Sexual Abuse Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Tom Adams, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Tom Adams
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
It's difficult, if not impossible, to really thrive in life when you are suffering. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or feeling abused, neglected, or misunderstood, having a regular time and place to talk about these issues in a safe and confidential space is essential to working through them. Those who commit to this process discover that, over time, their suffering is more manageable than they thought, and that creating a more fulfilling life is well within their grasp.
It's difficult, if not impossible, to really thrive in life when you are suffering. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or feeling abused, neglected, or misunderstood, having a regular time and place to talk about these issues in a safe and confidential space is essential to working through them. Those who commit to this process discover that, over time, their suffering is more manageable than they thought, and that creating a more fulfilling life is well within their grasp.
(828) 528-3055 View (828) 528-3055
Photo of Allie Horton, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Allie Horton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! I’m a trauma specialist with over 9 years of experience, and I believe therapy can be healing and empowering. I work with adults across North Carolina navigating trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, dissociation, and relationship challenges.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! I’m a trauma specialist with over 9 years of experience, and I believe therapy can be healing and empowering. I work with adults across North Carolina navigating trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, dissociation, and relationship challenges.
(984) 202-8043 View (984) 202-8043
Photo of Yanet Cerda - Lifestyle Consultant Services, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Lifestyle Consultant Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Raleigh, NC 27615
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
(919) 800-0881 View (919) 800-0881
Photo of Megan Denis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Megan Denis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Raleigh, NC 27607
Therapy works, simply put. I am encouraged to watch individuals overcome many of life's difficulties. As a therapist, I am often described as authentic, warm, and direct. My intention is to offer a safe space for you to discuss any concerns that you might have. I use a comprehensive person-centered approach. I integrate a variety of theories and develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you best meet your needs emotionally, physically, spiritually, and relationally. With a comfortable therapeutic relationship that is build on trust, I hope to help you realize your personal goals.
Therapy works, simply put. I am encouraged to watch individuals overcome many of life's difficulties. As a therapist, I am often described as authentic, warm, and direct. My intention is to offer a safe space for you to discuss any concerns that you might have. I use a comprehensive person-centered approach. I integrate a variety of theories and develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you best meet your needs emotionally, physically, spiritually, and relationally. With a comfortable therapeutic relationship that is build on trust, I hope to help you realize your personal goals.
(919) 276-8574 View (919) 276-8574
Photo of Melissa Lancaster McCurry, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMHC, LCMHC, LCASA
Melissa Lancaster McCurry
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMHC, LCMHC, LCASA
Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepting NEW clients! Do you struggle with feeling happy, communicating clearly, or building fulfilling relationships? Do you wonder how past trauma is still affecting you? Understanding your past can be the key to your future! Together, we will explore issues such as survival of interpersonal violence, an addicted parent, witnessing a violent event, natural disasters and other traumatic events that have contributed to your addictive behaviors, mental illness, or unhealthy relationships. With this knowledge we will discuss healthy coping skills, building a support network, and planning for safety in the face of your triggers.
Accepting NEW clients! Do you struggle with feeling happy, communicating clearly, or building fulfilling relationships? Do you wonder how past trauma is still affecting you? Understanding your past can be the key to your future! Together, we will explore issues such as survival of interpersonal violence, an addicted parent, witnessing a violent event, natural disasters and other traumatic events that have contributed to your addictive behaviors, mental illness, or unhealthy relationships. With this knowledge we will discuss healthy coping skills, building a support network, and planning for safety in the face of your triggers.
(984) 205-9133 View (984) 205-9133
Photo of Dr. Redmond Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LCSW-A
Dr. Redmond Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LCSW-A
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Whether you’re healing from sexual assault, domestic violence, or just life’s stressors, you deserve support to reclaim your peace, confidence, and joy.
With over 10 years of experience supporting adults through life’s hardest moments—including domestic violence, assault, & suicidal thoughts—I help guide you through life as it is. I use a strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach, creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported while building real solutions and lasting peace.
Whether you’re healing from sexual assault, domestic violence, or just life’s stressors, you deserve support to reclaim your peace, confidence, and joy.
With over 10 years of experience supporting adults through life’s hardest moments—including domestic violence, assault, & suicidal thoughts—I help guide you through life as it is. I use a strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach, creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported while building real solutions and lasting peace.
