Photo of Sam Hardwig - Psychological Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Sam Hardwig - Psychological Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
My experience includes working with individuals impacted by and perpetrators of sexual abuse.
As a musician first, I was drawn to this work as a therapist for many reasons. In both roles, you must be genuine and intentional to be effective, and you must trust the process without getting side tracked by difficulty or unexpected road blocks. You must feel safe enough with those around you to take risks, and be humble so you can continue to learn. As a therapist, I value having the role of facilitating a safe space for healing and the journey to becoming more intimately connected to yourself and others.
My experience includes working with individuals impacted by and perpetrators of sexual abuse.
As a musician first, I was drawn to this work as a therapist for many reasons. In both roles, you must be genuine and intentional to be effective, and you must trust the process without getting side tracked by difficulty or unexpected road blocks. You must feel safe enough with those around you to take risks, and be humble so you can continue to learn. As a therapist, I value having the role of facilitating a safe space for healing and the journey to becoming more intimately connected to yourself and others.
(480) 660-3505 View (480) 660-3505
Photo of Brittani P Antunes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Brittani P Antunes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
Wish that never happened? I treat all sorts of traumas- from big to little. If something has happened in your life whether it be an assault, an accident, a mistake, or other upsetting experience, you're in the right place. Our minds + bodies can keep replaying those moments over and over as we hope that one day it'll stop. This is where I can help. Feeling broken, hurt, guilty, embarrassed, or afraid can be so heavy to carry around. This does not have to continue being your way of life, it truly is possible to feel better. I can take the pain out of your painful memories, once and for all.
Wish that never happened? I treat all sorts of traumas- from big to little. If something has happened in your life whether it be an assault, an accident, a mistake, or other upsetting experience, you're in the right place. Our minds + bodies can keep replaying those moments over and over as we hope that one day it'll stop. This is where I can help. Feeling broken, hurt, guilty, embarrassed, or afraid can be so heavy to carry around. This does not have to continue being your way of life, it truly is possible to feel better. I can take the pain out of your painful memories, once and for all.
(520) 523-8421 View (520) 523-8421
Photo of Sophia Low, Pre-Licensed Professional in Arizona
Sophia Low
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, BHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
and I am informed about various aspects of sex-positive, kink communities, human sexuality, trauma, anxiety, sexual abuse, sexuality across all cultures and work with all age groups.
There are various obstacles life presents to us that leave us with many emotions to process. I have a Masters from Colorado Christian University in Clinical Mental Health with emphasis on Addiction and Chemical Dependencies, and a graduate from the Sexual Health Alliance and am pre-licensed with the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) as a Sex Therapist providing in-depth psychotherapy treating clients with sexual issues and concerns. I emphasize the importance of faith-based practice and have strengths in substance abuse, addiction, chemical dependencies, couples, pre/marital,
and I am informed about various aspects of sex-positive, kink communities, human sexuality, trauma, anxiety, sexual abuse, sexuality across all cultures and work with all age groups.
There are various obstacles life presents to us that leave us with many emotions to process. I have a Masters from Colorado Christian University in Clinical Mental Health with emphasis on Addiction and Chemical Dependencies, and a graduate from the Sexual Health Alliance and am pre-licensed with the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) as a Sex Therapist providing in-depth psychotherapy treating clients with sexual issues and concerns. I emphasize the importance of faith-based practice and have strengths in substance abuse, addiction, chemical dependencies, couples, pre/marital,
(480) 696-5355 View (480) 696-5355
Photo of Bobbi Chagolla, Licensed Master Social Worker in Arizona
Bobbi Chagolla
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
In my journey as a therapist, I have witnessed the profound impact that trauma can have on one's life, and I am dedicated to guiding my clients through the process of healing and growth. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations of all ages struggling with addiction, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and self-regulation. In my work I have witnessed the resilience and strength within each individual. I am particularly passionate about working with populations who have experienced foster care, eating disorders, and survivors of sexual abuse.
In my journey as a therapist, I have witnessed the profound impact that trauma can have on one's life, and I am dedicated to guiding my clients through the process of healing and growth. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations of all ages struggling with addiction, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and self-regulation. In my work I have witnessed the resilience and strength within each individual. I am particularly passionate about working with populations who have experienced foster care, eating disorders, and survivors of sexual abuse.
