Photo of SFC Searching For Change, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
SFC Searching For Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT-S, SE-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
We specialize in Addiction and Trauma, particularly Sex Addiction and Sexual Abuse.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
We specialize in Addiction and Trauma, particularly Sex Addiction and Sexual Abuse.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
(917) 746-5114 View (917) 746-5114
Photo of Hadassah Carlson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Hadassah Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I help individuals who are experiencing suffering and who want to experience healing and lasting change. Maybe you've experienced human-induced trauma, sexual abuse, spiritual abuse, relational conflict, feeling lost, alone, stuck, or simply feeling like some part of your life isn't working. Maybe you're struggling to feel your emotions, or you're confused about how your behavior and emotions are connected. I will work with you to help you understand the root of the issue and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected and we'll work together to create greater awareness, freedom, and health in your life.
I help individuals who are experiencing suffering and who want to experience healing and lasting change. Maybe you've experienced human-induced trauma, sexual abuse, spiritual abuse, relational conflict, feeling lost, alone, stuck, or simply feeling like some part of your life isn't working. Maybe you're struggling to feel your emotions, or you're confused about how your behavior and emotions are connected. I will work with you to help you understand the root of the issue and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected and we'll work together to create greater awareness, freedom, and health in your life.
(720) 637-4709 x724 View (720) 637-4709 x724
Photo of Michelle A Gilliard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Michelle A Gilliard
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
My research and treatment has a heavy emphasis on childhood sexual abuse and trauma within the African American community.
Hello! Therapy should be a safe space in which you are able to be transparent, vulnerable and the driver to the change you would like to see in your life. As an experienced clinician, I am dedicated to collaborating with you to heal from past relationships, understand, recognize and heal from trauma and remove the barriers that may be negatively impacting your progress.
My research and treatment has a heavy emphasis on childhood sexual abuse and trauma within the African American community.
Hello! Therapy should be a safe space in which you are able to be transparent, vulnerable and the driver to the change you would like to see in your life. As an experienced clinician, I am dedicated to collaborating with you to heal from past relationships, understand, recognize and heal from trauma and remove the barriers that may be negatively impacting your progress.
(312) 815-1779 x1 View (312) 815-1779 x1
Photo of Clair Miller, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Clair Miller
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
There is hope and healing; even though it might not feel like it. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with everything from anxiety and relationship issues to trauma and sexual abuse. It would be a privilege to work with you or your child towards healing, tailoring the counseling process to best fit your needs.
There is hope and healing; even though it might not feel like it. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with everything from anxiety and relationship issues to trauma and sexual abuse. It would be a privilege to work with you or your child towards healing, tailoring the counseling process to best fit your needs.
(312) 471-0315 x705 View (312) 471-0315 x705
Photo of Andrea Gaspar Gonzalez, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Andrea Gaspar Gonzalez
Psychologist, PsyD, PsyPact
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
While I am a generalist and work with a variety of presenting issues, my specialties include complex trauma, sexual abuse/assault, self-harm, pregnancy/miscarriage/abortion/postpartum care, relationship concerns, and cultural dynamics.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
While I am a generalist and work with a variety of presenting issues, my specialties include complex trauma, sexual abuse/assault, self-harm, pregnancy/miscarriage/abortion/postpartum care, relationship concerns, and cultural dynamics.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
(224) 970-2471 View (224) 970-2471
Photo of Elizabeth Diaz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Elizabeth Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Currently have a waitlist of 2-3 months. I specialize in treating individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (including performance anxiety), depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). I have experience working with individuals who have experienced or been witness to severe trauma including sexual abuse, childhood abuse, traumatic loss, birth trauma, loss of a parent, etc. Additionally, I am trained in working with individuals who have adjustment disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities and disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia.
Currently have a waitlist of 2-3 months. I specialize in treating individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (including performance anxiety), depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). I have experience working with individuals who have experienced or been witness to severe trauma including sexual abuse, childhood abuse, traumatic loss, birth trauma, loss of a parent, etc. Additionally, I am trained in working with individuals who have adjustment disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities and disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia.
(312) 635-4278 View (312) 635-4278
Photo of Kamita Clark in Chicago, IL
Kamita Clark
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60620  (Online Only)
I have assisted individuals with overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, identity issues, depression, sexual offenses, and complex grief.
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.
I have assisted individuals with overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, identity issues, depression, sexual offenses, and complex grief.
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.
