Sexual Abuse Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Christina M. Valastro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Christina M. Valastro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
My formal education includes mindfulness, intuition, spirituality, rape recovery, social justice, yoga, sexuality, sexual abuse trauma, and transpersonal psychology.
Welcome! Stepping into therapy takes courage, it's a sign you're ready for positive change. All humans have blind spots, having empathetic guidance directs your discovery and healing. I offer an open atmosphere to find clarity, support and growth. I will honor your journey with non-judgment, and extreme respect. Your challenges and strengths can facilitate your new path. The process is collaborative and I will uphold the goal for it to be productive.
My formal education includes mindfulness, intuition, spirituality, rape recovery, social justice, yoga, sexuality, sexual abuse trauma, and transpersonal psychology.
Welcome! Stepping into therapy takes courage, it's a sign you're ready for positive change. All humans have blind spots, having empathetic guidance directs your discovery and healing. I offer an open atmosphere to find clarity, support and growth. I will honor your journey with non-judgment, and extreme respect. Your challenges and strengths can facilitate your new path. The process is collaborative and I will uphold the goal for it to be productive.
(970) 355-3134 View (970) 355-3134
Photo of Jennifer G Koch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Jennifer G Koch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80220
I have 30 years experience as a somatic mind-body oriented therapist who provides support for kids, adolescents, and adults moving through issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse survivors, medical trauma, falls/injuries, car accidents, substance use, grief/loss, LGBTQIA+ and other life transitions. Clients reach out for many reasons. Some are noticing distressing memories, fears, worry, or sadness impacting their relationships, employment, and sleep. Sometimes parents reach out concerned about their child, teen, or college student seeming more withdrawn or overwhelmed at school/college or home.
I have 30 years experience as a somatic mind-body oriented therapist who provides support for kids, adolescents, and adults moving through issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse survivors, medical trauma, falls/injuries, car accidents, substance use, grief/loss, LGBTQIA+ and other life transitions. Clients reach out for many reasons. Some are noticing distressing memories, fears, worry, or sadness impacting their relationships, employment, and sleep. Sometimes parents reach out concerned about their child, teen, or college student seeming more withdrawn or overwhelmed at school/college or home.
(720) 664-9208 View (720) 664-9208
Photo of Shira Hecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Shira Hecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
LCSW trained in CBT and motivational interviewing, as well as TBRI. I have worked with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, veterans, and kids and teenagers. I love working with teens and kids, and I have a specialized background in trauma of all kinds. To me, therapy is about the connection between the therapist and the client, and about that attunement and understanding. Beyond that, all the training in the world is secondary!
LCSW trained in CBT and motivational interviewing, as well as TBRI. I have worked with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, veterans, and kids and teenagers. I love working with teens and kids, and I have a specialized background in trauma of all kinds. To me, therapy is about the connection between the therapist and the client, and about that attunement and understanding. Beyond that, all the training in the world is secondary!
(720) 709-2448 View (720) 709-2448
Photo of Black Dog Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Black Dog Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I have over 10 years experience in the field of trauma with emphasis on sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, interpersonal/relational conflict and life transitions. I received my BA and MA from Naropa University in Boulder, CO which has a philosophy rooted in the belief that all individuals have the tools within themselves to heal from even the most difficult of experiences. My therapeutic foundation is rooted in this same philosophy. My ideal client is anyone eager to reclaim who they truly are with curiosity, compassion and raw vulnerability. By discovering this inner truth, they are set free.
I have over 10 years experience in the field of trauma with emphasis on sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, interpersonal/relational conflict and life transitions. I received my BA and MA from Naropa University in Boulder, CO which has a philosophy rooted in the belief that all individuals have the tools within themselves to heal from even the most difficult of experiences. My therapeutic foundation is rooted in this same philosophy. My ideal client is anyone eager to reclaim who they truly are with curiosity, compassion and raw vulnerability. By discovering this inner truth, they are set free.
(720) 836-1756 View (720) 836-1756
Photo of Katey Wagner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Katey Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to therapy, I am honored to join you on this journey. I believe healing happens in the context of connection and support. And I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe sharing your story and exploring areas for growth and change. I specialize in partnering with survivors of sexual abuse on their path to healing.
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to therapy, I am honored to join you on this journey. I believe healing happens in the context of connection and support. And I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe sharing your story and exploring areas for growth and change. I specialize in partnering with survivors of sexual abuse on their path to healing.
