Sexual Abuse Therapists in Ohio

Photo of Shirley Zhao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Shirley Zhao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Throughout my years as a therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals who have experienced mental health challenges related to sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and PTSD.
My approach is rooted in empowering you to develop the skills and resilience needed to overcome these challenges. I utilize evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), to help you develop coping skills and resilience.
Throughout my years as a therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals who have experienced mental health challenges related to sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and PTSD.
My approach is rooted in empowering you to develop the skills and resilience needed to overcome these challenges. I utilize evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), to help you develop coping skills and resilience.
(216) 677-3930 View (216) 677-3930
Photo of Karen Weiman - Karen Weiman - Trauma Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LMSW, PMH-C, LICDC
Karen Weiman - Trauma Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LMSW, PMH-C, LICDC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Trauma & PTSD, DV, Toxic Relationships, Sexual Abuse, and Anxiety, are my top specialties.
You appear driven and put together on the outside, but are struggling internally. You want relief. Perhaps the anxiety is the result of something that happened to you. If your life is inhibited by your past in any way, this is the right place for you. I can help you find what is on the other side of the anxiety and fear, which could be peace, relief, and authenticity. I have intensive and specialized training in Trauma, PTSD and the resulting anxiety that comes from overwhelming or unsafe situations & people.
Trauma & PTSD, DV, Toxic Relationships, Sexual Abuse, and Anxiety, are my top specialties.
You appear driven and put together on the outside, but are struggling internally. You want relief. Perhaps the anxiety is the result of something that happened to you. If your life is inhibited by your past in any way, this is the right place for you. I can help you find what is on the other side of the anxiety and fear, which could be peace, relief, and authenticity. I have intensive and specialized training in Trauma, PTSD and the resulting anxiety that comes from overwhelming or unsafe situations & people.
(740) 685-4452 View (740) 685-4452
Photo of Jessie Boone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Jessie Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
5 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
If you find yourself feeling stuck with issues related to trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, or sexual abuse that haven't been resolved with simply talking about them, I would love to help.
I specialize in evidence-based therapies for mental health treatment such as EMDR, Brainspotting, and IFS (parts work). Currently I am accepting new clients. I also offer EMDR consultation as a CIT if you are a therapist. If you are a Veteran or currently military, I have been trained as a Star Behavioral Health provider with past experience at VA.
If you find yourself feeling stuck with issues related to trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, or sexual abuse that haven't been resolved with simply talking about them, I would love to help.
I specialize in evidence-based therapies for mental health treatment such as EMDR, Brainspotting, and IFS (parts work). Currently I am accepting new clients. I also offer EMDR consultation as a CIT if you are a therapist. If you are a Veteran or currently military, I have been trained as a Star Behavioral Health provider with past experience at VA.
(614) 412-4208 View (614) 412-4208
Photo of Rebecca Pack - HOPE Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, S
HOPE Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, S
2 Endorsed
Heath, OH 43056
I have considerable experience working with people dealing with depression; self-esteem issues; divorce recovery challenges; sexual abuse trauma; PTSD; D
Formational counseling--helping clients recognize why and what they believe, where those false beliefs originated and exploring what is truth--who are you created to be? Cognitive Behavioral Therapy--How do past experiences impact how you think about present circumstances? How are you interpreting life?
I have considerable experience working with people dealing with depression; self-esteem issues; divorce recovery challenges; sexual abuse trauma; PTSD; D
Formational counseling--helping clients recognize why and what they believe, where those false beliefs originated and exploring what is truth--who are you created to be? Cognitive Behavioral Therapy--How do past experiences impact how you think about present circumstances? How are you interpreting life?
(740) 200-4271 View (740) 200-4271
Photo of Tanice Prince, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Tanice Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My treatment interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual assault.
We will collaborate on an approach tailored to meet your needs with methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. I am trained in EMDR Therapy and can use that modality in sessions. We can work together to make the changes you desire and increase your resilience.
My treatment interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual assault.
We will collaborate on an approach tailored to meet your needs with methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. I am trained in EMDR Therapy and can use that modality in sessions. We can work together to make the changes you desire and increase your resilience.