(773) 801-7201 View (773) 801-7201
Photo of Maritza Reyes, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Maritza Reyes
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
I have both state certified 40 hour trainings in sexual assault and domestic violence.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who need emotional support for a variety of reasons but have expertise in the area of sexual violence. I believe creating a safe and supportive space is so important to be able to process the full impact of trauma. I am fully bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural (Latinx) and provide services from a culturally informed lens. I identify my therapeutic style as compassionate and non- judgmental.
I have both state certified 40 hour trainings in sexual assault and domestic violence.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who need emotional support for a variety of reasons but have expertise in the area of sexual violence. I believe creating a safe and supportive space is so important to be able to process the full impact of trauma. I am fully bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural (Latinx) and provide services from a culturally informed lens. I identify my therapeutic style as compassionate and non- judgmental.
(872) 204-1638 View (872) 204-1638
Photo of Kelsey Gao, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Kelsey Gao
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Waitlist for new clients
I'm drawn to working with individuals who have experienced trauma, childhood abuse, sexual abuse or domestic violence. Oftentimes, those who have endured these types of traumas end up struggling with setting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships. I’m also passionate about working with people who are religious/spiritual or who feel their religion/spirituality may have been affected by trauma. I enjoy working with mothers to help navigate the identity shift as well as manage past childhood traumas that may come to the forefront as a result of having children.
I'm drawn to working with individuals who have experienced trauma, childhood abuse, sexual abuse or domestic violence. Oftentimes, those who have endured these types of traumas end up struggling with setting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships. I’m also passionate about working with people who are religious/spiritual or who feel their religion/spirituality may have been affected by trauma. I enjoy working with mothers to help navigate the identity shift as well as manage past childhood traumas that may come to the forefront as a result of having children.
(872) 228-2181 View (872) 228-2181
Photo of Jade Hull, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Jade Hull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I primarily work with those who have faced past or ongoing traumas, sexual assault or abuse, domestic or gender-based violence, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
I primarily work with those who have faced past or ongoing traumas, sexual assault or abuse, domestic or gender-based violence, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
(773) 207-2098 View (773) 207-2098
Photo of Dr. Felix K Deiss, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Felix K Deiss
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds on a wide range of struggles including feelings of depression, academic difficulties, identity exploration, anxiety, family conflict, relationship questions, experiences of discrimination, trauma, and grief and loss. I have also volunteered in the Emergency Room to counsel and advocate for people following sexual assault. As a man of trans experience, I am especially interested in supporting queer and TGNC communities and have a wealth of experience with emerging adults.
I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds on a wide range of struggles including feelings of depression, academic difficulties, identity exploration, anxiety, family conflict, relationship questions, experiences of discrimination, trauma, and grief and loss. I have also volunteered in the Emergency Room to counsel and advocate for people following sexual assault. As a man of trans experience, I am especially interested in supporting queer and TGNC communities and have a wealth of experience with emerging adults.
(312) 345-5164 View (312) 345-5164
Photo of Faith Perrin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Faith Perrin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Some presenting concerns I commonly work with are anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship issues, complex trauma, sexual assault recovery, physical &/or emotional abuse recovery, low self-esteem, issues with a sense of belonging, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Do you often find yourself feeling stuck within yourself, relationships, or within your environment? My ideal client is ready for change. They are open to creative ideas and new ways of thinking about themselves and the world. I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past and present experiences prevent you from living the life you are meant to be living. I approach these struggles through a holistic and trauma informed approach, which incorporates body-based, anti-oppression, and harm reduction practices.
Some presenting concerns I commonly work with are anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship issues, complex trauma, sexual assault recovery, physical &/or emotional abuse recovery, low self-esteem, issues with a sense of belonging, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Do you often find yourself feeling stuck within yourself, relationships, or within your environment? My ideal client is ready for change. They are open to creative ideas and new ways of thinking about themselves and the world. I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past and present experiences prevent you from living the life you are meant to be living. I approach these struggles through a holistic and trauma informed approach, which incorporates body-based, anti-oppression, and harm reduction practices.
(312) 564-4544 View (312) 564-4544
Photo of Kimberly Shapps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kimberly Shapps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
In addition to divorce counseling, my areas of specialization include relationship and peer issues, self-esteem, life transitions, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD.
I began my career as a practicing attorney representing women in abusive relationships in order of protection and divorce proceedings. As a therapist, I use my legal and therapeutic background to provide individual counseling prior to, during, and after divorce. Divorce is a traumatic life event that can have a ripple effect on nearly every aspect of one's life. I offer clients both concrete help to better understand the legal system and what they can expect from the process, while also working to gain deeper insight into what happened in the relationship and starting to heal from the experience.
