Sexual Abuse Therapists in Reynolds, IN

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Photo of Margarete Brandenburg, LLC, Counselor in Reynolds, IN
Margarete Brandenburg, LLC
Counselor, MA, MDiv, LMHC, DCEP, Fellow
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monticello, IN 47960
What? Me . . . traumatized? Surely it's not as bad as . .someone else and their experience. Trauma comes in many forms and disguises. The back part of the brain subconsciously feels we are in a battle or there's a bear in the cave. Our defenses/ways of coping and triggers arise in ways that aren't helpful or productive/controllable. Reactions/responses seem to come from out of nowhere. These can be signs/symptoms of depression, anxiety,and overwhelm. All can be addressed and shifted in counseling, particularly through EMDR. I am certified in that field and have found it to be life-changing for many.
What? Me . . . traumatized? Surely it's not as bad as . .someone else and their experience. Trauma comes in many forms and disguises. The back part of the brain subconsciously feels we are in a battle or there's a bear in the cave. Our defenses/ways of coping and triggers arise in ways that aren't helpful or productive/controllable. Reactions/responses seem to come from out of nowhere. These can be signs/symptoms of depression, anxiety,and overwhelm. All can be addressed and shifted in counseling, particularly through EMDR. I am certified in that field and have found it to be life-changing for many.
(317) 661-2963 View (317) 661-2963

Online Therapists

Photo of Harper Rose Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Harper Rose Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
Brownsburg, IN 46112
We have a great team of therapist. I truly love my job. I will laugh with you, challenge you, and support you. I enjoy being part of the process of change. I want to help you explore, heal, and grow. I have been serving individuals, children and families for 19 years. Allow Harper Counseling to help you find your joy, light, and strength so you can lead a happier and healthier life. I am EMDR Certified, and also Certified Sexual Abuse Youth Counselor (CSAYC). I have completed all required trainings for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT). I look forward to serving you.
We have a great team of therapist. I truly love my job. I will laugh with you, challenge you, and support you. I enjoy being part of the process of change. I want to help you explore, heal, and grow. I have been serving individuals, children and families for 19 years. Allow Harper Counseling to help you find your joy, light, and strength so you can lead a happier and healthier life. I am EMDR Certified, and also Certified Sexual Abuse Youth Counselor (CSAYC). I have completed all required trainings for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT). I look forward to serving you.
(317) 204-8997 View (317) 204-8997
Photo of Lorri L Glass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Lorri L Glass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Munster, IN 46321
military related trauma, interpersonal violence, child abuse, sexual assault, ect.
I have been providing behavioral health services for over 30 years and feel that I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals and families in reaching their potential and overcoming personal challenges. I utilize a strengths based perspective and a holistic approach that incorporates mind, body, and spirit. I provide a thorough assessment and determine with you what intervention is best suited. I have worked extensively with people of all ages and cultures and feel that it is important to create a safe environment where self reflection and transformation can occur.
military related trauma, interpersonal violence, child abuse, sexual assault, ect.
I have been providing behavioral health services for over 30 years and feel that I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals and families in reaching their potential and overcoming personal challenges. I utilize a strengths based perspective and a holistic approach that incorporates mind, body, and spirit. I provide a thorough assessment and determine with you what intervention is best suited. I have worked extensively with people of all ages and cultures and feel that it is important to create a safe environment where self reflection and transformation can occur.
(219) 210-4632 View (219) 210-4632
Photo of Lindsey Southwick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Lindsey Southwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAYC, CPT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Mooresville, IN 46158  (Online Only)
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I am an experienced therapist that's willing to listen and validate you. My goal is to have everyone feel welcomed and heard. I am an adolescent and adult certified professional trauma, CSAYC (Credentialed Sexual Abuse Youth Clinician) therapist working with trauma victims from war, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, physical and emotional abuse, individuals fleeing countries, of all ages and backgrounds, using somatic psychology, trauma-focused therapy, emotionally focused therapy, cognitive trauma therapy, and EMDR tools, family system approach, and client center therapy.
