Sexual Abuse Therapists in Idaho

Photo of Kimberly Leishman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Idaho
Kimberly Leishman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pocatello, ID 83201
Throughout my experience as a trauma counselor I have had the privilege of working with survivors of intimate partner/domestic violence and sexual assault, LGBTQIA+ and faith crises and transitions, while exploring trauma through all experiences.
I value the counseling relationship above all and believe in creating a space of safety and collaboration. I see counseling as a partnership and I am honored with every opportunity to be a partner in others' healing journey. I come from a person centered approach, which means that I believe in genuineness and transparency when working through difficult experiences. I work with teens and adults. I believe in helping client’s harness their natural self-healing through dignity, respect, non-judgement, and compassion.
Throughout my experience as a trauma counselor I have had the privilege of working with survivors of intimate partner/domestic violence and sexual assault, LGBTQIA+ and faith crises and transitions, while exploring trauma through all experiences.
I value the counseling relationship above all and believe in creating a space of safety and collaboration. I see counseling as a partnership and I am honored with every opportunity to be a partner in others' healing journey. I come from a person centered approach, which means that I believe in genuineness and transparency when working through difficult experiences. I work with teens and adults. I believe in helping client’s harness their natural self-healing through dignity, respect, non-judgement, and compassion.
(208) 670-8688 View (208) 670-8688
Photo of Stephen E Howard, Counselor in Idaho
Stephen E Howard
Counselor, PhD, PsyExt, Chpln
Verified Verified
Pocatello, ID 83201
My specialty/empathy is related to CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE impact in adulthood.
I practice Humanistic Psychology methods with an emphasis on the SOUL, focusing on the spirit in the mind/body/sprit approach. I teach mindfulness training & offer guided meditation. I enjoy listening & strive to understand, focusing on one's strengths rather than looking solely at the problem; to recognize ones self-worth and potential. I aim to guide in positivet direction for growth and transformation as one sees their inner strength and ability change for themselves! I take a very down to earth approach, bluntly providing clear insight & tools to empower. I will utilize your faith/spirituality to whatever degree you want
My specialty/empathy is related to CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE impact in adulthood.
I practice Humanistic Psychology methods with an emphasis on the SOUL, focusing on the spirit in the mind/body/sprit approach. I teach mindfulness training & offer guided meditation. I enjoy listening & strive to understand, focusing on one's strengths rather than looking solely at the problem; to recognize ones self-worth and potential. I aim to guide in positivet direction for growth and transformation as one sees their inner strength and ability change for themselves! I take a very down to earth approach, bluntly providing clear insight & tools to empower. I will utilize your faith/spirituality to whatever degree you want
(208) 213-7680 View (208) 213-7680
Photo of Matthias James Barker, Counselor in Idaho
Matthias James Barker
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
I work with adults and couples from all walks of life and specialize in treating childhood sexual abuse, sex-addiction, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety, and family issues.
My goal is to help the people I work with move towards what is meaningful in life amidst a history of trauma and hardship.
I work with adults and couples from all walks of life and specialize in treating childhood sexual abuse, sex-addiction, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety, and family issues.
My goal is to help the people I work with move towards what is meaningful in life amidst a history of trauma and hardship.
Photo of Sarah O'Connell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Idaho
Sarah O'Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hailey, ID 83333
Waitlist for new clients
Sarah has years of experience working with children and teens in many different settings. She implements research in her practice to ensure the best approaches are being utilized for each individual, family, and group. Sarah sees clients who are healing from trauma, sexual abuse/assault, spiritual and religious trauma, perinatal trauma/depression, among many other areas. She pulls from several different theories and techniques, including Somatic Experiencing, attachment theory, existential psychology, and ACT. She also incorporates play therapy and family therapy.
Sarah has years of experience working with children and teens in many different settings. She implements research in her practice to ensure the best approaches are being utilized for each individual, family, and group. Sarah sees clients who are healing from trauma, sexual abuse/assault, spiritual and religious trauma, perinatal trauma/depression, among many other areas. She pulls from several different theories and techniques, including Somatic Experiencing, attachment theory, existential psychology, and ACT. She also incorporates play therapy and family therapy.