In addition to divorce counseling, my areas of specialization include relationship and peer issues, self-esteem, life transitions, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD.
I began my career as a practicing attorney representing women in abusive relationships in order of protection and divorce proceedings. As a therapist, I use my legal and therapeutic background to provide individual counseling prior to, during, and after divorce. Divorce is a traumatic life event that can have a ripple effect on nearly every aspect of one's life. I offer clients both concrete help to better understand the legal system and what they can expect from the process, while also working to gain deeper insight into what happened in the relationship and starting to heal from the experience.
(312) 854-2823 View (312) 854-2823
Photo of Sabah Kayyal, Licensed Social Worker in Chicago, IL
Sabah Kayyal
Licensed Social Worker, MPA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
I work with clients of all ages (youth, adolescents, adults) in helping them process through various life stressors, including trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, behavioral/social issues, sexual assault/abuse, domestic violence, self-esteem, ADHD, marital/relationship issues, grief and more. By focusing on personal strengths rather than shortcomings, I help clients recognize healthy coping skills to overcome obstacles, develop solutions and achieve their goals. I value the importance of therapeutic alliances between myself and clients and believe it is important the client is the driver of their treatment journey with my support.
I work with clients of all ages (youth, adolescents, adults) in helping them process through various life stressors, including trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, behavioral/social issues, sexual assault/abuse, domestic violence, self-esteem, ADHD, marital/relationship issues, grief and more. By focusing on personal strengths rather than shortcomings, I help clients recognize healthy coping skills to overcome obstacles, develop solutions and achieve their goals. I value the importance of therapeutic alliances between myself and clients and believe it is important the client is the driver of their treatment journey with my support.
(708) 249-3106 View (708) 249-3106
Photo of Adie Tuohey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Adie Tuohey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I also have experience and training working with victims of sexual abuse and familial trauma.
My ideal client may not be used to change but is looking to try. My ideal client may have issues of transition, adjustment, and/or trauma and have the need to process it with a therapist who understands and has experienced these very human problems. My ideal client has the goal to change as they see fit, while still staying true to who they are. They can be of any past or upbringing, as long as they are looking to find a deeper understanding of it. Soon I will be starting a sexual trauma processing group, open to all adults as long as they are LGBTQ affirming and anti-racist.
I also have experience and training working with victims of sexual abuse and familial trauma.
My ideal client may not be used to change but is looking to try. My ideal client may have issues of transition, adjustment, and/or trauma and have the need to process it with a therapist who understands and has experienced these very human problems. My ideal client has the goal to change as they see fit, while still staying true to who they are. They can be of any past or upbringing, as long as they are looking to find a deeper understanding of it. Soon I will be starting a sexual trauma processing group, open to all adults as long as they are LGBTQ affirming and anti-racist.
(773) 923-3742 View (773) 923-3742
Photo of Dr. Angela Zartuche, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Angela Zartuche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Psy D, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Throughout the course of my education, training, and experience, I developed an expertise in working with complex trauma, assessing and treating children with challenging behaviors, child maltreatment, sexual assault, and crisis intervention.
As a mental health professional with 17 years of experience, I have dedicated my life to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families overcome obstacles they face in life. I understand the importance of having a safe space in therapy where you can share your story without feeling judged. It is my hope we can work together in partnership to help you discover clarity, find meaning, and shift negative/destructive mindsets to a more positive/productive one. In addition, I believe everyone has their own intrinsic strengths to draw from, which is an essential part of the healing process.
Throughout the course of my education, training, and experience, I developed an expertise in working with complex trauma, assessing and treating children with challenging behaviors, child maltreatment, sexual assault, and crisis intervention.
As a mental health professional with 17 years of experience, I have dedicated my life to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families overcome obstacles they face in life. I understand the importance of having a safe space in therapy where you can share your story without feeling judged. It is my hope we can work together in partnership to help you discover clarity, find meaning, and shift negative/destructive mindsets to a more positive/productive one. In addition, I believe everyone has their own intrinsic strengths to draw from, which is an essential part of the healing process.
(708) 853-6463 View (708) 853-6463
Photo of Jarom Matheson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jarom Matheson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
I focus on and have experience treating trauma related symptoms and disorders, anxiety, depression, attachment disruptions, family conflict, survivors of childhood abuse, survivors of sexual assault, as well as loss and grief.