(910) 788-2621 View (910) 788-2621
Photo of Alison Moore Keene, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Alison Moore Keene
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610
Waitlist for new clients
I am available to counsel adolescents and adults, and have experience and training in trauma, rape recovery/sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, transition/adjustment, anger management, and eating disorders.
The journey towards healing starts with one courageous step. As a counselor, my goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can take those steps towards hope and increased clarity. My approach to counseling includes the whole person. I use Sensorimotor Pscyhotherapy, Integrative Somatic Therapy, and mindfulness techniques so you can learn how to regulate your body and emotions, while exploring how thought patterns can be helpful or hurtful.
I am available to counsel adolescents and adults, and have experience and training in trauma, rape recovery/sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, transition/adjustment, anger management, and eating disorders.
The journey towards healing starts with one courageous step. As a counselor, my goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can take those steps towards hope and increased clarity. My approach to counseling includes the whole person. I use Sensorimotor Pscyhotherapy, Integrative Somatic Therapy, and mindfulness techniques so you can learn how to regulate your body and emotions, while exploring how thought patterns can be helpful or hurtful.
(910) 370-8977 View (910) 370-8977
Photo of Dawn Forrest Sanders, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Dawn Forrest Sanders
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Online Only
Getting stuck on life's journey happens to all of us at one time or another. When you become more aware of your own story, thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and beliefs, you have an increased ability to face challenges and overcome adversity with success. My goal is to help you discover alternatives to address the challenges that you face.
Getting stuck on life's journey happens to all of us at one time or another. When you become more aware of your own story, thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and beliefs, you have an increased ability to face challenges and overcome adversity with success. My goal is to help you discover alternatives to address the challenges that you face.
(984) 208-2507 View (984) 208-2507
Photo of Caitlin Eckert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Caitlin Eckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with survivors of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
For over 12 years, my priority has been creating a safe, supportive space for healing that dismantles the shame that often accompanies trauma. Whether you’re new to therapy, returning after a break, or seeking a better fit, I’m here to help. I primarily work with people navigating the impact of past trauma—childhood or adulthood—as well as those processing grief and loss. My practice also serves individuals from marginalized communities. Some clients engage in long-term therapy, while others prefer short-term support to get back on track. Wherever you are, you’re welcome here.
I specialize in working with survivors of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
For over 12 years, my priority has been creating a safe, supportive space for healing that dismantles the shame that often accompanies trauma. Whether you’re new to therapy, returning after a break, or seeking a better fit, I’m here to help. I primarily work with people navigating the impact of past trauma—childhood or adulthood—as well as those processing grief and loss. My practice also serves individuals from marginalized communities. Some clients engage in long-term therapy, while others prefer short-term support to get back on track. Wherever you are, you’re welcome here.
(984) 464-4597 View (984) 464-4597
Photo of Ellie Spencer Mosteller, Counselor, LCMHCA, MA
Ellie Spencer Mosteller
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA
Raleigh, NC 27615
Life is not easy for any of us. You are bound to enter in to hard seasons or be forced to go back and visit difficult seasons from the past. When you can better understand yourself, your story, how you relate to others, and how life experiences have affected you, you will also be able to better navigate these hard seasons.
Life is not easy for any of us. You are bound to enter in to hard seasons or be forced to go back and visit difficult seasons from the past. When you can better understand yourself, your story, how you relate to others, and how life experiences have affected you, you will also be able to better navigate these hard seasons.
(984) 538-7513 View (984) 538-7513
Photo of Virginia D Hill - Therapeutic Arts Center / Sharing Dance, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BC-DMT, CRC
Therapeutic Arts Center / Sharing Dance
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BC-DMT, CRC
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Experiencing ongoing, underlying anger? Having difficulty concentrating at times? Or problems sleeping? Overly anxious or feeling depressed? Or, is life a bit overwhelming at this time? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, know I understand that living life with these issues saps your joy, making it hard to move forward. As a dance/movement therapist, I use movement to provide a physical dimension to traditional “talk” therapies. Dance therapy allows clients to embody their thoughts and feelings, as well as to practice “walking-through” potential solutions.
