Sexual Abuse Therapists in Arkansas

Photo of Trish Waltz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Trish Waltz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clinton, AR 72031
I can help you! I have approximately 35 years of experience. I give practical help in a safe and accepting environment. I have specialized in working with children and adolescents; sexual abuse issues, family and marriage issues. I am certified in EMDR. I have clinically supervised/trained graduated students and pre-licensed therapists for approximately 20 years. I work with most issues, including, but not limited to substance abuse, educational problems, depression, anxiety. I am a supportive and caring therapist who will assist you in becoming the person you were meant to be. Let's turn your struggles into strengths.
I can help you! I have approximately 35 years of experience. I give practical help in a safe and accepting environment. I have specialized in working with children and adolescents; sexual abuse issues, family and marriage issues. I am certified in EMDR. I have clinically supervised/trained graduated students and pre-licensed therapists for approximately 20 years. I work with most issues, including, but not limited to substance abuse, educational problems, depression, anxiety. I am a supportive and caring therapist who will assist you in becoming the person you were meant to be. Let's turn your struggles into strengths.
(501) 299-5849 View (501) 299-5849
Photo of Pam Giardina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Pam Giardina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
Pam Giardina, LCSW, comes with thirty years of experience working with children and families facing stress. She spent twenty-five years as a Child Life Specialist at Arkansas Children's Hospital helping children and families cope with trauma, hospitalization, surgical procedures, and chronic illnesses. Obtaining a masters degree in social work was a way to develop and utilize her extensive experience outside of the acute care environment. She now uses evidenced-based therapies to help children, adults, and families with trauma including sexual abuse, physical abuse, life-changing accidents, and death.
Pam Giardina, LCSW, comes with thirty years of experience working with children and families facing stress. She spent twenty-five years as a Child Life Specialist at Arkansas Children's Hospital helping children and families cope with trauma, hospitalization, surgical procedures, and chronic illnesses. Obtaining a masters degree in social work was a way to develop and utilize her extensive experience outside of the acute care environment. She now uses evidenced-based therapies to help children, adults, and families with trauma including sexual abuse, physical abuse, life-changing accidents, and death.
(501) 290-4110 View (501) 290-4110
Photo of Heather R Morrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Heather R Morrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bryant, AR 72022
My specialization includes an emphasis on treating folks who have a history of traumatic experience(s), such as childhood trauma, sexual abuse or assault, domestic violence, accidents, and natural disasters.
Hello, I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker in the state of Arkansas. I'm a bilingual counselor fluent in English and Spanish with over a decade of experience. I have worked in a variety of clinical and educational settings. I've had the privilege of serving people of all ages with a wide variety of issues (including veterans and their families). He trabajado con familias hispanas durante más de una década. Hablo el idioma con fluidez. Si desea un defensor que trabaje duro para comprenderlo y ayudarlo a superar sus problemas, ¡llámeme!
My specialization includes an emphasis on treating folks who have a history of traumatic experience(s), such as childhood trauma, sexual abuse or assault, domestic violence, accidents, and natural disasters.
Hello, I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker in the state of Arkansas. I'm a bilingual counselor fluent in English and Spanish with over a decade of experience. I have worked in a variety of clinical and educational settings. I've had the privilege of serving people of all ages with a wide variety of issues (including veterans and their families). He trabajado con familias hispanas durante más de una década. Hablo el idioma con fluidez. Si desea un defensor que trabaje duro para comprenderlo y ayudarlo a superar sus problemas, ¡llámeme!
(501) 361-3565 View (501) 361-3565
Photo of Anna Cone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Anna Cone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springdale, AR 72762
Anna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned her degrees from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She sees clients age 18+ who struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, sexual abuse, and relationship conflict. Anna is affirming of the LGBTQA+ community and has experience supporting members of the trans community through transition.
Anna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned her degrees from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She sees clients age 18+ who struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, sexual abuse, and relationship conflict. Anna is affirming of the LGBTQA+ community and has experience supporting members of the trans community through transition.
(479) 346-1145 View (479) 346-1145
Photo of Brad Hays LPC, Counselor in Arkansas
Brad Hays LPC
Counselor, MA, LPCS
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72034
I have been working with victims of sexual abuse and assault since 1995.