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I am an experienced therapist that's willing to listen and validate you. My goal is to have everyone feel welcomed and heard. I am an adolescent and adult certified professional trauma, CSAYC (Credentialed Sexual Abuse Youth Clinician) therapist working with trauma victims from war, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, physical and emotional abuse, individuals fleeing countries, of all ages and backgrounds, using somatic psychology, trauma-focused therapy, emotionally focused therapy, cognitive trauma therapy, and EMDR tools, family system approach, and client center therapy.
(463) 444-7681 View (463) 444-7681
Photo of Teonna M Wilber, Counselor in Reynolds, IN
Teonna M Wilber
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
I am a Licensed Therapist and have been working with children, teens, and families for 20 years. My specialties include working with people who have experienced physical, emotional, sexual abuse/assault and neglect, grief & loss, behavior problems, family conflict, depression, anxiety, and stress management. I work with children ages four and older, teens, adults, and families. I believe that people deserve a voice and choice and we are partners in your healing.
I am a Licensed Therapist and have been working with children, teens, and families for 20 years. My specialties include working with people who have experienced physical, emotional, sexual abuse/assault and neglect, grief & loss, behavior problems, family conflict, depression, anxiety, and stress management. I work with children ages four and older, teens, adults, and families. I believe that people deserve a voice and choice and we are partners in your healing.
(219) 300-9058 View (219) 300-9058
Photo of Rachel Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Rachel Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I've had the privilege of working with individuals and families on various issues, including sexual abuse and assault, other forms of trauma, LGBTQ issues, depression, anxiety, substance use and grief/loss.
There's a beautiful passage by Jacquelyn Small that sums up the way I view and practice therapy: "When therapeutic relating occurs, both parties have dissolved the boundary between the one needing help and the other offering it; they are simply two beings bouncing off each other in truth; We all just need clear people to bounce off of so we can see our own light." I strongly believe that we're the experts of our own lives and sometimes we just need a safe, non-judgmental person to see us, believe our experiences and remind us that we're deserving and healing is possible.
I've had the privilege of working with individuals and families on various issues, including sexual abuse and assault, other forms of trauma, LGBTQ issues, depression, anxiety, substance use and grief/loss.
There's a beautiful passage by Jacquelyn Small that sums up the way I view and practice therapy: "When therapeutic relating occurs, both parties have dissolved the boundary between the one needing help and the other offering it; they are simply two beings bouncing off each other in truth; We all just need clear people to bounce off of so we can see our own light." I strongly believe that we're the experts of our own lives and sometimes we just need a safe, non-judgmental person to see us, believe our experiences and remind us that we're deserving and healing is possible.
(505) 636-3438 View (505) 636-3438
Photo of Heather Street, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Heather Street
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
I provide individual therapy for LGBTQ+ adults and teens as well as individuals processing trauma. I have experience working with a wide range of clients and issues, including older teens and college-age adults, and particularly survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault. I also facilitate the Healing Religious Trauma Group.
I provide individual therapy for LGBTQ+ adults and teens as well as individuals processing trauma. I have experience working with a wide range of clients and issues, including older teens and college-age adults, and particularly survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault. I also facilitate the Healing Religious Trauma Group.
(463) 500-1831 View (463) 500-1831
Photo of Barbara K Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Barbara K Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Masters, Social, Work
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617
Welcome! I grew up in Walkerton, IN., but lived and studied Social Work in Eastern Kentucky. I worked for a non-profit mental health agency as an advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Upon graduating from the University of Kentucky I became a therapist for a local high school. I believe everyone has experienced some form of trauma in their life and I want to be there to help empower those to live their best life. I have specialized trainings in Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, Nurturing Parents, 123 Magic, and years of training in DV/SA. I am certified in CPR/First Aid.
Welcome! I grew up in Walkerton, IN., but lived and studied Social Work in Eastern Kentucky. I worked for a non-profit mental health agency as an advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Upon graduating from the University of Kentucky I became a therapist for a local high school. I believe everyone has experienced some form of trauma in their life and I want to be there to help empower those to live their best life. I have specialized trainings in Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, Nurturing Parents, 123 Magic, and years of training in DV/SA. I am certified in CPR/First Aid.
