kelly, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia P. Alston-Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227  (Online Only)
Areas of focus include: Trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, suicidal ideations, addiction, and adolescent behavioral challenges.
Hi! My name is Cynthia. If you are seeking help, that’s a great first step! There may be life experiences that leaves us feeling overwhelmed and alone. I believe that, with support, individuals have within them the ability to self-actualize and grow to one’s full potential. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment where we work together to improve self-awareness and change old patterns to take charge of one’s life. I am a LPC with extensive experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings including private practice, residential treatment, and in-home/community.
Areas of focus include: Trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, suicidal ideations, addiction, and adolescent behavioral challenges.
Hi! My name is Cynthia. If you are seeking help, that’s a great first step! There may be life experiences that leaves us feeling overwhelmed and alone. I believe that, with support, individuals have within them the ability to self-actualize and grow to one’s full potential. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment where we work together to improve self-awareness and change old patterns to take charge of one’s life. I am a LPC with extensive experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings including private practice, residential treatment, and in-home/community.
(980) 489-9401 View (980) 489-9401
Photo of Natalie Murray, LCMHCS
Natalie Murray
LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227
We specialize in couples counseling, relationships and sex therapy. The broad umbrella of sex therapy includes sexual abuse, sexual addiction, sexual dysfunctions and polyamory. We are Safe Zone trained and an LGBTQ ally. Our practice is also accepting newly licensed LCMHCAs for supervision. Contact us today!
We specialize in couples counseling, relationships and sex therapy. The broad umbrella of sex therapy includes sexual abuse, sexual addiction, sexual dysfunctions and polyamory. We are Safe Zone trained and an LGBTQ ally. Our practice is also accepting newly licensed LCMHCAs for supervision. Contact us today!
(704) 908-6630 View (704) 908-6630
Photo of Jessica Lowery, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Jessica Lowery
Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28278
I specialize in the treatment of women’s issues, child sexual abuse, and chronic stress management, as well as anxiety and depression.
Hey there, I'm Jess. I support and empower individuals as they grow through healing. When was the last time that you truly felt like yourself? Have you been feeling trapped, stuck, or stagnant? If so, it may be time to think about talking to a counselor. Life is complex, complicated, and sometimes overwhelming. Oftentimes we get into the unhelpful habit of putting our needs on the back-burner so that we can focus on the fast-paced present. Counseling is an opportunity to expand your mind, self-reflect, practice gratitude, heal, slow down, rest, and recharge. It’s an opportunity to end harmful cycles, habits, beliefs, and behaviors.
I specialize in the treatment of women’s issues, child sexual abuse, and chronic stress management, as well as anxiety and depression.
Hey there, I'm Jess. I support and empower individuals as they grow through healing. When was the last time that you truly felt like yourself? Have you been feeling trapped, stuck, or stagnant? If so, it may be time to think about talking to a counselor. Life is complex, complicated, and sometimes overwhelming. Oftentimes we get into the unhelpful habit of putting our needs on the back-burner so that we can focus on the fast-paced present. Counseling is an opportunity to expand your mind, self-reflect, practice gratitude, heal, slow down, rest, and recharge. It’s an opportunity to end harmful cycles, habits, beliefs, and behaviors.
(803) 859-4394 View (803) 859-4394
1
...
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.