(614) 602-5999 View (614) 602-5999
Photo of Erin Curry-Zeigler, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Erin Curry-Zeigler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255
I specialize in treating adults with sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
Welcome! As a Licensed Professional Counselor working with Waybridge Counseling, my goal is to provide individuals and couples with a safe, welcoming environment through individual and partner therapy. I work with clients who are struggling with mental health issues, grief, trauma, depression and anxiety. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I specialize in treating adults with sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
Welcome! As a Licensed Professional Counselor working with Waybridge Counseling, my goal is to provide individuals and couples with a safe, welcoming environment through individual and partner therapy. I work with clients who are struggling with mental health issues, grief, trauma, depression and anxiety. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(513) 434-6152 View (513) 434-6152
Photo of Jillian Faris, Counselor, LPCC
Jillian Faris
Counselor, LPCC
Mount Vernon, OH 43050
I see clients ages 16+ and am most passionate about working with young adults and those who have experienced sexual abuse, PTSD and other traumatic events.
My clients come to counseling to find hope. They are tired of struggling to get out of bed in the morning, missing out on meaningful relationships, living with crippling anxiety, and carrying their secrets alone. They want to talk through past trauma without their bodies taking off on them, laugh with their friends and family, sleep through the night, and experience freedom from the things holding them back. They want joy and peace and healing.
I see clients ages 16+ and am most passionate about working with young adults and those who have experienced sexual abuse, PTSD and other traumatic events.
My clients come to counseling to find hope. They are tired of struggling to get out of bed in the morning, missing out on meaningful relationships, living with crippling anxiety, and carrying their secrets alone. They want to talk through past trauma without their bodies taking off on them, laugh with their friends and family, sleep through the night, and experience freedom from the things holding them back. They want joy and peace and healing.
(740) 900-1204 View (740) 900-1204
Photo of Dr. Umona L. Sharp, Pastoral Counselor, PhD, TRS, CLC, CCPC, LCDCIII
Dr. Umona L. Sharp
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, TRS, CLC, CCPC, LCDCIII
Cincinnati, OH 45246
We specialize in faith issues, substance abuse, grief & loss, sexual abuse, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Are you suffering in silence with sexual trauma, marital issues, depression, or substance abuse? Let Stay Free Ministries, LLC help you! We're a faith-based agency where you can learn how to maintain a life of freedom. I am pleased that you have selected me as your Pastoral Counselor. I'll use my skills to mobilize you in the right direction to succeed as we walk through your journey together. Stay Free Ministries is a confidential multi-discipline program, designed to help bring inner healing and peace to the hurting. The program offers Christian counseling, AOD counseling, life coaching, support groups, seminars, and prayer.
We specialize in faith issues, substance abuse, grief & loss, sexual abuse, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Are you suffering in silence with sexual trauma, marital issues, depression, or substance abuse? Let Stay Free Ministries, LLC help you! We're a faith-based agency where you can learn how to maintain a life of freedom. I am pleased that you have selected me as your Pastoral Counselor. I'll use my skills to mobilize you in the right direction to succeed as we walk through your journey together. Stay Free Ministries is a confidential multi-discipline program, designed to help bring inner healing and peace to the hurting. The program offers Christian counseling, AOD counseling, life coaching, support groups, seminars, and prayer.
(513) 434-6866 View (513) 434-6866
Photo of Ashley Campbell, Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Ashley Campbell
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, I have worked to help heal trauma in childhood or adulthood, those struggling with substance abuse, or are survivors of sexual assault or abuse.
The first step in any change is realizing that you want or need a change in the first place. As a therapist, I utilize a strength-based approach to allow clients to learn and hone in on the skills they already possess in order to make the changes they desire in their lives. In our sessions, I will act like a mirror, helping you to gain insight, discover patterns, and learn about the obstacles that are in the way of your happiness. I am committed to helping my clients discover their goals and create a path to personal growth.
Additionally, I have worked to help heal trauma in childhood or adulthood, those struggling with substance abuse, or are survivors of sexual assault or abuse.
The first step in any change is realizing that you want or need a change in the first place. As a therapist, I utilize a strength-based approach to allow clients to learn and hone in on the skills they already possess in order to make the changes they desire in their lives. In our sessions, I will act like a mirror, helping you to gain insight, discover patterns, and learn about the obstacles that are in the way of your happiness. I am committed to helping my clients discover their goals and create a path to personal growth.
