Photo of Kimberly Perez, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Perez
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32832
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
(321) 334-3449 View (321) 334-3449
Photo of Margaret Proulx, LMHC, NCC, NY, FL, Counselor
Margaret Proulx
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NY, FL
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Please Note: Margaret is only virtual. Margaret is licensed in both New York and Florida. Margaret has been a practicing Mental Health Counselor since 2020. Margaret attended Capella University for her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and graduated in 2020. She is a National Certified Counselor. Margaret also is an EMDR therapist. Margaret specializes in trauma,PTSD, sexual abuse, depression, and anxiety. Margaret believes that therapy is a mode of traveling through this life within healing. She has experience using the following therapeutic methods/approaches/philosophies: CBT, EMDR, ClientCentered, and TraumaInformed.
Please Note: Margaret is only virtual. Margaret is licensed in both New York and Florida. Margaret has been a practicing Mental Health Counselor since 2020. Margaret attended Capella University for her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and graduated in 2020. She is a National Certified Counselor. Margaret also is an EMDR therapist. Margaret specializes in trauma,PTSD, sexual abuse, depression, and anxiety. Margaret believes that therapy is a mode of traveling through this life within healing. She has experience using the following therapeutic methods/approaches/philosophies: CBT, EMDR, ClientCentered, and TraumaInformed.
(518) 760-0321 View (518) 760-0321
Photo of Angela Grimm, MSW
Angela Grimm
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
Palm City, FL 34990
My name is Angela, and I am a RCSWI, MSW with over 10 years of experience in the human services field. I am accepting new clients and have experience working with individuals affected by primary and secondary trauma, substance use challenges, and various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and domestic and sexual abuse. I firmly believe that "we grow through what we go through," and I am dedicated to helping others uncover their inner strength to become the best version of themselves. We all possess the power to overcome our challenges and past traumas; sometimes, we just need a little guidance along the way.
My name is Angela, and I am a RCSWI, MSW with over 10 years of experience in the human services field. I am accepting new clients and have experience working with individuals affected by primary and secondary trauma, substance use challenges, and various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and domestic and sexual abuse. I firmly believe that "we grow through what we go through," and I am dedicated to helping others uncover their inner strength to become the best version of themselves. We all possess the power to overcome our challenges and past traumas; sometimes, we just need a little guidance along the way.
(772) 666-5187 View (772) 666-5187
Photo of Kimberly Perez, MS , LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Perez
Counselor, MS , LMHC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
(321) 334-3447 View (321) 334-3447
Photo of Danielle Mercuri, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Mercuri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33604
"The best way out is through." Robert Frost....Congratulations in taking your first step towards your journey of healing! I am an empathic, creative, eclectic facilitator of healing with a strong foundation in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am a Certified Traumatologist, certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and a Certified Hypnotherapist. As a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist, I specialize in the treatment of adults and children who are motivated to move through depression, suicidal ideation, self-esteem work, anxiety, grief/loss, relational discord, PTSD, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.
"The best way out is through." Robert Frost....Congratulations in taking your first step towards your journey of healing! I am an empathic, creative, eclectic facilitator of healing with a strong foundation in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am a Certified Traumatologist, certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and a Certified Hypnotherapist. As a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist, I specialize in the treatment of adults and children who are motivated to move through depression, suicidal ideation, self-esteem work, anxiety, grief/loss, relational discord, PTSD, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.
(727) 897-5899 View (727) 897-5899
Photo of Alexandra Mihalakos, LMHC, Counselor
Alexandra Mihalakos
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
” Whether you’ve experienced a single traumatic event – an accident, a devastating loss, an assault, a medical diagnosis –or chronic abuse and trauma, these things stick with you, very often for the long haul.
Imagine waking up with energy. You didn’t struggle to fall asleep. You didn’t wake up throughout the night. You didn’t have nightmares. You got through the night without flashbacks, without going over and over the past in your mind. You’d wake up and get out of bed. And because you didn’t feel like you ran a marathon overnight, you’d greet the day with peace and contentment… Even excitement for all the things you can accomplish, since you aren’t weighed down by exhaustion, anxiety, or depression. You wouldn’t be so worried about all the potential triggers… All of the things you could come across in a day that could bring you right
” Whether you’ve experienced a single traumatic event – an accident, a devastating loss, an assault, a medical diagnosis –or chronic abuse and trauma, these things stick with you, very often for the long haul.