(512) 866-7438 View (512) 866-7438
Photo of Hadassah Carlson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Hadassah Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I help individuals who are experiencing suffering and who want to experience healing and lasting change. Maybe you've experienced human-induced trauma, sexual abuse, spiritual abuse, relational conflict, feeling lost, alone, stuck, or simply feeling like some part of your life isn't working. Maybe you're struggling to feel your emotions, or you're confused about how your behavior and emotions are connected. I will work with you to help you understand the root of the issue and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected and we'll work together to create greater awareness, freedom, and health in your life.
I help individuals who are experiencing suffering and who want to experience healing and lasting change. Maybe you've experienced human-induced trauma, sexual abuse, spiritual abuse, relational conflict, feeling lost, alone, stuck, or simply feeling like some part of your life isn't working. Maybe you're struggling to feel your emotions, or you're confused about how your behavior and emotions are connected. I will work with you to help you understand the root of the issue and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected and we'll work together to create greater awareness, freedom, and health in your life.
(720) 637-4709 x724 View (720) 637-4709 x724
Photo of Carrie E Garman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Carrie E Garman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80230
Many of my clients have histories of, sexual abuse, physical abuse, verbal/emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic disorder, domestic violence, relationship issues, and career confusion.
Telehealth ONLY- Now accepting clients and most insurance). Are you tired of your past creating your present? Done with anxiety and panic attacks and avoiding all people and things that "trigger" you. Feeling better is not as easy as just changing how you think- if it was we would not get stuck like we do. Myb work with individuals takes time and is all client-driven- there is no push to work on any one topic. I have found that comfortable conversation and creating a strong and safe relationship at the beginning of treatment leads to some of the best and most successful therapeutic work.
Many of my clients have histories of, sexual abuse, physical abuse, verbal/emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic disorder, domestic violence, relationship issues, and career confusion.
Telehealth ONLY- Now accepting clients and most insurance). Are you tired of your past creating your present? Done with anxiety and panic attacks and avoiding all people and things that "trigger" you. Feeling better is not as easy as just changing how you think- if it was we would not get stuck like we do. Myb work with individuals takes time and is all client-driven- there is no push to work on any one topic. I have found that comfortable conversation and creating a strong and safe relationship at the beginning of treatment leads to some of the best and most successful therapeutic work.
(719) 246-3047 View (719) 246-3047
Photo of Jessica T Frazier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Jessica T Frazier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80230
I also utilize trauma informed interventions to support clients with acute and complex trauma resulting from domestic/dating violence; sexual assault; & interpersonal violence.
I believe the central purpose of counseling is to assist the clients I work with in identifying their own unique abilities and tools to cope with the hurdles and challenges that life brings. Each individual has the capacity to make change happen to support well being; heal from trauma and identify new coping skills. My goal is to provide a safe space for individuals to work through traumatic or difficult life experiences while helping to cultivate new avenues to overcome the things that can keep one feeling "stuck". My approach in counseling is collaborative, holistic, strength based and client centered.
I also utilize trauma informed interventions to support clients with acute and complex trauma resulting from domestic/dating violence; sexual assault; & interpersonal violence.
I believe the central purpose of counseling is to assist the clients I work with in identifying their own unique abilities and tools to cope with the hurdles and challenges that life brings. Each individual has the capacity to make change happen to support well being; heal from trauma and identify new coping skills. My goal is to provide a safe space for individuals to work through traumatic or difficult life experiences while helping to cultivate new avenues to overcome the things that can keep one feeling "stuck". My approach in counseling is collaborative, holistic, strength based and client centered.
(720) 580-6437 View (720) 580-6437
Photo of Heather Sconyers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Heather Sconyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I am very passionate about working with trauma and sexual abuse, specifically complex trauma (C-PTSD) and PTSD.
Taking this step to start your journey towards healing in therapy is such a brave and courageous one! The thought of change is often very nerve wracking and overwhelming. I am honored to partner with you on this journey. Change and healing happens in relationship when we feel heard, cared about, and supported. I am passionate about creating a safe and comfortable space in which you can explore all areas of your life and tell your story. My clinical experience includes working in a variety of settings including community mental health and private practice with both individuals and families.
I am very passionate about working with trauma and sexual abuse, specifically complex trauma (C-PTSD) and PTSD.