Hello, my name is Brad Hays. I am independently credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas with nearly 30 years of counseling experience and hold a Master's Degree in Pastoral Counseling. I provide spiritually based professional counseling services to couples, families and individuals. Freshhope Christian Counseling - is a private Christian Counseling center. Over the past several years I’ve practicing as an independent licensed counselor.
I have been working with victims of sexual abuse and assault since 1995.
Hello, my name is Brad Hays. I am independently credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas with nearly 30 years of counseling experience and hold a Master's Degree in Pastoral Counseling. I provide spiritually based professional counseling services to couples, families and individuals. Freshhope Christian Counseling - is a private Christian Counseling center. Over the past several years I’ve practicing as an independent licensed counselor.
(501) 300-8471 View (501) 300-8471
Photo of Tammy Callahan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Tammy Callahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72701
She is involved with the #MeToo Movement, as well as the It's On Us non-profit organization for awareness of sexual abuse on college campuses.
Trauma does not discriminate and can negatively impact one's daily life. Has trauma impacted your life? Have you been looking for someone who understands and hears your struggles and is ready to help those struggles become a thing of the past? I hear you. I understand. I’m ready to help put those intrusive, self-blaming, and self-sabotaging thoughts behind you. I have over 5 years experience in treating severe, emotionally disturbed or serious mentally ill clients, ranging from the age of 6 up to adulthood. I am an advocate for minorities and cultures such as LGBTQIA and the disabled.
She is involved with the #MeToo Movement, as well as the It's On Us non-profit organization for awareness of sexual abuse on college campuses.
Trauma does not discriminate and can negatively impact one's daily life. Has trauma impacted your life? Have you been looking for someone who understands and hears your struggles and is ready to help those struggles become a thing of the past? I hear you. I understand. I’m ready to help put those intrusive, self-blaming, and self-sabotaging thoughts behind you. I have over 5 years experience in treating severe, emotionally disturbed or serious mentally ill clients, ranging from the age of 6 up to adulthood. I am an advocate for minorities and cultures such as LGBTQIA and the disabled.
Photo of Nancy S. Kay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Nancy S. Kay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPC, CDWF, RN
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of Specialty: Marital/Relationship Counseling, Grief, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Mood Management, Blended Families, Gender Identity, Trauma, EMDR and Physical/Sexual Abuse.
I consider it a privilege to work with and walk beside each of my clients. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and Solution Focused Therapy to provide quality care in the shortest time frame possible. I use psychological and personality assessments and practical tools to help individuals and couples live a more fulfilled, intentional, and aware life. I believe the way to live your best fulfilled life is to understand your "why" and increase your self-awareness. My experience as a therapist for over 25 years and being an RN allows me to consider each of my client's emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
Areas of Specialty: Marital/Relationship Counseling, Grief, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Mood Management, Blended Families, Gender Identity, Trauma, EMDR and Physical/Sexual Abuse.
I consider it a privilege to work with and walk beside each of my clients. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and Solution Focused Therapy to provide quality care in the shortest time frame possible. I use psychological and personality assessments and practical tools to help individuals and couples live a more fulfilled, intentional, and aware life. I believe the way to live your best fulfilled life is to understand your "why" and increase your self-awareness. My experience as a therapist for over 25 years and being an RN allows me to consider each of my client's emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
(479) 239-9629 View (479) 239-9629
Photo of Rachel Barber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Rachel Barber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that the bravest choice you can make for yourself is to start the journey towards healing! I see it as a privilege to be one of the people to walk through this journey with you. Throughout my career, I have worked with children (age 6) through adults of all ages. My primary focus has been anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse survivors, behavioral issues and sexually maladaptive behaviors.
I believe that the bravest choice you can make for yourself is to start the journey towards healing! I see it as a privilege to be one of the people to walk through this journey with you. Throughout my career, I have worked with children (age 6) through adults of all ages. My primary focus has been anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse survivors, behavioral issues and sexually maladaptive behaviors.
(479) 255-2135 View (479) 255-2135
Photo of Carrie Anne Lucas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arkansas
Carrie Anne Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903  (Online Only)
My passion is for helping couples and individuals connect in a secure way through the process of therapy. I see adult couples and individuals, and I have experience with grief issues, sexual abuse/trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, and anxiety issues. I hope to meet you wherever you are and create space to allow you the chance to move forward where you would like to be individually and/or with your partner. I consider it a great honor for you to consider trusting me with delicate parts of your life and relationships.