Imagine waking up with energy. You didn’t struggle to fall asleep. You didn’t wake up throughout the night. You didn’t have nightmares. You got through the night without flashbacks, without going over and over the past in your mind. You’d wake up and get out of bed. And because you didn’t feel like you ran a marathon overnight, you’d greet the day with peace and contentment… Even excitement for all the things you can accomplish, since you aren’t weighed down by exhaustion, anxiety, or depression. You wouldn’t be so worried about all the potential triggers… All of the things you could come across in a day that could bring you right
(321) 415-8249 View (321) 415-8249
Photo of Kimberly Julia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Julia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32210
Waitlist for new clients
I focused my work on serving survivors of childhood physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse, domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual violence.
Life comes in waves for all of us. If right now feels overwhelming and awful for you, I want you to know you're not alone. I offer trauma-informed, individualized, neurodivergence-affirming telehealth services to access you right where you are with nuanced care and concern. I'm here to support you on this healing journey. Reach out to me here through email or phone (please leave me a voicemail). You can find more about me on my website healingmindful.com.
I focused my work on serving survivors of childhood physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse, domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual violence.
Life comes in waves for all of us. If right now feels overwhelming and awful for you, I want you to know you're not alone. I offer trauma-informed, individualized, neurodivergence-affirming telehealth services to access you right where you are with nuanced care and concern. I'm here to support you on this healing journey. Reach out to me here through email or phone (please leave me a voicemail). You can find more about me on my website healingmindful.com.
(904) 383-7757 View (904) 383-7757
Photo of Rebecah Lynn Farish, MSW, RCSWI
Rebecah Lynn Farish
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tavares, FL 32778
I have vast experience working with trauma particularly with domestic violence survivors and survivors of sexual assault.
Imagine the worst day of your life- you’ve been through an unimaginable trauma. You need support, you need help, but where do you turn? My name is Rebecah and I can help you! I can help you manage those days where you feel like you can’t get out of bed. Struggling with anxiety, I can show and teach coping skills to turn a bad a day into a great day.
I have vast experience working with trauma particularly with domestic violence survivors and survivors of sexual assault.
Imagine the worst day of your life- you’ve been through an unimaginable trauma. You need support, you need help, but where do you turn? My name is Rebecah and I can help you! I can help you manage those days where you feel like you can’t get out of bed. Struggling with anxiety, I can show and teach coping skills to turn a bad a day into a great day.
(352) 290-5123 View (352) 290-5123
Photo of Cheri Yvonne Doval, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheri Yvonne Doval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Cheri’s specialty areas include PTSD, grief, sleep issues, sexual assault/abuse, trauma, goal planning, life transitions, relationships, stress management, and anxiety.
Cheri feels that making the decision to start therapy is a big, personal step toward prioritizing mental health and improving overall well-being. Whether considering therapy for the first time or returning to get some support, it can be overwhelming to determine which type is the best fit. At its core, therapy provides a safe and nonjudgmental environment where patients can identify problems and goals and work collaboratively with a therapist to achieve them.
Cheri’s specialty areas include PTSD, grief, sleep issues, sexual assault/abuse, trauma, goal planning, life transitions, relationships, stress management, and anxiety.
Cheri feels that making the decision to start therapy is a big, personal step toward prioritizing mental health and improving overall well-being. Whether considering therapy for the first time or returning to get some support, it can be overwhelming to determine which type is the best fit. At its core, therapy provides a safe and nonjudgmental environment where patients can identify problems and goals and work collaboratively with a therapist to achieve them.
(727) 594-0273 View (727) 594-0273
Photo of Kaley Sinclair Jiawon, MA, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Kaley Sinclair Jiawon
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
Waitlist for new clients
I have years of experience working with kids, teens, and adults in healing from trauma, childhood sexual abuse, PTSD/CPTSD, and emotional neglect.
Do you feel a disconnect between what you know in your head to be true, but can't seem to feel it deep down in your heart? Do you have the insight, but can't seem to put it into practice? Did you think you were over your past, but you now realize it's still affecting you and all the things that worked before to keep it down aren't working anymore? My clients are ready to start writing their life story instead of just witnessing it and finally get agreement between their head and their heart. They are ready to finally experience healing, peace, empowerment, and connection deep down.
I have years of experience working with kids, teens, and adults in healing from trauma, childhood sexual abuse, PTSD/CPTSD, and emotional neglect.
Do you feel a disconnect between what you know in your head to be true, but can't seem to feel it deep down in your heart? Do you have the insight, but can't seem to put it into practice? Did you think you were over your past, but you now realize it's still affecting you and all the things that worked before to keep it down aren't working anymore? My clients are ready to start writing their life story instead of just witnessing it and finally get agreement between their head and their heart. They are ready to finally experience healing, peace, empowerment, and connection deep down.
(407) 573-7091 View (407) 573-7091
Photo of Hannah Bodenhorn, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Hannah Bodenhorn
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33624
Waitlist for new clients
I began my counseling experience with survivors of sexual assault, which became a passion and specialty for me.
