Photo of Insight Therapeutic Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Insight Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35243
Frazier is a certified Family Trauma Professional specializing in the areas of trauma and sexual abuse in children, adolescents and adults.
Insight Therapeutic Services, LLC is a group of 14 Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each with certifications in a variety of specialty areas serving children and adults. Our team strives to match the needs of your family with a therapist knowledgeable and skilled in your area of need. Our therapists are skilled in the areas of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and addictions. Each therapist holds a certification in their area of expertise. We are currently accepting new clients for Alabaster and Birmingham locations. Telehealth offered as well.
Frazier is a certified Family Trauma Professional specializing in the areas of trauma and sexual abuse in children, adolescents and adults.
Insight Therapeutic Services, LLC is a group of 14 Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each with certifications in a variety of specialty areas serving children and adults. Our team strives to match the needs of your family with a therapist knowledgeable and skilled in your area of need. Our therapists are skilled in the areas of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and addictions. Each therapist holds a certification in their area of expertise. We are currently accepting new clients for Alabaster and Birmingham locations. Telehealth offered as well.
(205) 374-9859 View (205) 374-9859
Photo of Ashley Carden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Ashley Carden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 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 Juliet Wise, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Juliet Wise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-, Trained
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
Uncertain, unplanned and unwanted experiences often produce feelings of abandonment, guilt, self-consciousness, and loneliness. We often feel tarnished, cheated and robbed. These experiences are sometimes an unfortunate a part of our journey. However, the secret lies in you, I am simply here to help you unveil it. As a therapist, I specialize in challenging you to begin the journey of becoming the best you. I am a compassionate but direct therapist providing a safe environment for women seeking support with sexual abuse and assault, depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and emotional regulation.
Uncertain, unplanned and unwanted experiences often produce feelings of abandonment, guilt, self-consciousness, and loneliness. We often feel tarnished, cheated and robbed. These experiences are sometimes an unfortunate a part of our journey. However, the secret lies in you, I am simply here to help you unveil it. As a therapist, I specialize in challenging you to begin the journey of becoming the best you. I am a compassionate but direct therapist providing a safe environment for women seeking support with sexual abuse and assault, depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and emotional regulation.
(256) 645-8330 View (256) 645-8330
Photo of Caela Rhea, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
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, Counselor in Alabama
Kayla Lynn Kent
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35222
Waitlist for new clients
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 Kellie M Turchetta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
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 Joann Pickett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Joann Pickett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Jasper, AL 35504
Waitlist for new clients
Has life been feeling extremely difficult? Are you suffering from persistent negative self-talk and needing help to cope? I applaud you for taking steps to reach out for help. I have worked with individuals who struggled with a wide range of issues. I view therapy as a collaborative and interactive process striving for positive changes in troubled areas. I provide a safe, non-judgmental place where you can be heard and work towards the path of your healing and personal growth. My expertise includes sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, self-harm, addiction, psychosis, abandonment and the obstacles children face from foster care.
Has life been feeling extremely difficult? Are you suffering from persistent negative self-talk and needing help to cope? I applaud you for taking steps to reach out for help. I have worked with individuals who struggled with a wide range of issues. I view therapy as a collaborative and interactive process striving for positive changes in troubled areas. I provide a safe, non-judgmental place where you can be heard and work towards the path of your healing and personal growth. My expertise includes sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, self-harm, addiction, psychosis, abandonment and the obstacles children face from foster care.
(205) 927-6243 View (205) 927-6243
Photo of Lauren Worth Poiroux, Counselor in Alabama
Lauren Worth Poiroux
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
Counseling to me is all about learning how to empower yourself to weather the ups and downs in life. My goal is to build a relationship with you that allows the space to process hardships and traumatic experiences that you have faced and might be facing still. I can help with a wide array of problems ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. My specialty and passion is trauma work. I specialize in helping people of all ages who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of violence.
Counseling to me is all about learning how to empower yourself to weather the ups and downs in life. My goal is to build a relationship with you that allows the space to process hardships and traumatic experiences that you have faced and might be facing still. I can help with a wide array of problems ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. My specialty and passion is trauma work. I specialize in helping people of all ages who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of violence.
(251) 699-3657 View (251) 699-3657
Photo of Erin Guffey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
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 Rhiannon Reese, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Rhiannon Reese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35222
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with issues such as grief and loss, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, sexual identity, and gender expression.
I believe that connection is the heart of counseling. My goal is to create a space where clients can feel safe being vulnerable. I want to empower my clients to be their truest, most genuine self while equipping them with the tools they need to make lasting positive change in their life.
I have experience working with issues such as grief and loss, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, sexual identity, and gender expression.
I believe that connection is the heart of counseling. My goal is to create a space where clients can feel safe being vulnerable. I want to empower my clients to be their truest, most genuine self while equipping them with the tools they need to make lasting positive change in their life.
(205) 973-5863 View (205) 973-5863
Photo of Jane Allgood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Jane Allgood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
I work with a variety of issues, which include new parent mood disorders and anxiety disorders, depression, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, military sexual trauma, and life transitions.
Are you going through a rough time and need help but are not sure where to turn? Are you pregnant or a new parent and feeling anxious or depressed? Together, we can help you to feel better and receive the help you need to get on track in your life. My belief is in person-centered and compassionate care and I use evidence-based practices that we know work. I will work with you to develop your goals for therapy and to decide what works best for you. During the COVID-19 epidemic, I am accepting new clients and I do offer telemedicine appointments. Call today if you are feeling stressed or anxious during this difficult time
I work with a variety of issues, which include new parent mood disorders and anxiety disorders, depression, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, military sexual trauma, and life transitions.
