Photo of Ariel L LANDRUM, MA, ATR, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariel L LANDRUM
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Manhattan, KS 66503  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, military members and their families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with your life? Do you feel you have little support? Perhaps you feel on edge and don’t know how to relax? Do you feel there isn’t enough time in the day? Or your world runs on chronic stress? Maybe you’ve noticed these feelings and have even tried ways to challenge them. Jumped into yoga, didn’t work. Read a self-help book, didn’t work. Sought advice from friends. They didn’t understand. Googled your symptoms. Yeah, that was a bad idea. If you find yourself saying yes, then you're looking at the right profile. Let me be your guide to balance and mental wellness.
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, military members and their families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with your life? Do you feel you have little support? Perhaps you feel on edge and don’t know how to relax? Do you feel there isn’t enough time in the day? Or your world runs on chronic stress? Maybe you’ve noticed these feelings and have even tried ways to challenge them. Jumped into yoga, didn’t work. Read a self-help book, didn’t work. Sought advice from friends. They didn’t understand. Googled your symptoms. Yeah, that was a bad idea. If you find yourself saying yes, then you're looking at the right profile. Let me be your guide to balance and mental wellness.
(323) 792-2573 View (323) 792-2573
Photo of Cynthia Eckert-McCoy - Cynthia Eckert-McCoy LSCSW, LLC, LSCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Eckert-McCoy LSCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401
I have many years of experience working with a variety of presenting problems we humans experience. Working from a family systems relationship approach and EMDR Therapy has been useful to people with the following symptom areas: depression; anxiety and PTSD; adult and childhood adversity or trauma, including, but not limited to, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marital violence or military trauma; marital conflict; marital dissatisfaction; parents of children with problems; addictions, compulsive behavior or habits, including alcohol, cigarettes, procrastination, affairs, and the list goes on; workplace problems. Please feel free to call or email me with questions. Cyndy Eckert-McCoy, LSCSW PS:
I have many years of experience working with a variety of presenting problems we humans experience. Working from a family systems relationship approach and EMDR Therapy has been useful to people with the following symptom areas: depression; anxiety and PTSD; adult and childhood adversity or trauma, including, but not limited to, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marital violence or military trauma; marital conflict; marital dissatisfaction; parents of children with problems; addictions, compulsive behavior or habits, including alcohol, cigarettes, procrastination, affairs, and the list goes on; workplace problems. Please feel free to call or email me with questions. Cyndy Eckert-McCoy, LSCSW PS:
(785) 566-4723 View (785) 566-4723
Photo of Ellen Teran, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Teran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67202
I am a licensed master social worker with 14 years of experience working with individuals in the classroom, in sexual assault prevention, and in community advocacy.
In my office, a client will find a kind, non-judgmental space, an authentic therapist, and an integrative approach. Whether working with adults, teens or children (3+), I believe deeply in the power of therapy and the ability to heal. I utilize evidence-based modalities and enjoy using play, expressive arts, sandtray, parts work, humor, and body-based practices to help teens and adults heal and feel whole. I hold additional certification in trauma-informed modalities, and as a life-long learner, I am currently working toward certification in multiple evidence-based practices and toward becoming a Registered Play Therapist.
I am a licensed master social worker with 14 years of experience working with individuals in the classroom, in sexual assault prevention, and in community advocacy.
In my office, a client will find a kind, non-judgmental space, an authentic therapist, and an integrative approach. Whether working with adults, teens or children (3+), I believe deeply in the power of therapy and the ability to heal. I utilize evidence-based modalities and enjoy using play, expressive arts, sandtray, parts work, humor, and body-based practices to help teens and adults heal and feel whole. I hold additional certification in trauma-informed modalities, and as a life-long learner, I am currently working toward certification in multiple evidence-based practices and toward becoming a Registered Play Therapist.
(316) 844-1571 View (316) 844-1571
Photo of Tina Van-Meter, LCPC-KS, LMHC-WA, CSAT
Tina Van-Meter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-KS, LMHC-WA, CSAT
Verified Verified
Junction City, KS 66441  (Online Only)
Focus: mood disorders, sexual addiction/dysfunction, pornography addiction, geriatric issues, trauma-physical/ sexual abuse, PTSD issues, domestic violence, sexuality issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State who works from a CBT perspective but does utilize a collaborative style. My approach is to work with you and help you realize your strengths and to find healthy ways to cope with difficult situations in your life. I work with adolescents(13-18), adults and geriatric on a variety of mental health concerns, however, I specialize in helping individuals with mood disorders and sexual addiction/dysfunction.