Taking this step to start your journey towards healing in therapy is such a brave and courageous one! The thought of change is often very nerve wracking and overwhelming. I am honored to partner with you on this journey. Change and healing happens in relationship when we feel heard, cared about, and supported. I am passionate about creating a safe and comfortable space in which you can explore all areas of your life and tell your story. My clinical experience includes working in a variety of settings including community mental health and private practice with both individuals and families.
(720) 459-9706 View (720) 459-9706
Photo of Lindsay Howson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lindsay Howson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80014  (Online Only)
My expertise is in working with adult survivors of childhood and/or adult sexual abuse, family of origin trauma, and survivors of domestic abuse.
The fact that you are visiting this page implies that you have been through and are going through some very difficult, confusing, and painful life experiences. I understand how difficult it is to share these intimate experiences with someone you do not know and I am honored to be the person who is able to partner with you as you strive to heal. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, relationship problems, or suspect that past experiences may be impacting your life, it would be my honor to help you find insight, healing, and joy as you heal. I am fully telehealth and licensed in both Oregon and Colorado.
My expertise is in working with adult survivors of childhood and/or adult sexual abuse, family of origin trauma, and survivors of domestic abuse.
The fact that you are visiting this page implies that you have been through and are going through some very difficult, confusing, and painful life experiences. I understand how difficult it is to share these intimate experiences with someone you do not know and I am honored to be the person who is able to partner with you as you strive to heal. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, relationship problems, or suspect that past experiences may be impacting your life, it would be my honor to help you find insight, healing, and joy as you heal. I am fully telehealth and licensed in both Oregon and Colorado.
(503) 278-5685 View (503) 278-5685
Photo of Lane Taplin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lane Taplin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80002
My specialties include developmental trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, relationship struggles, and working with LGBTQIA2S+ folx.
Sometimes your mind and your body seem to be giving you completely different messages, leaving you feeling confused, disconnected, and stuck. I offer trauma-informed psychotherapy and Art Therapy with a foundation in Social Justice Counseling to support you in reconnecting (or connecting for the first time) with yourself, coping with current life stressors, and processing traumas and wounds. I offer an approach that combines Art Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (somatic trauma processing), and mindfulness, which are often more effective than words alone in supporting deep and lasting change on a nervous system level.
My specialties include developmental trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, relationship struggles, and working with LGBTQIA2S+ folx.
Sometimes your mind and your body seem to be giving you completely different messages, leaving you feeling confused, disconnected, and stuck. I offer trauma-informed psychotherapy and Art Therapy with a foundation in Social Justice Counseling to support you in reconnecting (or connecting for the first time) with yourself, coping with current life stressors, and processing traumas and wounds. I offer an approach that combines Art Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (somatic trauma processing), and mindfulness, which are often more effective than words alone in supporting deep and lasting change on a nervous system level.
(720) 730-2685 View (720) 730-2685
Photo of Amy Knight, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Amy Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80012  (Online Only)
I have seen, supported, and served individuals who have been both victims and perpetrators of sexual abuse, domestic violence, suicide attempts, self-inflicted injury, abandonment, shame, neglect, and all associations of grief, loss, and fear.
Not many people can say, without a doubt, they know exactly where they are supposed to be. I am lucky enough to be one of the few. My place is walking through the fire with trauma survivors, sitting with people in their deepest pain, and if nothing more, holding space for anything that may come.
I have seen, supported, and served individuals who have been both victims and perpetrators of sexual abuse, domestic violence, suicide attempts, self-inflicted injury, abandonment, shame, neglect, and all associations of grief, loss, and fear.
Not many people can say, without a doubt, they know exactly where they are supposed to be. I am lucky enough to be one of the few. My place is walking through the fire with trauma survivors, sitting with people in their deepest pain, and if nothing more, holding space for anything that may come.