Trauma is one of those things that comes in all shapes and sizes. It can be one specific event or occur over a long period of time. The effects of unresolved trauma can wreak havoc on your life if it isn't processed, and you might be noticing that happening now. If you've been having some irritability, anger, unexplained anxiety, or other feelings that don't really fit the situation, it may be time to talk to someone about it. Trauma affects us in different ways, and if we're not careful, we can easily take it out on our loved ones. Working through that trauma in therapy can truly help you heal from those experiences.
I began my counseling experience with survivors of sexual assault, which became a passion and specialty for me.
Trauma is one of those things that comes in all shapes and sizes. It can be one specific event or occur over a long period of time. The effects of unresolved trauma can wreak havoc on your life if it isn't processed, and you might be noticing that happening now. If you've been having some irritability, anger, unexplained anxiety, or other feelings that don't really fit the situation, it may be time to talk to someone about it. Trauma affects us in different ways, and if we're not careful, we can easily take it out on our loved ones. Working through that trauma in therapy can truly help you heal from those experiences.
(813) 212-8564 View (813) 212-8564
Photo of Andrea J Garwood, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Andrea J Garwood
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
Over 25 years working with individuals and families. Over 18 years providing supervision to other mental health professionals and interns. My goal is to help you resolve emotional trauma or confusion, in a compassionate and non judgmental way. I am exp. in working with individuals coping with life-altering circumstances and illness, mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, recovery, grief and loss, relationship stressors, and spiritual crisis. I also specialize in relationship counseling, trauma and recovery issues such as sexual abuse. I am experienced serving those with medical issues-HIV/AIDS, Breast cancer, PTSD and phobias. I'm also experienced serving military families and veterans.
Over 25 years working with individuals and families. Over 18 years providing supervision to other mental health professionals and interns. My goal is to help you resolve emotional trauma or confusion, in a compassionate and non judgmental way. I am exp. in working with individuals coping with life-altering circumstances and illness, mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, recovery, grief and loss, relationship stressors, and spiritual crisis. I also specialize in relationship counseling, trauma and recovery issues such as sexual abuse. I am experienced serving those with medical issues-HIV/AIDS, Breast cancer, PTSD and phobias. I'm also experienced serving military families and veterans.
(407) 583-6176 View (407) 583-6176
Photo of Shannon Leigh Rowell - Shannon Rowell: Perfectly Imperfect Counseling, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Shannon Rowell: Perfectly Imperfect Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711  (Online Only)
Shannon specializes in children and adolescent issues, couples therapy, and trauma recovery. She has expereince in helping those suffering from life struggles such as depression, anxiety, cutting issues, sexual abuse recovery, marriage issues, and daily life problems.
Shannon specializes in children and adolescent issues, couples therapy, and trauma recovery. She has expereince in helping those suffering from life struggles such as depression, anxiety, cutting issues, sexual abuse recovery, marriage issues, and daily life problems.
(407) 395-4359 View (407) 395-4359
Photo of Angela N Grman - Thrive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Recovery , PhD, LMFT, SAP, CGCS, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thrive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Recovery
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, SAP, CGCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324
At Thrive, our highly qualified therapists are prepared to meet your specific needs. We proudly offer counseling for children starting at age 5 and for adults up to age 75. Our comprehensive services include couples counseling, individual counseling, family counseling, mental health counseling, and group therapy. Our experienced therapists specialize in trauma counseling (including sexual abuse), ADHD in children, and Christian counseling. Rest assured that regardless of your religious beliefs, we are here to support you. At Thrive, everyone is welcome.
At Thrive, our highly qualified therapists are prepared to meet your specific needs. We proudly offer counseling for children starting at age 5 and for adults up to age 75. Our comprehensive services include couples counseling, individual counseling, family counseling, mental health counseling, and group therapy. Our experienced therapists specialize in trauma counseling (including sexual abuse), ADHD in children, and Christian counseling. Rest assured that regardless of your religious beliefs, we are here to support you. At Thrive, everyone is welcome.
(954) 266-0745 View (954) 266-0745
Photo of Janet Limperis, PsyD, Psychologist
Janet Limperis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
I began my career at Jackson Memorial Hospital in the Psychiatric Emergency Room, later at Miami Veteran Affairs Hospital, Broward County Sexual Assault treatment Center, Concord Hospital in NH, Community Mental Health in NY and now private practice in Fort Lauderdale.
Much more than just "talk therapy!" I believe an empathic, trusting, therapeutic relationship in a safe and supportive setting is the foundation for healthy change. I will discuss and measure your symptoms using rating scales and self-report forms. I will give you time to tell your story. Then we develop your treatment plan to get you better in the quickest possible time frame. Let's find a resolution for your symptoms.
