Photo of Cumberland Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Cumberland Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAMFT, NBCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Our focus areas include: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult/Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships, Codependency, Self-worth and Identity issues.
It’s truly incredible when a person sees that there’s something inside them that they want to work on, and then they go after that. It’s incredible that you’re here, that you’re searching. The people who want to be the best version of themselves, who want to break “generational traumas” and work on their mental health so that they can pass down health, wholeness, peace, and light to the next generation - those are the superheroes. Our mental health is our foundation for how we relate to ourselves and world around us after all - Our God, ourselves, and others.
Our focus areas include: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult/Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships, Codependency, Self-worth and Identity issues.
It’s truly incredible when a person sees that there’s something inside them that they want to work on, and then they go after that. It’s incredible that you’re here, that you’re searching. The people who want to be the best version of themselves, who want to break “generational traumas” and work on their mental health so that they can pass down health, wholeness, peace, and light to the next generation - those are the superheroes. Our mental health is our foundation for how we relate to ourselves and world around us after all - Our God, ourselves, and others.
(678) 498-6477 View (678) 498-6477
Photo of Cumberland Counseling Centers - Lawrenceville, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Cumberland Counseling Centers - Lawrenceville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, AMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Join our community! We focus on: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult Life Transitions, Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships and Codependency.
Our mental health is the foundation for how we view everything: ourselves, the world around us, even God. Cumberland Counseling Services is a professional counseling center providing quality mental health care and education, to bring about transforming change to the communities that we serve. Our focus areas include couples, adults, and adolescents aged 10+. And as licensed professionals, we are committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. Our counselors will draw upon their clinical training and formal education to address each unique need.
Join our community! We focus on: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult Life Transitions, Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships and Codependency.
Our mental health is the foundation for how we view everything: ourselves, the world around us, even God. Cumberland Counseling Services is a professional counseling center providing quality mental health care and education, to bring about transforming change to the communities that we serve. Our focus areas include couples, adults, and adolescents aged 10+. And as licensed professionals, we are committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. Our counselors will draw upon their clinical training and formal education to address each unique need.
(470) 232-0349 View (470) 232-0349
Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30082
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 394-3719 View (678) 394-3719
Photo of Elaine A Thomas, Psychologist in Smyrna, GA
Elaine A Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Anxiety conditions I work with include: separation anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress disorder, child traumatic grief, distress following single incident traumas such as car accidents and natural disasters, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
Anxiety conditions I work with include: separation anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress disorder, child traumatic grief, distress following single incident traumas such as car accidents and natural disasters, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
(770) 790-0773 View (770) 790-0773
Photo of Summit's Edge Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Summit's Edge Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
We are an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities. We serve children (3+), teens, and adults, individuals, couples (all structures), families. We create treatment plans that utilize evidence-based treatments while considering the unique experiences and identifies of our clients. Our clients want to feel safe to explore their needs with a therapist that understands them.
We are an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities. We serve children (3+), teens, and adults, individuals, couples (all structures), families. We create treatment plans that utilize evidence-based treatments while considering the unique experiences and identifies of our clients. Our clients want to feel safe to explore their needs with a therapist that understands them.
(404) 348-0715 View (404) 348-0715
Photo of Sprigs Counseling Collaborative, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Sprigs Counseling Collaborative
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Talking to a perfect stranger about personal things doesn't exactly make a person feel warm and fuzzy. Realistically though, life is just hard! Sometimes we just need to share our thoughts with someone who can be trusted not to judge how life's toughest blows may have affected us. Sometimes we just need to be able to talk honestly about things we wouldn't share with just anyone. This doesn't make us broken, it makes us 'Human.'
Talking to a perfect stranger about personal things doesn't exactly make a person feel warm and fuzzy. Realistically though, life is just hard! Sometimes we just need to share our thoughts with someone who can be trusted not to judge how life's toughest blows may have affected us. Sometimes we just need to be able to talk honestly about things we wouldn't share with just anyone. This doesn't make us broken, it makes us 'Human.'
