Photo of Erin Guffey, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Guffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed clinician who has specialized experience working with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse/ assault and domestic violence.
Change is sometimes overwhelming, but continuing in familiar unhealthy patterns are likely preventing you from living the best version of yourself. My hope is to walk along beside you as you identify some of your unhealthy patterns; help you establish realistic goals; and implement healthy change in a way that doesn’t feel daunting. I have seven years experience working with individuals from all backgrounds with varying concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, strained family dynamics, and unhealthy boundaries.
I am a trauma informed clinician who has specialized experience working with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse/ assault and domestic violence.
Change is sometimes overwhelming, but continuing in familiar unhealthy patterns are likely preventing you from living the best version of yourself. My hope is to walk along beside you as you identify some of your unhealthy patterns; help you establish realistic goals; and implement healthy change in a way that doesn’t feel daunting. I have seven years experience working with individuals from all backgrounds with varying concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, strained family dynamics, and unhealthy boundaries.
(205) 270-5565 View (205) 270-5565
Photo of Kellie M Turchetta, MSW, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kellie M Turchetta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
As certified trauma and grief specialist, I have over fifteen years experience working with families and children, especially in cases involving sexual abuse.
As our population has become increasingly diverse, so have the demands for individualized and differentiated treatments. Rather than treating disorders generally, I apply research driven techniques to create treatment plans designed around each individual's needs. I believe in an eclectic approach to therapy, with a strong emphasis on solution focused and cognitive behavioral strategies to help adolescents, adults, and families work through life's challenges. Through evidence based treatment and empirically based treatment strategies, I create a collaborative and trusting environment for children and adolescents dealing with trauma.
As certified trauma and grief specialist, I have over fifteen years experience working with families and children, especially in cases involving sexual abuse.
As our population has become increasingly diverse, so have the demands for individualized and differentiated treatments. Rather than treating disorders generally, I apply research driven techniques to create treatment plans designed around each individual's needs. I believe in an eclectic approach to therapy, with a strong emphasis on solution focused and cognitive behavioral strategies to help adolescents, adults, and families work through life's challenges. Through evidence based treatment and empirically based treatment strategies, I create a collaborative and trusting environment for children and adolescents dealing with trauma.
(256) 297-2571 View (256) 297-2571
Photo of Carrie L Hubbard, MS, ALC, Counselor
Carrie L Hubbard
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
My clinical experience includes but is not limited to trauma, anger management, depression, anxiety, sexual assault, self-esteem, grief and substance abuse prevention.
Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one, but it is the first step toward change. I believe that everyone is capable of change and can learn new thoughts and behavior toward a more fulfilling life. At The Serenity Counseling Center LLC, I partner with you to work through some of the challenges faced in your day to day life. I am committed to helping you increase self awareness, discover the strength to facilitate change and feel more empowered.
My clinical experience includes but is not limited to trauma, anger management, depression, anxiety, sexual assault, self-esteem, grief and substance abuse prevention.
Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one, but it is the first step toward change. I believe that everyone is capable of change and can learn new thoughts and behavior toward a more fulfilling life. At The Serenity Counseling Center LLC, I partner with you to work through some of the challenges faced in your day to day life. I am committed to helping you increase self awareness, discover the strength to facilitate change and feel more empowered.
(251) 244-4691 View (251) 244-4691
Photo of Amanda McKinnon - 7th Wellness, LPC, Counselor
7th Wellness
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Calera, AL 35040
Trauma (including sexual abuse, physical abuse, mental/emotional abuse, or whatever has influenced/changed a person's outlook on life), SUD (substance use disorder treatment), for the person using and those who love that person, family counseling, group counseling, anxiety, depression, coping skills, etc.
I have years of experience in trauma, anxiety, depression, family issues and substance use disorders. I am open to any client - regardless of religious, sexual, or other preference. I believe in a judgment-free, safe space for clients to be themselves. Mental health is as important as physical health. Free consultations.
Trauma (including sexual abuse, physical abuse, mental/emotional abuse, or whatever has influenced/changed a person's outlook on life), SUD (substance use disorder treatment), for the person using and those who love that person, family counseling, group counseling, anxiety, depression, coping skills, etc.
I have years of experience in trauma, anxiety, depression, family issues and substance use disorders. I am open to any client - regardless of religious, sexual, or other preference. I believe in a judgment-free, safe space for clients to be themselves. Mental health is as important as physical health. Free consultations.