Are you going through a rough time and need help but are not sure where to turn? Are you pregnant or a new parent and feeling anxious or depressed? Together, we can help you to feel better and receive the help you need to get on track in your life. My belief is in person-centered and compassionate care and I use evidence-based practices that we know work. I will work with you to develop your goals for therapy and to decide what works best for you. During the COVID-19 epidemic, I am accepting new clients and I do offer telemedicine appointments. Call today if you are feeling stressed or anxious during this difficult time
(938) 222-3757 View (938) 222-3757
Photo of Counseling and Therapy Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
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 Jessica McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Jessica McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
I have extensive experience working in trauma recovery with victims of crime, sexual assault and domestic abuse.
Life can be a bumpy road. The path we take can lead us to happiness or to despair. Making a wrong turn, not knowing which way to go or reaching what seems like a dead end is not the end of your journey. Sometimes we all need help getting to where we want to be. As a therapist, I help make your journey a more positive one. Grief or trauma can hinder you from moving forward. The loss of a loved one, job, relationship, pregnancy or even your life before illness or change can cause feelings of grief. Counseling helps work through the pain of your trauma or loss to experience joy again. The life you want is within reach.
I have extensive experience working in trauma recovery with victims of crime, sexual assault and domestic abuse.
Life can be a bumpy road. The path we take can lead us to happiness or to despair. Making a wrong turn, not knowing which way to go or reaching what seems like a dead end is not the end of your journey. Sometimes we all need help getting to where we want to be. As a therapist, I help make your journey a more positive one. Grief or trauma can hinder you from moving forward. The loss of a loved one, job, relationship, pregnancy or even your life before illness or change can cause feelings of grief. Counseling helps work through the pain of your trauma or loss to experience joy again. The life you want is within reach.
(251) 302-1693 View (251) 302-1693
Photo of Tammi Ellis, Counselor in Alabama
Tammi Ellis
Counselor, MEd, ALC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36104
I've had the opportunity to work with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and dating violence.
Greetings! I'm Tammi Ellis, a mental health professional, owner of Mental Mindset Counseling, LLC. l have a background of 17 years in education and mental health services in schools; where I've worked with all age groups and their families, recent work in domestic violence, sexual assault, and aiding in healing from trauma; both past and present. I specialize in working with a selective amount of strategies to help assist in a healing journey. I enjoy working with individuals that are on a journey of change and embracing newness.
I've had the opportunity to work with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and dating violence.
Greetings! I'm Tammi Ellis, a mental health professional, owner of Mental Mindset Counseling, LLC. l have a background of 17 years in education and mental health services in schools; where I've worked with all age groups and their families, recent work in domestic violence, sexual assault, and aiding in healing from trauma; both past and present. I specialize in working with a selective amount of strategies to help assist in a healing journey. I enjoy working with individuals that are on a journey of change and embracing newness.
(334) 489-1721 View (334) 489-1721
Photo of Jay Pesek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Jay Pesek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
18 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 Jessica Hendrix, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Jessica Hendrix
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
I am also well versed in the issues of domestic violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, trauma, and general life stressors.
Life can deal all of us some challenging times, I'm here to help on that journey. My goal is to help you better understand, resolve and find solutions to the challenges and/or trauma in your life. I have an active and transparent approach. I respect that you are the expert in your own experiences, and aim to work collaboratively to help you achieve your goals.
I am also well versed in the issues of domestic violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, trauma, and general life stressors.
Life can deal all of us some challenging times, I'm here to help on that journey. My goal is to help you better understand, resolve and find solutions to the challenges and/or trauma in your life. I have an active and transparent approach. I respect that you are the expert in your own experiences, and aim to work collaboratively to help you achieve your goals.
(205) 588-7499 View (205) 588-7499
Photo of Tela Sanders, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Tela Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36108  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked primarily with adults and children who have survived trauma, including but not limited to sexual assault, family abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking. I use various methods of self-expression, including play, art, creative writing, etc., to aid each client in therapeutic processing. I encourage clients to create goals that are specific to their concerns/needs. I utilize a holistic counseling approach that emphasizes the mind, body, and spirit. It is my objective to motivate the client to look beyond mental/emotional angst and explore the needs of their entire being.
I have worked primarily with adults and children who have survived trauma, including but not limited to sexual assault, family abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking. I use various methods of self-expression, including play, art, creative writing, etc., to aid each client in therapeutic processing. I encourage clients to create goals that are specific to their concerns/needs. I utilize a holistic counseling approach that emphasizes the mind, body, and spirit. It is my objective to motivate the client to look beyond mental/emotional angst and explore the needs of their entire being.
(334) 454-2114 View (334) 454-2114
Photo of Fran Sumner Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
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 Cecelia A Watts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Cecelia A Watts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I see adults, adolescents, pre-teens, couples and families who come to counseling with a variety of issues they want to explore. Some of these areas of concern include depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, relationships, and grief. Some clients may want to reduce or eliminate negative effects of the issues they face. Others may want to change unhealthy habits or create healthier ones. And other clients may want to recover from trauma or abuse and find more positive ways of coping.
I see adults, adolescents, pre-teens, couples and families who come to counseling with a variety of issues they want to explore. Some of these areas of concern include depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, relationships, and grief. Some clients may want to reduce or eliminate negative effects of the issues they face. Others may want to change unhealthy habits or create healthier ones. And other clients may want to recover from trauma or abuse and find more positive ways of coping.
(205) 883-9517 View (205) 883-9517
Photo of Katy Powell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
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

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.