My passion is for helping couples and individuals connect in a secure way through the process of therapy. I see adult couples and individuals, and I have experience with grief issues, sexual abuse/trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, and anxiety issues. I hope to meet you wherever you are and create space to allow you the chance to move forward where you would like to be individually and/or with your partner. I consider it a great honor for you to consider trusting me with delicate parts of your life and relationships.
(479) 235-4658 View (479) 235-4658
Photo of Daniel Jarboe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Daniel Jarboe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arkadelphia, AR 71923  (Online Only)
I have specialized skills, experience and training in a number of areas, including the trauma and recovery needs of those who are suffering from childhood abuse, sexual assault, and other potential catalysts for PTSD, grief and loss, as well as anxiety and mood/depressive disorders, personality disorders, and problems in your close relationships.
Some life circumstances can prove quite challenging. No matter who you are, unexpected, saddening, confusing, or terrible and tragic things can happen. I'm here to help you navigate through these difficulties by providing sound psychological assistance, wisdom, hope, professional care and compassion.
I have specialized skills, experience and training in a number of areas, including the trauma and recovery needs of those who are suffering from childhood abuse, sexual assault, and other potential catalysts for PTSD, grief and loss, as well as anxiety and mood/depressive disorders, personality disorders, and problems in your close relationships.
Some life circumstances can prove quite challenging. No matter who you are, unexpected, saddening, confusing, or terrible and tragic things can happen. I'm here to help you navigate through these difficulties by providing sound psychological assistance, wisdom, hope, professional care and compassion.
(870) 568-8707 View (870) 568-8707
Photo of Jennifer Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Jennifer Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Farmington, AR 72730
Jennifer enjoys working with clients of diverse backgrounds and has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families reporting anxiety, depression, grief and loss, illness/injury, addiction, abuse and neglect, sexual assault, domestic violence, incarceration, and other troubling life circumstances.
Have you been looking for a therapist who is highly knowledgable, compassionate, and light-hearted? Have you been looking for a therapist who believes that the therapist and client unit are a TEAM? Jennifer believes therapy can be a fun and rewarding process for people from all walks of life and she hopes you will allow her to be a partner on your journey. She offers a judgement-free and down-to-earth atmosphere in which clients are celebrated for their strengths and recognized for their courage.
Jennifer enjoys working with clients of diverse backgrounds and has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families reporting anxiety, depression, grief and loss, illness/injury, addiction, abuse and neglect, sexual assault, domestic violence, incarceration, and other troubling life circumstances.
Have you been looking for a therapist who is highly knowledgable, compassionate, and light-hearted? Have you been looking for a therapist who believes that the therapist and client unit are a TEAM? Jennifer believes therapy can be a fun and rewarding process for people from all walks of life and she hopes you will allow her to be a partner on your journey. She offers a judgement-free and down-to-earth atmosphere in which clients are celebrated for their strengths and recognized for their courage.
Photo of Erika Aucoin, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Erika Aucoin, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Ida, AR 71957
I am Licensed Professional Counselor whose professional and personal experiences have lead me down the path to helping clients of all ages with life's daily struggles. I provide individual and family counseling for children, teens, and adults for a wide range of mental health disorders such as, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, anger management, sexual abuse, self-harm, parenting Skills, grief, and ADHD.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor whose professional and personal experiences have lead me down the path to helping clients of all ages with life's daily struggles. I provide individual and family counseling for children, teens, and adults for a wide range of mental health disorders such as, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, anger management, sexual abuse, self-harm, parenting Skills, grief, and ADHD.
(870) 601-1684 View (870) 601-1684
Photo of Nancy Lasiter Kozlowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Nancy Lasiter Kozlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
I can help with: depression, anxiety, self-improvement, relational, family, parenting, divorce, grief, sexual abuse/rape, domestic violence, coping skills, stress, anger, sleep, Veterans, PTSD, trauma, work stress, personality, substance abuse, Bipolar, self esteem, increasing joy, childhood issues, suicidality, issues specific for men, women & LGBT populations.
My hope for you is increased happiness, peace and coping. I honor the courage it takes to engage in talk therapy. I have been a licensed counselor (LPC) for over 30 years and I enjoy helping others. I am capable of working with a variety of client ages and issues. I believe that each person who engages in therapy deserves a tailored plan we develop together to help with your specific situations. I believe that processing feelings and thoughts along with education in a non-judgmental and safe environment can move you from surviving to thriving. I'm happy to help you!