Experiencing ongoing, underlying anger? Having difficulty concentrating at times? Or problems sleeping? Overly anxious or feeling depressed? Or, is life a bit overwhelming at this time? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, know I understand that living life with these issues saps your joy, making it hard to move forward. As a dance/movement therapist, I use movement to provide a physical dimension to traditional “talk” therapies. Dance therapy allows clients to embody their thoughts and feelings, as well as to practice “walking-through” potential solutions.
(984) 203-7406 View (984) 203-7406
Photo of Jena McMillan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Jena McMillan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Raleigh, NC 27606
You may be navigating a difficult season—feeling anxious, stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step. Perhaps you’re a teen or young adult facing life transitions, a woman dealing with postpartum or past trauma, or a couple wanting to strengthen your relationship. You’re seeking clarity, healing, and a sense of peace. You want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to grow emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. My ideal clients are looking for meaningful change and a therapist who will walk with them through life’s challenges with compassion and insight.
You may be navigating a difficult season—feeling anxious, stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step. Perhaps you’re a teen or young adult facing life transitions, a woman dealing with postpartum or past trauma, or a couple wanting to strengthen your relationship. You’re seeking clarity, healing, and a sense of peace. You want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to grow emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. My ideal clients are looking for meaningful change and a therapist who will walk with them through life’s challenges with compassion and insight.
(478) 245-4867 View (478) 245-4867
Photo of Diane Fahy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Diane Fahy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I assist those who want to overcome the pain of past experiences or memories and understand how to live a happy and productive life. I use an integrative approach to help you let go of negative beliefs and behaviors that limit your best self and encourage you to set attainable goals that not only achieve a wellness of your mental health, but also provide healing for your whole person inclusive of your body, mind and spirit. I believe connecting to your past, living in the present and being proactive for the future brings understanding about your behaviors in a more thoughtful way. Ask me about all-day intensive EMDR sessions!
I assist those who want to overcome the pain of past experiences or memories and understand how to live a happy and productive life. I use an integrative approach to help you let go of negative beliefs and behaviors that limit your best self and encourage you to set attainable goals that not only achieve a wellness of your mental health, but also provide healing for your whole person inclusive of your body, mind and spirit. I believe connecting to your past, living in the present and being proactive for the future brings understanding about your behaviors in a more thoughtful way. Ask me about all-day intensive EMDR sessions!
(919) 694-4544 View (919) 694-4544
Photo of Crissy Schmieder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Crissy Schmieder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
Are you seeking to feel truly whole, not just patched up? I Commend you for taking this courageous step toward a therapeutic journey! Together, we will work to restore your peace, rebuild your self-trust and self-confidence, and transform the patterns that have been holding you back. I offer dedicated and compassionate support to individuals struggling with various mental health challenges, including trauma, grief and loss, substance use, anxiety, and depression. My approach is integrative and evidence-based, customized for each individual client to meet you exactly where you are.
Are you seeking to feel truly whole, not just patched up? I Commend you for taking this courageous step toward a therapeutic journey! Together, we will work to restore your peace, rebuild your self-trust and self-confidence, and transform the patterns that have been holding you back. I offer dedicated and compassionate support to individuals struggling with various mental health challenges, including trauma, grief and loss, substance use, anxiety, and depression. My approach is integrative and evidence-based, customized for each individual client to meet you exactly where you are.
(984) 213-5240 View (984) 213-5240
Photo of Sara Forcella - Sara Forcella | Complex Trauma & EMDR Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA-WGS, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
Sara Forcella | Complex Trauma & EMDR Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA-WGS, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
19 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
I support individuals facing anxiety, complex trauma, sexual assault/domestic violence (SA/DV), and childhood emotional neglect or abuse.
Do you ever feel like the past is still running your life? Affecting your relationships, your body, your mood, your self-care, or the way you see and trust yourself? Maybe talk therapy has helped, but not in the way you’ve hoped. Hey, I’m Sara! I work with adults (21+) healing from relational and complex trauma; I especially enjoy supporting adult children of emotionally immature or narcissistic parents. My approach is trauma and antagonism-informed, helping you understand how your nervous system has adapted to past harm while supporting you in building safety, choice, self-trust, and connection to your authentic self.
I support individuals facing anxiety, complex trauma, sexual assault/domestic violence (SA/DV), and childhood emotional neglect or abuse.
