Photo of Chandra J Blakely, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Chandra J Blakely
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303
My particular passion is working with children and adolescents whose behavioral challenges are exacerbated by a history of physical and/ or sexual abuse.
Hello! My name is Chandra Blakely. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master's degree in Psychology, specializing in Professional Counseling, and a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology. I have over 17 years of comprehensive experience providing Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered counseling across the lifespan, from ages 3-65+. My services have primarily been focused on providing individual, couples and family counseling.
My particular passion is working with children and adolescents whose behavioral challenges are exacerbated by a history of physical and/ or sexual abuse.
Hello! My name is Chandra Blakely. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master's degree in Psychology, specializing in Professional Counseling, and a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology. I have over 17 years of comprehensive experience providing Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered counseling across the lifespan, from ages 3-65+. My services have primarily been focused on providing individual, couples and family counseling.
(678) 780-4250 View (678) 780-4250
Photo of Miriam Matthews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Miriam Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I have worked with many, who have faced challenges related to family conflict/discord, minority groups who face cultural/racial concerns, and sexual abuse (incest/external).
First, I'd like to say that there is strength in reaching out for support! My clients are diverse and have unique backgrounds and challenges. Many of my clients are young to middle-aged adult women, whom I've greatly enjoyed working with. Though many of our challenges may be interconnected, my work with clients mostly focuses on empowerment, self-compassion, and confidence. My clients are AMAZED by how their focus on increasing self-love, positively reverberates in every aspect of their lives. My clients appreciate my organized yet flexible style and are comforted that our work together is a solution-focused, safe collaboration!
I have worked with many, who have faced challenges related to family conflict/discord, minority groups who face cultural/racial concerns, and sexual abuse (incest/external).
First, I'd like to say that there is strength in reaching out for support! My clients are diverse and have unique backgrounds and challenges. Many of my clients are young to middle-aged adult women, whom I've greatly enjoyed working with. Though many of our challenges may be interconnected, my work with clients mostly focuses on empowerment, self-compassion, and confidence. My clients are AMAZED by how their focus on increasing self-love, positively reverberates in every aspect of their lives. My clients appreciate my organized yet flexible style and are comforted that our work together is a solution-focused, safe collaboration!
(757) 699-4377 View (757) 699-4377
Photo of Barbara Anne Thomason, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Barbara Anne Thomason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308
Relationship issues, sexual abuse and associated trauma, gay and lesbian concerns, and grief and loss continue to be major areas of focus.
Having been trained in a humanistic/holistic model of therapy (Experiential, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Family Systems), I have adhered to what is now called an “integrative” approach to mental health issues. Specifically, when I engage with a client we focus on the interaction of all the dimensions of his or her life, i.e., biological, psychological, social, behavioral, and spiritual. Subsequently, we embark on an exciting journey together to explore a path that leads to a more optimal state of well-being and a greater sense of wholeness.
Relationship issues, sexual abuse and associated trauma, gay and lesbian concerns, and grief and loss continue to be major areas of focus.
Having been trained in a humanistic/holistic model of therapy (Experiential, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Family Systems), I have adhered to what is now called an “integrative” approach to mental health issues. Specifically, when I engage with a client we focus on the interaction of all the dimensions of his or her life, i.e., biological, psychological, social, behavioral, and spiritual. Subsequently, we embark on an exciting journey together to explore a path that leads to a more optimal state of well-being and a greater sense of wholeness.
(678) 710-3380 View (678) 710-3380
Photo of Tamekia Meko Howard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Tamekia Meko Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ICAADC, MAC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
My specialties include suicide prevention for combat Veterans, sexual assault survivors, conflicts, and dual diagnosis.
Thank you for taking time to review my profile. I am licensed to address severe, persistent and general mental health needs in Georgia. I hold international, national and dual local board approved advanced drug and alcohol certifications. I am a Qualified DOT-SAP. As the primary therapist and owner of Mind Elevation Keys for Overcomers, my services focus on aiding individuals, couples, and families in overcoming the effects of abuse, chemical addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and trauma. I offer tele-mental health services (video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and telephone). Eves/Weekends are available
My specialties include suicide prevention for combat Veterans, sexual assault survivors, conflicts, and dual diagnosis.
