Photo of Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
(650) 727-1761 View (650) 727-1761
Photo of Danielle Comerford Worth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Danielle Comerford Worth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We explore a host of issues, including: emotionally rooted physiologic ailments, medical trauma, PTSD, developmental trauma, grief, energetic sensitivity, assault, boundary setting, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, addiction, codependency, and transitional and relational struggles.
As humans, we are brilliantly complex, wired for connection, attachment, and survival. Our experience of joy and suffering are innately human and are connected to our physical and emotional wellness--inseparable realms. In somatic psychotherapy we hold space for the body to have a language of its own, honoring what it has to say, so that we may more clearly see what is beneath the surface. As a somatic psychotherapist, I am a collaborator, guide and mirror, supporting you in increasing your own sense of exploration of conscious and unconscious patterns of behaviors, beliefs, body signals and cues.
We explore a host of issues, including: emotionally rooted physiologic ailments, medical trauma, PTSD, developmental trauma, grief, energetic sensitivity, assault, boundary setting, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, addiction, codependency, and transitional and relational struggles.
As humans, we are brilliantly complex, wired for connection, attachment, and survival. Our experience of joy and suffering are innately human and are connected to our physical and emotional wellness--inseparable realms. In somatic psychotherapy we hold space for the body to have a language of its own, honoring what it has to say, so that we may more clearly see what is beneath the surface. As a somatic psychotherapist, I am a collaborator, guide and mirror, supporting you in increasing your own sense of exploration of conscious and unconscious patterns of behaviors, beliefs, body signals and cues.
(510) 345-1765 View (510) 345-1765
Photo of Sarah Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sarah Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with survivors of trauma, including childhood abuse, community violence, sexual assault & intimate partner violence.
I recognize that making a decision to come to counseling is not always easy, and will partner with you at your own pace to engage your natural capacity for healing and change. My style is warm, collaborative and non-judgmental. The way our time is spent together will be unique to your interests & needs. My practice is eclectic and may include mindfulness, expressive arts, nature, as well as traditional talk therapy, which we will discuss in our first meeting together. I'm passionate about providing therapeutic services to youth and young adults; and also work with adult clients & parents.
I specialize in working with survivors of trauma, including childhood abuse, community violence, sexual assault & intimate partner violence.
I recognize that making a decision to come to counseling is not always easy, and will partner with you at your own pace to engage your natural capacity for healing and change. My style is warm, collaborative and non-judgmental. The way our time is spent together will be unique to your interests & needs. My practice is eclectic and may include mindfulness, expressive arts, nature, as well as traditional talk therapy, which we will discuss in our first meeting together. I'm passionate about providing therapeutic services to youth and young adults; and also work with adult clients & parents.
(415) 792-0970 View (415) 792-0970
Photo of Shelley M Samuels, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Shelley M Samuels
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
Therapy is neither magic nor science, but I believe that therapy has the potential to be magical and transformative. I offer a warm, supportive environment to help individuals explore deep trauma as well as ordinary issues that impact daily life and long-term goals. I strive to inspire creativity through nature, and incorporate creative arts into my practice. My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions. A veteran career counselor, I've over 7 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching.
Therapy is neither magic nor science, but I believe that therapy has the potential to be magical and transformative. I offer a warm, supportive environment to help individuals explore deep trauma as well as ordinary issues that impact daily life and long-term goals. I strive to inspire creativity through nature, and incorporate creative arts into my practice. My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions. A veteran career counselor, I've over 7 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching.
(510) 974-7425 View (510) 974-7425
Photo of Carmonique Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Carmonique Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
I have 15+ years of experience supporting adults, couples, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse in their journey towards healing.
Are you dealing with daily anxiety, sadness, stress, trauma or difficult life transitions? Want peace in your life, but can't seem to attain it? Day to day we can be confronted with new challenges, stressors, and mental exhaustion. It is common to experience a range of emotional challenges individually or within your relationships during various phases of your life. Sometimes you just need a safe place to release and restore. I am committed to providing you a safe, supportive and confidential environment for your restoration and healing.
I have 15+ years of experience supporting adults, couples, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse in their journey towards healing.
Are you dealing with daily anxiety, sadness, stress, trauma or difficult life transitions? Want peace in your life, but can't seem to attain it? Day to day we can be confronted with new challenges, stressors, and mental exhaustion. It is common to experience a range of emotional challenges individually or within your relationships during various phases of your life. Sometimes you just need a safe place to release and restore. I am committed to providing you a safe, supportive and confidential environment for your restoration and healing.
