Photo of Pam R Warlaumont, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
Pam R Warlaumont
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kissimmee, FL 34741  (Online Only)
I take pride in helping to guide clients in taking the road to personal growth and self-actualization. I have extensive experience working with sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD. Other areas of expertise are relationship issues, communication, family discord, parenting, anger management, behavior problems, grief and loss, stress, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and self-image.
I take pride in helping to guide clients in taking the road to personal growth and self-actualization. I have extensive experience working with sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD. Other areas of expertise are relationship issues, communication, family discord, parenting, anger management, behavior problems, grief and loss, stress, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and self-image.
(321) 323-7585 View (321) 323-7585
Photo of Positive Changes , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
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 Peggy Freeman, Counselor in Florida
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 Shannon Rowell: Perfectly Imperfect Counseling, Counselor in Florida
Shannon Rowell: Perfectly Imperfect Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 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 Brenda B Richter, Counselor in Florida
Brenda B Richter
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Inverness, FL 34451
I have over 25 years of experience working with families and youth at risk including residential, home visits and office settings. I offer individual, group, family and couples counselling covering a wide variety of mental health issues. Anger management, domestic violence, sexual abuse, depression, parenting, relationship issues and phase of life issues are the most common themes that I deal with. I can tailor sessions to individual needs, work with all age groups and am available mornings or evenings on any weekday. I have an office in Inverness and can do home visits as well.
I have over 25 years of experience working with families and youth at risk including residential, home visits and office settings. I offer individual, group, family and couples counselling covering a wide variety of mental health issues. Anger management, domestic violence, sexual abuse, depression, parenting, relationship issues and phase of life issues are the most common themes that I deal with. I can tailor sessions to individual needs, work with all age groups and am available mornings or evenings on any weekday. I have an office in Inverness and can do home visits as well.
(352) 464-8745 View (352) 464-8745
Photo of Andrea J Garwood, Counselor in Florida
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 Alicia Armstrong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
Alicia Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32303
My goal is to provide compassionate therapy services, working in collaboration with you to help you meet your goals and guide you through the healing process. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, including dating, relationships, trauma, violence and assault, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-harm, and sexuality or gender identity diversity. My background includes victim advocacy and outreach, clinical crisis counseling, animal assisted therapy, and human sexuality education. Taking the first step to reach out for help is not only brave but will be incredibly rewarding.
My goal is to provide compassionate therapy services, working in collaboration with you to help you meet your goals and guide you through the healing process. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, including dating, relationships, trauma, violence and assault, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-harm, and sexuality or gender identity diversity. My background includes victim advocacy and outreach, clinical crisis counseling, animal assisted therapy, and human sexuality education. Taking the first step to reach out for help is not only brave but will be incredibly rewarding.
(850) 446-4307 View (850) 446-4307
Photo of Harry Leon Morgan, Counselor in Florida
Harry Leon Morgan
Counselor, MA, MDiv, ThM, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34243
My doctoral dissertation focused on intrafamilial sexual abuse.
I prefer clients who seek to improve their lives and want professional assistance in making needed changes in their self-sabotaging beliefs, faulty thinking, destructive behaviors, or abusive relationships. I served 29 years as a chaplain in the Army reserves, state-side and overseas, helping military personnel and their families. I have extensive training and experience in treatment for those who have been traumatized, or sexually abused, and who are registered sex offenders.
My doctoral dissertation focused on intrafamilial sexual abuse.
I prefer clients who seek to improve their lives and want professional assistance in making needed changes in their self-sabotaging beliefs, faulty thinking, destructive behaviors, or abusive relationships. I served 29 years as a chaplain in the Army reserves, state-side and overseas, helping military personnel and their families. I have extensive training and experience in treatment for those who have been traumatized, or sexually abused, and who are registered sex offenders.
(941) 548-1814 View (941) 548-1814
Photo of Craig Michael Givens, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida
Craig Michael Givens
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Park, FL 33403
I have utilized EMDR to treat physical, emotional and sexual abuse including incest.
