Photo of Christina Sepulveda, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Christina Sepulveda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I have been in the field for 20 years and would love to hear your story and work with you to find a solution to your life challenges. I work with clients that have experienced childhood trauma to include sexual abuse and witnessing domestic violence, difficult life changes, cutting, suicidal tendencies, marital issues, relationship issues and more. I also work with children that have ADHD, and behavior issues.
I have been in the field for 20 years and would love to hear your story and work with you to find a solution to your life challenges. I work with clients that have experienced childhood trauma to include sexual abuse and witnessing domestic violence, difficult life changes, cutting, suicidal tendencies, marital issues, relationship issues and more. I also work with children that have ADHD, and behavior issues.
(719) 419-9327 View (719) 419-9327
Photo of Jennifer G Koch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
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 Sometimes parents reach out concerned about their child, teen, or college student seeming more withdrawn or overwhelmed at school/college or home.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 Sometimes parents reach out concerned about their child, teen, or college student seeming more withdrawn or overwhelmed at school/college or home.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 Christopher DuVernay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Christopher DuVernay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
The therapy I offer is ideal for simple, everyday stress, depression, PTSD, anxiety, addiction, physical/mental/sexual abuse, chronic pain and physical traumas.
Stress is a fixture in all of our lives. Many people are living with trauma. Dealing with stress and trauma alone is hard and I want you to feel good.
The therapy I offer is ideal for simple, everyday stress, depression, PTSD, anxiety, addiction, physical/mental/sexual abuse, chronic pain and physical traumas.
Stress is a fixture in all of our lives. Many people are living with trauma. Dealing with stress and trauma alone is hard and I want you to feel good.
(844) 585-0187 View (844) 585-0187
Photo of Jenifer E Seas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Jenifer E Seas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have worked with clients on addressing a number of issues, from substance abuse, to domestic violence, and survivors of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
"I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become." In today's world, people can be ambushed by any number of experiences that can leave us drained, exhausted, and feeling like it's hard to move forward. Counseling can be an outlet for individuals to sort through what they're feeling, and get perspective, and assistance, and most of all, a certainty that someone is listening; that your voice is being heard.
I have worked with clients on addressing a number of issues, from substance abuse, to domestic violence, and survivors of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
"I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become." In today's world, people can be ambushed by any number of experiences that can leave us drained, exhausted, and feeling like it's hard to move forward. Counseling can be an outlet for individuals to sort through what they're feeling, and get perspective, and assistance, and most of all, a certainty that someone is listening; that your voice is being heard.
(719) 294-1740 View (719) 294-1740
Photo of Carolyn Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Carolyn Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loveland, CO 80537  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, the effects of sexual abuse and other forms of trauma, PTSD, and identity issues.
Life is hard. Hurt happens to all of us. Sometimes it is intentional, sometimes unintentional. When it happens, we are left with a wound that, if left unexamined, can affect every aspect of our lives: body, soul, and spirit. Lancing the wound can be painful, especially those wounds caused by trauma and abuse, but the compromised life that we live if we don't examine the wounds is often as painful as the original wound. Choosing to face the pain is a courageous act, and successful resolution requires a safe and supportive atmosphere with safe and knowledgeable professionals.
I work with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, the effects of sexual abuse and other forms of trauma, PTSD, and identity issues.
Life is hard. Hurt happens to all of us. Sometimes it is intentional, sometimes unintentional. When it happens, we are left with a wound that, if left unexamined, can affect every aspect of our lives: body, soul, and spirit. Lancing the wound can be painful, especially those wounds caused by trauma and abuse, but the compromised life that we live if we don't examine the wounds is often as painful as the original wound. Choosing to face the pain is a courageous act, and successful resolution requires a safe and supportive atmosphere with safe and knowledgeable professionals.
(970) 812-1116 View (970) 812-1116
Photo of Abby Randall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Abby Randall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
I specialize in working with those in and coming out of the sex industry as well as survivors of childhood and adult sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, sex trafficking, domestic violence, ritual abuse, and other forms of trauma.