I can help with: depression, anxiety, self-improvement, relational, family, parenting, divorce, grief, sexual abuse/rape, domestic violence, coping skills, stress, anger, sleep, Veterans, PTSD, trauma, work stress, personality, substance abuse, Bipolar, self esteem, increasing joy, childhood issues, suicidality, issues specific for men, women & LGBT populations.
My hope for you is increased happiness, peace and coping. I honor the courage it takes to engage in talk therapy. I have been a licensed counselor (LPC) for over 30 years and I enjoy helping others. I am capable of working with a variety of client ages and issues. I believe that each person who engages in therapy deserves a tailored plan we develop together to help with your specific situations. I believe that processing feelings and thoughts along with education in a non-judgmental and safe environment can move you from surviving to thriving. I'm happy to help you!
(501) 203-9959 View (501) 203-9959
Photo of Paula Jean Matthews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Paula Jean Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Over the years, I have seen many survivors of sexual abuse as well as clients who are dealing with codependency issues and those issues stemming from dysfunctional childhood situations.
I have been in private practice in Fayetteville, AR since 1989. My focus is on working with adults who are dealing with various life issues ranging from personal to professional relationships. I am very interested in looking at how family of origin issues as well as issues regarding past trauma, gender and racial identity, etc. impact your decisions and day to day life. Anxiety, depression and relationship issues are typical causes for calling my office.
Over the years, I have seen many survivors of sexual abuse as well as clients who are dealing with codependency issues and those issues stemming from dysfunctional childhood situations.
I have been in private practice in Fayetteville, AR since 1989. My focus is on working with adults who are dealing with various life issues ranging from personal to professional relationships. I am very interested in looking at how family of origin issues as well as issues regarding past trauma, gender and racial identity, etc. impact your decisions and day to day life. Anxiety, depression and relationship issues are typical causes for calling my office.
(479) 888-4844 View (479) 888-4844
Photo of Dr. Morgan McGowan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Dr. Morgan McGowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, EMDR-II, TAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
While the range of my clients’ experiences vary widely, many of my clients have experienced childhood abuse or neglect, sexual assault, home break-ins, car accidents, partner abuse, or religious trauma.
As a licensed therapist with training in EMDR therapy, I devote my time to working with clients to overcome past trauma. I hold a Master's and PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling as well as a 500hr Advanced Yoga Teacher Certification. My work with clients is informed by these various trainings as well as my own meditation and movement practices.
While the range of my clients’ experiences vary widely, many of my clients have experienced childhood abuse or neglect, sexual assault, home break-ins, car accidents, partner abuse, or religious trauma.
As a licensed therapist with training in EMDR therapy, I devote my time to working with clients to overcome past trauma. I hold a Master's and PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling as well as a 500hr Advanced Yoga Teacher Certification. My work with clients is informed by these various trainings as well as my own meditation and movement practices.
(479) 346-3877 View (479) 346-3877
Photo of Maegan Gower, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Maegan Gower
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Struggling with anxiety and/or depression caused by trauma? Maegan is here to help! She has worked as an advocate for sexual assault survivors on the local college campus. She provided both one on one and group support to help individuals working through trauma. She was also certified as a wellness coach and helped clients set and reach goals related to overall mental and physical well-being. Since graduating, Maegan has worked with adolescents, adults, and families experiencing varying needs. These needs include child-parent relationship concerns, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Struggling with anxiety and/or depression caused by trauma? Maegan is here to help! She has worked as an advocate for sexual assault survivors on the local college campus. She provided both one on one and group support to help individuals working through trauma. She was also certified as a wellness coach and helped clients set and reach goals related to overall mental and physical well-being. Since graduating, Maegan has worked with adolescents, adults, and families experiencing varying needs. These needs include child-parent relationship concerns, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Photo of Ryan Russ, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Ryan Russ
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT, CTT, BSP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72207
Bio video on my website...When you pay for therapy, you're expecting something of tangible value. All too often what you get instead is a nice person on a couch and little else. That’s not me. With high energy and humor, I help people recover from sexual addiction; I help couples lost in conflict and hopelessness; and I help parents with teens and young adults. I work with sexual abuse, attachment wounds, and traumas/PTSD of all kinds. I am a Christian, and I approach therapy from a clinical perspective. We can integrate your faith as much as you feel comfortable, or not at all.