(213) 674-5115 View (213) 674-5115
Photo of David Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
David Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I specialize working with individuals who have endured/are enduring narcissistic abuse (like gaslighting and emotional manipulation) who often arrive at therapy feeling confused and depressed. Victims of narcissistic partners/family often struggle with self-blame, fueling a painful cycle of self-doubt, shame, and depression. I also work with sexual abuse and complex trauma, and substance misuse. We will focus on rebuilding self-esteem and embracing a future where you feel validated and strong.
I specialize working with individuals who have endured/are enduring narcissistic abuse (like gaslighting and emotional manipulation) who often arrive at therapy feeling confused and depressed. Victims of narcissistic partners/family often struggle with self-blame, fueling a painful cycle of self-doubt, shame, and depression. I also work with sexual abuse and complex trauma, and substance misuse. We will focus on rebuilding self-esteem and embracing a future where you feel validated and strong.
(415) 335-9429 View (415) 335-9429
Photo of Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I specialize in embodied intimacy and sexuality: relationships, childhood sexual abuse, sexual shame, body image, gender questioning, LGBTQIA, boundary setting in the nuances of consent, inhibition, sexual body concerns (i.
Seeking to deepen your intimacy in relationships with romantic and/or non-romantic partners? Desiring a fuller sexual expression & pleasure in your experience? Have you desired to enliven your sex life? Or, perhaps you are desiring restorative healing, justice, & repair from childhood sexual abuse / have had non-consensual, sexual experiences; either being the victim or the transgressor and require integral support. I can help you. I facilitate individuals and couples heal and recover from personal, collective, and intergenerational trauma to come back into authentic, embodied connection through intimacy from the inside out.
I specialize in embodied intimacy and sexuality: relationships, childhood sexual abuse, sexual shame, body image, gender questioning, LGBTQIA, boundary setting in the nuances of consent, inhibition, sexual body concerns (i.
Seeking to deepen your intimacy in relationships with romantic and/or non-romantic partners? Desiring a fuller sexual expression & pleasure in your experience? Have you desired to enliven your sex life? Or, perhaps you are desiring restorative healing, justice, & repair from childhood sexual abuse / have had non-consensual, sexual experiences; either being the victim or the transgressor and require integral support. I can help you. I facilitate individuals and couples heal and recover from personal, collective, and intergenerational trauma to come back into authentic, embodied connection through intimacy from the inside out.
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Photo of Shana Burns, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Shana Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
My specialities are integrative and aimed at addressing challenges that traverse the lifespan to include developmental trauma (in particular, physical and/or sexual abuse in early childhood), substance abuse, anger issues, aging, attachment, relationships in conflict, identity confusion, criminal justice (legal) involvement and grief & loss.
Welcome! Are you experiencing an unexpected transition, difficulties in relationships, feelings of uncertainty, or are you at the threshold of having to make significant life decisions? If any of these questions resonate and you are in search of guidance to actualize change in your life, therapy can offer a compassionate private space to deepen your process of self-inquiry, gain renewed perspective, heal from past pain and losses and reimagine your future through clarifying your truest feelings, needs and choices. Therapy is most optimal as an interactive collaboration between client and therapist with the relationship at the heart.
My specialities are integrative and aimed at addressing challenges that traverse the lifespan to include developmental trauma (in particular, physical and/or sexual abuse in early childhood), substance abuse, anger issues, aging, attachment, relationships in conflict, identity confusion, criminal justice (legal) involvement and grief & loss.
Welcome! Are you experiencing an unexpected transition, difficulties in relationships, feelings of uncertainty, or are you at the threshold of having to make significant life decisions? If any of these questions resonate and you are in search of guidance to actualize change in your life, therapy can offer a compassionate private space to deepen your process of self-inquiry, gain renewed perspective, heal from past pain and losses and reimagine your future through clarifying your truest feelings, needs and choices. Therapy is most optimal as an interactive collaboration between client and therapist with the relationship at the heart.
(415) 635-0415 View (415) 635-0415
Photo of Jeffrey Allen Suiter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Jeffrey Allen Suiter
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
My ideal client is anyone—individuals, couples, or families—yearning for a compassionate and culturally attuned therapeutic journey. They face life's challenges with resilience, eager to embrace the vibrancy of feeling "alive." Seeking a therapist who comprehends the impact of social inequities on wellness and life quality, they aligns with my values. Together, we navigate towards the restoration of a beloved community, unlocking the fullness of their lives beyond the burdens. My commitment lies in fostering a therapeutic space where they feel profoundly "seen" and empowered to pursue the desires of their hearts.
My ideal client is anyone—individuals, couples, or families—yearning for a compassionate and culturally attuned therapeutic journey. They face life's challenges with resilience, eager to embrace the vibrancy of feeling "alive." Seeking a therapist who comprehends the impact of social inequities on wellness and life quality, they aligns with my values. Together, we navigate towards the restoration of a beloved community, unlocking the fullness of their lives beyond the burdens. My commitment lies in fostering a therapeutic space where they feel profoundly "seen" and empowered to pursue the desires of their hearts.