(205) 797-0060 View (205) 797-0060
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 Susan C Kirkland - Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC, M Ed, ALC, Counselor
Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC
Counselor, M Ed, ALC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
I have over 15 years of experience working with clients concerning: ADHD/ADD Assessments, PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Conflict Resolution, Couples and Family Conflict, Depression, Divorce, Grief, Goal Setting, Stress Management, Parenting Skills Development, Prenatal and Postpartum Depression and Physical and Sexual Abuse.
Have you felt that waking up every morning has become difficult? The day to day tasks appear to be mountains that you must climb. You do not have to go through this alone. Our services are designed to meet the various mental health needs of adolescents, young adults/adults and couples as you navigate the trials of life. Take the first step by taking care of you. Here at Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services, you will be with someone that will allow you to breathe and assist you by using therapeutic strategies to improve your mental health and who will be with you when those conversations become difficult but necessary.
I have over 15 years of experience working with clients concerning: ADHD/ADD Assessments, PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Conflict Resolution, Couples and Family Conflict, Depression, Divorce, Grief, Goal Setting, Stress Management, Parenting Skills Development, Prenatal and Postpartum Depression and Physical and Sexual Abuse.
Have you felt that waking up every morning has become difficult? The day to day tasks appear to be mountains that you must climb. You do not have to go through this alone. Our services are designed to meet the various mental health needs of adolescents, young adults/adults and couples as you navigate the trials of life. Take the first step by taking care of you. Here at Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services, you will be with someone that will allow you to breathe and assist you by using therapeutic strategies to improve your mental health and who will be with you when those conversations become difficult but necessary.
(205) 883-2466 View (205) 883-2466
Photo of Cori C Ray, MA, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Cori C Ray
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
My experience includes but is not limited to trauma recovery, marriage and family, addiction, anxiety and depression, grief work, managing a chronic illness and sexual abuse recovery.
I work with children, adolescence and adults in individual or family counseling. My desire is to give each client a safe place to call his / her own. A space free of judgment that fosters growth and empowerment. My goal is equip each client with the tools needed to navigate life’s journey leading to freedom and wholeness.
My experience includes but is not limited to trauma recovery, marriage and family, addiction, anxiety and depression, grief work, managing a chronic illness and sexual abuse recovery.
I work with children, adolescence and adults in individual or family counseling. My desire is to give each client a safe place to call his / her own. A space free of judgment that fosters growth and empowerment. My goal is equip each client with the tools needed to navigate life’s journey leading to freedom and wholeness.
(205) 900-3623 View (205) 900-3623
Photo of Hannah Banach, EdS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Banach
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830
I have 5+ years experience with children, teens, adults, and families who have experienced trauma such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, grief, community violence, pregnancy related trauma, physical abuse or neglect, and survivors of violent crimes.
My heartbeat has always been towards the hurting. I feel that my calling in life is to come alongside people in their darkest seasons of life to help them find clarity, peace, and strength. I have a passion for working with individuals of all ages who seek emotional healing and freedom. I am also particularly drawn to children, marriages, and families and excel in treating couples and families as a whole. If you feel lost, broken, confused, or numb, I want to assure you there is hope. I have been in the darkness before and there is a way out. I would be honored to help you find it.
I have 5+ years experience with children, teens, adults, and families who have experienced trauma such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, grief, community violence, pregnancy related trauma, physical abuse or neglect, and survivors of violent crimes.
My heartbeat has always been towards the hurting. I feel that my calling in life is to come alongside people in their darkest seasons of life to help them find clarity, peace, and strength. I have a passion for working with individuals of all ages who seek emotional healing and freedom. I am also particularly drawn to children, marriages, and families and excel in treating couples and families as a whole. If you feel lost, broken, confused, or numb, I want to assure you there is hope. I have been in the darkness before and there is a way out. I would be honored to help you find it.
(334) 640-6673 View (334) 640-6673
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 Karen G. Marullo - Karen Marullo, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Marullo, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
I am an individual and family therapist with over 30 years of experience in the field. I work with adults experiencing problems with depression, anxiety, marital and relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder. I utilize integrative therapies that emphasize cognitive behavioral methods and mindfulness strategies. My mission is to assist individuals in gaining insight about pains of the past, develop clearer views of these problems and learn to incorporate more effective coping skills that lead to a healthier and more balanced life.
I am an individual and family therapist with over 30 years of experience in the field. I work with adults experiencing problems with depression, anxiety, marital and relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder. I utilize integrative therapies that emphasize cognitive behavioral methods and mindfulness strategies. My mission is to assist individuals in gaining insight about pains of the past, develop clearer views of these problems and learn to incorporate more effective coping skills that lead to a healthier and more balanced life.