(623) 303-8601 x715 View (623) 303-8601 x715
Photo of Dr. Indra Gonzalez, Psychological Associate in Arizona
Dr. Indra Gonzalez
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
She also received extensive trauma-informed training when working with sexual assault and domestic violence survivors.
Dr. Gonzalez specializes in working with children 5 years and older, adolescents, young adults, & their families. She has experience working with a diverse range of concerns including depression, anxiety, behavioral & adjustment concerns, identity exploration, interpersonal skills, complex trauma (including racial & generational trauma), parent-child relationships, grief and loss, cultural & diversity related issues, & first generation BIPOC related issues. Dr. Gonzalez has experience working with mental health concerns across the lifespan. Bilingual therapy services offered in English and Spanish.
She also received extensive trauma-informed training when working with sexual assault and domestic violence survivors.
Dr. Gonzalez specializes in working with children 5 years and older, adolescents, young adults, & their families. She has experience working with a diverse range of concerns including depression, anxiety, behavioral & adjustment concerns, identity exploration, interpersonal skills, complex trauma (including racial & generational trauma), parent-child relationships, grief and loss, cultural & diversity related issues, & first generation BIPOC related issues. Dr. Gonzalez has experience working with mental health concerns across the lifespan. Bilingual therapy services offered in English and Spanish.
(480) 685-8971 View (480) 685-8971
Photo of Rahel Hodge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Rahel Hodge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
I have specialized training to help people who suffer from PTSD and sexual assault and I work from a trauma informed perspective.
Congratulations! By searching for a therapist, you're taking a significant step towards creating the change you desire and deserve. The difficulties of life and trauma can cause damage to one's sense of "self", create depression or anxiety, and diminish quality of life. As a clinical therapist, I provide a safe and confidential environment to process and navigate the difficulties you're experiencing and walk with you on your journey to health. I work with individuals in a loving and compassionate manner to achieve their treatment goals.
I have specialized training to help people who suffer from PTSD and sexual assault and I work from a trauma informed perspective.
Congratulations! By searching for a therapist, you're taking a significant step towards creating the change you desire and deserve. The difficulties of life and trauma can cause damage to one's sense of "self", create depression or anxiety, and diminish quality of life. As a clinical therapist, I provide a safe and confidential environment to process and navigate the difficulties you're experiencing and walk with you on your journey to health. I work with individuals in a loving and compassionate manner to achieve their treatment goals.
(480) 771-2366 View (480) 771-2366
Photo of Annie Gipson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Annie Gipson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I provides services for children, adolescents, and adults who and have experience helping people navigate anxiety, depression, sexual abuse/commercial sexual exploitation, trauma, personality disorders, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, and substance abuse.
Everyone deserves a safe space and providing that is my first priority. I am a client-centered, down-to-earth clinician who leads with empathy, honesty, and humor. There is often a dog in my office (and glitter all over the floor) and my Southern accent tends to sneak in without warning. My goal is to help people live fulfilling lives of dignity and I genuinely want to see individuals and families live life to the fullest. I invite you to come just as you are and would be honored to partner with you during your healing journey!
I provides services for children, adolescents, and adults who and have experience helping people navigate anxiety, depression, sexual abuse/commercial sexual exploitation, trauma, personality disorders, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, and substance abuse.
Everyone deserves a safe space and providing that is my first priority. I am a client-centered, down-to-earth clinician who leads with empathy, honesty, and humor. There is often a dog in my office (and glitter all over the floor) and my Southern accent tends to sneak in without warning. My goal is to help people live fulfilling lives of dignity and I genuinely want to see individuals and families live life to the fullest. I invite you to come just as you are and would be honored to partner with you during your healing journey!