I am passionate about fostering a safe, healing, and empowering environment for those who are experiencing difficult repercussions from trauma, exploitation, and abuse. Your experience may include depression, anxiety, dissociation, substance abuse, relational conflict, grief, self-harm, suicidal ideation, disordered eating, low self esteem and more. Every story is unique and the difficulties that stem from trauma can feel overwhelming. This is why I will work compassionately and collaboratively with you to identify your specific needs and goals for therapy.
I specialize in working with those in and coming out of the sex industry as well as survivors of childhood and adult sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, sex trafficking, domestic violence, ritual abuse, and other forms of trauma.
I am passionate about fostering a safe, healing, and empowering environment for those who are experiencing difficult repercussions from trauma, exploitation, and abuse. Your experience may include depression, anxiety, dissociation, substance abuse, relational conflict, grief, self-harm, suicidal ideation, disordered eating, low self esteem and more. Every story is unique and the difficulties that stem from trauma can feel overwhelming. This is why I will work compassionately and collaboratively with you to identify your specific needs and goals for therapy.
(720) 712-3036 View (720) 712-3036
Photo of Devyn Box, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Devyn Box
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
I specialize in helping folks navigate gender identity, sexuality, systemic barriers, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, & other forms of trauma.
You deserve an expansive and liberated life. Many of my clients are exploring what it means to be their most authentic self, and how to deal with the barriers that stand in their way. They're looking for a place to be seen and understood, and to be able to let down their guard. I see clients who are navigating identity, sexuality, and belonging; those with trauma histories, anxiety, and depression, looking for relief and a deeper healing that takes them to a place of ease and fulfillment. They may have tried other solutions, but feel stuck and eager for a lasting and meaningful change.
I specialize in helping folks navigate gender identity, sexuality, systemic barriers, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, & other forms of trauma.
You deserve an expansive and liberated life. Many of my clients are exploring what it means to be their most authentic self, and how to deal with the barriers that stand in their way. They're looking for a place to be seen and understood, and to be able to let down their guard. I see clients who are navigating identity, sexuality, and belonging; those with trauma histories, anxiety, and depression, looking for relief and a deeper healing that takes them to a place of ease and fulfillment. They may have tried other solutions, but feel stuck and eager for a lasting and meaningful change.
(720) 743-6557 View (720) 743-6557
Photo of Restore Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Restore Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80003
We provide professional, clinical counseling for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, adjustment issues, women's issues, and family/couple support.
Right now, more than ever, people are exhausted and just trying to stay afloat. It is possible to overcome obstacles that create suffering and find more peace in life. I provide a safe and compassionate therapeutic environment where you can develop personalized tools and strategies for positive change in your life. It takes a lot of courage to move forward in healing, so I would be humbled and honored to talk with you to see if we would be a good fit. I am passionate about helping my clients find greater healing and see joy return back to their lives.
We provide professional, clinical counseling for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, adjustment issues, women's issues, and family/couple support.
Right now, more than ever, people are exhausted and just trying to stay afloat. It is possible to overcome obstacles that create suffering and find more peace in life. I provide a safe and compassionate therapeutic environment where you can develop personalized tools and strategies for positive change in your life. It takes a lot of courage to move forward in healing, so I would be humbled and honored to talk with you to see if we would be a good fit. I am passionate about helping my clients find greater healing and see joy return back to their lives.
(720) 580-5243 View (720) 580-5243
Photo of Stacy Sheridan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Stacy Sheridan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Trauma and wounds from childhood impact all of us, even therapists and other healers, and recovering can be a difficult process. My expertise involves working primarily with clinicians and other providers who have experienced various forms of wounding, including sexual abuse, physical & emotional abuse, domestic violence, neglect and have found minimal healing from other therapy. We will collaborate through the process of healing and in the end, you will feel a sense of control & relief and be able to continue on your journey with strength and momentum.
Trauma and wounds from childhood impact all of us, even therapists and other healers, and recovering can be a difficult process. My expertise involves working primarily with clinicians and other providers who have experienced various forms of wounding, including sexual abuse, physical & emotional abuse, domestic violence, neglect and have found minimal healing from other therapy. We will collaborate through the process of healing and in the end, you will feel a sense of control & relief and be able to continue on your journey with strength and momentum.