(678) 621-2560 View (678) 621-2560
Photo of Dr. Shenithia S Arnold, Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Dr. Shenithia S Arnold
Counselor, EdD, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
"If you are ready to embark upon a journey that will ultimately lead to a greater you, consider beginning your Journey 2 Greatness with me. I am Shenithia Arnold, a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia specializing in behavioral and emotional disorders. As your therapist, I will provide an emotionally comfortable environment allowing you to discuss your most difficult issues, uncover your fears and limitations, and/or change any destructive behaviors that may impede your growth. Together we will work to challenge any self defeating thoughts and implement effective behavioral and communication skills to aid in your journey".
"If you are ready to embark upon a journey that will ultimately lead to a greater you, consider beginning your Journey 2 Greatness with me. I am Shenithia Arnold, a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia specializing in behavioral and emotional disorders. As your therapist, I will provide an emotionally comfortable environment allowing you to discuss your most difficult issues, uncover your fears and limitations, and/or change any destructive behaviors that may impede your growth. Together we will work to challenge any self defeating thoughts and implement effective behavioral and communication skills to aid in your journey".
(678) 974-1035 View (678) 974-1035
Photo of Anne Moss, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Anne Moss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
Racing thoughts? Having a hard time concentrating? Zero motivation? Stress in your relationship? Overwhelmed? Scared to ask or seek help? I get it. I will listen and help you learn effective tools that will begin your journey to feeling more in control and regaining the quality of life that is important to you. I have over 18 years of experience with mental health issues as well as substance abuse. I am available for a free phone consultation. We can work together to help you find the control and quality of life you are looking for. Please give me a call, it's the first step to feeling better! (+ EMDR for trauma related symptoms).
Racing thoughts? Having a hard time concentrating? Zero motivation? Stress in your relationship? Overwhelmed? Scared to ask or seek help? I get it. I will listen and help you learn effective tools that will begin your journey to feeling more in control and regaining the quality of life that is important to you. I have over 18 years of experience with mental health issues as well as substance abuse. I am available for a free phone consultation. We can work together to help you find the control and quality of life you are looking for. Please give me a call, it's the first step to feeling better! (+ EMDR for trauma related symptoms).
(678) 883-7340 View (678) 883-7340
Photo of Wellness Without Walls, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Wellness Without Walls, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I meet every individual where they are in their personal journey to improve their mental health. My goal is to help my clients meet their goals by focusing on developing a relationship and creating personalized treatment plans. There is not a one size fits all approach to mental health care. I look forward to meeting and learning about each and every individual I work with.
I meet every individual where they are in their personal journey to improve their mental health. My goal is to help my clients meet their goals by focusing on developing a relationship and creating personalized treatment plans. There is not a one size fits all approach to mental health care. I look forward to meeting and learning about each and every individual I work with.
(404) 738-8781 View (404) 738-8781
Photo of Brenda Maureen Romanchik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Brenda Maureen Romanchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I also work with adults. While post-graduate training, and teaching, have increased my skills, what makes me a good therapist are the beliefs I hold dear. I believe in people and their ability to heal and thrive. I believe that the connection I have with my clients not only allows them to open up to me, but others as well. Most importantly, I believe that working with others is a tremendous responsibility and a sacred trust. It is an honor I never take lightly.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I also work with adults. While post-graduate training, and teaching, have increased my skills, what makes me a good therapist are the beliefs I hold dear. I believe in people and their ability to heal and thrive. I believe that the connection I have with my clients not only allows them to open up to me, but others as well. Most importantly, I believe that working with others is a tremendous responsibility and a sacred trust. It is an honor I never take lightly.
(469) 203-4030 View (469) 203-4030
Photo of Amelia R Turrubiates-Huacuja, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Amelia R Turrubiates-Huacuja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, MFT-C
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Amelia’s commitment is to help people regardless ethnicity, nationality, gender or socio-economic, and cultural background. Amelia believes that a collaborative therapeutic relationship will help to overcome the problems people have when they seek for professional counseling. Amelia’s ultimately goal is to empower the clients to best ensure their success.
