Photo of Alena Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
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 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 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 Mona Ochoa-Horshok, M.S., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Mona Ochoa-Horshok, M.S., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I have experience working with adolescents with severe emotional and/or behavioral problems, including substance abuse, with both perpetrators and victims of domestic violence, and with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
With 30 years of experience in the mental health field, I am equipped to work with people from all walks of life with a large variety of issues. Whether you are dealing with relationship problems, panic and/or anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, low self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual identity issues, chronic pain or spiritual or existential questions, or just want to feel more fulfilled and self-aware, I would love to work with you to help you achieve a better quality of life and a happier state of being.
I have experience working with adolescents with severe emotional and/or behavioral problems, including substance abuse, with both perpetrators and victims of domestic violence, and with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
With 30 years of experience in the mental health field, I am equipped to work with people from all walks of life with a large variety of issues. Whether you are dealing with relationship problems, panic and/or anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, low self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual identity issues, chronic pain or spiritual or existential questions, or just want to feel more fulfilled and self-aware, I would love to work with you to help you achieve a better quality of life and a happier state of being.
(205) 588-6178 View (205) 588-6178
Photo of Laura H Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Laura H Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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
K. Shea Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Fairhope, AL 36532
​Though my area of specialization have been in trauma recovery and play therapy with children, teens, and adults, I also have had successful experience working with the following, in no particular order: Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sensory Processing Disorders, ADD/ ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Grief/ Loss, Life Transitions, Behavior Management, Parenting Concerns, Hoarding, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Sessions are conducted indiividually, in family sessions, and also as couples.
​Though my area of specialization have been in trauma recovery and play therapy with children, teens, and adults, I also have had successful experience working with the following, in no particular order: Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sensory Processing Disorders, ADD/ ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Grief/ Loss, Life Transitions, Behavior Management, Parenting Concerns, Hoarding, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Sessions are conducted indiividually, in family sessions, and also as couples.
(251) 270-2296 x1 View (251) 270-2296 x1
Photo of Fluidity Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
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 Heather M Gibbon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Heather M Gibbon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harvest, AL 35749
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 Compass Rose Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Compass Rose Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LICSW-S, PIP
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
(205) 751-2970 View (205) 751-2970
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of Libby Fitzpatrick, Counselor in Alabama
Libby Fitzpatrick
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36109
I believe that within each of us is the desire to thrive, love, connect, and succeed in life! At times it can be overwhelming to surmount the difficulties and stress of life. You do not have to do it alone! I work with my clients to develop a plan that fits their personality, so that you can reach your life goals.
I believe that within each of us is the desire to thrive, love, connect, and succeed in life! At times it can be overwhelming to surmount the difficulties and stress of life. You do not have to do it alone! I work with my clients to develop a plan that fits their personality, so that you can reach your life goals.
(334) 603-8983 View (334) 603-8983
Tom McLure Red Mountain Counseling Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAEd, MA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
(205) 618-8840 View (205) 618-8840
Photo of Alabama Professional Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Alabama Professional Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216  (Online Only)
Welcome! Evening appointments available now. Ms. Miller provides counseling to adults, couples and families. She is compassionate, cares about your healing process and wants to see you succeed. Using a person-centered approach incorporating various techniques she focuses on your individual needs and works with you to both develop and achieve your goals.
Welcome! Evening appointments available now. Ms. Miller provides counseling to adults, couples and families. She is compassionate, cares about your healing process and wants to see you succeed. Using a person-centered approach incorporating various techniques she focuses on your individual needs and works with you to both develop and achieve your goals.
(205) 619-6871 View (205) 619-6871
Photo of Zachary Aaron Dembo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Zachary Aaron Dembo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
“Am I broken?” This is a question that many of us ask ourselves when our lives become filled with suffering. It often arises after an experience leaves us struggling to return to normal or causes chaos to become our new normal. It's something considered after comparing ourselves to the people around us, friends, family, colleagues and seeing our differences. It is something we wonder when unending worry robs our life of joy or when overwhelming sadness and mental fog obscure the possibility of anything better. In actuality we do not break and within our misery we will find the tools needed to build ourselves a life worth living.
“Am I broken?” This is a question that many of us ask ourselves when our lives become filled with suffering. It often arises after an experience leaves us struggling to return to normal or causes chaos to become our new normal. It's something considered after comparing ourselves to the people around us, friends, family, colleagues and seeing our differences. It is something we wonder when unending worry robs our life of joy or when overwhelming sadness and mental fog obscure the possibility of anything better. In actuality we do not break and within our misery we will find the tools needed to build ourselves a life worth living.