(303) 647-1832 View (303) 647-1832
Photo of Audra Gallogly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Audra Gallogly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026
I work with children, adolescents, families, and young adults on a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, child sexual abuse, trauma related issues, issues related to adulting, divorce and adoption, as well as transitional challenges. I have been practicing since 1992, although I took some time off to raise our four children. I utilize play therapy techniques when working with children, as play is a powerful and therapeutic language for children. Generally, I approach treatment with sincerity, compassion and even humor to promote growth in a synergetic, trusting manner.
I work with children, adolescents, families, and young adults on a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, child sexual abuse, trauma related issues, issues related to adulting, divorce and adoption, as well as transitional challenges. I have been practicing since 1992, although I took some time off to raise our four children. I utilize play therapy techniques when working with children, as play is a powerful and therapeutic language for children. Generally, I approach treatment with sincerity, compassion and even humor to promote growth in a synergetic, trusting manner.
(720) 580-4076 View (720) 580-4076
Photo of Carrie E Garman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Carrie E Garman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Black Dog Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
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 Amy Knight, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Amy Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenwood Village, CO 80111  (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 Sherry D'Andrea, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Sherry D'Andrea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
With 13+ years experience, I specialize in overcoming perfectionism and people-pleasing, trauma resolution of all kinds (childhood, medical trauma, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse).
Stressed, overwhelmed, or burned out, or struggling with trauma? Do you always put others needs before yours? Are you often second-guessing yourself, or "people pleasing"? Feel guilty setting boundaries, saying no, or asking for what you need? If you are seeking to manage overwhelm and anxiety, heal past trauma, or focus on self-growth, I can help.
With 13+ years experience, I specialize in overcoming perfectionism and people-pleasing, trauma resolution of all kinds (childhood, medical trauma, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse).
Stressed, overwhelmed, or burned out, or struggling with trauma? Do you always put others needs before yours? Are you often second-guessing yourself, or "people pleasing"? Feel guilty setting boundaries, saying no, or asking for what you need? If you are seeking to manage overwhelm and anxiety, heal past trauma, or focus on self-growth, I can help.
(303) 622-5248 View (303) 622-5248
Photo of Bethany Sollenberger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Bethany Sollenberger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
I specialize in the areas of trauma and abuse, sexual abuse, sexuality, depression and anxiety and couples counseling.
I believe that individuals are uniquely designed with an inner connectedness spanning our cognitive, physical, emotional and spiritual experiences. Because of this design, health and healing are best found through strengthening each of these interconnected elements of our being. My therapeutic approaches are based upon this belief. With couples, I use a hope-focused (strengths based) approach, while examining the family dynamics, or "systems" that are in effect. When working with individuals, I use Cognitive Behavioral approach (CBT), client-centered and systems approaches to holistically facilitate growth, healing and increased self-awareness.
I specialize in the areas of trauma and abuse, sexual abuse, sexuality, depression and anxiety and couples counseling.
I believe that individuals are uniquely designed with an inner connectedness spanning our cognitive, physical, emotional and spiritual experiences. Because of this design, health and healing are best found through strengthening each of these interconnected elements of our being. My therapeutic approaches are based upon this belief. With couples, I use a hope-focused (strengths based) approach, while examining the family dynamics, or "systems" that are in effect. When working with individuals, I use Cognitive Behavioral approach (CBT), client-centered and systems approaches to holistically facilitate growth, healing and increased self-awareness.
(720) 863-4113 View (720) 863-4113
Photo of Erin M Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Erin M Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80524
I am trained to provide play therapy, neurofeedback, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, sexual abuse treatment and parenting support.
My name is Erin Thomas and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Northern Colorado. In therapy, every client is different and has differing needs for the healing process to occur. This is why the most important step to me in working with a client is establishing a trusting relationship at the beginning of therapy so that I can understand how to help in the most effective way. Connecting with others in a way that supports them through difficult times in their lives has been my passion and I continue to look for new ways to help those who struggle.
I am trained to provide play therapy, neurofeedback, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, sexual abuse treatment and parenting support.