(720) 605-3860 View (720) 605-3860
Photo of Rachel Smith, Counselor in Denver, CO
Rachel Smith
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Waitlist for new clients
How do we find inner peace when our outer presentation is wrong? Where is self-acceptance when the world around you is unaccepting? Your internal struggles are real, and you are not alone. Wholeness begins with healing. They say time heals all wounds, but some wounds are so deep it feels as though they may never heal. Asking for help takes strength. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma from sexual assault or abuse, and/or sex and relationship issues, let’s chat. Please reach out via email if possible
How do we find inner peace when our outer presentation is wrong? Where is self-acceptance when the world around you is unaccepting? Your internal struggles are real, and you are not alone. Wholeness begins with healing. They say time heals all wounds, but some wounds are so deep it feels as though they may never heal. Asking for help takes strength. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma from sexual assault or abuse, and/or sex and relationship issues, let’s chat. Please reach out via email if possible
(719) 294-1656 View (719) 294-1656
Photo of Lisa Tafolla, Counselor in Denver, CO
Lisa Tafolla
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, SEP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
Optimize life and increase joy and satisfaction. Release stress and trauma, PTSD, sexism-based traumatic stress (SBTS), including sexual assault, workplace harassment, domestic violence, misogyny/sexism, oppression, abuse, childhood abuse/neglect, accidents/medical, mass disasters, and attachment, developmental and intergenerational trauma. Entrepreneurs & professionals including leadership, vision, ambition, energy, meaning, stress management, boundaries, imposter syndrome. Relationship issues, nervous system regulation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life-limiting mental blocks and values misalignment.
Optimize life and increase joy and satisfaction. Release stress and trauma, PTSD, sexism-based traumatic stress (SBTS), including sexual assault, workplace harassment, domestic violence, misogyny/sexism, oppression, abuse, childhood abuse/neglect, accidents/medical, mass disasters, and attachment, developmental and intergenerational trauma. Entrepreneurs & professionals including leadership, vision, ambition, energy, meaning, stress management, boundaries, imposter syndrome. Relationship issues, nervous system regulation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life-limiting mental blocks and values misalignment.
(720) 295-5736 View (720) 295-5736
Photo of Dana Fox, Counselor in Denver, CO
Dana Fox
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
I specialize in working with 20-somethings, 30-somethings and 40-somethings and 50-somethings with: Decision-making, Career, Relationships, Personal Responsibility, Self Awareness, Family Issues, Anxiety, Panic, Shyness, Worrying, Overwhelm, Stress, Depression, Guilt, Shame, Self-defeating behaviors, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Infidelity, Problematic Drinking.
You want to feel better, right? I take pride in my commitment to helping you achieve this. I will help you understand yourself better and work through blocks so that you can have more enjoyment, worry less, and function better in work, relationships, and life. I listen for what's underlying your issues and then help you find resolution. I work with you to relieve worries, racing thoughts, poor concentration, panic, moodiness, irritability, relationship problems, and work-related problems.
I specialize in working with 20-somethings, 30-somethings and 40-somethings and 50-somethings with: Decision-making, Career, Relationships, Personal Responsibility, Self Awareness, Family Issues, Anxiety, Panic, Shyness, Worrying, Overwhelm, Stress, Depression, Guilt, Shame, Self-defeating behaviors, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Infidelity, Problematic Drinking.
You want to feel better, right? I take pride in my commitment to helping you achieve this. I will help you understand yourself better and work through blocks so that you can have more enjoyment, worry less, and function better in work, relationships, and life. I listen for what's underlying your issues and then help you find resolution. I work with you to relieve worries, racing thoughts, poor concentration, panic, moodiness, irritability, relationship problems, and work-related problems.
(303) 848-8591 View (303) 848-8591
Photo of Gillian Kaag, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Gillian Kaag
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
I am a clinical specialist with expertise in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, depression, complicated grief (suicide loss, perinatal loss), and unwanted sexual experiences (rape, sexual assault, harassment, violence).
As a psychologist, I partner with clients to help them heal from raw emotional pain, recognize their inner strengths, and build resiliency in the face of life’s biggest challenges. My style is one that is warm and nurturing while also direct and honest. If you’re feeling stuck, not good enough, lonely, overwhelmed, devastated, or ashamed, you are not alone. I have dedicated my career to learning gold standard treatments to ensure that when clients have the courage to reach out for help, I am able to offer treatment interventions that they can trust will make a difference.
I am a clinical specialist with expertise in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, depression, complicated grief (suicide loss, perinatal loss), and unwanted sexual experiences (rape, sexual assault, harassment, violence).
As a psychologist, I partner with clients to help them heal from raw emotional pain, recognize their inner strengths, and build resiliency in the face of life’s biggest challenges. My style is one that is warm and nurturing while also direct and honest. If you’re feeling stuck, not good enough, lonely, overwhelmed, devastated, or ashamed, you are not alone. I have dedicated my career to learning gold standard treatments to ensure that when clients have the courage to reach out for help, I am able to offer treatment interventions that they can trust will make a difference.
