Photo of undefined - Valera Counseling Services, PLLC, PhD, LCMHC, CCMHC, CTF-CBT, SOTP
Valera Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, CCMHC, CTF-CBT, SOTP
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
She specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy(TF-CBT), depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, addiction, codependency, sexual abuse, adjustment disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity, anger issues, disorder grief,and loss, divorce/co-parenting.
Whether you are trying to overcome sudden life changes or dealing with a mental health condition, get in touch with Valera Counseling Services, PLLC. We provide counseling sessions in a supportive environment that fosters empowerment and independence and inspires you to reach your full potential. Our goal is to help you live your life in a functional and independent manner. We are committed to providing clients worldwide with quality counseling and therapy services at our two offices. Contact us in our office in Winston-Salem or Greensboro, North Carolina for an appointment. Hablamos Español. Servimos a Nuestra Comunidad Latina!
She specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy(TF-CBT), depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, addiction, codependency, sexual abuse, adjustment disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity, anger issues, disorder grief,and loss, divorce/co-parenting.
Whether you are trying to overcome sudden life changes or dealing with a mental health condition, get in touch with Valera Counseling Services, PLLC. We provide counseling sessions in a supportive environment that fosters empowerment and independence and inspires you to reach your full potential. Our goal is to help you live your life in a functional and independent manner. We are committed to providing clients worldwide with quality counseling and therapy services at our two offices. Contact us in our office in Winston-Salem or Greensboro, North Carolina for an appointment. Hablamos Español. Servimos a Nuestra Comunidad Latina!
(336) 396-7585 View (336) 396-7585
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in sexual assault and sexual abuse trauma, but also offer broadly focused individualized counseling.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
I specialize in sexual assault and sexual abuse trauma, but also offer broadly focused individualized counseling.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
(336) 754-2119 View (336) 754-2119
Photo of Tiffany Smith, LCSW-A, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A, MSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Are you feeling easily startled, irritable, having nightmares, panic attacks, unwanted thoughts or memories of the event(s), having difficulty socializing with family, friends or people in public. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms I can help you overcome them. These are trauma responses, and the only way to reduce them or overcome them is to face the event(s) that are haunting you head on. I have experience serving individual who have suffered trauma like first responders, military, veterans, sexual assault victims and more. Don't keep putting your selfcare on the back burner. Call me and I can help
Are you feeling easily startled, irritable, having nightmares, panic attacks, unwanted thoughts or memories of the event(s), having difficulty socializing with family, friends or people in public. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms I can help you overcome them. These are trauma responses, and the only way to reduce them or overcome them is to face the event(s) that are haunting you head on. I have experience serving individual who have suffered trauma like first responders, military, veterans, sexual assault victims and more. Don't keep putting your selfcare on the back burner. Call me and I can help
(336) 649-4352 View (336) 649-4352
Photo of undefined - Voice for Children & Nurturing Families , LPC, RPT, CCTP, CSOTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Voice for Children & Nurturing Families
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, CCTP, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
It assists with behavioral issues caused by physical and sexual abuse, divorce, abandonment, bullying, grief and loss.
Accepting New Patients! VCNF specializes and is committed to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to achieve their goals and find healing within a safe environment. VCNF's goal is to assist patients in finding and expressing their maximum potential. VCNF specializes in treating trauma, adoption, foster care, depression, attachment, and attachment. VCNF's approach to therapy is unique in that she uses up-to-date interventions and various types of evidenced based treatment modalities to treat psychological and behavioral issues. VCNF is also a champion of healthy development, personal growth and relationships.
It assists with behavioral issues caused by physical and sexual abuse, divorce, abandonment, bullying, grief and loss.
Accepting New Patients! VCNF specializes and is committed to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to achieve their goals and find healing within a safe environment. VCNF's goal is to assist patients in finding and expressing their maximum potential. VCNF specializes in treating trauma, adoption, foster care, depression, attachment, and attachment. VCNF's approach to therapy is unique in that she uses up-to-date interventions and various types of evidenced based treatment modalities to treat psychological and behavioral issues. VCNF is also a champion of healthy development, personal growth and relationships.
(336) 739-4013 View (336) 739-4013
Photo of Elissa M Schroeder, PhD, Psychologist
Elissa M Schroeder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I appreciate the variety and have the skills to help a wide range of patients, but I'm especially useful with patients who've had problems connecting with other therapists. I'm very familiar with physical and sexual abuse, but also with alienation and with spiritual and emotional trauma. Adoption and attachment issues are also a special interest. I'm trained and certified (Level II) in EMDR and DNMS, trauma-based treatments for people whose developmental needs were not met as children. I have extensive experience working with PTSD and dissociative patients, but also with "plain vanilla" folks -- of varying ethnicities -- challenged by difficult circumstances.