Amelia’s commitment is to help people regardless ethnicity, nationality, gender or socio-economic, and cultural background. Amelia believes that a collaborative therapeutic relationship will help to overcome the problems people have when they seek for professional counseling. Amelia’s ultimately goal is to empower the clients to best ensure their success.
(678) 688-9856 View (678) 688-9856
Photo of Jessica Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Jessica Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I provide an authentic therapeutic alliance with my clients. We work together to transform painful emotions into empowering energy needed for healing and balance. My manner is warm, positive and direct. I believe healing is always possible when we are allied with the right support system. I provide a safe and judgement-free experience for all!
I provide an authentic therapeutic alliance with my clients. We work together to transform painful emotions into empowering energy needed for healing and balance. My manner is warm, positive and direct. I believe healing is always possible when we are allied with the right support system. I provide a safe and judgement-free experience for all!
(470) 467-8751 View (470) 467-8751
Photo of ReConnect Therapeutic Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
ReConnect Therapeutic Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
“WE take an eclectic approach to providing therapeutic services. Our objective in therapy is "Facilitating Good Mental Health". We believe good mental health is a journey not a destination. Life can be challenging but it is our choices that increase the level of difficulty. Therapy provides the support and tools needed to navigate life's challenges. Achieving good mental health requires a collaborative relationship, which begins with building a trusting therapeutic environment. In practice, We utilize a variety of theoretical approaches such as Reality/Choice Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Family Systems.”
“WE take an eclectic approach to providing therapeutic services. Our objective in therapy is "Facilitating Good Mental Health". We believe good mental health is a journey not a destination. Life can be challenging but it is our choices that increase the level of difficulty. Therapy provides the support and tools needed to navigate life's challenges. Achieving good mental health requires a collaborative relationship, which begins with building a trusting therapeutic environment. In practice, We utilize a variety of theoretical approaches such as Reality/Choice Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Family Systems.”
(404) 476-8347 View (404) 476-8347
Photo of Simona Cohen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Simona Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Hi. I am so glad you are here. Life’s circumstances and challenges can really wear on our resiliency and ability to cope effectively. Our past can also shape our current beliefs about the world and how we show up in it. Many clients who come to work with me often struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, and interpersonal challenges. I use different modalities to help clients explore emotions, gain understanding and self compassion, build courage, and learn & apply new skills to make positive desired changes. My goal is to help empower clients to create a more meaningful life aligned with their personal values.
Hi. I am so glad you are here. Life’s circumstances and challenges can really wear on our resiliency and ability to cope effectively. Our past can also shape our current beliefs about the world and how we show up in it. Many clients who come to work with me often struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, and interpersonal challenges. I use different modalities to help clients explore emotions, gain understanding and self compassion, build courage, and learn & apply new skills to make positive desired changes. My goal is to help empower clients to create a more meaningful life aligned with their personal values.
(470) 339-4199 x109 View (470) 339-4199 x109
Photo of Christi Bartolomucci, Psychologist in Smyrna, GA
Christi Bartolomucci
Psychologist, PhD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
With a therapeutic relationship filled with nurturing and collaboration, along with a bit of humor and playfulness, we can explore dynamics, improve skills, and overcome barriers. Together, we identify and utilize strengths in the process of facing more challenging emotional and relational struggles. My clients, which include children, adolescents, and adults, frequently address issues such as anxieties, OCD, ADHD, trauma, negative self-worth, school/work-based challenges, perfectionism, emotional regulation, preparation/adjustment to divorce, parenting, bullying, and the overall desire to improve key relationships.
With a therapeutic relationship filled with nurturing and collaboration, along with a bit of humor and playfulness, we can explore dynamics, improve skills, and overcome barriers. Together, we identify and utilize strengths in the process of facing more challenging emotional and relational struggles. My clients, which include children, adolescents, and adults, frequently address issues such as anxieties, OCD, ADHD, trauma, negative self-worth, school/work-based challenges, perfectionism, emotional regulation, preparation/adjustment to divorce, parenting, bullying, and the overall desire to improve key relationships.