(513) 434-6007 View (513) 434-6007
Photo of Edward T Novak - Edward T Novak, LPCC, Counselor, LPCC
Edward T Novak, LPCC
Counselor, LPCC
Akron, OH 44313
I also work within embodied modalities that include therapeutic touch and body work for individuals who have had their bodies stolen from them though physical and sexual abuse, or health related issues.
I am a certified psychoanalyst and I work exclusively with individuals wanting long-term treatment to address lifelong suffering usually due to abuse or trauma. I offer both contemporary psychoanalysis and embodied psychotherapy, as appropriate, to address mind, body, and emotional issues that continue impact your current life and relationships. This approach is designed to expand treatment beyond short-lived symptom relief into transforming the actual origins of your issues, symptoms, and daily suffering. You can learn more about me and the ways I practice by visiting my website: www.edwardnovak.com
I also work within embodied modalities that include therapeutic touch and body work for individuals who have had their bodies stolen from them though physical and sexual abuse, or health related issues.
I am a certified psychoanalyst and I work exclusively with individuals wanting long-term treatment to address lifelong suffering usually due to abuse or trauma. I offer both contemporary psychoanalysis and embodied psychotherapy, as appropriate, to address mind, body, and emotional issues that continue impact your current life and relationships. This approach is designed to expand treatment beyond short-lived symptom relief into transforming the actual origins of your issues, symptoms, and daily suffering. You can learn more about me and the ways I practice by visiting my website: www.edwardnovak.com
(330) 574-8872 View (330) 574-8872
Photo of Andrea Lisowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC
Andrea Lisowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC
3 Endorsed
Stow, OH 44224
I enjoy working with clients of all ages, and have a special interest in working with trauma/ PTSD, dissociation, sexual abuse and other therapists.
I am committed to ongoing professional training to staying up to date on evidence based practices. I utilize a strengths based and trauma informed approach. I am certified in EMDR therapy and am an EMDRIA approved Consultant. I also have training in expressive arts therapies (dance/ yoga/ sand tray interventions) and motivational interviewing.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages, and have a special interest in working with trauma/ PTSD, dissociation, sexual abuse and other therapists.
I am committed to ongoing professional training to staying up to date on evidence based practices. I utilize a strengths based and trauma informed approach. I am certified in EMDR therapy and am an EMDRIA approved Consultant. I also have training in expressive arts therapies (dance/ yoga/ sand tray interventions) and motivational interviewing.
(440) 290-5428 View (440) 290-5428
Photo of Randi Gross Nathenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, Jungian, Analyst
Randi Gross Nathenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, Jungian, Analyst
3 Endorsed
Highland Heights, OH 44143
I have over twenty years of experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, rape, and sexual assault as well as survivors of domestic violence.
I view therapy as a collaborative process where you can tell your story, explore your feelings, increase insight, and build self-awareness. I see therapy as an opportunity for growth and reflection. Drawing on over two decades of experience my approach is sensitive, patient and accepting. I feel that my role is to be a compassionate guide and facilitator to help you learn about yourself. Therapy can be like sanctuary - a place where there are no distractions, where there is an opportunity to pay attention to what is important.
I have over twenty years of experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, rape, and sexual assault as well as survivors of domestic violence.
I view therapy as a collaborative process where you can tell your story, explore your feelings, increase insight, and build self-awareness. I see therapy as an opportunity for growth and reflection. Drawing on over two decades of experience my approach is sensitive, patient and accepting. I feel that my role is to be a compassionate guide and facilitator to help you learn about yourself. Therapy can be like sanctuary - a place where there are no distractions, where there is an opportunity to pay attention to what is important.
(440) 291-3294 View (440) 291-3294
Photo of Dawn L Powell - Guiding Light Counseling & Consulting LLC, MSW, LISW-S
Guiding Light Counseling & Consulting LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngstown, OH 44505
While able to treat a wide variety of diagnosis, my clinical experience includes working with complex trauma/PTSD, severely mentally ill, mood disorders, substance abuse, self-esteem, sexual assault and childhood abuse victims, LGBTQI issue and more.
My clinical practice focuses primarily on young adults, adults and the elderly. I am passionate about guiding clients to their baseline and beyond using a variety of expressive and experiential therapeutic interventions that are all aimed at emotional and mental health wellbeing. The therapeutic setting is confidential. I know the importance of feeling understood and accepted. I focus on your strengths and needs, providing support and interventions that address the thinking process and emotional expression.