(574) 686-7088 View (574) 686-7088
Photo of Marcia Compton, Counselor in Reynolds, IN
Marcia Compton
Counselor, DMin, LMHC, LAC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46214
I have extensive training and experience with domestic violence and sexual abuse victims as well as couples.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. 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. By applying complementary therapy approaches, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I have extensive training and experience with domestic violence and sexual abuse victims as well as couples.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. 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. By applying complementary therapy approaches, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(317) 548-3604 View (317) 548-3604
Photo of Kimberly Erin Keller, Counselor in Reynolds, IN
Kimberly Erin Keller
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I am a trained EMDR therapist focusing on the treatment of trauma and its common co-occurring disorders such as substance abuse and personality disorders. While Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing was initially developed for the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it is still widely used to treat other common mental health issues such as: anxiety disorders, mood disorders, childhood abuse or neglect, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, panic disorders, substance abuse disorders.
I am a trained EMDR therapist focusing on the treatment of trauma and its common co-occurring disorders such as substance abuse and personality disorders. While Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing was initially developed for the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it is still widely used to treat other common mental health issues such as: anxiety disorders, mood disorders, childhood abuse or neglect, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, panic disorders, substance abuse disorders.
(317) 483-8376 View (317) 483-8376
Photo of Audie D Whitaker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Audie D Whitaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47905
I work with many people experiencing traumatic stress from abuse, assault, dysphoria, medical trauma, grief, and life changes.
If you’ve been struggling to find a therapist experienced in working with your situation I encourage you to email me. I’m currently taking in-person appointments in Indiana and online in Washington. I specialize in treating trauma, sexual and gender issues and personality disorders. I have 10 years clinical experience serving Greater Lafayette and 15 years total working with individuals and couples of all ages. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and trained in multiple approaches to treating PTSD. I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the best way that we can work together to help you overcome your stress.
I work with many people experiencing traumatic stress from abuse, assault, dysphoria, medical trauma, grief, and life changes.
If you’ve been struggling to find a therapist experienced in working with your situation I encourage you to email me. I’m currently taking in-person appointments in Indiana and online in Washington. I specialize in treating trauma, sexual and gender issues and personality disorders. I have 10 years clinical experience serving Greater Lafayette and 15 years total working with individuals and couples of all ages. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and trained in multiple approaches to treating PTSD. I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the best way that we can work together to help you overcome your stress.
(765) 345-4137 View (765) 345-4137
Photo of Phillips Hwang, Counselor in Reynolds, IN
Phillips Hwang
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CST, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268  (Online Only)
I compassionately and skillfully provide evidence based treatment to couples, adults, and adolescents struggling with sexual issues such as difficulties in marital sexuality, affair recovery, sexual addiction and sexual abuse. I also provide couples counseling, premarital counseling, and individual counseling with presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, family issues, and spiritual issues. I also integrate Christian spirituality and spiritual formation into counseling sessions for clients who request this specialty. Ultimately, my desire is to journey with those who are hurting and broken to help them find true healing and hope.
I compassionately and skillfully provide evidence based treatment to couples, adults, and adolescents struggling with sexual issues such as difficulties in marital sexuality, affair recovery, sexual addiction and sexual abuse. I also provide couples counseling, premarital counseling, and individual counseling with presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, family issues, and spiritual issues. I also integrate Christian spirituality and spiritual formation into counseling sessions for clients who request this specialty. Ultimately, my desire is to journey with those who are hurting and broken to help them find true healing and hope.
(317) 451-5133 View (317) 451-5133
Photo of Mary E. Walker, Counselor in Reynolds, IN
Mary E. Walker
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Terre Haute, IN 47803
Waitlist for new clients
IN and FL- Have you hit a place where you aren't feeling quite yourself or struggling to get to the root of some of your problems and finding yourself feeling more lost and overwhelmed? Perhaps you are looking to improve your life realizing there is so much more you can do but you don't know where to start? I work with people along the entire spectrum of functioning related to career/life transitions, performance enhancement to tackling issues issues of anxiety, depression, alcoholism/addiction/recovery, PTSD, chronic pain/medical issues, grief, sexual assault, trauma, and even spiritual/generational healing work.