Focus: mood disorders, sexual addiction/dysfunction, pornography addiction, geriatric issues, trauma-physical/ sexual abuse, PTSD issues, domestic violence, sexuality issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State who works from a CBT perspective but does utilize a collaborative style. My approach is to work with you and help you realize your strengths and to find healthy ways to cope with difficult situations in your life. I work with adolescents(13-18), adults and geriatric on a variety of mental health concerns, however, I specialize in helping individuals with mood disorders and sexual addiction/dysfunction.
(785) 432-4253 View (785) 432-4253
Photo of Patrice A Borders - Happy Life Therapies - Patrice Borders, LMSW, EMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Happy Life Therapies - Patrice Borders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, EMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67217  (Online Only)
Sexual abuse, surviving trauma, "where do I fit?" I can relate.
My practice is called Happy Life Therapies. I believe we can all live a happy life. Wherever you are in your journey, I will meet you there. You can tell me your greatest hopes, your darkest fears, your deepest shame and regrets. Together we will find your way to peace and happiness. When you need help moving on, when you need a sounding board, inspiration, or someone to sit with you I am that therapist. Trauma, divorce, sexual abuse, fostercare placement, grief, body issues, I can help you. I am a listener.
Sexual abuse, surviving trauma, "where do I fit?" I can relate.
My practice is called Happy Life Therapies. I believe we can all live a happy life. Wherever you are in your journey, I will meet you there. You can tell me your greatest hopes, your darkest fears, your deepest shame and regrets. Together we will find your way to peace and happiness. When you need help moving on, when you need a sounding board, inspiration, or someone to sit with you I am that therapist. Trauma, divorce, sexual abuse, fostercare placement, grief, body issues, I can help you. I am a listener.
(316) 215-8356 View (316) 215-8356
Photo of Danielle Melton, MA, LCPC, LMHC, AF-EMDR, Counselor
Danielle Melton
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66207  (Online Only)
I strive to provide a safe place for all women to heal in the context of a caring, trusting therapeutic relationship. I work with a variety of individuals, including those struggling with the effects of motor vehicle accident, sexual assault, social rejection, attachment injuries, family of origin injuries, medical trauma, disturbing memories, phobias and more. I treat anxiety and depression. In addition, I enjoy working with young adult women navigating stress, relationships, and boundaries. I regularly work with other helping professionals, such as counselors, nurses, and teachers, navigating their own trauma histories.
I strive to provide a safe place for all women to heal in the context of a caring, trusting therapeutic relationship. I work with a variety of individuals, including those struggling with the effects of motor vehicle accident, sexual assault, social rejection, attachment injuries, family of origin injuries, medical trauma, disturbing memories, phobias and more. I treat anxiety and depression. In addition, I enjoy working with young adult women navigating stress, relationships, and boundaries. I regularly work with other helping professionals, such as counselors, nurses, and teachers, navigating their own trauma histories.
(913) 210-8773 View (913) 210-8773
Photo of Stacy Renee Ortiz - Abundant Hope Counseling, LCPC, NCC
Abundant Hope Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newton, KS 67114
Treatment specialties include: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, ADHD, adjustment disorders, adolescents, adoption, anger management, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, childhood trauma, couples/marital, depression, divorce, domestic violence, family issues, life transitions.
I believe in having hope and moving forward to live a fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and a Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Emporia State University. I have 17 years experience in the child welfare system with 10 years of that as a therapist in residential, outpatient, and school settings.
Treatment specialties include: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, ADHD, adjustment disorders, adolescents, adoption, anger management, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, childhood trauma, couples/marital, depression, divorce, domestic violence, family issues, life transitions.
I believe in having hope and moving forward to live a fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and a Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Emporia State University. I have 17 years experience in the child welfare system with 10 years of that as a therapist in residential, outpatient, and school settings.
(316) 251-9409 View (316) 251-9409
Photo of Melanie A Miller - Melanie A Miller LSCSW llc, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie A Miller LSCSW llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience supporting trauma and abuse survivors, including emotional, physical and sexual abuse; neglect; and human trafficking.
Based on research, training, experience and a lifelong mission to help others, I have spent the last 25+ years supporting others, especially trauma and abuse victims, on their healing journeys. I focus on strengths, potential and capacity, while facilitating an individual healing process. Patients often tell me, "I don't like therapy, but I like working with you!" I bring my whole self to the process. Ultimately, it is your time, your life. There are a lot of ways to be healthy and whole. I am here to support you in becoming your version of healthy and whole!