Greetings! Thank you for reviewing my listing. With nearly two decades of clinical experience, I have worked with a variety of populations ranging from those with addictions to those diagnosed with mental illness. My practice includes the dually diagnosed, those with chemical dependency issues as well as process addictions (sex addiction, compulsive shopping, pathological gambling). I also work with eating disorders and those diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I specialize in working with those suffering from trauma. I promote an environment of trust, respect and acceptance. I also specialize in Inner Child.
I have utilized EMDR to treat physical, emotional and sexual abuse including incest.
Greetings! Thank you for reviewing my listing. With nearly two decades of clinical experience, I have worked with a variety of populations ranging from those with addictions to those diagnosed with mental illness. My practice includes the dually diagnosed, those with chemical dependency issues as well as process addictions (sex addiction, compulsive shopping, pathological gambling). I also work with eating disorders and those diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I specialize in working with those suffering from trauma. I promote an environment of trust, respect and acceptance. I also specialize in Inner Child.
(561) 257-0376 View (561) 257-0376
Photo of Janet Limperis, Psychologist in Florida
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 Dr. Christina Raphael, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
Dr. Christina Raphael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMFT, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Davie, FL 33314
Would you like to Recover, Reinvent and Revitalize your life, on your terms? I can help you! If you’re looking for someone that is respectful, supportive, provides a judgment free environment and a space to heal, then I can provide this to you. As a skilled Clinical Social Worker, Educator, Sex Therapist & Doctoral candidate, I have extensive experience in the areas of various Family systems models, trauma, sexual abuse, as well as with Child and Adolescent Development. I practice from a solution-oriented lens, which allows me to work on the issues you are facing to work toward solutions.
Would you like to Recover, Reinvent and Revitalize your life, on your terms? I can help you! If you’re looking for someone that is respectful, supportive, provides a judgment free environment and a space to heal, then I can provide this to you. As a skilled Clinical Social Worker, Educator, Sex Therapist & Doctoral candidate, I have extensive experience in the areas of various Family systems models, trauma, sexual abuse, as well as with Child and Adolescent Development. I practice from a solution-oriented lens, which allows me to work on the issues you are facing to work toward solutions.
(305) 712-6074 View (305) 712-6074
Photo of Dr. Michael Ian Rothenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
Dr. Michael Ian Rothenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Porn/Sex Addiction? Male Sexual Dysfunction? Sexual Performance Anxiety? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist, Sex Therapist and Psychotherapist, Dr. Michael Ian Rothenberg, specializes in counseling and therapy related to Human Sexuality and Sexual Behavior. Areas discussed include: Sex Addiction, Porn Addiction, Out of Control Sexual Behaviors, Compulsive Masturbation, Male Sexual Dysfunction, Erectile Dysfunction, ED, Impotence, Sexual Anxiety, Sexual Performance, Orgasm, Incompatibility, Desire, Arousal, Adult Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, Honesty, Trust, Loneliness, Cheating, Anger, Sadness, Anxiety and Depression. To learn more please visit my websites: CounselingAndSexualHealth.com and OnlineSexualAddiction.com. I look forward to speaking with you!
Porn/Sex Addiction? Male Sexual Dysfunction? Sexual Performance Anxiety? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist, Sex Therapist and Psychotherapist, Dr. Michael Ian Rothenberg, specializes in counseling and therapy related to Human Sexuality and Sexual Behavior. Areas discussed include: Sex Addiction, Porn Addiction, Out of Control Sexual Behaviors, Compulsive Masturbation, Male Sexual Dysfunction, Erectile Dysfunction, ED, Impotence, Sexual Anxiety, Sexual Performance, Orgasm, Incompatibility, Desire, Arousal, Adult Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, Honesty, Trust, Loneliness, Cheating, Anger, Sadness, Anxiety and Depression. To learn more please visit my websites: CounselingAndSexualHealth.com and OnlineSexualAddiction.com. I look forward to speaking with you!