I began my career at Jackson Memorial Hospital in the Psychiatric Emergency Room, later at Miami Veteran Affairs Hospital, Broward County Sexual Assault treatment Center, Concord Hospital in NH, Community Mental Health in NY and now private practice in Fort Lauderdale.
Much more than just "talk therapy!" I believe an empathic, trusting, therapeutic relationship in a safe and supportive setting is the foundation for healthy change. I will discuss and measure your symptoms using rating scales and self-report forms. I will give you time to tell your story. Then we develop your treatment plan to get you better in the quickest possible time frame. Let's find a resolution for your symptoms.
(954) 609-6857 View (954) 609-6857
Photo of Elizabeth Ramirez - Positive Changes , MSCJ, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Positive Changes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSCJ, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sanford, FL 32771
I have found EMDR therapy to be life changing especially for First Responders, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault survivors and childhood traumas as well as those working through Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem issues, Life Transitions, relationship issues and life transitions.
Don’t wait until you're in a crisis. Start therapy now! I offer face to face sessions, walk talk therapy and online sessions. Everyone goes through a difficult time, but you can choose how to make your life count. Change is possible but it does require focus and hard work. So yes at times therapy can be difficult because your brain will want to hang on to the old narrative which may cause some anxiety and resistance. Together we will work through this by changing the narrative of your story and learn to break your patterns. So learn to be the Hero of your story.
I have found EMDR therapy to be life changing especially for First Responders, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault survivors and childhood traumas as well as those working through Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem issues, Life Transitions, relationship issues and life transitions.
Don’t wait until you're in a crisis. Start therapy now! I offer face to face sessions, walk talk therapy and online sessions. Everyone goes through a difficult time, but you can choose how to make your life count. Change is possible but it does require focus and hard work. So yes at times therapy can be difficult because your brain will want to hang on to the old narrative which may cause some anxiety and resistance. Together we will work through this by changing the narrative of your story and learn to break your patterns. So learn to be the Hero of your story.
(321) 244-3781 View (321) 244-3781
Photo of Kilondra Davis, LMHC-QS, NCC, Counselor
Kilondra Davis
Counselor, LMHC-QS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Hello! My name is Kilondra Davis. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Qualified Supervisor, & a National Certified Counselor. I am passionate about helping individuals who have experienced Complex Trauma learn how to overcome the impact the trauma & abuse has on them. The majority of my practice includes experiences of childhood trauma, sexual abuse/ assault, & abusive/toxic relationships. As a result of these traumatic experiences, many of my clients often experience common struggles of depression, low self-worth, poor boundaries, self-blame, people pleasing, feeling not good enough, suicide ideation, & relationship challenges.
Hello! My name is Kilondra Davis. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Qualified Supervisor, & a National Certified Counselor. I am passionate about helping individuals who have experienced Complex Trauma learn how to overcome the impact the trauma & abuse has on them. The majority of my practice includes experiences of childhood trauma, sexual abuse/ assault, & abusive/toxic relationships. As a result of these traumatic experiences, many of my clients often experience common struggles of depression, low self-worth, poor boundaries, self-blame, people pleasing, feeling not good enough, suicide ideation, & relationship challenges.
(239) 758-7732 View (239) 758-7732
Photo of Kimberly Perez, MS , LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Perez
Counselor, MS , LMHC
Verified Verified
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
(561) 559-7841 View (561) 559-7841
Photo of Peggy Freeman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Peggy Freeman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32935
I specialize in trauma therapy with training in EMDR and extensive experience helping clients heal from childhood abuse or neglect, sexual abuse or domestic violence.
Finding it difficult to heal from painful memories, distressing emotions, anxiety, or losses? Trouble coping with current stressors? I have 20+ years of experience in which I have been privileged to witness the transformational power of therapy to bring healing and growth to my clients. I offer a variety of treatment approaches but also know that the quality of the relationship with your therapist is the most important factor for a positive outcome. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to address your issues and respect for your right to set your goals for therapy.
I specialize in trauma therapy with training in EMDR and extensive experience helping clients heal from childhood abuse or neglect, sexual abuse or domestic violence.
Finding it difficult to heal from painful memories, distressing emotions, anxiety, or losses? Trouble coping with current stressors? I have 20+ years of experience in which I have been privileged to witness the transformational power of therapy to bring healing and growth to my clients. I offer a variety of treatment approaches but also know that the quality of the relationship with your therapist is the most important factor for a positive outcome. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to address your issues and respect for your right to set your goals for therapy.
(321) 316-6181 View (321) 316-6181
Photo of Kimberly Perez, MS , LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Perez
Counselor, MS , LMHC
Verified Verified
Marco Island, FL 34145
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
(239) 977-9124 View (239) 977-9124
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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.