IN and FL- Have you hit a place where you aren't feeling quite yourself or struggling to get to the root of some of your problems and finding yourself feeling more lost and overwhelmed? Perhaps you are looking to improve your life realizing there is so much more you can do but you don't know where to start? I work with people along the entire spectrum of functioning related to career/life transitions, performance enhancement to tackling issues issues of anxiety, depression, alcoholism/addiction/recovery, PTSD, chronic pain/medical issues, grief, sexual assault, trauma, and even spiritual/generational healing work.
(812) 308-3402 View (812) 308-3402
Photo of Lana Bunner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Lana Bunner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
Walking with people through life's difficulties and struggles is a privileged, honor, and part of my purpose in life. I commit my life to helping people find their way back to the right paths that they want to be on to live out their purpose. Hi! My name is Lana and I have been a LCSW since 2011. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in issues of adjustment, trauma, depression, anxiety, crisis, grief, child and adolescent behaviors, and sexual abuse.
Walking with people through life's difficulties and struggles is a privileged, honor, and part of my purpose in life. I commit my life to helping people find their way back to the right paths that they want to be on to live out their purpose. Hi! My name is Lana and I have been a LCSW since 2011. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in issues of adjustment, trauma, depression, anxiety, crisis, grief, child and adolescent behaviors, and sexual abuse.
(317) 676-7354 View (317) 676-7354
Photo of Myh Library / Begin To Wake Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Myh Library / Begin To Wake Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CAS, CECP
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46614
You are the expert on you, & I have the know-how, so as a team, you & I will get you to achieve your goals & more life satisfaction. Do you have trauma from childhood, the military, racism/discrimination, natural disaster, DV, sexual assault, etc. to overcome? Do you struggle with alcohol, meth, pills, cocaine, etc. or maybe video games, love/relationships, porn, etc.? Identity problems? Are you a yes-person that's sick of being walked on? Do you need to learn to control depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, or personality stuff? How about self-esteem problems? Whatever it is, we got this! Please visit www.myhlibrary.com for more info.
You are the expert on you, & I have the know-how, so as a team, you & I will get you to achieve your goals & more life satisfaction. Do you have trauma from childhood, the military, racism/discrimination, natural disaster, DV, sexual assault, etc. to overcome? Do you struggle with alcohol, meth, pills, cocaine, etc. or maybe video games, love/relationships, porn, etc.? Identity problems? Are you a yes-person that's sick of being walked on? Do you need to learn to control depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, or personality stuff? How about self-esteem problems? Whatever it is, we got this! Please visit www.myhlibrary.com for more info.
(574) 900-2192 View (574) 900-2192
Photo of Malyssa May, Counselor in Reynolds, IN
Malyssa May
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Muncie, IN 47304
I enjoy working with clients to help identify and progress towards their individual goals. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults who have a history of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and actions, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I utilize various interventions (based on the client's preferences) such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, art therapy, etc.
I enjoy working with clients to help identify and progress towards their individual goals. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults who have a history of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and actions, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I utilize various interventions (based on the client's preferences) such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, art therapy, etc.
(765) 885-6541 View (765) 885-6541
Photo of Evie May Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Evie May Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
I am a reunification therapist, mediator, and custody evaluator. I am contracted with the Lotus Group to provide these services to children, adolescents and adults; as well as their families. My practice in regards to children has consisted of, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, grief/loss, adjusting to divorce/blended families, etc., as well as, behavior issues in the home as well as school setting. I also work with adolescents and adults struggling with similar issues as well as addictions and eating disorders.