(407) 674-0058 View (407) 674-0058
Photo of Alexandra Connor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
Alexandra Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I have helped many people who have experienced emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse.
I truly believe anyone can make a life worth living no matter where they start or where they want to go. If you want to make a change and need support, let me provide an individualized place of acceptance where healing and growth can happen. I work from a systems perspective, which recognizes not only your unique inner self, but how your environment and the systems you exist in profoundly affect your life.
I have helped many people who have experienced emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse.
I truly believe anyone can make a life worth living no matter where they start or where they want to go. If you want to make a change and need support, let me provide an individualized place of acceptance where healing and growth can happen. I work from a systems perspective, which recognizes not only your unique inner self, but how your environment and the systems you exist in profoundly affect your life.
(561) 418-6359 View (561) 418-6359
Photo of Empowered Sol Wellness Center, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
Empowered Sol Wellness Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32210
Hey! I am Terri. So many people that I have met describe having been stuck. They have been unable, with the tools they have had, to get unstuck. Typically, it seems that trauma in one form or another is behind that. We all have a story, right? The one that led you here. Trauma can be big trauma, like we think of car accidents or sexual assault but it can also be things like grief or loss, divorce, emotional abuse, etc. Things that get stuck, that mold us in a sense... those same things also make us strong and build character, once we learn how to build from them.
Hey! I am Terri. So many people that I have met describe having been stuck. They have been unable, with the tools they have had, to get unstuck. Typically, it seems that trauma in one form or another is behind that. We all have a story, right? The one that led you here. Trauma can be big trauma, like we think of car accidents or sexual assault but it can also be things like grief or loss, divorce, emotional abuse, etc. Things that get stuck, that mold us in a sense... those same things also make us strong and build character, once we learn how to build from them.
(904) 441-5985 View (904) 441-5985
Photo of Amber Conte, Mental Health Counselor in Florida
Amber Conte
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32825
As a trauma specialist, I have worked with people of all ages on overcoming past traumas and working towards a better future. If you’ve experienced physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse, I can help. Through the use of genuine empathy and my own personal experiences, I have created an environment conducive to healing. It is never too late to work through the past. Please feel free to check out my profile on our website, www.ljccllc.com
As a trauma specialist, I have worked with people of all ages on overcoming past traumas and working towards a better future. If you’ve experienced physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse, I can help. Through the use of genuine empathy and my own personal experiences, I have created an environment conducive to healing. It is never too late to work through the past. Please feel free to check out my profile on our website, www.ljccllc.com
(407) 543-0463 View (407) 543-0463
Photo of Lauren Gulla, Counselor in Florida
Lauren Gulla
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working trauma survivors, particularly those who have endured various forms of trauma such as childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, and physical abuse as well as chronic illness and medical trauma. I utilize various trauma-informed therapies to ensure that my clients receive the empathetic care they need to navigate these complex challenges. I recognize that every person's journey is unique and rely on a person-centered approach to support clients. My approach goes beyond addressing symptoms; I empower clients to build understanding of their triggers and coping mechanisms.
I specialize in working trauma survivors, particularly those who have endured various forms of trauma such as childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, and physical abuse as well as chronic illness and medical trauma. I utilize various trauma-informed therapies to ensure that my clients receive the empathetic care they need to navigate these complex challenges. I recognize that every person's journey is unique and rely on a person-centered approach to support clients. My approach goes beyond addressing symptoms; I empower clients to build understanding of their triggers and coping mechanisms.
(321) 425-8864 View (321) 425-8864
Photo of Margaret Patrice Gould, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
Margaret Patrice Gould
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458  (Online Only)
I welcome those who only require short term care, as well as those who have complicated issues such as sexual abuse and rape, and require a nonjudgmental, caring professional who will not give up on them.