Do you ever feel like the past is still running your life? Affecting your relationships, your body, your mood, your self-care, or the way you see and trust yourself? Maybe talk therapy has helped, but not in the way you’ve hoped. Hey, I’m Sara! I work with adults (21+) healing from relational and complex trauma; I especially enjoy supporting adult children of emotionally immature or narcissistic parents. My approach is trauma and antagonism-informed, helping you understand how your nervous system has adapted to past harm while supporting you in building safety, choice, self-trust, and connection to your authentic self.
(984) 205-7474 View (984) 205-7474
Photo of Cecelia Banks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Cecelia Banks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
16 Endorsed
Online Only
Life transitions for people can be difficult to maneuver. As a therapist, I believe that we all have our unique journeys and story to tell. I strive to provide a safe place during this time of self-discovery and growth. I am here as a guide so that you do not have to struggle alone. My goal is to encourage and empower you to further develop your purpose in life. I find joy in helping my clients set goals and acquire skills to help them deal with their unique challenges. I also provide a unique perspective as a first generation American.So navigating cultural differences is something that I know can be difficult during your journey.
Life transitions for people can be difficult to maneuver. As a therapist, I believe that we all have our unique journeys and story to tell. I strive to provide a safe place during this time of self-discovery and growth. I am here as a guide so that you do not have to struggle alone. My goal is to encourage and empower you to further develop your purpose in life. I find joy in helping my clients set goals and acquire skills to help them deal with their unique challenges. I also provide a unique perspective as a first generation American.So navigating cultural differences is something that I know can be difficult during your journey.
(984) 231-8180 View (984) 231-8180
Photo of Teneisha Towe, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHC
Teneisha Towe
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 28 years of experience supporting individuals and families across North Carolina. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My work includes providing solution-focused and person-centered therapy designed to build resilience, promote healing, and restore balance. I am committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 28 years of experience supporting individuals and families across North Carolina. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My work includes providing solution-focused and person-centered therapy designed to build resilience, promote healing, and restore balance. I am committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow.
(855) 303-0215 View (855) 303-0215
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Childers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR-BC, RPT
Cheryl Lynn Childers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR-BC, RPT
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
(984) 204-7280 View (984) 204-7280
Photo of Lawrence Ellsworth - Lawrence Ellsworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Lawrence Ellsworth, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I earned a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BS in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. I have significant experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults and families dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. I was a clinician and program supervisor at Wake County Mental Health/Human Services where I developed and managed an innovative treatment program for children and families dealing with sexual abuse. I also provide clinical supervision, consultation and mental health trainings around North Carolina through the Area Health Education Centers (AHEC).
I earned a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BS in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. I have significant experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults and families dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. I was a clinician and program supervisor at Wake County Mental Health/Human Services where I developed and managed an innovative treatment program for children and families dealing with sexual abuse. I also provide clinical supervision, consultation and mental health trainings around North Carolina through the Area Health Education Centers (AHEC).
(919) 883-4240 View (919) 883-4240
Photo of Mallory Rogers, LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
Mallory Rogers
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
9 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
I specialize in working with individuals (children 6+, teens, and adults) who are experiencing struggles related to trauma histories, with a specialty in sexual assault/violence and child abuse; victims of violent crime, anxiety, self-esteem/self-compassion, self-harm, family relationships/impact of divorce on families, family attachment trauma, coping skills, and boundary setting.
I utilize a person-centered and direct approach - and pull from and utilize various evidence-based therapeutic modalities when working with individuals; including: EMDR, Trauma Informed, Somatic Work, Internal Family Systems (IFS), ACT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), strengths based perspectives, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
I specialize in working with individuals (children 6+, teens, and adults) who are experiencing struggles related to trauma histories, with a specialty in sexual assault/violence and child abuse; victims of violent crime, anxiety, self-esteem/self-compassion, self-harm, family relationships/impact of divorce on families, family attachment trauma, coping skills, and boundary setting.
I utilize a person-centered and direct approach - and pull from and utilize various evidence-based therapeutic modalities when working with individuals; including: EMDR, Trauma Informed, Somatic Work, Internal Family Systems (IFS), ACT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), strengths based perspectives, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
(919) 897-7099 View (919) 897-7099

See more therapy options for Raleigh

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.