Thank you for taking time to review my profile. I am licensed to address severe, persistent and general mental health needs in Georgia. I hold international, national and dual local board approved advanced drug and alcohol certifications. I am a Qualified DOT-SAP. As the primary therapist and owner of Mind Elevation Keys for Overcomers, my services focus on aiding individuals, couples, and families in overcoming the effects of abuse, chemical addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and trauma. I offer tele-mental health services (video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and telephone). Eves/Weekends are available
(404) 800-3901 View (404) 800-3901
Photo of Sarah Postich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Sarah Postich
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324  (Online Only)
Sarah provides counseling services to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, adults diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders and individuals in recovery from addiction.
I see counseling as a collaborative process between individuals. I consider it a privilege to walk with you on your journey, whether it consists of management of symptoms, self-discovery, healing, or growth. My vision is to empower you to make decisions that best accommodate your life style and current situation, and with which you are comfortable. I believe that you know yourself best and therefore, we create a personalized approach to your counseling that includes the goals you have for yourself. I seek to provide you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can be who you are and accepted completely.
Sarah provides counseling services to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, adults diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders and individuals in recovery from addiction.
I see counseling as a collaborative process between individuals. I consider it a privilege to walk with you on your journey, whether it consists of management of symptoms, self-discovery, healing, or growth. My vision is to empower you to make decisions that best accommodate your life style and current situation, and with which you are comfortable. I believe that you know yourself best and therefore, we create a personalized approach to your counseling that includes the goals you have for yourself. I seek to provide you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can be who you are and accepted completely.
(678) 498-1377 View (678) 498-1377
Photo of Erica D Walker, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Erica D Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Are you having difficulty managing your child's behavior at home? Does your child's teacher have concerns about listening skills, impulsivity, or social awkwardness? Has your child experienced a significant change in mood, appetite, or sleep patterns? Has your child experienced a major life stressor (e.g., sexual abuse, death of loved one, parental divorce) or transition (e.g., a recent move)? If your child is experiencing any of these issues, together we can find a solution.
Are you having difficulty managing your child's behavior at home? Does your child's teacher have concerns about listening skills, impulsivity, or social awkwardness? Has your child experienced a significant change in mood, appetite, or sleep patterns? Has your child experienced a major life stressor (e.g., sexual abuse, death of loved one, parental divorce) or transition (e.g., a recent move)? If your child is experiencing any of these issues, together we can find a solution.
(404) 994-5215 View (404) 994-5215
Photo of Carman Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Carman Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331
Dr. Carman S. Clark, LPC. My approach is interpersonal, compassionate, and healing. I focus on issues of sexual abuse trauma, anxiety, major depression, grief, and medical issues. Everyone has a story to tell and I am here to listen and help you heal. I work mainly with adult individuals who are dealing with childhood trauma, stress on the job, grief, anxiety, depression, medical issues, or wants life coaching and positive transformation. I am most comfortable treating all of the above. My approach is cognitive-behavioral; mindfulness; strengths-based; and trauma-focused awareness and healing.
Dr. Carman S. Clark, LPC. My approach is interpersonal, compassionate, and healing. I focus on issues of sexual abuse trauma, anxiety, major depression, grief, and medical issues. Everyone has a story to tell and I am here to listen and help you heal. I work mainly with adult individuals who are dealing with childhood trauma, stress on the job, grief, anxiety, depression, medical issues, or wants life coaching and positive transformation. I am most comfortable treating all of the above. My approach is cognitive-behavioral; mindfulness; strengths-based; and trauma-focused awareness and healing.
(678) 573-4901 View (678) 573-4901
Photo of Marcus Lusk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Marcus Lusk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
I am a professional licensed counselor with over 8 years experience in the state of Georgia as a mental health therapist. I have worked in many areas of mental health with individuals who experience/experienced anxiety/panic attacks, OCD, depression, trauma, intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, physical/sexual abuse, parenting issues, relationship problems, various addictions (drugs, alcohol, pornography, etc.), self-harming behaviors, suicide attempts/ideations, oppositional defiance disorder, etc.
