Photo of Caela Rhea, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caela Rhea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35476
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a counselor is to provide safe and non-judgmental therapy space in two different therapy settings: Turning Point and Caela Rhea Counseling. At Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services, counseling is free for survivors of sexual assault or sexual abuse. Processing trauma is not easy, but I can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal. You must meet Turning Point eligibility requirements for services. Call 205-758-0808 or check out turningpointservices.org for more information. Caela Rhea Counseling is self-pay and open nights and weekends for tele-health sessions.
My goal as a counselor is to provide safe and non-judgmental therapy space in two different therapy settings: Turning Point and Caela Rhea Counseling. At Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services, counseling is free for survivors of sexual assault or sexual abuse. Processing trauma is not easy, but I can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal. You must meet Turning Point eligibility requirements for services. Call 205-758-0808 or check out turningpointservices.org for more information. Caela Rhea Counseling is self-pay and open nights and weekends for tele-health sessions.
(205) 656-1069 View (205) 656-1069
Photo of Kayla Lynn Kent, MEd, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Kayla Lynn Kent
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35222
My career has been spent helping survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and those struggling with addictions by providing a space to heal and grow without judgement.
Life is full of many challenges. You may be experiencing sudden life changes, need a safe place to process and heal from a traumatic event, coping with loss and need a place to grieve, and/or struggling with addiction or have a family member who is struggling with addiction and need direction. It is my privilege to provide a safe place to grieve, grow, heal, and learn for all of those who are in need.
My career has been spent helping survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and those struggling with addictions by providing a space to heal and grow without judgement.
Life is full of many challenges. You may be experiencing sudden life changes, need a safe place to process and heal from a traumatic event, coping with loss and need a place to grieve, and/or struggling with addiction or have a family member who is struggling with addiction and need direction. It is my privilege to provide a safe place to grieve, grow, heal, and learn for all of those who are in need.
(205) 235-8219 View (205) 235-8219
Photo of Alena Porter, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830  (Online Only)
I have presented at conferences on Sex After Sexual Abuse, Nonconsensual or Undesired Sexual Experiences, BDSM, and LGBTQ+ clients.
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
I have presented at conferences on Sex After Sexual Abuse, Nonconsensual or Undesired Sexual Experiences, BDSM, and LGBTQ+ clients.
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
(256) 300-6088 View (256) 300-6088
Photo of Dr. Rachel Crabtree, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Rachel Crabtree
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lincoln, AL 35096  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I hold a deep passion for supporting individuals who have navigated the treacherous terrain of complex trauma. Including those who have endured sexual abuse, addiction, and the heartbreak of betrayal. Many I work with carry the weight of anxiety, shame, and guilt, often entangled with codependency and addictive patterns. It is a privilege to walk alongside them on their journeys of healing and rediscovering their inner strength.My ideal client is someone who is ready to reclaim their life and embrace the healing process.
I hold a deep passion for supporting individuals who have navigated the treacherous terrain of complex trauma. Including those who have endured sexual abuse, addiction, and the heartbreak of betrayal. Many I work with carry the weight of anxiety, shame, and guilt, often entangled with codependency and addictive patterns. It is a privilege to walk alongside them on their journeys of healing and rediscovering their inner strength.My ideal client is someone who is ready to reclaim their life and embrace the healing process.
(659) 348-0947 View (659) 348-0947
Photo of Tori Conner-Hearn, LPC, MS, MPH, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tori Conner-Hearn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MPH, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35216
Hello. I'm Tori. I'm so glad you are here. As a professional counselor, my goal is to help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, feel less alone, and create the changes you want in yourself. I‘ll work with you in a compassion, collaborative way to overcome the roadblocks that you struggle with even if they seem overwhelming. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma (especially sexual abuse/ assault and relationship violence), PTSD, grief, and gender identity. I am LGBTQ affirming. I work from a social justice and feminist framework. I am a CCTP Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Hello. I'm Tori. I'm so glad you are here. As a professional counselor, my goal is to help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, feel less alone, and create the changes you want in yourself. I‘ll work with you in a compassion, collaborative way to overcome the roadblocks that you struggle with even if they seem overwhelming. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma (especially sexual abuse/ assault and relationship violence), PTSD, grief, and gender identity. I am LGBTQ affirming. I work from a social justice and feminist framework. I am a CCTP Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
(205) 255-1612 View (205) 255-1612
Photo of Ashley Carden, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Carden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
Hi! I'm so glad you are here. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and individuals who have experienced trauma ( sexual abuse, physical abuse, maltreatment and neglect), anxiety, stress, trauma-related struggles, and attachment disturbances. Life can be challenging - especially when you feel stuck and joy seems lost. Experiencing challenging life events does not mean settling for unhappy circumstances. Together, we can work on creating positive meaning out of the most painful parts of your story, so that you can continue to move forward in the healing process and get to the place where you want to be.
