Photo of Mary Elizabeth Youngquist, Psychologist in 55105, MN
Mary Elizabeth Youngquist
Psychologist, MS, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults and their families covering a range of issues. I focus on working through and solving problems that are unique to each person's perspective. I feel it important to listen to each party's concerns and get to the root of the matter with assertive yet gentle guidance. My goal is to provide a safe emotional environment for children and adolescents dealing with complex issues so that they can express their concerns and develop ways of coping with their difficulties, successfully.
I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults and their families covering a range of issues. I focus on working through and solving problems that are unique to each person's perspective. I feel it important to listen to each party's concerns and get to the root of the matter with assertive yet gentle guidance. My goal is to provide a safe emotional environment for children and adolescents dealing with complex issues so that they can express their concerns and develop ways of coping with their difficulties, successfully.
(612) 324-0062 View (612) 324-0062
Photo of Annie Curtis Nelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 55105, MN
Annie Curtis Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
I work with adults 18+ and specialize in life transitions, anxiety, trauma and addiction, and have a particular interest in how our childhood experiences impact us as adults. I currently see clients via telehealth through Catalyst Mental Health. More information about myself and Catalyst can be found by clicking on the "website" link on the left-hand side of this page. The extension for my confidential voicemail at Catalyst Mental Health is extension 715.
I work with adults 18+ and specialize in life transitions, anxiety, trauma and addiction, and have a particular interest in how our childhood experiences impact us as adults. I currently see clients via telehealth through Catalyst Mental Health. More information about myself and Catalyst can be found by clicking on the "website" link on the left-hand side of this page. The extension for my confidential voicemail at Catalyst Mental Health is extension 715.
(612) 887-3251 View (612) 887-3251

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.