(480) 646-4157 View (480) 646-4157
Photo of Julie Reese, DBH, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Julie Reese, DBH, LCSW, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, LICSW, PHP
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85395  (Online Only)
If you are struggling as an individual, couple or family, Dr. Reese can absolutely assist. Please reach out if you are struggling with emotional and mental fatigue, worries, frustrations, grief, loneliness, parenting, domestic violence, past childhood abuse and trauma, insomnia, nightmares/terrors, self-confidence, sexual assault, and feelings of hopelessness. If you have a child struggling with behaviors, divorce, emotional dysfunction, bullying, and making friends please call. We all have the capacity to overcome and be resilient and at times, need assistance to see the path ahead. You are a survivor!
If you are struggling as an individual, couple or family, Dr. Reese can absolutely assist. Please reach out if you are struggling with emotional and mental fatigue, worries, frustrations, grief, loneliness, parenting, domestic violence, past childhood abuse and trauma, insomnia, nightmares/terrors, self-confidence, sexual assault, and feelings of hopelessness. If you have a child struggling with behaviors, divorce, emotional dysfunction, bullying, and making friends please call. We all have the capacity to overcome and be resilient and at times, need assistance to see the path ahead. You are a survivor!
(623) 254-7534 View (623) 254-7534
Photo of Megan K Viall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Megan K Viall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals managing lives touched with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression and bipolar; grief; domestic violence (offenders and victims); physical, emotional and sexual abuse; custody issues; family reunification; marriage/relationship hurdles; problem sexual behavior; borderline personality disorder/characteristics; PTSD; ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other sensory disorders; death and dying; caretaking of ill and aging family members; and life change events, i.e. anything that is a positive change, but also brings with it fear, doubt and lots of unknowns.
I have experience working with individuals managing lives touched with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression and bipolar; grief; domestic violence (offenders and victims); physical, emotional and sexual abuse; custody issues; family reunification; marriage/relationship hurdles; problem sexual behavior; borderline personality disorder/characteristics; PTSD; ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other sensory disorders; death and dying; caretaking of ill and aging family members; and life change events, i.e. anything that is a positive change, but also brings with it fear, doubt and lots of unknowns.
(480) 680-9286 View (480) 680-9286
Photo of Beverly Janowitz-Price, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Beverly Janowitz-Price
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ICADC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014  (Online Only)
I also specialize in sex addiction issues, as well as co-sex addiction and sexual abuse issues.
I have been a therapist since 1977, starting out working in the substance abuse field. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. My website is www.beverlyjanowitzprice.com. I firmly believe that the majority of our issues began in childhood, some of which can be very subtle. I like to work with people on healing their underlying issues. I believe in using the therapy process to find our true selves and, ideally, achieve inner peace.
I also specialize in sex addiction issues, as well as co-sex addiction and sexual abuse issues.
I have been a therapist since 1977, starting out working in the substance abuse field. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. My website is www.beverlyjanowitzprice.com. I firmly believe that the majority of our issues began in childhood, some of which can be very subtle. I like to work with people on healing their underlying issues. I believe in using the therapy process to find our true selves and, ideally, achieve inner peace.
(480) 788-4951 View (480) 788-4951
Photo of Alexandria Moretti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Alexandria Moretti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I am accepting new Clients and I am now Licensed in Arizona and Pennsylvania. My experience as a clinician is working with individuals who have experienced trauma. I have worked with survivors of incest, sex trafficking, domestic violence and sexual assault. I am allied with consensual sex workers. Allied and part of LGBTQIA+ community.
I am accepting new Clients and I am now Licensed in Arizona and Pennsylvania. My experience as a clinician is working with individuals who have experienced trauma. I have worked with survivors of incest, sex trafficking, domestic violence and sexual assault. I am allied with consensual sex workers. Allied and part of LGBTQIA+ community.
(480) 739-3937 View (480) 739-3937
Photo of Grace for the Journey Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Grace for the Journey Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Our specialties include trauma and PTSD, adolescent and teen issues, including parenting teens, and domestic violence and sexual assault.
We are all on a journey of some sort, whether it is one of healing, new beginnings, pleasure, or life transition. Sometimes we encounter storms and obstacles that shake us and may make us feel as if we are lost or maybe incapable of overcoming the storm. These storms may be recognized as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, job or home. Creating therapeutic trust and emotional safety are two of my greatest strengths in my practice. We will work with you to create an environment in which you can discover your own truth and authentic self, and increase your capacity to make healthy life choices and find fulfilling relationships.