My name is Erin Thomas and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Northern Colorado. In therapy, every client is different and has differing needs for the healing process to occur. This is why the most important step to me in working with a client is establishing a trusting relationship at the beginning of therapy so that I can understand how to help in the most effective way. Connecting with others in a way that supports them through difficult times in their lives has been my passion and I continue to look for new ways to help those who struggle.
(970) 875-6079 View (970) 875-6079
Photo of Shira Hecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
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 Pamela S O'Grady, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Pamela S O'Grady
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse,sexual assault,depression, anxiety, PTSD or any life issues that are interrelated.
I believe we each have a wisdom inside of us which holds our deepest truth and knowing. During our life we are each impacted by difficult life experiences and we lose our way, our truth, and struggle to heal and thrive in life.By working together you can heal and reconnect with your inner wisdom and truth and live a happy fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse,sexual assault,depression, anxiety, PTSD or any life issues that are interrelated.
I believe we each have a wisdom inside of us which holds our deepest truth and knowing. During our life we are each impacted by difficult life experiences and we lose our way, our truth, and struggle to heal and thrive in life.By working together you can heal and reconnect with your inner wisdom and truth and live a happy fulfilling life.
(970) 276-6230 View (970) 276-6230
Photo of Gretchen Stecher, MA, LPC - Soul Shine, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Gretchen Stecher, MA, LPC - Soul Shine, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
Let's get to the heart of these matters: anxiety, abuse, sexual assault, PTSD, low self-esteem, wobbly boundaries, codependency, spirituality, abortion, grief, transitions, parenting, polyamory, ACOA issues, and quitting smoking.
Are you frustrated by anxiety, overwhelm, worry, or people pleasing? Are you plagued by guilt, "I'm not good enough," or comparing yourself to others? Does a yucky sense of disconnection gnaw at your insides? Healing and serenity are possible when you have accurate support. I invite you to show yourself that you matter right now by reaching out for support. Being true to yourself is a bold act of love and a demonstration of strength. You can learn how to stop judging yourself, make choices that align with your insides, successfully navigate relationships, trust yourself and move into a heart-centered, peaceful life.
Let's get to the heart of these matters: anxiety, abuse, sexual assault, PTSD, low self-esteem, wobbly boundaries, codependency, spirituality, abortion, grief, transitions, parenting, polyamory, ACOA issues, and quitting smoking.
Are you frustrated by anxiety, overwhelm, worry, or people pleasing? Are you plagued by guilt, "I'm not good enough," or comparing yourself to others? Does a yucky sense of disconnection gnaw at your insides? Healing and serenity are possible when you have accurate support. I invite you to show yourself that you matter right now by reaching out for support. Being true to yourself is a bold act of love and a demonstration of strength. You can learn how to stop judging yourself, make choices that align with your insides, successfully navigate relationships, trust yourself and move into a heart-centered, peaceful life.
(720) 903-3153 View (720) 903-3153
Photo of Laurie Knight Counselling Services LLC, Unlicensed Psychotherapist in Colorado
Laurie Knight Counselling Services LLC
Unlicensed Psychotherapist, BA, NLC
Verified Verified
Broomfield, CO 80020
I have specialized in sexual abuse, domestic violence, child protection and dysfunctional interpersonal and family relationships.
You may feel trapped in a violent and/or unhealthy relationship or traumatic memories of the past. Your may be grieving a loss and what might have been. You may feel stagnant and that your life is out of balance. Possibly you are a family member of an offender and you don't understand the "system" and how to help while taking care of yourself. Likely you are feeling isolated and alone. Overwhelming emotions may be paralyzing you, making it hard to move forward. You will find a safe place with me to move through and beyond this difficult time. You do not have to struggle alone.
I have specialized in sexual abuse, domestic violence, child protection and dysfunctional interpersonal and family relationships.
You may feel trapped in a violent and/or unhealthy relationship or traumatic memories of the past. Your may be grieving a loss and what might have been. You may feel stagnant and that your life is out of balance. Possibly you are a family member of an offender and you don't understand the "system" and how to help while taking care of yourself. Likely you are feeling isolated and alone. Overwhelming emotions may be paralyzing you, making it hard to move forward. You will find a safe place with me to move through and beyond this difficult time. You do not have to struggle alone.
(303) 997-1417 View (303) 997-1417
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.