I am a reunification therapist, mediator, and custody evaluator. I am contracted with the Lotus Group to provide these services to children, adolescents and adults; as well as their families. My practice in regards to children has consisted of, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, grief/loss, adjusting to divorce/blended families, etc., as well as, behavior issues in the home as well as school setting. I also work with adolescents and adults struggling with similar issues as well as addictions and eating disorders.
(317) 666-6889 View (317) 666-6889
Photo of Courtney Nowicki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reynolds, IN
Courtney Nowicki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkhart, IN 46514
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in sexual assault and domestic violence; I have received training in multiple evidence-based practices and would work with whichever modality makes the most sense for you.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with a variety of ages and challenges. Whether you are working to heal from trauma, experiencing mental health struggles (like depression, anxiety, or PTSD), sorting out relationship issues, exploring yourself, or wanting to make a positive change- I am here to provide support in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Therapy can be helpful in many ways and is highly individualized- there is no "one size fits all" approach; I try to walk alongside you to help you reach your goals and work on what is important to you because you are the expert on you/your family!
I have specialized training in sexual assault and domestic violence; I have received training in multiple evidence-based practices and would work with whichever modality makes the most sense for you.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with a variety of ages and challenges. Whether you are working to heal from trauma, experiencing mental health struggles (like depression, anxiety, or PTSD), sorting out relationship issues, exploring yourself, or wanting to make a positive change- I am here to provide support in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Therapy can be helpful in many ways and is highly individualized- there is no "one size fits all" approach; I try to walk alongside you to help you reach your goals and work on what is important to you because you are the expert on you/your family!
(574) 319-1870 View (574) 319-1870
Photo of Chasity Montalvo, Counselor in Reynolds, IN
Chasity Montalvo
Counselor, MA, LCAC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tipton, IN 46072
Are you struggling in your relationship? Are you experiencing hopelessness? I specialize in getting couples back on track. I specialize in helping individuals and families. I can assist with those experiencing anger, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, relationship issues, addictions and more. We as a team can achieve goals. I have 20+ years clinical addiction work, individual, and family sessions. I am a Bilingual speaking therapist-English and Spanish. I am here to help you experience deeper connection and communication.
Are you struggling in your relationship? Are you experiencing hopelessness? I specialize in getting couples back on track. I specialize in helping individuals and families. I can assist with those experiencing anger, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, relationship issues, addictions and more. We as a team can achieve goals. I have 20+ years clinical addiction work, individual, and family sessions. I am a Bilingual speaking therapist-English and Spanish. I am here to help you experience deeper connection and communication.
(765) 540-9835 View (765) 540-9835
Photo of Maria Papachrysanthou Hanzlik, Psychologist in Reynolds, IN
Maria Papachrysanthou Hanzlik
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Some issues I frequently treat include sexual dissatisfaction, low desire, trouble with arousal and desire, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, vaginal pain, couples conflict, and sexual abuse.
Whether I'm working with children, adolescents, or adults, my goal is to create a safe and accepting therapeutic space. It is within the context of interpersonal safety that the healing process can freely occur. Although I work with a variety of concerns and individuals of all ages, I specialize in trauma treatment, couples therapy, perinatal mood disorders, & sex therapy, serving the Indianapolis area. I provide psychological testing to clarify diagnoses (ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, autism, & learning disorders). I also provide bilingual (Spanish) evaluations, immigration/extreme hardship evaluations, & FAA airman evaluations.
Some issues I frequently treat include sexual dissatisfaction, low desire, trouble with arousal and desire, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, vaginal pain, couples conflict, and sexual abuse.
Whether I'm working with children, adolescents, or adults, my goal is to create a safe and accepting therapeutic space. It is within the context of interpersonal safety that the healing process can freely occur. Although I work with a variety of concerns and individuals of all ages, I specialize in trauma treatment, couples therapy, perinatal mood disorders, & sex therapy, serving the Indianapolis area. I provide psychological testing to clarify diagnoses (ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, autism, & learning disorders). I also provide bilingual (Spanish) evaluations, immigration/extreme hardship evaluations, & FAA airman evaluations.
(317) 550-3221 View (317) 550-3221
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.