(205) 402-8540 View (205) 402-8540
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 Timothy Birt - Counseling and Therapy Services, MS, LMFT, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling and Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830
Couples counseling, marriage and family therapy, couples communication, parenting, child and adolescent behavioral problems, depression, trauma in childhood (child sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect), intimacy & sexuality issues, addictive/compulsive behavior, faith-transitions, substance abuse, children/adults with ADHD, divorce & co-parenting, individuals with disabilities, grief, and mental illness.
Therapy works! Healing begins. Your relationships are transformed. Your children / adolescents can behave and thrive. You can find purpose together. Your life direction can become clear. You can have your life back! Counseling and Therapy Services can help you on your road to healing, recovery, and happiness.
Couples counseling, marriage and family therapy, couples communication, parenting, child and adolescent behavioral problems, depression, trauma in childhood (child sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect), intimacy & sexuality issues, addictive/compulsive behavior, faith-transitions, substance abuse, children/adults with ADHD, divorce & co-parenting, individuals with disabilities, grief, and mental illness.
Therapy works! Healing begins. Your relationships are transformed. Your children / adolescents can behave and thrive. You can find purpose together. Your life direction can become clear. You can have your life back! Counseling and Therapy Services can help you on your road to healing, recovery, and happiness.
(334) 239-4707 View (334) 239-4707
Photo of Jay Pesek, MEd, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Pesek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Helena, AL 35080
My graduate training dealt with adolescent male patients with behavioral problems, emotional intelligence deficiencies, sexual abuse history and suicidal gestures and ideations.
We treat children, adolescents and adults with behavioral issues, mood disorders, developmental and personality disorders. I work with parents to develop behavioral plans for their homes and families to supplement the therapy done with their children/adolescents in my office.
My graduate training dealt with adolescent male patients with behavioral problems, emotional intelligence deficiencies, sexual abuse history and suicidal gestures and ideations.
We treat children, adolescents and adults with behavioral issues, mood disorders, developmental and personality disorders. I work with parents to develop behavioral plans for their homes and families to supplement the therapy done with their children/adolescents in my office.
(205) 636-8176 View (205) 636-8176
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 Kelley Massengale, LCSW, BACS, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Massengale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vestavia, AL 35242  (Online Only)
I provide treatment for relationships, infidelity, low libido, mismatched desire, issues of gender or sexual orientation, and work with sexual abuse or assault survivors to name a few.
As a psychotherapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I treat a wide range of sexual, relationship and intimacy issues. I work with individuals and couples. Sex is one of the deepest and most powerful experiences we have and it can also be a source of great stress and shame when things do not go as smoothly as we would like. Cultural messages and biases can further compound these issues. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment for individuals or couples to discuss these issues.
I provide treatment for relationships, infidelity, low libido, mismatched desire, issues of gender or sexual orientation, and work with sexual abuse or assault survivors to name a few.
As a psychotherapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I treat a wide range of sexual, relationship and intimacy issues. I work with individuals and couples. Sex is one of the deepest and most powerful experiences we have and it can also be a source of great stress and shame when things do not go as smoothly as we would like. Cultural messages and biases can further compound these issues. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment for individuals or couples to discuss these issues.
(205) 964-9561 View (205) 964-9561
Photo of Vanessa Jackson, LMSW, -C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, -C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dothan, AL 36303  (Online Only)
Behavioral Health Consultants, LLC seeks to improve day-to-day functioning by addressing psychosocial barriers and specific dynamics that necessitate therapeutic intervention.Vanessa has worked as a clinical therapist addressing specialty areas to include crisis intervention, trauma focused intervention, risk assessment and family skill building. For the past 10 years she's worked with survivors of sexual abuse as well as individuals overcoming adverse childhood experiences. She has a significant amount of clinical experience working with individuals battling depression, anxiety and adjustment disorders.
Behavioral Health Consultants, LLC seeks to improve day-to-day functioning by addressing psychosocial barriers and specific dynamics that necessitate therapeutic intervention.Vanessa has worked as a clinical therapist addressing specialty areas to include crisis intervention, trauma focused intervention, risk assessment and family skill building. For the past 10 years she's worked with survivors of sexual abuse as well as individuals overcoming adverse childhood experiences. She has a significant amount of clinical experience working with individuals battling depression, anxiety and adjustment disorders.