While able to treat a wide variety of diagnosis, my clinical experience includes working with complex trauma/PTSD, severely mentally ill, mood disorders, substance abuse, self-esteem, sexual assault and childhood abuse victims, LGBTQI issue and more.
My clinical practice focuses primarily on young adults, adults and the elderly. I am passionate about guiding clients to their baseline and beyond using a variety of expressive and experiential therapeutic interventions that are all aimed at emotional and mental health wellbeing. The therapeutic setting is confidential. I know the importance of feeling understood and accepted. I focus on your strengths and needs, providing support and interventions that address the thinking process and emotional expression.
(330) 537-1125 View (330) 537-1125
Photo of Kelsey Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Kelsey Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
Waitlist for new clients
I have spent my career working with survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
I deeply value authenticity and bringing my humanness into every session. Building trust is one of the most critical aspects of therapy—it can truly make or break your experience - a perspective I understand from being both a client and a therapist. I often utilize humor in my sessions, (sometimes dark humor) and we may laugh our way through a mindfulness exercise or a guided meditation. My goal is to create a judgment-free zone where my clients feel validated and supported, fulfilling the most basic of human rights: to be believed and feel seen.
I have spent my career working with survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
I deeply value authenticity and bringing my humanness into every session. Building trust is one of the most critical aspects of therapy—it can truly make or break your experience - a perspective I understand from being both a client and a therapist. I often utilize humor in my sessions, (sometimes dark humor) and we may laugh our way through a mindfulness exercise or a guided meditation. My goal is to create a judgment-free zone where my clients feel validated and supported, fulfilling the most basic of human rights: to be believed and feel seen.
(440) 613-8022 View (440) 613-8022
Photo of Marlene Dolinar, Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT
Marlene Dolinar
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT
3 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43606
I work with children, adolescents and teenagers struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum, ODD, sexual abuse/reactivity, sexual offenses, PTSD, and self-esteem issues along with many others.
As a play therapist and counselor, I reach children and adults using a variety of techniques including the natural language of play. I am amazed to see the transformation people can make through the power of play, sandtray and expressive therapies. I am a Registered Play Therapist by the Association for Play Therapy and a certified Autplay Provider (Autism Play Therapy). I am currently the owner and founder of Mending Hearts Counseling Center. I provide mental health counseling and play therapy services to children, adolescents and adults. In my free time I enjoy camping, traveling, and spending time with my family.
I work with children, adolescents and teenagers struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum, ODD, sexual abuse/reactivity, sexual offenses, PTSD, and self-esteem issues along with many others.
As a play therapist and counselor, I reach children and adults using a variety of techniques including the natural language of play. I am amazed to see the transformation people can make through the power of play, sandtray and expressive therapies. I am a Registered Play Therapist by the Association for Play Therapy and a certified Autplay Provider (Autism Play Therapy). I am currently the owner and founder of Mending Hearts Counseling Center. I provide mental health counseling and play therapy services to children, adolescents and adults. In my free time I enjoy camping, traveling, and spending time with my family.
(567) 278-9758 View (567) 278-9758
Photo of Linda Stout, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Linda Stout
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Online Only
My primary areas of fucus have been anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, behavioral issues, anger management, stress management and sexual abuse.
We all experience life differently and sometimes trying to figure out how to handle those experiences can be overwhelming. I am here for you, so you don't have to do it alone. My goal is to provide you with a warm, safe, and inviting environment where I can help you with processing any thoughts and feelings you may have about life challenges. I am a LISW-S and have over 16 years experience working with adults, children, teens, families, and groups.
My primary areas of fucus have been anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, behavioral issues, anger management, stress management and sexual abuse.
We all experience life differently and sometimes trying to figure out how to handle those experiences can be overwhelming. I am here for you, so you don't have to do it alone. My goal is to provide you with a warm, safe, and inviting environment where I can help you with processing any thoughts and feelings you may have about life challenges. I am a LISW-S and have over 16 years experience working with adults, children, teens, families, and groups.