Hi! I'm so glad you are here. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and individuals who have experienced trauma ( sexual abuse, physical abuse, maltreatment and neglect), anxiety, stress, trauma-related struggles, and attachment disturbances. Life can be challenging - especially when you feel stuck and joy seems lost. Experiencing challenging life events does not mean settling for unhappy circumstances. Together, we can work on creating positive meaning out of the most painful parts of your story, so that you can continue to move forward in the healing process and get to the place where you want to be.
(205) 272-6386 View (205) 272-6386
Photo of McKenzie Wright, MS, ALC, Counselor
McKenzie Wright
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35473
I help clients ages 15+ heal after trauma and through tough life transitions. Many of my clients have faced challenges such as complex trauma, divorce, sexual assault, relationship issues, childhood trauma, moving across states, and other distressing experiences. My approach is an empathetic and kind therapy, meeting my clients where they are at on their journey and guiding them to resilience. I am passionate about integrating EMDR, Internal Family Systems, inner child work, Polyvagal theory and adaptive coping skills.
I help clients ages 15+ heal after trauma and through tough life transitions. Many of my clients have faced challenges such as complex trauma, divorce, sexual assault, relationship issues, childhood trauma, moving across states, and other distressing experiences. My approach is an empathetic and kind therapy, meeting my clients where they are at on their journey and guiding them to resilience. I am passionate about integrating EMDR, Internal Family Systems, inner child work, Polyvagal theory and adaptive coping skills.
(205) 927-4772 View (205) 927-4772
Photo of Laura H Johnson, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura H Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Are you in the middle of a challenging time? I help people navigate the transitions that often occur in life; including illness, divorce, and grief related to all types of loss. I enjoy helping people heal from life's most difficult events, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse, religious trauma, medical trauma, acts of violence and other similar incidents. You have inherent beauty and worth. I believe my role as a therapist is to assist and guide you as you move toward a healthier life.
Are you in the middle of a challenging time? I help people navigate the transitions that often occur in life; including illness, divorce, and grief related to all types of loss. I enjoy helping people heal from life's most difficult events, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse, religious trauma, medical trauma, acts of violence and other similar incidents. You have inherent beauty and worth. I believe my role as a therapist is to assist and guide you as you move toward a healthier life.
(205) 953-8581 View (205) 953-8581
Photo of Claudette E. Rogers, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudette E. Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36106
Began working with women & children survivors of domestic abuse & sexual assault creating a program of recovery.
You matter! I am an experienced Psychotherapist, trained EMDR Therapist and a Believer/Christian. I am passionate about helping you achieve and maintain mental wellness, and recover from trauma. Provided individual counseling and psychotherapy groups that included Women and Families of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Individual male and female Felony and Misdemeanor clients, Incarcerated women in Montgomery prisons, and Individuals with mental disorders. Spent 30 plus years providing services to people in need. You cannot do what you don't know, nor give what you don't have, I will help you get there.
Began working with women & children survivors of domestic abuse & sexual assault creating a program of recovery.
You matter! I am an experienced Psychotherapist, trained EMDR Therapist and a Believer/Christian. I am passionate about helping you achieve and maintain mental wellness, and recover from trauma. Provided individual counseling and psychotherapy groups that included Women and Families of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Individual male and female Felony and Misdemeanor clients, Incarcerated women in Montgomery prisons, and Individuals with mental disorders. Spent 30 plus years providing services to people in need. You cannot do what you don't know, nor give what you don't have, I will help you get there.
(334) 326-2802 View (334) 326-2802
Photo of Katy Powell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Powell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244
Waitlist for new clients
Building up your love for yourself is a foundation that we’ll work on together so that you not only survive but thrive! I am a licensed professional counselor with a background in domestic abuse, sexual assault, trauma therapy, anxiety and depression, grief counseling, child sexual abuse, and substance abuse.
Are you looking to put the past in the past and move on to a better future? That can be easy to say but tough to do. Taking steps to prioritize your emotional wellbeing and heal from anxiety, trauma and post-trauma symptoms is where I would love to partner with you. Working together, I can help you achieve that better future. Are you concerned about the impact that relationships are having on your happiness? Through therapy, we can work together to recognize unhealthy dynamics in relationships that are having a negative impact and build a plan that will help you to truly enjoy fulfilling relationships with those you care about.