I am a professional licensed counselor with over 8 years experience in the state of Georgia as a mental health therapist. I have worked in many areas of mental health with individuals who experience/experienced anxiety/panic attacks, OCD, depression, trauma, intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, physical/sexual abuse, parenting issues, relationship problems, various addictions (drugs, alcohol, pornography, etc.), self-harming behaviors, suicide attempts/ideations, oppositional defiance disorder, etc.
(678) 661-6472 View (678) 661-6472
Photo of Ashley Rhys, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Ashley Rhys
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
i specialize in issues with stress, sexual assault, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, childhood abuse, PTSD/trauma, anger, grief/loss, family relationship issues, teen issues through virtual therapy.
If you are looking for a place where you can find support, grow, find strength, become motivated, and gain enlightenment during the healing process of therapy then Positive Mindset Counseling Services is the place for you. I have been a therapist for 10 years in the state of Georgia. I graduated from Valdosta State University with a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2013. I am EMDR Certified and utilize various other therapy modalities/tools in sessions. I enjoy creating a calm, non-judgmental, and peaceful environment for clients to be their full and true selves as they evolve, while accomplishing their goals.
i specialize in issues with stress, sexual assault, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, childhood abuse, PTSD/trauma, anger, grief/loss, family relationship issues, teen issues through virtual therapy.
If you are looking for a place where you can find support, grow, find strength, become motivated, and gain enlightenment during the healing process of therapy then Positive Mindset Counseling Services is the place for you. I have been a therapist for 10 years in the state of Georgia. I graduated from Valdosta State University with a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2013. I am EMDR Certified and utilize various other therapy modalities/tools in sessions. I enjoy creating a calm, non-judgmental, and peaceful environment for clients to be their full and true selves as they evolve, while accomplishing their goals.
(229) 280-3629 View (229) 280-3629
Photo of Genesis of Life Inc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Genesis of Life Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
Offering Mental Health Counseling Services: Anxiety, Anger Management, Depression Dissociative Disorders, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Grief Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Issues, Sexual Abuse, Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Women's Issues.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan for your individual needs.
Offering Mental Health Counseling Services: Anxiety, Anger Management, Depression Dissociative Disorders, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Grief Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Issues, Sexual Abuse, Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Women's Issues.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan for your individual needs.
(678) 498-1071 View (678) 498-1071
Photo of The Transformation Specialists LLC, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
The Transformation Specialists LLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
After experiencing sexual abuse and domestic violence, I struggled with self-esteem and people-pleasing.
My partner and I struggle with connecting, trusting, sharing and even caring. We cannot seem to talk without getting into an argument. Things always seem to get blown out of proportion. The relationship often has me walking on eggshells. We have tried to work things out on our own. But nothing last too long. We offer solutions and strategies to help with your relational challenges. Do not wait. Call today for your free consultation with The Transformation Specialists.
After experiencing sexual abuse and domestic violence, I struggled with self-esteem and people-pleasing.
My partner and I struggle with connecting, trusting, sharing and even caring. We cannot seem to talk without getting into an argument. Things always seem to get blown out of proportion. The relationship often has me walking on eggshells. We have tried to work things out on our own. But nothing last too long. We offer solutions and strategies to help with your relational challenges. Do not wait. Call today for your free consultation with The Transformation Specialists.
(312) 376-0716 View (312) 376-0716
Photo of Monica Bell Callahan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Monica Bell Callahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328  (Online Only)
It is my mission to be a vessel and share the love of God with others by providing genuine compassion and concern to hurting people with a desire to rebuild and or restore their lives! We all have something in common which includes pain from the past that affects how we relate to others and/or how they relate to us. Lets work together to get to the root of the problem to reset our lives and Begin Again! I've had the privilege of working in many diverse settings including individual, marital and family counseling, and residential settings helping women to overcome the horrors of human trafficking and/or a history of sexual abuse.