I appreciate the variety and have the skills to help a wide range of patients, but I'm especially useful with patients who've had problems connecting with other therapists. I'm very familiar with physical and sexual abuse, but also with alienation and with spiritual and emotional trauma. Adoption and attachment issues are also a special interest. I'm trained and certified (Level II) in EMDR and DNMS, trauma-based treatments for people whose developmental needs were not met as children. I have extensive experience working with PTSD and dissociative patients, but also with "plain vanilla" folks -- of varying ethnicities -- challenged by difficult circumstances.
(336) 891-0967 View (336) 891-0967
Photo of Tonya Moore, NCC, LCMHCS, BCPCC, CCTP
Tonya Moore
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis, NCC, LCMHCS, BCPCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Also serving victims of sexual abuse, and women seeking healing from abortion.
There are times when there is the feeling that all hope is gone. I believe that God has a plan for your life, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...and will bring you back from captivity. My goal is simple: to help my clients discover that "plan", gain insight, make changes, and grow in God's grace. I am here to assist you in your journey back to wholeness: mentally, emotionally, relationally, and/or spiritually. Whether you're trying to restore a broken marriage, mend family relationships, pick up the pieces or seeking a fresh start, hope and healing awaits you.
Also serving victims of sexual abuse, and women seeking healing from abortion.
There are times when there is the feeling that all hope is gone. I believe that God has a plan for your life, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...and will bring you back from captivity. My goal is simple: to help my clients discover that "plan", gain insight, make changes, and grow in God's grace. I am here to assist you in your journey back to wholeness: mentally, emotionally, relationally, and/or spiritually. Whether you're trying to restore a broken marriage, mend family relationships, pick up the pieces or seeking a fresh start, hope and healing awaits you.
(336) 223-5183 View (336) 223-5183
Photo of Hayley McCraw, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Hayley McCraw
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I provide creative care that celebrates all identities. I primarily work with emerging adults and teens 15+ to help navigate an exciting phase of life filled with new transitions and challenges. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced interpersonal trauma such as sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking. While allowing you to take the lead on your therapeutic journey, I will support you through healing, self-discovery, and coping with distressing feelings and experiences. I am committed to considering the impact of identity, oppression, and societal systems on your concerns.
I provide creative care that celebrates all identities. I primarily work with emerging adults and teens 15+ to help navigate an exciting phase of life filled with new transitions and challenges. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced interpersonal trauma such as sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking. While allowing you to take the lead on your therapeutic journey, I will support you through healing, self-discovery, and coping with distressing feelings and experiences. I am committed to considering the impact of identity, oppression, and societal systems on your concerns.
(336) 715-4402 View (336) 715-4402
Photo of Danielle Henderson, LCMHC
Danielle Henderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27104
Her experience with trauma; specializing in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and human trafficking lends a unique approach to care for individuals during stressful times.
Danielle Henderson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about advocating for adolescents, adults, and couples while assisting in addressing their individual needs. Danielle specializes in mood disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and life stressors. Danielle completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (LCMHC) at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She is a self-motivated and progress-driven therapist with a passion to help others in this industry.
Her experience with trauma; specializing in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and human trafficking lends a unique approach to care for individuals during stressful times.
Danielle Henderson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about advocating for adolescents, adults, and couples while assisting in addressing their individual needs. Danielle specializes in mood disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and life stressors. Danielle completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (LCMHC) at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She is a self-motivated and progress-driven therapist with a passion to help others in this industry.
(336) 948-8026 View (336) 948-8026
Photo of Brittany Corcoran, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Brittany Corcoran
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor , LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
I believe we all have a path and purpose in life. Sometime we need help to overcome obstacles that block our way. I counsel all people, but I specialize in working with those who wish to explore their relationship with drugs and/or alcohol and their supports, survivors of sexual assault or trauma, and life transitions. At the heart of my practice is a genuine care for others, authenticity, and a little humor. I use Person-centered approaches, Mindfulness based techniques, and evidence-based modalities like CBT.
I believe we all have a path and purpose in life. Sometime we need help to overcome obstacles that block our way. I counsel all people, but I specialize in working with those who wish to explore their relationship with drugs and/or alcohol and their supports, survivors of sexual assault or trauma, and life transitions. At the heart of my practice is a genuine care for others, authenticity, and a little humor. I use Person-centered approaches, Mindfulness based techniques, and evidence-based modalities like CBT.
(336) 920-7393 View (336) 920-7393
Photo of undefined - Steps Toward Success PLLC, EdD, LPC-S, LCAS, CCS, CCSOTS
Steps Toward Success PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, EdD, LPC-S, LCAS, CCS, CCSOTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27102
She provides preventative services for Childhood Sexual Abuse in Adolescents and Adults.