Building up your love for yourself is a foundation that we’ll work on together so that you not only survive but thrive! I am a licensed professional counselor with a background in domestic abuse, sexual assault, trauma therapy, anxiety and depression, grief counseling, child sexual abuse, and substance abuse.
Are you looking to put the past in the past and move on to a better future? That can be easy to say but tough to do. Taking steps to prioritize your emotional wellbeing and heal from anxiety, trauma and post-trauma symptoms is where I would love to partner with you. Working together, I can help you achieve that better future. Are you concerned about the impact that relationships are having on your happiness? Through therapy, we can work together to recognize unhealthy dynamics in relationships that are having a negative impact and build a plan that will help you to truly enjoy fulfilling relationships with those you care about.
(205) 742-9539 View (205) 742-9539
Photo of Susan Brunson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Brunson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moody, AL 35004  (Online Only)
I do Teletherapy (computer or phone) Only & serve all of Alabama and Texas. I specialize in helping people heal from trauma. I provide advanced therapy that works on deep issues with efficacy. Experienced with Boy Scout sexual abuse, priest/clergy sexual abuse, survivors of child trafficking, incest, physical & emotional abuse, neglect, domestic violence, chronic bullying. Natural disasters. Military PTSD, First Responders. Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Grief, PostPartum issues.
I do Teletherapy (computer or phone) Only & serve all of Alabama and Texas. I specialize in helping people heal from trauma. I provide advanced therapy that works on deep issues with efficacy. Experienced with Boy Scout sexual abuse, priest/clergy sexual abuse, survivors of child trafficking, incest, physical & emotional abuse, neglect, domestic violence, chronic bullying. Natural disasters. Military PTSD, First Responders. Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Grief, PostPartum issues.
(346) 201-5818 View (346) 201-5818
Photo of Fran Sumner Jones, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fran Sumner Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35233
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to collaborate with clients in an empathetic and non-judgmental space. My approch is to use a combination of clinical training and real world experience to help clients better connect with themselves and with others. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, self esteem, grief, relationship issues, perinatal issues, life transitions, and most extensively with people who have experienced trauma in their lives including childhood trauma, sexual assault, abusive relationships, and marginalized identities. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to access change.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to collaborate with clients in an empathetic and non-judgmental space. My approch is to use a combination of clinical training and real world experience to help clients better connect with themselves and with others. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, self esteem, grief, relationship issues, perinatal issues, life transitions, and most extensively with people who have experienced trauma in their lives including childhood trauma, sexual assault, abusive relationships, and marginalized identities. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to access change.
(205) 927-3074 View (205) 927-3074
Photo of Katie Marshall - Katie Marshall, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35473
I often help people heal from emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
Do you often feel anxious, afraid, or depressed and struggle to understand those feelings? Are you trying to heal from trauma and looking to regain control in your life? I empower my clients to feel safe and connected, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey toward less anxiety, more fulfilling relationships, and greater self-worth. If you find it difficult to describe your feelings and express your needs, therapy can give you insight into your emotions so you can manage ups and downs. I often help people develop skills to process their emotions, set boundaries, and unlearn patterns as they break the cycle of trauma.
I often help people heal from emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
Do you often feel anxious, afraid, or depressed and struggle to understand those feelings? Are you trying to heal from trauma and looking to regain control in your life? I empower my clients to feel safe and connected, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey toward less anxiety, more fulfilling relationships, and greater self-worth. If you find it difficult to describe your feelings and express your needs, therapy can give you insight into your emotions so you can manage ups and downs. I often help people develop skills to process their emotions, set boundaries, and unlearn patterns as they break the cycle of trauma.
(205) 898-6019 View (205) 898-6019
Photo of Kimberly Jenkins-Richardson - Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
(205) 691-4385 View (205) 691-4385
Photo of Heather M Gibbon, MSW, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather M Gibbon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harvest, AL 35749  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in meeting a person where they are and standing by them while they determine where they want to be and how to get there. I have worked with adoptive and birth families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience with issues related to anxiety, aging, chronic illness, family of origin, and trauma. I believe in building a person up by helping them recognize their strengths and inner resources. It is a privilege to witness and take part in a person's transformation. My goal is to assist however possible and celebrate every success along the path of change.
I believe in meeting a person where they are and standing by them while they determine where they want to be and how to get there. I have worked with adoptive and birth families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience with issues related to anxiety, aging, chronic illness, family of origin, and trauma. I believe in building a person up by helping them recognize their strengths and inner resources. It is a privilege to witness and take part in a person's transformation. My goal is to assist however possible and celebrate every success along the path of change.