Bio video on my website...When you pay for therapy, you're expecting something of tangible value. All too often what you get instead is a nice person on a couch and little else. That’s not me. With high energy and humor, I help people recover from sexual addiction; I help couples lost in conflict and hopelessness; and I help parents with teens and young adults. I work with sexual abuse, attachment wounds, and traumas/PTSD of all kinds. I am a Christian, and I approach therapy from a clinical perspective. We can integrate your faith as much as you feel comfortable, or not at all.
(501) 430-3494 View (501) 430-3494
Photo of Cynthia Hrdlichka, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Cynthia Hrdlichka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, RMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
My focus includes complex trauma stemming from the adverse childhood experiences of abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, and sexual abuse.
Therapy clients need emotional safety above all else. Meaningful therapy happens when the client knows they are respected and received without judgement, listened to with deep compassion, and offered responses that speak directly to their most difficult and painful struggles. I work from the premise that the client is the expert on their experience, and it is my job to help clients find and utilize the strengths they already possess. I use my empathic nature, my curiosity, openness, and playfulness to provide a safe space for this powerful and beautiful work my clients are brave enough to embark on.
My focus includes complex trauma stemming from the adverse childhood experiences of abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, and sexual abuse.
Therapy clients need emotional safety above all else. Meaningful therapy happens when the client knows they are respected and received without judgement, listened to with deep compassion, and offered responses that speak directly to their most difficult and painful struggles. I work from the premise that the client is the expert on their experience, and it is my job to help clients find and utilize the strengths they already possess. I use my empathic nature, my curiosity, openness, and playfulness to provide a safe space for this powerful and beautiful work my clients are brave enough to embark on.
(501) 509-9072 View (501) 509-9072
Photo of Greg Tancibok, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Greg Tancibok
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy working in both outpatient and inpatient levels of care for clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, anger, trauma, sexual abuse, suicidal ideation, personal identify, and sexually maladaptive behaviors.
I believe in the concept that people can not start from where they want to be, but have to begin their journey from where they are. We as people go through many challenges in our lives.  Sometimes we find ourselves struggling day to day, having to somehow meet all our ever-growing responsibilities. Some of us struggle with the pain we carry from our pasts, and it can feel as if this hurt is holding us back from finding joy in our present days. Some of us struggle with feelings we may not even understand.  We can feel burdened by these intense feelings and may not know how to move forward from these emotional and mental binds.
I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy working in both outpatient and inpatient levels of care for clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, anger, trauma, sexual abuse, suicidal ideation, personal identify, and sexually maladaptive behaviors.
I believe in the concept that people can not start from where they want to be, but have to begin their journey from where they are. We as people go through many challenges in our lives.  Sometimes we find ourselves struggling day to day, having to somehow meet all our ever-growing responsibilities. Some of us struggle with the pain we carry from our pasts, and it can feel as if this hurt is holding us back from finding joy in our present days. Some of us struggle with feelings we may not even understand.  We can feel burdened by these intense feelings and may not know how to move forward from these emotional and mental binds.
(479) 339-8680 View (479) 339-8680
Photo of Stephanie Hamilton, Counselor in Arkansas
Stephanie Hamilton
Counselor, LPC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
We all have times that events take a toll on us mentally and emotionally. In some aspect we may try to push them down or avoid the existence of the issue. Maybe we have associations of weakness or feelings of inadequacy if we acknowledge those feelings or issues. I’m an LPC, CFRC with 12 years previous experience as an EMT and Volunteer Firefighter. I am EMDR level 1 & 2 trained for trauma and PTSD therapy. Beyond responder therapy, I have experience with sexual abuse, codependency work, healing the inner child, and promoting your own self-worth.
We all have times that events take a toll on us mentally and emotionally. In some aspect we may try to push them down or avoid the existence of the issue. Maybe we have associations of weakness or feelings of inadequacy if we acknowledge those feelings or issues. I’m an LPC, CFRC with 12 years previous experience as an EMT and Volunteer Firefighter. I am EMDR level 1 & 2 trained for trauma and PTSD therapy. Beyond responder therapy, I have experience with sexual abuse, codependency work, healing the inner child, and promoting your own self-worth.
(501) 238-6856 View (501) 238-6856
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.