(208) 886-1194 View (208) 886-1194
Photo of Suzanne Burton, Counselor in Idaho
Suzanne Burton
Counselor, LCPC, MCoun, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Currently unable to accept new clients. I offer a comforting presence, a wealth of human experience, and expertise in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, suicidal thoughts, sexual abuse, relationship issues, anger management, LGBT issues, aging, and adjusting to change. I would be honored to join you in a journey to bring balance and satisfaction into your life. I have worked extensively with incarcerated individuals/their families and young adults struggling through major life transitions. I am licensed in Utah and Idaho. Email me for possible availability - I have occasional openings.
Currently unable to accept new clients. I offer a comforting presence, a wealth of human experience, and expertise in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, suicidal thoughts, sexual abuse, relationship issues, anger management, LGBT issues, aging, and adjusting to change. I would be honored to join you in a journey to bring balance and satisfaction into your life. I have worked extensively with incarcerated individuals/their families and young adults struggling through major life transitions. I am licensed in Utah and Idaho. Email me for possible availability - I have occasional openings.
(208) 273-9659 View (208) 273-9659
Photo of Daybreak Counseling, Counselor in Idaho
Daybreak Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
My expertise and training has lead me to work effectively with clients through the normal transitions of life as well as issues as varied as depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, chronic illness, bereavement, parent/child problems, acting out teens, marital conflict, sexual addiction, infidelity, and improving intimacy and communication in couple relationships.
I love the counseling that I do. For the last fifteen years I have been a witness to the courage, tenacity, and resiliency of my clients as they strive to improve their personal lives and relationships in their families. I am convinced that much of our life is determined by the lens that we choose to look through. I also believe counselors are most successful when they also have a healthy lifestyle and live the principles that they teach to their clients. I believe that when you meet me that you will find me to be grounded, healthy, and authentic.
My expertise and training has lead me to work effectively with clients through the normal transitions of life as well as issues as varied as depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, chronic illness, bereavement, parent/child problems, acting out teens, marital conflict, sexual addiction, infidelity, and improving intimacy and communication in couple relationships.
I love the counseling that I do. For the last fifteen years I have been a witness to the courage, tenacity, and resiliency of my clients as they strive to improve their personal lives and relationships in their families. I am convinced that much of our life is determined by the lens that we choose to look through. I also believe counselors are most successful when they also have a healthy lifestyle and live the principles that they teach to their clients. I believe that when you meet me that you will find me to be grounded, healthy, and authentic.
(208) 269-9680 View (208) 269-9680
Photo of Kelly Loy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Idaho
Kelly Loy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC, NCC, MDiv, RN
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping adult survivors of childhood violence and sexual abuse.
I am a Certified IFS (Internal Family Systems) Therapist - welcoming the "parts" of you with courage to come to counseling AND any parts of you that are afraid or upset about that! IFS is a non-condemning model with a broad spiritual core helpful for depression, anxiety, healing from trauma, medical concerns and crises including cancer, chronic disease symptoms, and grief, and it works well over Telehealth/Video sessions! I teach Positive Discipline, help stressed parents dealing with defiance and power struggles, and I am ready to help with spiritual distress, shame, guilt, and burdens related to your life's traumas and regrets.
I specialize in helping adult survivors of childhood violence and sexual abuse.
I am a Certified IFS (Internal Family Systems) Therapist - welcoming the "parts" of you with courage to come to counseling AND any parts of you that are afraid or upset about that! IFS is a non-condemning model with a broad spiritual core helpful for depression, anxiety, healing from trauma, medical concerns and crises including cancer, chronic disease symptoms, and grief, and it works well over Telehealth/Video sessions! I teach Positive Discipline, help stressed parents dealing with defiance and power struggles, and I am ready to help with spiritual distress, shame, guilt, and burdens related to your life's traumas and regrets.
(208) 502-2809 View (208) 502-2809
Photo of Misty Mountains Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Idaho
Misty Mountains Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rexburg, ID 83440
I specialize in treating adolescents and young adults for depression, anxiety, PTSD, abuse/assault, eating disorders, ADHD, gender/sexual identity, financial stress, autism, relationship issues, addiction, etc.
I love to work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages and from all backgrounds. I use a person-centered approach.
I specialize in treating adolescents and young adults for depression, anxiety, PTSD, abuse/assault, eating disorders, ADHD, gender/sexual identity, financial stress, autism, relationship issues, addiction, etc.
I love to work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages and from all backgrounds. I use a person-centered approach.