We have our own journey full of triumphs, struggles, and failure. Therapy is a perfect format to process and come to the understanding of where and why you are that brings you to seek the service. My belief is that therapy is the place for the person to process and discuss each unique experience without judgment and develop a healthy way to cope or come to terms with the consequences. Therapy also can be your opportunity to be seen and heard, which would help you move toward the acceptance of yourself.
I focus on and have experience treating trauma related symptoms and disorders, anxiety, depression, attachment disruptions, family conflict, survivors of childhood abuse, survivors of sexual assault, as well as loss and grief.
We have our own journey full of triumphs, struggles, and failure. Therapy is a perfect format to process and come to the understanding of where and why you are that brings you to seek the service. My belief is that therapy is the place for the person to process and discuss each unique experience without judgment and develop a healthy way to cope or come to terms with the consequences. Therapy also can be your opportunity to be seen and heard, which would help you move toward the acceptance of yourself.
(240) 380-2577 View (240) 380-2577
Photo of Centro Castillo for Personal & Family Wellbeing, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Centro Castillo for Personal & Family Wellbeing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Our specialties are: Trauma, sexual assault and abuse, human sexuality, depression, anxiety, multigenerational family work, couple's work, Immigration experiences.
At Centro Castillo for Personal and Family Wellbeing, our therapists strongly believe that we understand a person as part of their culture and family upbringing. Together we will discover what motivates you and use this knowledge to increase self-awareness in how you feel, think and act. With this insight, the ultimate goal is make the best decisions that will leave you feeling better and live a happier life. With 14 therapist in 3 offices throughout the city (Lakeview, Pilsen, and near Oak Park) we look forward to helping you and your family.
Our specialties are: Trauma, sexual assault and abuse, human sexuality, depression, anxiety, multigenerational family work, couple's work, Immigration experiences.
At Centro Castillo for Personal and Family Wellbeing, our therapists strongly believe that we understand a person as part of their culture and family upbringing. Together we will discover what motivates you and use this knowledge to increase self-awareness in how you feel, think and act. With this insight, the ultimate goal is make the best decisions that will leave you feeling better and live a happier life. With 14 therapist in 3 offices throughout the city (Lakeview, Pilsen, and near Oak Park) we look forward to helping you and your family.
(773) 622-6218 View (773) 622-6218
Photo of Dr. Lynetta Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dr. Lynetta Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals and couples experiencing the aftermath of traumatic experiences, including abusive relationships, child abuse, child neglect, and sexual assault.
I am excited to assist you on your journey toward total healing. The death of a loved one, job loss, and past trauma can diminish your ability to move forward. I will respectfully meet you where you are without judgment and provide you with a safe place to release your anger, frustration, and pain using Solution Focused modalities and other approaches to help you navigate this journey called life. I believe there is hope as long as there is breath, and I would love to work with you to strengthen your motivation to grow and increase your self-esteem.
I have worked with individuals and couples experiencing the aftermath of traumatic experiences, including abusive relationships, child abuse, child neglect, and sexual assault.
I am excited to assist you on your journey toward total healing. The death of a loved one, job loss, and past trauma can diminish your ability to move forward. I will respectfully meet you where you are without judgment and provide you with a safe place to release your anger, frustration, and pain using Solution Focused modalities and other approaches to help you navigate this journey called life. I believe there is hope as long as there is breath, and I would love to work with you to strengthen your motivation to grow and increase your self-esteem.
(312) 586-1540 View (312) 586-1540
Photo of Jennifer Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jennifer Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I offer a holistic, individualized approach to therapy centered around the client-therapist relationship. My training is in relational psychodynamic psychotherapy; however, I use a variety of therapeutic interventions including art therapy, breathwork, yoga for trauma, meditation and mindfulness. I believe in empowering each individual through psychoeducation around sleep and diet, attachment styles, the mind-body connection, etc. I have extensive experience in working with trauma, including survivors of domestic violence, emotional & sexual abuse as well as complex childhood trauma. I see adults, adolescents and families.
I offer a holistic, individualized approach to therapy centered around the client-therapist relationship. My training is in relational psychodynamic psychotherapy; however, I use a variety of therapeutic interventions including art therapy, breathwork, yoga for trauma, meditation and mindfulness. I believe in empowering each individual through psychoeducation around sleep and diet, attachment styles, the mind-body connection, etc. I have extensive experience in working with trauma, including survivors of domestic violence, emotional & sexual abuse as well as complex childhood trauma. I see adults, adolescents and families.
(773) 570-5445 View (773) 570-5445
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.