(205) 831-3921 View (205) 831-3921
Photo of Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist, Counselor in Alabama
Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist
Counselor, MEd, LPC, ABS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
(205) 619-1526 View (205) 619-1526
Photo of Andrea Gregg Whitten, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Andrea Gregg Whitten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35473
The counseling room is a unique space where you can focus exclusively on you, your needs, and your goals. My goal as your counselor is to hold space for you to heal from emotional wounds from your past and develop plans to achieve your future goals. I have spent my career working with individuals with a history of trauma, abuse, and neglect. I am passionate about supporting clients who have experienced trauma, identity and LGBTQ+ issues, and anxiety. I take a holistic approach to help clients better understand the intersection of their mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
The counseling room is a unique space where you can focus exclusively on you, your needs, and your goals. My goal as your counselor is to hold space for you to heal from emotional wounds from your past and develop plans to achieve your future goals. I have spent my career working with individuals with a history of trauma, abuse, and neglect. I am passionate about supporting clients who have experienced trauma, identity and LGBTQ+ issues, and anxiety. I take a holistic approach to help clients better understand the intersection of their mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
(938) 253-2582 View (938) 253-2582
Photo of Collins Counseling Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Collins Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36606
For an appointment call (251) 473-3410. Fifteen licensed counselors, with offices in Mobile & Fairhope, provide specialized treatment for individuals and families impacted by life problems, relationship stress, mental health issues, substance abuse problems, and abuse. We strive to help people in a safe, private, non-judgmental place to work through issues & ultimately find some peace and happiness in life. Our group includes experts in fields of sex therapy, grief counseling, addiction problems and LGBTQ needs.
For an appointment call (251) 473-3410. Fifteen licensed counselors, with offices in Mobile & Fairhope, provide specialized treatment for individuals and families impacted by life problems, relationship stress, mental health issues, substance abuse problems, and abuse. We strive to help people in a safe, private, non-judgmental place to work through issues & ultimately find some peace and happiness in life. Our group includes experts in fields of sex therapy, grief counseling, addiction problems and LGBTQ needs.
(251) 235-5448 View (251) 235-5448
Susan Walker Ratliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Susan W. Ratliff LPC Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Athens University in Behavioral Science, and a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from A&M University. Susan has been in practice in North Alabama for the past 25 years, with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She has served a variety of populations, and has led individual, group, marital, and family therapy sessions. She currently works with children, adolescents and adults in therapy. Susan’s main passion in work is to improve individuals, and families lives by assisting in their development.
Susan W. Ratliff LPC Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Athens University in Behavioral Science, and a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from A&M University. Susan has been in practice in North Alabama for the past 25 years, with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She has served a variety of populations, and has led individual, group, marital, and family therapy sessions. She currently works with children, adolescents and adults in therapy. Susan’s main passion in work is to improve individuals, and families lives by assisting in their development.
(256) 900-8350 View (256) 900-8350
Burke Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S, AADC
Verified Verified
Vestavia, AL 35243
"Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity, it is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity." -Brene Brown. Life can be very difficult, and most of us find ourselves feeling stuck at one point or another. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, or feel a general sense of unworthiness, please know that you are not alone and there is help.
"Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity, it is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity." -Brene Brown. Life can be very difficult, and most of us find ourselves feeling stuck at one point or another. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, or feel a general sense of unworthiness, please know that you are not alone and there is help.
(205) 964-9194 View (205) 964-9194
Photo of Melissa Werner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Melissa Werner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35216
Congratulations on wanting to make changes to enhance the quality of your life! I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a knowledgeable advocate supporting us. I believe effective psychotherapy is often about both uncovering how we acquired the (literal or psychological) obstacles to our best paths and about the process of (emotional, cognitive and/or behavioral) skills' acquisition to remove those blocks. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
Congratulations on wanting to make changes to enhance the quality of your life! I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a knowledgeable advocate supporting us. I believe effective psychotherapy is often about both uncovering how we acquired the (literal or psychological) obstacles to our best paths and about the process of (emotional, cognitive and/or behavioral) skills' acquisition to remove those blocks. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
(205) 690-5551 View (205) 690-5551
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.