(208) 656-1634 View (208) 656-1634
Photo of Tandice C Peterson, Counselor in Idaho
Tandice C Peterson
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CCTHP, SSP, AAI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pocatello, ID 83201
Extensive experience working with child and adolescent victims of sexual abuse and a variety of other trauma, attachment issues such as Reactive Attachment Disorder, adoption.
My primary theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and animal assisted therapy. However I also utilize theories such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Adlerian Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the use of books, Art Therapy, sand Tray Therapy, Play therapy and attachment therapy. I'm certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Tandice has knowledge and experience working with children and families struggling with sibling and parent conflict issues. Anxiety disorders, depression disorders, PTSD, Bi-Polar, Domestic Violence, Relationship issues, self-esteem and identity issues are also areas of expertise.
Extensive experience working with child and adolescent victims of sexual abuse and a variety of other trauma, attachment issues such as Reactive Attachment Disorder, adoption.
My primary theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and animal assisted therapy. However I also utilize theories such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Adlerian Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the use of books, Art Therapy, sand Tray Therapy, Play therapy and attachment therapy. I'm certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Tandice has knowledge and experience working with children and families struggling with sibling and parent conflict issues. Anxiety disorders, depression disorders, PTSD, Bi-Polar, Domestic Violence, Relationship issues, self-esteem and identity issues are also areas of expertise.
(208) 487-5398 View (208) 487-5398
Photo of Marina Ferrier Phd., Marriage & Family Therapist in Idaho
Marina Ferrier Phd.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sandpoint, ID 83864
Child, adolescent and family therapy; Adult individual therapy; Victims of physical and sexual abuse; Divorce conflict resolution; EMDR Certified Practitioner for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Individual, marriage, and family counseling Communication, parenting, and relationship skills Recovery from physical or sexual trauma Coping skills for depression, grief, and anxiety Jungian based personal and spiritual development Certified EMDR practitioner
Child, adolescent and family therapy; Adult individual therapy; Victims of physical and sexual abuse; Divorce conflict resolution; EMDR Certified Practitioner for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Individual, marriage, and family counseling Communication, parenting, and relationship skills Recovery from physical or sexual trauma Coping skills for depression, grief, and anxiety Jungian based personal and spiritual development Certified EMDR practitioner
(208) 962-6041 View (208) 962-6041
Photo of Ashlie Unruh, Counselor in Idaho
Ashlie Unruh
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814  (Online Only)
My focus is working with women who struggle with depression, trauma, grief, shame/guilt, anxiety, spiritual abuse, emotional, and sexual abuse.
I have journeyed with adults experiencing a wide variety of issues, in practice for 20+ years. Although I spend time exploring the specific problem that brings you into counseling or therapy, I will also explore in depth the nature of your relationships with other significant people in your life. I will do this in such a way as to challenge ineffective ways of living and provide for personal change to occur. Change at this level requires more than new skills or understanding. I will help you work through and take responsibility for the specific situations you are facing.
My focus is working with women who struggle with depression, trauma, grief, shame/guilt, anxiety, spiritual abuse, emotional, and sexual abuse.
I have journeyed with adults experiencing a wide variety of issues, in practice for 20+ years. Although I spend time exploring the specific problem that brings you into counseling or therapy, I will also explore in depth the nature of your relationships with other significant people in your life. I will do this in such a way as to challenge ineffective ways of living and provide for personal change to occur. Change at this level requires more than new skills or understanding. I will help you work through and take responsibility for the specific situations you are facing.
(208) 495-3356 View (208) 495-3356
Photo of Cheryl A Baker, Counselor in Idaho
Cheryl A Baker
Counselor, MS, LCPC, RS
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83709
The trainings I have completed are Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Training, and MISA-Mental Illness/Substance Abuse Training.
Sometimes you may feel all alone and that no one understands. Or you may even be unsure as to what is happening inside of yourself, or how to handle what you are experiencing in life.
The trainings I have completed are Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Training, and MISA-Mental Illness/Substance Abuse Training.
Sometimes you may feel all alone and that no one understands. Or you may even be unsure as to what is happening inside of yourself, or how to handle what you are experiencing in life.
(208) 225-6098 View (208) 225-6098
Photo of D Marie Breton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Idaho
D Marie Breton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eagle, ID 83616
While in CA, extensively trained in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention.