My ideal client is an individual or family who is struggling and seeking a seasoned professional to help them address their issues. Their needs include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, loneliness and abandonment. Other issues include poor social and communication skills, and unresolved loss.Their goals are to restore peace and harmony to their lives and their homes. Helping people overcome trauma has become a large part of my practice. I sincerely want to help you restore your ability to function to your maximum capacity.
I welcome those who only require short term care, as well as those who have complicated issues such as sexual abuse and rape, and require a nonjudgmental, caring professional who will not give up on them.
My ideal client is an individual or family who is struggling and seeking a seasoned professional to help them address their issues. Their needs include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, loneliness and abandonment. Other issues include poor social and communication skills, and unresolved loss.Their goals are to restore peace and harmony to their lives and their homes. Helping people overcome trauma has become a large part of my practice. I sincerely want to help you restore your ability to function to your maximum capacity.
(561) 249-4890 View (561) 249-4890
Photo of Marisa DeStefano Huff, Counselor in Florida
Marisa DeStefano Huff
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I specialize in working with sexual assault/abuse and domestic violence survivors of all ages. I have extensive experience helping individuals with anxiety and anxiety-type disorders, as well as personal experience in this area. In addition, I am passionate about seeing couples and am trained in utilizing the highly effective, research based, Gottman Method couples therapy. If your relationship has experienced infidelity or just feels stagnant, I can guide you through fixing it with strategies that are well researched and evidence-based.
I specialize in working with sexual assault/abuse and domestic violence survivors of all ages. I have extensive experience helping individuals with anxiety and anxiety-type disorders, as well as personal experience in this area. In addition, I am passionate about seeing couples and am trained in utilizing the highly effective, research based, Gottman Method couples therapy. If your relationship has experienced infidelity or just feels stagnant, I can guide you through fixing it with strategies that are well researched and evidence-based.
(561) 782-4723 View (561) 782-4723
Photo of Shetress Woods, Counselor in Florida
Shetress Woods
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rockledge, FL 32955
Counseling is a therapeutic relationship that is developed between the therapist and the patient to achieve victory over challenges in life. Shetress Woods is a LMHC and Professional Christian and Life Coach who has had the pleasure of providing therapeutic and social support for over 10 years. It is her desire to continue to assist others in achieving victory with a non-judgmental attitude, empathy, and encouragement. Shetress provides therapeutic services in areas that consist of, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, adjustment, sexual abuse, anger management, grief, relational, and substance abuse.
Counseling is a therapeutic relationship that is developed between the therapist and the patient to achieve victory over challenges in life. Shetress Woods is a LMHC and Professional Christian and Life Coach who has had the pleasure of providing therapeutic and social support for over 10 years. It is her desire to continue to assist others in achieving victory with a non-judgmental attitude, empathy, and encouragement. Shetress provides therapeutic services in areas that consist of, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, adjustment, sexual abuse, anger management, grief, relational, and substance abuse.
(321) 684-5172 x4 View (321) 684-5172 x4
Photo of Fransheska M Cardona-Leon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florida
Fransheska M Cardona-Leon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761
Whether it is trauma, unhealthy relationships, sexual abuse, a big move or transition, feeling stressed or hopeless, I believe in honoring a space to process the harsh feelings that come with trauma.
Let’s face it, life can be chaotic. Do you find yourself reliving stressful situations over and over again? Do you struggle with confidence or self-esteem? Or maybe you feel overwhelmed with difficult feelings? I am here to tell you it's more common than you think. As a licensed therapist I have worked alongside many clients in the trials and turbulences of life.
Whether it is trauma, unhealthy relationships, sexual abuse, a big move or transition, feeling stressed or hopeless, I believe in honoring a space to process the harsh feelings that come with trauma.
Let’s face it, life can be chaotic. Do you find yourself reliving stressful situations over and over again? Do you struggle with confidence or self-esteem? Or maybe you feel overwhelmed with difficult feelings? I am here to tell you it's more common than you think. As a licensed therapist I have worked alongside many clients in the trials and turbulences of life.
(321) 425-8864 View (321) 425-8864

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.