It is my mission to be a vessel and share the love of God with others by providing genuine compassion and concern to hurting people with a desire to rebuild and or restore their lives! We all have something in common which includes pain from the past that affects how we relate to others and/or how they relate to us. Lets work together to get to the root of the problem to reset our lives and Begin Again! I've had the privilege of working in many diverse settings including individual, marital and family counseling, and residential settings helping women to overcome the horrors of human trafficking and/or a history of sexual abuse.
(478) 449-0105 View (478) 449-0105
Photo of Linda Banik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Linda Banik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30327  (Online Only)
Currently treating: Anxiety, OCD, phobias, trauma, sexual abuse, relationships, depression, career change, toxic relationships, healthy boundaries and more.
Your largest fear carries your greatest growth. If you're searching for that one person that will change your life, look in the mirror. Our fatigue is often caused NOT by school or work, but by worry, frustration & resentment. The real cause of problems is not life itself, it's the commotion the mind makes about life that really causes the problem. Tired of overthinking? Tired of not having movement in your life? Feel stuck? Battling intrusive thoughts? Anxiety or depression draining you? Having a hard time deciding which way to go? You can choose to stay where you are, or you can choose to get help. Call me when you're ready!
Currently treating: Anxiety, OCD, phobias, trauma, sexual abuse, relationships, depression, career change, toxic relationships, healthy boundaries and more.
Your largest fear carries your greatest growth. If you're searching for that one person that will change your life, look in the mirror. Our fatigue is often caused NOT by school or work, but by worry, frustration & resentment. The real cause of problems is not life itself, it's the commotion the mind makes about life that really causes the problem. Tired of overthinking? Tired of not having movement in your life? Feel stuck? Battling intrusive thoughts? Anxiety or depression draining you? Having a hard time deciding which way to go? You can choose to stay where you are, or you can choose to get help. Call me when you're ready!
(470) 313-2502 View (470) 313-2502
Photo of Linda Ann Olson, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Linda Ann Olson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
My passion is to help people who have experienced any type of trauma; such as divorce, grief and loss, PTSD, and adults survivors who grew up with domestic violence. I also work with people who are suffering from sexual abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety or depression . My specialty is helping children and adults recover from childhood domestic violence. Many of my clients have grown up in homes where they witnessed domestic violence. I help them understand that what they've experienced is not their fault and they are not alone. By discovering their true potential in the work we
My passion is to help people who have experienced any type of trauma; such as divorce, grief and loss, PTSD, and adults survivors who grew up with domestic violence. I also work with people who are suffering from sexual abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety or depression . My specialty is helping children and adults recover from childhood domestic violence. Many of my clients have grown up in homes where they witnessed domestic violence. I help them understand that what they've experienced is not their fault and they are not alone. By discovering their true potential in the work we
(404) 390-1583 View (404) 390-1583
Photo of Jennifer Paveglio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Jennifer Paveglio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341
I have extensive experience in helping clients who have experienced sexual assault/abuse, have been trafficked or exploited, have trauma and post-traumatic stress, have or are experiencing interpersonal abuse, are coping with grief and loss, and anxiety, and depression.
Welcome. Here is a little something about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia and Florida with 13 years of clinical experience, currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I believe in treating everyone with genuine care, absolute respect, acceptance, and compassion. Taking the first step in seeking healing and a more fulfilling, happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I have extensive experience in helping clients who have experienced sexual assault/abuse, have been trafficked or exploited, have trauma and post-traumatic stress, have or are experiencing interpersonal abuse, are coping with grief and loss, and anxiety, and depression.
Welcome. Here is a little something about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia and Florida with 13 years of clinical experience, currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I believe in treating everyone with genuine care, absolute respect, acceptance, and compassion. Taking the first step in seeking healing and a more fulfilling, happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(404) 737-0942 View (404) 737-0942
Photo of Shirsten Dreyer, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Shirsten Dreyer
Counselor, LPC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30341
My counseling experience covers a variety of issues, including sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences/trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships, communication, suicide/self-harm, spirituality, parenting, self-esteem, anger, and grief.