Life changes like the tides. Learn to ride the waves. You're already surviving. I'd like to help you thrive. Whether you need to strengthen your relationship with your spouse, significant other, parents or children, or maybe you're needing help with troublesome symptoms related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, or compulsions. I'm here to help you to learn to strengthen your relationships and/or manage the chaos so that you can access the harmony, balance and empowerment inside you.
While in CA, extensively trained in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention.
Life changes like the tides. Learn to ride the waves. You're already surviving. I'd like to help you thrive. Whether you need to strengthen your relationship with your spouse, significant other, parents or children, or maybe you're needing help with troublesome symptoms related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, or compulsions. I'm here to help you to learn to strengthen your relationships and/or manage the chaos so that you can access the harmony, balance and empowerment inside you.
(208) 907-4324 View (208) 907-4324
Photo of Innovative Health Care Concepts, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Idaho
Innovative Health Care Concepts, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Idaho Falls, ID 83404
We have a team of clinicians who have experience in treating a variety of diagnoses including autism spectrum disorders, child trauma and sexual abuse, anxiety-related disorders, depression and mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, bereavement, and psychotic disorders.
Over the last decade, Innovative Health Care Concepts (IHCC) has worked with a variety of clients from children suffering from trauma, to families learning to manage the complexities of living with mental illness.
We have a team of clinicians who have experience in treating a variety of diagnoses including autism spectrum disorders, child trauma and sexual abuse, anxiety-related disorders, depression and mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, bereavement, and psychotic disorders.
Over the last decade, Innovative Health Care Concepts (IHCC) has worked with a variety of clients from children suffering from trauma, to families learning to manage the complexities of living with mental illness.
(208) 291-1265 View (208) 291-1265
Photo of Susan Cari Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Idaho
Susan Cari Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hailey, ID 83333
I have extensive experience working with teens at risk for suicide, survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, grief and loss.
The core direction of my work is through connection and compassion, focusing on individualizing interventions and developing strategies for non-violent communication, achieving life balance and self-acceptance. My style is compassionate; my direction is fostering family closeness. Clients will collaborate in therapy to set goals and create their own treatment plan. I have experience with grief and loss, life changes, and I am also a compassionate support for those dealing with existential changes. One focus and emphasis of treatment is using mindfulness to process experiences.
I have extensive experience working with teens at risk for suicide, survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, grief and loss.
The core direction of my work is through connection and compassion, focusing on individualizing interventions and developing strategies for non-violent communication, achieving life balance and self-acceptance. My style is compassionate; my direction is fostering family closeness. Clients will collaborate in therapy to set goals and create their own treatment plan. I have experience with grief and loss, life changes, and I am also a compassionate support for those dealing with existential changes. One focus and emphasis of treatment is using mindfulness to process experiences.
(208) 218-8332 View (208) 218-8332
Photo of Radiant Christian Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Idaho
Radiant Christian Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
I specialize in couples therapy, therapy for teens, and family healing in areas of codependency, grief and loss, low self-worth, childhood wounds, emotional issues, trauma, sexual abuse, affair recovery, and strongholds.
*I'm currently accepting new clients and have immediate openings* Hi there- I'm Jess! I'm honored that you’re here and I look forward to meeting you and hearing your story. Starting the journey of counseling isn’t easy. It can be scary, and takes a lot of courage. My hope is that all of my clients feel valued, cared for, and encouraged.
I specialize in couples therapy, therapy for teens, and family healing in areas of codependency, grief and loss, low self-worth, childhood wounds, emotional issues, trauma, sexual abuse, affair recovery, and strongholds.
*I'm currently accepting new clients and have immediate openings* Hi there- I'm Jess! I'm honored that you’re here and I look forward to meeting you and hearing your story. Starting the journey of counseling isn’t easy. It can be scary, and takes a lot of courage. My hope is that all of my clients feel valued, cared for, and encouraged.
(208) 505-9842 View (208) 505-9842
Photo of Jennifer Haagenson, Counselor in Idaho
Jennifer Haagenson
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Nampa, ID 83651
Waitlist for new clients
I am not taking on new clients at this time but I have an intern who is. Are you an adult struggling with relationship issues, marriage conflict, anxiety or depression? Are you overwhelmed or do you desire to have more peace in your life and in your relationships? Are you approaching your wedding day and seeking premarital counseling? Or are you a teen looking for extra support? Maybe school is difficult, maybe you have conflict with your parents, maybe you have a history of sexual abuse or you're in a relationship that is not going as hoped. Whatever you are facing, there is hope and I am ready to walk through this with you.