(770) 450-5288 x104 View (770) 450-5288 x104
Photo of Nicole Lyon, Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Nicole Lyon
Counselor, LPC, MAMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
As a former Division I Athlete and US National Team Member, I believe that one of the bravest things we can do is learning how to love ourselves through the process of owning our own storying. Often times the first brave step is just reaching out. Society tends to view therapy as something you need if you have “failed” on your own. However, I tend to think the counseling process is one where we invite someone else to walk alongside us on our journey of figuring out who we are. I believe that as humans we are designed for relationship, and we aren’t intended to do and figure it all out alone.
As a former Division I Athlete and US National Team Member, I believe that one of the bravest things we can do is learning how to love ourselves through the process of owning our own storying. Often times the first brave step is just reaching out. Society tends to view therapy as something you need if you have “failed” on your own. However, I tend to think the counseling process is one where we invite someone else to walk alongside us on our journey of figuring out who we are. I believe that as humans we are designed for relationship, and we aren’t intended to do and figure it all out alone.
(678) 661-3774 View (678) 661-3774
Photo of Dr. Bryan A. Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Dr. Bryan A. Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin , LPC , CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Are you experiencing difficulties as a result of life challenges and disappointments? Are you struggling balancing your spirituality with sexual identity? Are you experiencing the loss of a loved one? Are you in need of spiritual and emotional support in a open and nonjudgmental environment? I am here to help you to recover your "Soul" (the essence of your best and productive self). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Board Certified Chaplain and a Pastoral Counselor here to help you explore your feelings, work with your emotions, rediscover your passions and find inner peace/healing for your "Soul."
Are you experiencing difficulties as a result of life challenges and disappointments? Are you struggling balancing your spirituality with sexual identity? Are you experiencing the loss of a loved one? Are you in need of spiritual and emotional support in a open and nonjudgmental environment? I am here to help you to recover your "Soul" (the essence of your best and productive self). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Board Certified Chaplain and a Pastoral Counselor here to help you explore your feelings, work with your emotions, rediscover your passions and find inner peace/healing for your "Soul."
(404) 246-2815 View (404) 246-2815
Photo of Alison Martha Barreiro-Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Alison Martha Barreiro-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EAS-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
As a solution focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life for the present and future.
As a solution focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life for the present and future.
(678) 944-8354 View (678) 944-8354
Photo of East Cobb Counseling and The Anada Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
East Cobb Counseling and The Anada Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30081
Everyone has the capacity to be blissfully happy with themselves and others. With the proper tools and guidance I will support a journey towards finding your true self and maximizing your full potential. I have 12 years experience helping people overcome and/or cope with relationship difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, anger, trauma and mood disorders. I like to use a variety of tools such as play, art and sandplay therapy.
Everyone has the capacity to be blissfully happy with themselves and others. With the proper tools and guidance I will support a journey towards finding your true self and maximizing your full potential. I have 12 years experience helping people overcome and/or cope with relationship difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, anger, trauma and mood disorders. I like to use a variety of tools such as play, art and sandplay therapy.
(404) 693-1559 View (404) 693-1559
Photo of Judi Ingram Adkins, Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Judi Ingram Adkins
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Our wounds are the very place where meaningful wholeness and growth can begin. In over 30 years of private practice with individuals, couples and families, I have engaged deeply in the varied ways people set out to heal. Families in crisis appreciate the active way I connect with and engage all parties in the process of change. Helping couples learn to listen with curiosity rather than react in the "same old way", more deeply understand each other, reach forgiveness or acceptance, and open up possibilities regarding desire and intimacy are all strengths in my work.
Our wounds are the very place where meaningful wholeness and growth can begin. In over 30 years of private practice with individuals, couples and families, I have engaged deeply in the varied ways people set out to heal. Families in crisis appreciate the active way I connect with and engage all parties in the process of change. Helping couples learn to listen with curiosity rather than react in the "same old way", more deeply understand each other, reach forgiveness or acceptance, and open up possibilities regarding desire and intimacy are all strengths in my work.
(770) 792-7470 View (770) 792-7470
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.