(720) 730-6722 View (720) 730-6722
Photo of Leah Raulerson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Leah Raulerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , ACS, BCN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
Everyone wants to feel better, but I want to know: how does that look for you? My style is compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered, integrating concepts of somatic work, DBT, existential psychotherapy, parts work, EMDR, Neurostimulation and Neurofeedback. I specialize in working with adult survivors of childhood sexual assault, domestic violence, emotional abuse and neglect, grief and loss, and other traumas. My clients are living with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, and existential questions.
Everyone wants to feel better, but I want to know: how does that look for you? My style is compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered, integrating concepts of somatic work, DBT, existential psychotherapy, parts work, EMDR, Neurostimulation and Neurofeedback. I specialize in working with adult survivors of childhood sexual assault, domestic violence, emotional abuse and neglect, grief and loss, and other traumas. My clients are living with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, and existential questions.
(720) 702-4740 View (720) 702-4740
Photo of Karen Gail Jackson, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Karen Gail Jackson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80247
I have worked with survivors of child abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, emergency responders and others.
I love helping people to overcome loss, remove barriers, learn more about themselves, and live fuller lives. You might be going through a painful loss or a major transition. You may have recently experienced a terrible trauma, or you have decided to finally address long-standing painful childhood experiences. You may be trying to decide if you can fix your relationship, or if it's time to leave. There are any number of reasons why people seek the help of a mental health professional. But it is often one of the most important journeys a person can undertake.
I have worked with survivors of child abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, emergency responders and others.
I love helping people to overcome loss, remove barriers, learn more about themselves, and live fuller lives. You might be going through a painful loss or a major transition. You may have recently experienced a terrible trauma, or you have decided to finally address long-standing painful childhood experiences. You may be trying to decide if you can fix your relationship, or if it's time to leave. There are any number of reasons why people seek the help of a mental health professional. But it is often one of the most important journeys a person can undertake.
(720) 634-2564 View (720) 634-2564
Photo of Nick Carmody, Registered Psychotherapist in Denver, CO
Nick Carmody
Registered Psychotherapist, JD, MS Psy
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202
My background includes childhood sexual abuse, Traumatic Brain Injury, drug abuse, depression, anxiety, toxic relationships, as well as other sources of psychological distress.
Life is unpredictable and challenging. Whether due to a life changing event that occurs in the blink of an eye, or circumstances existing for years or even decades, inevitably we all experience periods in our lives where we feel overwhelmed, isolated, inadequate, depressed, anxious, or even broken. Often these feelings are the byproduct of stress or even trauma. If not properly managed, the effects of stress and trauma will eventually have a detrimental effect on our careers, and, more importantly, our personal relationships and families. In some cases, our personal relationships may actually be the source of the stress or trauma.
My background includes childhood sexual abuse, Traumatic Brain Injury, drug abuse, depression, anxiety, toxic relationships, as well as other sources of psychological distress.
Life is unpredictable and challenging. Whether due to a life changing event that occurs in the blink of an eye, or circumstances existing for years or even decades, inevitably we all experience periods in our lives where we feel overwhelmed, isolated, inadequate, depressed, anxious, or even broken. Often these feelings are the byproduct of stress or even trauma. If not properly managed, the effects of stress and trauma will eventually have a detrimental effect on our careers, and, more importantly, our personal relationships and families. In some cases, our personal relationships may actually be the source of the stress or trauma.
(720) 799-0046 View (720) 799-0046
Photo of Sheri Vanino, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Sheri Vanino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
My expertise includes working extensively with victims of violence and trauma, sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, adolescents, family members of victims of homicide, suicide or traumatic death and parents of sexually abused kids.
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." - Maya Angelou. I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Denver. I assist clients in developing insight and self-awareness so they may make more informed choices rather than perpetuating old patterns and habits. My work tends to focus on healing from the past, increasing coping skills and building on existing strengths to move in a new direction and create change. I bring 26 years of experience, knowledge, skills, humor, and empathy to my work with clients.
My expertise includes working extensively with victims of violence and trauma, sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, adolescents, family members of victims of homicide, suicide or traumatic death and parents of sexually abused kids.
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." - Maya Angelou. I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Denver. I assist clients in developing insight and self-awareness so they may make more informed choices rather than perpetuating old patterns and habits. My work tends to focus on healing from the past, increasing coping skills and building on existing strengths to move in a new direction and create change. I bring 26 years of experience, knowledge, skills, humor, and empathy to my work with clients.
(303) 625-6572 View (303) 625-6572
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.