I am not taking on new clients at this time but I have an intern who is. Are you an adult struggling with relationship issues, marriage conflict, anxiety or depression? Are you overwhelmed or do you desire to have more peace in your life and in your relationships? Are you approaching your wedding day and seeking premarital counseling? Or are you a teen looking for extra support? Maybe school is difficult, maybe you have conflict with your parents, maybe you have a history of sexual abuse or you're in a relationship that is not going as hoped. Whatever you are facing, there is hope and I am ready to walk through this with you.
(208) 742-4620 View (208) 742-4620
Photo of Jill J Sprague, Counselor in Idaho
Jill J Sprague
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Emmett, ID 83617
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, physical /sexual abuse, learning/developmental disabilities, parenting concerns, behavioral issues and the dually diagnosed.
My theoretical approach is primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Methods. I assist my clients in problem solving by looking at contradictions/errors in thinking patterns and/or behaviors and help them facilitate change through expressed areas of internal conflict and/or discomfort. I am also a solution-focused therapist and will take an eclectic approach in the use of counseling techniques in order to reach the client’s desired outcomes. I also believe that a client’s personal spiritual health is vital to overall well-being and when appropriate I will assist the client in utilizing their spiritual supports.
I work with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, physical /sexual abuse, learning/developmental disabilities, parenting concerns, behavioral issues and the dually diagnosed.
My theoretical approach is primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Methods. I assist my clients in problem solving by looking at contradictions/errors in thinking patterns and/or behaviors and help them facilitate change through expressed areas of internal conflict and/or discomfort. I am also a solution-focused therapist and will take an eclectic approach in the use of counseling techniques in order to reach the client’s desired outcomes. I also believe that a client’s personal spiritual health is vital to overall well-being and when appropriate I will assist the client in utilizing their spiritual supports.
(208) 449-1215 View (208) 449-1215
Photo of Merridith Manning, Marriage & Family Therapist in Idaho
Merridith Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
Are you looking for a renewal in your life. Maybe in your coping strategies, connection with others or goal setting. Perhaps you need to reconnect with purpose and motivation. Maybe you have not felt like yourself in quite a while and are feeling down and/or anxious. At Impact Counseling our therapists provide community mental health in an empathetic and collaborative environment to help you make the necessary changes to feel like yourself again. Some issues treated include trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, sexual behavior problems, mood disorders and more.
Are you looking for a renewal in your life. Maybe in your coping strategies, connection with others or goal setting. Perhaps you need to reconnect with purpose and motivation. Maybe you have not felt like yourself in quite a while and are feeling down and/or anxious. At Impact Counseling our therapists provide community mental health in an empathetic and collaborative environment to help you make the necessary changes to feel like yourself again. Some issues treated include trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, sexual behavior problems, mood disorders and more.
(208) 427-2473 View (208) 427-2473
Photo of Lexy E Wilson in Idaho
Lexy E Wilson
LMSW
Verified Verified
Eagle, ID 83616  (Online Only)
My specialties include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, life transitions, sexual abuse, relationship problems, domestic abuse / narcissistic abuse survivors, teen issues, and religious/spiritual transitions, or exploration.
Telehealth Only - Are you ready to put in the hard work necessary to pursue meaningful change in your life? If so, I may be the right therapist for you. In working together, we can cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness, empowerment, boundary setting, and develop goals for your future. I am a therapist passionate about empowering my clients to reach their greatest potential by working through past traumas and negative core beliefs in order to create lasting change. As a therapist, I have experience working with clients across the lifespan including children, teens, and adults.
My specialties include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, life transitions, sexual abuse, relationship problems, domestic abuse / narcissistic abuse survivors, teen issues, and religious/spiritual transitions, or exploration.
Telehealth Only - Are you ready to put in the hard work necessary to pursue meaningful change in your life? If so, I may be the right therapist for you. In working together, we can cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness, empowerment, boundary setting, and develop goals for your future. I am a therapist passionate about empowering my clients to reach their greatest potential by working through past traumas and negative core beliefs in order to create lasting change. As a therapist, I have experience working with clients across the lifespan including children, teens, and adults.
(208) 759-5288 View (208) 759-5288
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.