(734) 328-0235 View (734) 328-0235
Photo of Manda Conerly - The Anchor Clinic - Group Practice, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Anchor Clinic - Group Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
The Anchor Clinic is home to three clinicians with experience in truly meeting our patients where they are, listening to where they want to go, and supporting, encouraging, and empowering them to get there. Whether you are struggling with the impact of all that's happening in today's world, finding yourself lost amongst your day to day obligations, struggling with depression and anxiety, trying to find a means of survival after abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking, or trauma in general, or dealing with emotional landmines around sexuality, faith, or focus - we're here to be the lighthouse that guides you back to shore.
The Anchor Clinic is home to three clinicians with experience in truly meeting our patients where they are, listening to where they want to go, and supporting, encouraging, and empowering them to get there. Whether you are struggling with the impact of all that's happening in today's world, finding yourself lost amongst your day to day obligations, struggling with depression and anxiety, trying to find a means of survival after abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking, or trauma in general, or dealing with emotional landmines around sexuality, faith, or focus - we're here to be the lighthouse that guides you back to shore.
(769) 757-0191 View (769) 757-0191
Photo of Melanie DeWerff, LPC, MHSP, LPCC, CPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melanie DeWerff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LPCC, CPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mentone, AL 35984
My experience covers trauma, sexual abuse victims, depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic abuse victims, anger management, dysfunctional family systems, suicide, and negative core beliefs.
Eclectic, spiritually bent, and sacredly genuine. I utilize creativity and work from an embodied healing approach. I will lovingly challenge you; while lovingly supporting you. I want to help you connect to, and operate from, your True Self. Out of the box thinker; life does not fit in a box; therefore, therapy does not fit in a box. Connect to what a fulfilled life looks like for you; and, then how to live that life. Shedding of old patterns and transition into your genuine self. Also, offer energy work.
My experience covers trauma, sexual abuse victims, depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic abuse victims, anger management, dysfunctional family systems, suicide, and negative core beliefs.
Eclectic, spiritually bent, and sacredly genuine. I utilize creativity and work from an embodied healing approach. I will lovingly challenge you; while lovingly supporting you. I want to help you connect to, and operate from, your True Self. Out of the box thinker; life does not fit in a box; therefore, therapy does not fit in a box. Connect to what a fulfilled life looks like for you; and, then how to live that life. Shedding of old patterns and transition into your genuine self. Also, offer energy work.
(865) 346-2935 View (865) 346-2935
Photo of Kirsten Hill - Fluidity Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fluidity Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
We, as human beings, crave connection and intimacy in our lives. We want to be seen, understood, and appreciated in our relationships with ourselves, the people we love, and the people who love us. Sex and sexuality are often at the root of these connections. Our perceptions of sex and sexuality are fluid and naturally change as we go through life. Communication surrounding consent, affection, sexuality, and intimacy is often avoided due to the taboo nature of sex. At Fluidity Counseling, we strive to provide a safe place to navigate through the shame and stigma that can accompany these conversations.
We, as human beings, crave connection and intimacy in our lives. We want to be seen, understood, and appreciated in our relationships with ourselves, the people we love, and the people who love us. Sex and sexuality are often at the root of these connections. Our perceptions of sex and sexuality are fluid and naturally change as we go through life. Communication surrounding consent, affection, sexuality, and intimacy is often avoided due to the taboo nature of sex. At Fluidity Counseling, we strive to provide a safe place to navigate through the shame and stigma that can accompany these conversations.
(205) 984-2932 View (205) 984-2932
Photo of Dr. Lynn Buckhalter Suggs, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Lynn Buckhalter Suggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dothan, AL 36301
We are what and who we are primarily because of where we come from and from everything we have ever experienced. That provides us with both positive and negative qualities about ourselves. A lot of times, we want to remain victims of our past. But we must remember that no matter where we have been, and no matter what we have experienced, we can overcome and become a better person. It's not easy. It's not pretty. But it is worth it! Here at PCCS, we believe in you and want to help you believe in yourself.
We are what and who we are primarily because of where we come from and from everything we have ever experienced. That provides us with both positive and negative qualities about ourselves. A lot of times, we want to remain victims of our past. But we must remember that no matter where we have been, and no matter what we have experienced, we can overcome and become a better person. It's not easy. It's not pretty. But it is worth it! Here at PCCS, we believe in you and want to help you believe in yourself.
(334) 370-9838 View (334) 370-9838
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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.