Our specialties include trauma and PTSD, adolescent and teen issues, including parenting teens, and domestic violence and sexual assault.
We are all on a journey of some sort, whether it is one of healing, new beginnings, pleasure, or life transition. Sometimes we encounter storms and obstacles that shake us and may make us feel as if we are lost or maybe incapable of overcoming the storm. These storms may be recognized as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, job or home. Creating therapeutic trust and emotional safety are two of my greatest strengths in my practice. We will work with you to create an environment in which you can discover your own truth and authentic self, and increase your capacity to make healthy life choices and find fulfilling relationships.
(520) 231-8398 View (520) 231-8398
Photo of Bobbi Chagolla, Licensed Master Social Worker in Arizona
Bobbi Chagolla
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
In my journey as a therapist, I have witnessed the profound impact that trauma can have on one's life, and I am dedicated to guiding my clients through the process of healing and growth. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations of all ages struggling with addiction, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and self-regulation. In my work I have witnessed the resilience and strength within each individual. I am particularly passionate about working with populations who have experienced foster care, eating disorders, and survivors of sexual abuse.
In my journey as a therapist, I have witnessed the profound impact that trauma can have on one's life, and I am dedicated to guiding my clients through the process of healing and growth. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations of all ages struggling with addiction, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and self-regulation. In my work I have witnessed the resilience and strength within each individual. I am particularly passionate about working with populations who have experienced foster care, eating disorders, and survivors of sexual abuse.
(480) 605-5074 x715 View (480) 605-5074 x715
Photo of Jill Monson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Jill Monson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027
I believe it is imperative that we broaden our definition of "trauma." Trauma can be ANYTHING disruptive (in addition to assault, combat, death, etc.). An unhealthy relationship; a break-up; bullying; neglect; a stressful event or period of time are all traumatic. These disruptive experiences influence what we think about ourselves and our world; and they often guide our decisions and perspectives.
I believe it is imperative that we broaden our definition of "trauma." Trauma can be ANYTHING disruptive (in addition to assault, combat, death, etc.). An unhealthy relationship; a break-up; bullying; neglect; a stressful event or period of time are all traumatic. These disruptive experiences influence what we think about ourselves and our world; and they often guide our decisions and perspectives.
(602) 560-2359 View (602) 560-2359
Photo of Sherri Mikels-Romero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Sherri Mikels-Romero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I specialize in working with *trauma, *sexual abuse and incest, domestic violence- families, offenders, and victims, first responders and their families, people with personality disorders, individuals and families in crisis.
I have a commitment to work that furthers the growth and wholeness of individuals and facilitates individuals and families in identifying strengths and increasing levels of functioning. I treat adults, children, and families and I prefer to involve parents when treating their children.
I specialize in working with *trauma, *sexual abuse and incest, domestic violence- families, offenders, and victims, first responders and their families, people with personality disorders, individuals and families in crisis.
I have a commitment to work that furthers the growth and wholeness of individuals and facilitates individuals and families in identifying strengths and increasing levels of functioning. I treat adults, children, and families and I prefer to involve parents when treating their children.
(520) 837-1283 View (520) 837-1283
Photo of Dr. Jodi Tudisco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Dr. Jodi Tudisco
Licensed Professional Counselor, DSW, LPC, MS, EMDR, TRE
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719  (Online Only)
Using an eclectic approach to therapy, I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, sexual abuse, OCD, self-esteem and family conflict, among other issues.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson. Using a holistic approach in therapy we will explore the mind, body and spirit connection. We will learn balance and build resilience through the power of self-discovery, thus improving your quality of life. Negative thought patterns and beliefs will be identified and challenged through DBT, mindfulness, and EMDR. When needed we may create healthy eating habits and a healthy relationship with exercise. Cultivating your spirituality to relieve fear and nurture an attitude of gratitude and abundance is encouraged.