Life certainly takes unexpected turns! How, then, do we live balanced, authentic lives in the midst of intense stress, loss, and change? My goal is to help you examine, heal, grow, and gain perspective. Like peeling back layers of an onion, therapy provides clients the opportunity to see that many life events are interconnected by family patterns, past trauma, grief and loss, boundary issues, and learned coping strategies, to name a few. Therapy also gives clients opportunities to strategically prepare for the future, explore personal values and spirituality, strengthen relationships, and clarify goals.
My counseling experience covers a variety of issues, including sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences/trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships, communication, suicide/self-harm, spirituality, parenting, self-esteem, anger, and grief.
Life certainly takes unexpected turns! How, then, do we live balanced, authentic lives in the midst of intense stress, loss, and change? My goal is to help you examine, heal, grow, and gain perspective. Like peeling back layers of an onion, therapy provides clients the opportunity to see that many life events are interconnected by family patterns, past trauma, grief and loss, boundary issues, and learned coping strategies, to name a few. Therapy also gives clients opportunities to strategically prepare for the future, explore personal values and spirituality, strengthen relationships, and clarify goals.
(678) 498-6234 View (678) 498-6234
Photo of Svetlana Markova, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Svetlana Markova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist with 19 years of clinical experience, and I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults. I work with people who are struggling with the effects of trauma and stressful events, depression, anxiety, and behavior problems, including sexual behavior problems. I also help people with impulse control difficulties, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and eating problems.
I am a psychologist with 19 years of clinical experience, and I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults. I work with people who are struggling with the effects of trauma and stressful events, depression, anxiety, and behavior problems, including sexual behavior problems. I also help people with impulse control difficulties, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and eating problems.
(678) 940-7887 View (678) 940-7887
Photo of Sharrisse El Amrani, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Sharrisse El Amrani
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
Greetings, My name is Sharrisse Amrani LPC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia. I have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years, and my expertise is related to working with individuals that experience hardships such as divorce, change, and etc, as well as symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and etc. I specialize in working with all ages with trauma.
Greetings, My name is Sharrisse Amrani LPC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia. I have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years, and my expertise is related to working with individuals that experience hardships such as divorce, change, and etc, as well as symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and etc. I specialize in working with all ages with trauma.
(470) 646-6906 View (470) 646-6906
Photo of Hannah Nara Choe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Hannah Nara Choe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5) You are created for a purpose and even though the darkness was hard at work, here you are, standing your ground. Well done! I want to come alongside and start this journey of true joy and freedom with you. If you are experiencing dissatisfaction and emptiness due to lack of life-giving fruit in your life, it is time to do things differently. What has worked in the past will no longer work because the Light has come.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5) You are created for a purpose and even though the darkness was hard at work, here you are, standing your ground. Well done! I want to come alongside and start this journey of true joy and freedom with you. If you are experiencing dissatisfaction and emptiness due to lack of life-giving fruit in your life, it is time to do things differently. What has worked in the past will no longer work because the Light has come.
(470) 745-1851 View (470) 745-1851
Photo of Mikaela Corlette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Mikaela Corlette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHt, MNLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
You're tired of arguing. You've been struggling to communicate effectively with your partner and you're frustrated. Maybe you're starting to feel resentment in your relationship and questioning if you're with the right person. Perhaps you've endured a past riddled with abuse, abandonment, neglect or even sexual trauma and these experiences are making it difficult for you to be vulnerable or intimate. You might even have a wedding date approaching and you're not confident that you're ready to say "I do."
You're tired of arguing. You've been struggling to communicate effectively with your partner and you're frustrated. Maybe you're starting to feel resentment in your relationship and questioning if you're with the right person. Perhaps you've endured a past riddled with abuse, abandonment, neglect or even sexual trauma and these experiences are making it difficult for you to be vulnerable or intimate. You might even have a wedding date approaching and you're not confident that you're ready to say "I do."
(404) 832-0604 View (404) 832-0604
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.