(216) 859-0224 View (216) 859-0224
Photo of Jamie Gatesman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Jamie Gatesman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
I currently specialize in complex trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, dissociation, relational concerns, anger management, spiritual/religious abuse, identity, transitional stressors, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and depression,
Currently accepting new clients with immediate openings! EMDR trained clinician. My goal as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help others find themselves and live authentically. I see each person as unique and complex—far more than their symptoms or challenges. Within the therapeutic space, I aim to facilitate self-discovery, recognizing how your background, experiences, and strengths interact. I believe that human connection is an important facet of healing, and I view the therapeutic relationship as a powerful tool for growth and transformation.
I currently specialize in complex trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, dissociation, relational concerns, anger management, spiritual/religious abuse, identity, transitional stressors, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and depression,
Currently accepting new clients with immediate openings! EMDR trained clinician. My goal as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help others find themselves and live authentically. I see each person as unique and complex—far more than their symptoms or challenges. Within the therapeutic space, I aim to facilitate self-discovery, recognizing how your background, experiences, and strengths interact. I believe that human connection is an important facet of healing, and I view the therapeutic relationship as a powerful tool for growth and transformation.
(440) 598-5574 View (440) 598-5574
Photo of Adam Fields, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Adam Fields
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Beachwood, OH 44122
Other areas of focus include parenting, aging, and past history of sexual abuse.
Are you living in a sexless relationship? Or perhaps the sex you're having is unsatisfying, or hampered by something specific. My office provides you with a safe, comfortable space to discuss your sexual life, answer your questions, all within the framework of a sex-positive atmosphere. I don't believe in pathologizing someone's sexual behaviors. As an AASECT-certified sex therapist, my philosophy is simple: if it's consensual, and it's not hurting you or your partner(s), your sexuality and all that it entails (your fantasies, experimentation, whatever turns you on) will be supported, nurtured, and listened to without judgment.
Other areas of focus include parenting, aging, and past history of sexual abuse.
Are you living in a sexless relationship? Or perhaps the sex you're having is unsatisfying, or hampered by something specific. My office provides you with a safe, comfortable space to discuss your sexual life, answer your questions, all within the framework of a sex-positive atmosphere. I don't believe in pathologizing someone's sexual behaviors. As an AASECT-certified sex therapist, my philosophy is simple: if it's consensual, and it's not hurting you or your partner(s), your sexuality and all that it entails (your fantasies, experimentation, whatever turns you on) will be supported, nurtured, and listened to without judgment.
(216) 294-3600 View (216) 294-3600
Photo of Erin K Seitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Erin K Seitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Celina, OH 45822
I work with clients of all ages who have been impacted by trauma, including sexual abuse, and those struggling with anxiety, BPD, and other mental health disorders.
Using compassion, evidence-based treatments, and now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), I am committed to helping individuals who are struggling with traumas and other life stressors find relief and achieve their goals. Life is a journey and sometimes the path is marked with profound difficulties that leave a lasting imprint on the life of each of us. To start walking the path to healing and resilience takes courage. Since you are here, you have already gotten started. When you are ready, I am here to offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment to share your unique story, heal, and grow at your own pace.
I work with clients of all ages who have been impacted by trauma, including sexual abuse, and those struggling with anxiety, BPD, and other mental health disorders.
Using compassion, evidence-based treatments, and now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), I am committed to helping individuals who are struggling with traumas and other life stressors find relief and achieve their goals. Life is a journey and sometimes the path is marked with profound difficulties that leave a lasting imprint on the life of each of us. To start walking the path to healing and resilience takes courage. Since you are here, you have already gotten started. When you are ready, I am here to offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment to share your unique story, heal, and grow at your own pace.
(419) 495-5676 View (419) 495-5676
Photo of Jillian Potter-Bonsell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Jillian Potter-Bonsell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Springfield, OH 45502
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with survivors of complex traumas such as sexual abuse, human trafficking and domestic violence, or one-time incidents such as a car accident or sudden loss.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) is a scientifically validated approach originally developed for the treatment of trauma. It can have excellent results for many people suffering from PTSD and other trauma-related difficulties, as well as anxiety, compulsions, addiction problems, and depression.
I specialize in working with survivors of complex traumas such as sexual abuse, human trafficking and domestic violence, or one-time incidents such as a car accident or sudden loss.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) is a scientifically validated approach originally developed for the treatment of trauma. It can have excellent results for many people suffering from PTSD and other trauma-related difficulties, as well as anxiety, compulsions, addiction problems, and depression.
(937) 966-6017 View (937) 966-6017

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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.