(510) 726-1520 View (510) 726-1520
Photo of Stephanie Bossy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Stephanie Bossy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I welcome you to journey inward with the support of another person by your side. In our work together, I hope to make space for all parts of your experience to come forward, especially ones that have seemed unacceptable or unwelcome in society. My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. It is descriptive rather than prescriptive, and focused on the whole person and their environment.
I welcome you to journey inward with the support of another person by your side. In our work together, I hope to make space for all parts of your experience to come forward, especially ones that have seemed unacceptable or unwelcome in society. My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. It is descriptive rather than prescriptive, and focused on the whole person and their environment.
(415) 914-7597 View (415) 914-7597
Photo of Jan Chess, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jan Chess
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Are you struggling with how childhood experiences, losses or trauma continues to influence your life? Are you discouraged at repeating difficult situations or find it hard to get out from under depression or anxiety? I'm glad to see how we can put our minds together to understand your dilemmas and see things differently. Change is possible no matter what your age or your life circumstances when you feel seen, accepted and appreciated for who you are and where you've been.
Are you struggling with how childhood experiences, losses or trauma continues to influence your life? Are you discouraged at repeating difficult situations or find it hard to get out from under depression or anxiety? I'm glad to see how we can put our minds together to understand your dilemmas and see things differently. Change is possible no matter what your age or your life circumstances when you feel seen, accepted and appreciated for who you are and where you've been.
(530) 645-3796 View (530) 645-3796
Photo of Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
(510) 974-7870 View (510) 974-7870
Photo of Tracina Schrader, Psychological Associate in Oakland, CA
Tracina Schrader
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Everyone needs help at one time or another, whether it be for symptoms of anxiety or depression due to family/work etc., or you find yourself in constant survival mode, doing your best to keep your head above water. You are looking for more emotional balance and tools to increase your resilience. I do everything possible to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space in which you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior. Our therapeutic success depends on the strength of the trust and the bond between us and how we work together toward your goals.
Everyone needs help at one time or another, whether it be for symptoms of anxiety or depression due to family/work etc., or you find yourself in constant survival mode, doing your best to keep your head above water. You are looking for more emotional balance and tools to increase your resilience. I do everything possible to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space in which you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior. Our therapeutic success depends on the strength of the trust and the bond between us and how we work together toward your goals.
(747) 529-9021 View (747) 529-9021
Photo of Vincent Rozalski, Ph.D., Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Vincent Rozalski, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I specialize in focused treatment for individuals who are suffering from the after effects of trauma and other stressful events. I have worked with people who've experienced a variety of terrible events, such as combat, accidents, abuse, sexual assaults, and near death experiences. After such events, it is common to experience a variety of problems, including PTSD, guilt, shame, anger, depression, anxiety, substance use, or emotional dysregulation. If you are experiencing any of these problems, I can help. I also offer psychedelic assisted therapy, including integration of ketamine or other psychedelic medicines.
I specialize in focused treatment for individuals who are suffering from the after effects of trauma and other stressful events. I have worked with people who've experienced a variety of terrible events, such as combat, accidents, abuse, sexual assaults, and near death experiences. After such events, it is common to experience a variety of problems, including PTSD, guilt, shame, anger, depression, anxiety, substance use, or emotional dysregulation. If you are experiencing any of these problems, I can help. I also offer psychedelic assisted therapy, including integration of ketamine or other psychedelic medicines.
(925) 403-4551 View (925) 403-4551
Photo of Mary McFarland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mary McFarland, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Are you unhappy in your life? Unhappy with your relationships? Are you looking for an experienced therapist who will listen to what YOU WANT and need? I am a kind compassionate seasoned professional who will help you understand yourself better. I have an engaging and collaborative style. I help clients struggling with life transitions, relationships and depression/anxiety.
Are you unhappy in your life? Unhappy with your relationships? Are you looking for an experienced therapist who will listen to what YOU WANT and need? I am a kind compassionate seasoned professional who will help you understand yourself better. I have an engaging and collaborative style. I help clients struggling with life transitions, relationships and depression/anxiety.
(510) 655-5568 View (510) 655-5568
Photo of J Julian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
J J Julian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
I am a queer artist, activist and therapist. I believe deeply in healing, and my practice as a therapist is one way I use my own healing journey to inform and create space for others to explore theirs. I seek to center my work on empowering and supporting people in the LGBTQIA+ community navigating all the emotional work it takes to exist in an oppressive culture - anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, gender, substance use, family, housing, employment, etc. Whether directly or indirectly through my practice, I also work to uplift and center the empowerment of queer, trans*, Black, indigenous and people of color (QTBIPOC).