Dr. Wanda Brown-Ramseur, LPC-S, LCAS-S, NCC, MAC, CCS, CCSOTS, is a Trauma and Addiction Professional in private practice, Steps Toward Success, located in Greensboro, NC. Wanda demonstrates the highest levels of commitment to the mental health profession by offering therapy options in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress, Depression, Trauma Reactive Behaviors, Attachment Disorders, Substance Abuse/Addiction Disorder, Complex and Secondary Trauma. Wanda practices EMDR as a comprehensive approach to psychotherapy, particularly as it applies to individuals that have experienced complex, secondary and interpersonal trauma events.
She provides preventative services for Childhood Sexual Abuse in Adolescents and Adults.
Dr. Wanda Brown-Ramseur, LPC-S, LCAS-S, NCC, MAC, CCS, CCSOTS, is a Trauma and Addiction Professional in private practice, Steps Toward Success, located in Greensboro, NC. Wanda demonstrates the highest levels of commitment to the mental health profession by offering therapy options in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress, Depression, Trauma Reactive Behaviors, Attachment Disorders, Substance Abuse/Addiction Disorder, Complex and Secondary Trauma. Wanda practices EMDR as a comprehensive approach to psychotherapy, particularly as it applies to individuals that have experienced complex, secondary and interpersonal trauma events.
(704) 839-2048 View (704) 839-2048
Photo of Lisa Shelton, EdS, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I have training and experience with counseling sexual assault survivors, Gender-Responsive Treatment, trauma and Domestic Violence.
My passion is to serve those individuals, couples and families who struggle with substance abuse, mental health and life issues that others may not understand. My Vision and Purpose is to increase individuals, couples and families awareness of addiction and mental health while also educating about healthy relationships, conflict resolution, developing strategies, coping skills to improve the overall quality of one’s life.
I have training and experience with counseling sexual assault survivors, Gender-Responsive Treatment, trauma and Domestic Violence.
My passion is to serve those individuals, couples and families who struggle with substance abuse, mental health and life issues that others may not understand. My Vision and Purpose is to increase individuals, couples and families awareness of addiction and mental health while also educating about healthy relationships, conflict resolution, developing strategies, coping skills to improve the overall quality of one’s life.
(336) 395-5308 View (336) 395-5308
Photo of undefined - Dana J Whitt Counseling, MA, LCMHC
Dana J Whitt Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who helps individuals from all walks of life who are struggling to be the best versions of themselves. This could be due to fragile self-esteem, loss of faith, body image, relational conflict, or social/systemic issues. I have advanced skills in treating trauma-related disorders due to single (e.g. sexual assault) or complex trauma (e.g. childhood abuse, neglect), death, bereavement, or loss. I use attachment work and relational constructivist theories to help those who are yearning to be more connected with their hearts, bodies, and minds.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who helps individuals from all walks of life who are struggling to be the best versions of themselves. This could be due to fragile self-esteem, loss of faith, body image, relational conflict, or social/systemic issues. I have advanced skills in treating trauma-related disorders due to single (e.g. sexual assault) or complex trauma (e.g. childhood abuse, neglect), death, bereavement, or loss. I use attachment work and relational constructivist theories to help those who are yearning to be more connected with their hearts, bodies, and minds.
(336) 967-9209 View (336) 967-9209
Photo of Beth Swiatek, MEd, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Beth Swiatek
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
My clients have diversity in their backgrounds, identities, and stories. Most have a background in family dysfunction, emotional neglect/abuse, physical abuse, narcissism/gaslighting, religious trauma, sexual abuse/assault, emotionally immature caregiver(s), abandonment, household dysfunction, or any combination of things. They reach out to gain insight, support, and skills on navigating the healing process. I have 3 years of experience in mental health with a focus on trauma and LGBTQIA+ identities. I work with adult populations.
My clients have diversity in their backgrounds, identities, and stories. Most have a background in family dysfunction, emotional neglect/abuse, physical abuse, narcissism/gaslighting, religious trauma, sexual abuse/assault, emotionally immature caregiver(s), abandonment, household dysfunction, or any combination of things. They reach out to gain insight, support, and skills on navigating the healing process. I have 3 years of experience in mental health with a focus on trauma and LGBTQIA+ identities. I work with adult populations.