(256) 472-2902 View (256) 472-2902
Photo of Leslie Wright, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Guntersville, AL 35976
Have you lost hope? Life experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed and hopeless. Maybe you have past trauma that keeps getting in the way. Sometimes it is hard to know where to turn. You just want to find happiness in this world and live your best life! Taking that first step can be difficult, but here you are!
Have you lost hope? Life experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed and hopeless. Maybe you have past trauma that keeps getting in the way. Sometimes it is hard to know where to turn. You just want to find happiness in this world and live your best life! Taking that first step can be difficult, but here you are!
(256) 500-2552 View (256) 500-2552
Photo of Jennifer Jordan, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Jordan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
This world is a broken place, and all of us are affected by that brokenness. Often, we seek to escape or cover the pain by pretending we don't hurt and looking to relationships and addictive behaviors to cope. As we avoid what's really happening inside, we can find ourselves struggling with depression, anxiety, and many other mental health issues. I look forward to working with clients who are hoping for a deeper level of healing and who are ready to do the courageous work of facing the truth about their story and how it has affected them.
This world is a broken place, and all of us are affected by that brokenness. Often, we seek to escape or cover the pain by pretending we don't hurt and looking to relationships and addictive behaviors to cope. As we avoid what's really happening inside, we can find ourselves struggling with depression, anxiety, and many other mental health issues. I look forward to working with clients who are hoping for a deeper level of healing and who are ready to do the courageous work of facing the truth about their story and how it has affected them.
(251) 220-0609 View (251) 220-0609
Photo of Ashlie Stegemann, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashlie Stegemann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36121
Are you ready to begin working towards your most fulfilling and satisfying life? You may feel stressed and overwhelmed with the responsibilities of everyday life. You may struggle with really connecting with others in relationships or you may be feeling you are inadequate in some way. I practice client-centered therapy and believe you are the expert in your own life. I would like to partner with you on your journey towards healing and self-actualization. You may have experienced hurts in your life that you would like to work through or understand better. You may benefit from assistance with stress management and healthy coping.
Are you ready to begin working towards your most fulfilling and satisfying life? You may feel stressed and overwhelmed with the responsibilities of everyday life. You may struggle with really connecting with others in relationships or you may be feeling you are inadequate in some way. I practice client-centered therapy and believe you are the expert in your own life. I would like to partner with you on your journey towards healing and self-actualization. You may have experienced hurts in your life that you would like to work through or understand better. You may benefit from assistance with stress management and healthy coping.
(334) 666-7488 View (334) 666-7488
Photo of Karen Black Bluestein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Black Bluestein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
My primary focus is with adults ages 18-75 who have experienced trauma including sexual, physical and emotional abuse as well as trauma that is relative to the particular clients personal experiences. I will also see older teenagers with trauma related issues. Other focus areas include treating adults ages 18-75 with eating and addiction issues, depression and anxiety, issues relating to divorce or family system challenges.
My primary focus is with adults ages 18-75 who have experienced trauma including sexual, physical and emotional abuse as well as trauma that is relative to the particular clients personal experiences. I will also see older teenagers with trauma related issues. Other focus areas include treating adults ages 18-75 with eating and addiction issues, depression and anxiety, issues relating to divorce or family system challenges.
(205) 502-2587 View (205) 502-2587
Photo of Kylie Hathaway - Frontline Therapy LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Frontline Therapy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, AL 36830
Trauma creates change you do not choose, healing is about creating change you do choose - Rosenthal. Frontline Therapy was born out of a desire to provide accessible, evidence-based treatments, to Auburn's local veterans and emergency responders; with the combined goal of serving anyone who has experienced a trauma. Ever since we opened our doors in the beginning of 2020, we have been committed to excellence because we believe that individuals who have experienced trauma, and those that work on the frontlines deserve 'front of the line' treatment. We also treat depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and relational distress.
Trauma creates change you do not choose, healing is about creating change you do choose - Rosenthal. Frontline Therapy was born out of a desire to provide accessible, evidence-based treatments, to Auburn's local veterans and emergency responders; with the combined goal of serving anyone who has experienced a trauma. Ever since we opened our doors in the beginning of 2020, we have been committed to excellence because we believe that individuals who have experienced trauma, and those that work on the frontlines deserve 'front of the line' treatment. We also treat depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and relational distress.
(334) 310-4183 View (334) 310-4183
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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.