I am a queer artist, activist and therapist. I believe deeply in healing, and my practice as a therapist is one way I use my own healing journey to inform and create space for others to explore theirs. I seek to center my work on empowering and supporting people in the LGBTQIA+ community navigating all the emotional work it takes to exist in an oppressive culture - anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, gender, substance use, family, housing, employment, etc. Whether directly or indirectly through my practice, I also work to uplift and center the empowerment of queer, trans*, Black, indigenous and people of color (QTBIPOC).
(510) 800-7282 View (510) 800-7282
Photo of Megan Kopriva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Megan Kopriva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RYT, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
*ACCEPTING CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, AND MISSOURI CLIENTS* Come be seen & be known in a relational space with me, so that you can finally arrive home in yourself. Are you curious if you have experienced trauma, or if trauma may still be affecting you? Have you worked with many healers & still feel stuck in certain places? Have you experienced a spiritual awakening & need to integrate the experience(s)? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then you may be in the right place. Trauma can express itself in PTSD & Complex PTSD symptoms, various types of depression & anxiety, & many other symptoms. Lets get to the root.
*ACCEPTING CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, AND MISSOURI CLIENTS* Come be seen & be known in a relational space with me, so that you can finally arrive home in yourself. Are you curious if you have experienced trauma, or if trauma may still be affecting you? Have you worked with many healers & still feel stuck in certain places? Have you experienced a spiritual awakening & need to integrate the experience(s)? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then you may be in the right place. Trauma can express itself in PTSD & Complex PTSD symptoms, various types of depression & anxiety, & many other symptoms. Lets get to the root.
(341) 444-3409 View (341) 444-3409
Photo of Maria Perpetua Linsao, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Maria Perpetua Linsao
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
Welcome. You have arrived. Now what? Something brought you here. Perhaps the burden of pain that weighs on your body, mind and spirit. What is the nature of this pain? How is it impacting different parts of your life, your sense of identity, your relationships, your sense and purpose as a human being? Psychotherapy is an offering, a kind of healing art, a form of medicine that may help transform various symptoms of pain, manifesting in unhealthy, hurtful or even harmful thoughts and behaviors into something more healthy, wholesome and functional.
Welcome. You have arrived. Now what? Something brought you here. Perhaps the burden of pain that weighs on your body, mind and spirit. What is the nature of this pain? How is it impacting different parts of your life, your sense of identity, your relationships, your sense and purpose as a human being? Psychotherapy is an offering, a kind of healing art, a form of medicine that may help transform various symptoms of pain, manifesting in unhealthy, hurtful or even harmful thoughts and behaviors into something more healthy, wholesome and functional.
(415) 862-1299 View (415) 862-1299
Photo of Olivia Clear, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakland, CA
Olivia Clear
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MS, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Are you searching for a therapist to help you integrate your insights into change in your day-to-day life? Do you need a space filled with wonder, openness, & curiosity where you can safely explore your inner world? Perhaps you want to talk about the psychedelic state you experienced during Ketamine Therapy or other 'non-ordinary' states like meditation but feel afraid your therapist won’t get it or know how to make meaning with you? Do you wonder if it’s possible to find someone who will honor the impact of your experiences, your story, and your path in a safe, co-creative relationship?
Are you searching for a therapist to help you integrate your insights into change in your day-to-day life? Do you need a space filled with wonder, openness, & curiosity where you can safely explore your inner world? Perhaps you want to talk about the psychedelic state you experienced during Ketamine Therapy or other 'non-ordinary' states like meditation but feel afraid your therapist won’t get it or know how to make meaning with you? Do you wonder if it’s possible to find someone who will honor the impact of your experiences, your story, and your path in a safe, co-creative relationship?
(510) 680-2623 View (510) 680-2623
Photo of Onaje L. Smartt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Onaje L. Smartt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Relationships take work, but sometimes we don't know what work needs to be done, or how to do it in a way that strengthens the connections between us. That's where I come in. Therapy is like an objective mirror that reflects thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Through this mirror, you can begin to see a clearer picture of your relationship, so much so, that eventually you can carry that image outside of the therapy room & be happy & confident in what you see. In my work, I provide a space for vulnerability & understanding that allows these connections to foster change. We'll collaborate to make a plan that fits your specific needs.
Relationships take work, but sometimes we don't know what work needs to be done, or how to do it in a way that strengthens the connections between us. That's where I come in. Therapy is like an objective mirror that reflects thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Through this mirror, you can begin to see a clearer picture of your relationship, so much so, that eventually you can carry that image outside of the therapy room & be happy & confident in what you see. In my work, I provide a space for vulnerability & understanding that allows these connections to foster change. We'll collaborate to make a plan that fits your specific needs.
(510) 826-3557 View (510) 826-3557
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.