(336) 962-6713 View (336) 962-6713
Photo of Caitlin Eckert, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Eckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27110  (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 Tiffany Franzo, LCMHC, LCAS
Tiffany Franzo
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Are you feeling tired, depressed, anxious, or out of balance in life, work, or relationships? Are you grieving a loss or experiencing a major change? Stress, life challenges, and trauma can consist of many things, the outcome of which can take a toll on your whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
Are you feeling tired, depressed, anxious, or out of balance in life, work, or relationships? Are you grieving a loss or experiencing a major change? Stress, life challenges, and trauma can consist of many things, the outcome of which can take a toll on your whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
(336) 203-7646 x1 View (336) 203-7646 x1
Photo of Ashley Rabon, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Ashley Rabon
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
It can be intimidating to trust someone with the pain, heartache, and uncertainty in your life. My hope is for counseling to be a place that feels safe enough for you to grow in the ability to trust and feel safe in your body. I want you to find a place where you can be seen, heard, and have your story held with dignity and honor. Whether that is with me or another therapist, I hope you can find someone to walk alongside you as you rest, grow in strength, and face the challenges in your life.
It can be intimidating to trust someone with the pain, heartache, and uncertainty in your life. My hope is for counseling to be a place that feels safe enough for you to grow in the ability to trust and feel safe in your body. I want you to find a place where you can be seen, heard, and have your story held with dignity and honor. Whether that is with me or another therapist, I hope you can find someone to walk alongside you as you rest, grow in strength, and face the challenges in your life.
(336) 866-0876 View (336) 866-0876
Photo of undefined - Creative Counseling and Wellness Center Corp, PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS, CRC, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Creative Counseling and Wellness Center Corp
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
All of our journeys are unique. It is important that each individual finds a path to wellness that is comfortable for them. At times, life brings challenges and roadblocks that require us to seek outside supports. I strive to provide a safe and caring, judgement free environment for individuals to explore and unpack life's difficulties. I provide effective care and give individuals the respect they deserve.
All of our journeys are unique. It is important that each individual finds a path to wellness that is comfortable for them. At times, life brings challenges and roadblocks that require us to seek outside supports. I strive to provide a safe and caring, judgement free environment for individuals to explore and unpack life's difficulties. I provide effective care and give individuals the respect they deserve.
(336) 939-0428 View (336) 939-0428
Photo of Brittainy Adkins, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Brittainy Adkins
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
Why? It's such a simple word with so much importance. As humans, it is in our nature to ask this question about ourselves, others, and the world around us. Sometimes the answer may not be so clear. That's where therapy can help. I work with teens and adults who ask themselves this question every day. Perhaps you have experienced trauma at some point in your life, you're going through major changes, or you're struggling to truly find yourself. No matter where you are in your life, there is strength in asking for help.
Why? It's such a simple word with so much importance. As humans, it is in our nature to ask this question about ourselves, others, and the world around us. Sometimes the answer may not be so clear. That's where therapy can help. I work with teens and adults who ask themselves this question every day. Perhaps you have experienced trauma at some point in your life, you're going through major changes, or you're struggling to truly find yourself. No matter where you are in your life, there is strength in asking for help.
(336) 930-9735 View (336) 930-9735
Photo of Lauren Adams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Waitlist for new clients
When describing my work as a therapist, I often say that therapy is the art of having awkward conversations. The things that come up during therapy sessions aren’t often broached around the dinner table or at social gatherings, so talking about them can feel overwhelmingly weird. No one wakes up in the morning and says, "Hmm. You know what I'd like to do today? Spend an hour talking to a stranger and tell them all my deep, dark secrets." Sometimes, though, life circumstances, interpersonal difficulties, and emotional troubles make these conversations necessary. This is where I come in.
When describing my work as a therapist, I often say that therapy is the art of having awkward conversations. The things that come up during therapy sessions aren’t often broached around the dinner table or at social gatherings, so talking about them can feel overwhelmingly weird. No one wakes up in the morning and says, "Hmm. You know what I'd like to do today? Spend an hour talking to a stranger and tell them all my deep, dark secrets." Sometimes, though, life circumstances, interpersonal difficulties, and emotional troubles make these conversations necessary. This is where I come in.
(336) 770-2003 View (336) 770-2003
Photo of Katherine Bautista, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Bautista
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Waitlist for new clients
I am so excited that you found my page and I appreciate you taking the time to review my information and consider establishing a working relationship with me. I am the owner/operator of Peaceful Remedy Counseling and I have 11+ years in working with adults doing what I love to do. I get to support people in making dreams and goals come true. I focus on the counseling relationship and collaborate in working towards your goals. I would describe the experience as you choose the destination and drive, I am the GPS.
I am so excited that you found my page and I appreciate you taking the time to review my information and consider establishing a working relationship with me. I am the owner/operator of Peaceful Remedy Counseling and I have 11+ years in working with adults doing what I love to do. I get to support people in making dreams and goals come true. I focus on the counseling relationship and collaborate in working towards your goals. I would describe the experience as you choose the destination and drive, I am the GPS.
(336) 849-5678 View (336) 849-5678

See more therapy options for Forsyth County

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.