Using an eclectic approach to therapy, I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, sexual abuse, OCD, self-esteem and family conflict, among other issues.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson. Using a holistic approach in therapy we will explore the mind, body and spirit connection. We will learn balance and build resilience through the power of self-discovery, thus improving your quality of life. Negative thought patterns and beliefs will be identified and challenged through DBT, mindfulness, and EMDR. When needed we may create healthy eating habits and a healthy relationship with exercise. Cultivating your spirituality to relieve fear and nurture an attitude of gratitude and abundance is encouraged.
(520) 441-8865 View (520) 441-8865
Photo of Sequoia Springs Trauma Healing Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Sequoia Springs Trauma Healing Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
Waitlist for new clients
We are focused on treating people and their loved ones impacted by traumatic events, including sexual assault, abuse, injury, illness, divorce, addictions, grief and loss, being a victim or witness to a crime, and combat.
Sequoia Springs Trauma Healing Center is here to help by providing therapy services to individuals, couples and families as they find their path into healing and recovery. We specialize in the treatment of trauma and work with people who would like to improve their sense of connection, communication, empowerment and healing in the challenges that create stress, conflict, isolation, and addiction. Together we can work to challenge defenses and patterns that create disconnect, dissatisfaction, and overall unhappiness - at school, work, relationships, home or in yourself.
We are focused on treating people and their loved ones impacted by traumatic events, including sexual assault, abuse, injury, illness, divorce, addictions, grief and loss, being a victim or witness to a crime, and combat.
Sequoia Springs Trauma Healing Center is here to help by providing therapy services to individuals, couples and families as they find their path into healing and recovery. We specialize in the treatment of trauma and work with people who would like to improve their sense of connection, communication, empowerment and healing in the challenges that create stress, conflict, isolation, and addiction. Together we can work to challenge defenses and patterns that create disconnect, dissatisfaction, and overall unhappiness - at school, work, relationships, home or in yourself.
(520) 447-4164 View (520) 447-4164
Photo of Wendy Lehnertz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Wendy Lehnertz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85233
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe it's not only important but essential for individuals and couples to have a safe, non-judgemental space to share and work through problems. I have nearly twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe it's not only important but essential for individuals and couples to have a safe, non-judgemental space to share and work through problems. I have nearly twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
(919) 343-9011 View (919) 343-9011
Photo of Jennifer Ruggeri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Jennifer Ruggeri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTMH, CCTP
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
I have also worked with clients who have experienced varying trauma, from childhood trauma including sexual abuse and domestic violence as well PTSD.
My specialty is treating clients suffering from depression and anxiety, I am passionate about helping those who suffer from varying mental health issues. I am fully aware of the impact that living with mental health issues can take on an individual’s life. I believe in helping patients regain control in their lives in order to live their best life. Depression comes in many shapes and sizes from severe to high functioning, all forms of depression can be treatable and I believe that by working together we can come up with a treatment plan to help you feel more like yourself again.
I have also worked with clients who have experienced varying trauma, from childhood trauma including sexual abuse and domestic violence as well PTSD.
My specialty is treating clients suffering from depression and anxiety, I am passionate about helping those who suffer from varying mental health issues. I am fully aware of the impact that living with mental health issues can take on an individual’s life. I believe in helping patients regain control in their lives in order to live their best life. Depression comes in many shapes and sizes from severe to high functioning, all forms of depression can be treatable and I believe that by working together we can come up with a treatment plan to help you feel more like yourself again.
(385) 255-7881 View (385) 255-7881
Photo of Brianna Reinhold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Brianna Reinhold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Maricopa, AZ 85139
"You are not broken. You are breaking through." Do you feel like no one understands you or can truly help you the way you need? There are times that our perceptions of life situations differs from those around us, causing us to feel unheard or unsupported. These are the times we need support the most. Even if you aren't certain counseling is for you, call me to discuss your options. I provide a variety of services that are tailored to fit your individual needs such as EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, play therapy, sand tray, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), etc.
"You are not broken. You are breaking through." Do you feel like no one understands you or can truly help you the way you need? There are times that our perceptions of life situations differs from those around us, causing us to feel unheard or unsupported. These are the times we need support the most. Even if you aren't certain counseling is for you, call me to discuss your options. I provide a variety of services that are tailored to fit your individual needs such as EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, play therapy, sand tray, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), etc.
(623) 253-8640 View (623) 253-8640
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.