I have extensive experience supporting trauma and abuse survivors, including emotional, physical and sexual abuse; neglect; and human trafficking.
Based on research, training, experience and a lifelong mission to help others, I have spent the last 25+ years supporting others, especially trauma and abuse victims, on their healing journeys. I focus on strengths, potential and capacity, while facilitating an individual healing process. Patients often tell me, "I don't like therapy, but I like working with you!" I bring my whole self to the process. Ultimately, it is your time, your life. There are a lot of ways to be healthy and whole. I am here to support you in becoming your version of healthy and whole!
(316) 633-4463 View (316) 633-4463
Photo of Sherry Haslam, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sherry Haslam
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67220
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma due to emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, parenting and relational issues, spiritual abuse and issues, personality disorders, and issues related to disabilities.
I believe all people were created with dignity and worth for relationships as beautiful masterpieces that are fragmented by both small and large traumas due to the brokenness of our world. My passion is to walk alongside others in their healing, equipping them with the tools they need to address their emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual goals in pursuing restoration and wholeness. My Christian faith lays the foundation to offer acceptance, grace, freedom, and confident hope for healing. My approach to therapy utilizes Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness and somatic work, and is systemic in focus.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma due to emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, parenting and relational issues, spiritual abuse and issues, personality disorders, and issues related to disabilities.
I believe all people were created with dignity and worth for relationships as beautiful masterpieces that are fragmented by both small and large traumas due to the brokenness of our world. My passion is to walk alongside others in their healing, equipping them with the tools they need to address their emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual goals in pursuing restoration and wholeness. My Christian faith lays the foundation to offer acceptance, grace, freedom, and confident hope for healing. My approach to therapy utilizes Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness and somatic work, and is systemic in focus.
View
Photo of Rebecca Sue Baxter - KC Counseling Studio, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
KC Counseling Studio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
(816) 623-1011 View (816) 623-1011
Photo of Cecelia (Terri) Schmitz - Terri Schmitz Counseling, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Terri Schmitz Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburg, KS 66762  (Online Only)
I have worked in the field of general mental health counseling for over 35 years . I specialize in client-centered therapy and have worked with children, teens and adults as individuals and families. After attaining a Masters degree in Los Angeles California, I worked with people in a several settings.and with a variety of mental health concerns. Before my Masters degree, I worked as a kindergarten teacher for 4 years in Sherman Oaks California. I feel that my background enables me to help a variety of clients. I feel that I connect easily with people and I like helping them improve their lives.
I have worked in the field of general mental health counseling for over 35 years . I specialize in client-centered therapy and have worked with children, teens and adults as individuals and families. After attaining a Masters degree in Los Angeles California, I worked with people in a several settings.and with a variety of mental health concerns. Before my Masters degree, I worked as a kindergarten teacher for 4 years in Sherman Oaks California. I feel that my background enables me to help a variety of clients. I feel that I connect easily with people and I like helping them improve their lives.
(620) 682-9341 View (620) 682-9341
Photo of Whitney Banister, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Banister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67212
Whitney Banister is a dedicated and empathetic psychotherapist with a Master of Social Work from Fort Hays State University specializing in Clinical Social Work. Rooted in humanistic and client-centered principles, Whitney is committed to creating therapeutic environments that foster healing and personal growth. She is actively pursuing her Registered Play Therapy licensure through APT (Association for Play Therapy), demonstrating her unwavering commitment to providing specialized, high-quality care.
Whitney Banister is a dedicated and empathetic psychotherapist with a Master of Social Work from Fort Hays State University specializing in Clinical Social Work. Rooted in humanistic and client-centered principles, Whitney is committed to creating therapeutic environments that foster healing and personal growth. She is actively pursuing her Registered Play Therapy licensure through APT (Association for Play Therapy), demonstrating her unwavering commitment to providing specialized, high-quality care.
(316) 536-7941 View (316) 536-7941
Photo of Alondra Hermosillo, T-LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alondra Hermosillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, T-LMFT
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67206
I enjoy working with individuals and families. I deeply believe we all have the tools within us to heal and make decisions/changes we desire. At times though, life can become so difficult that we may not be able to see those tools. I am here to help you help yourself. I aim to work with families where there may be a language gap between Spanish and English speakers. By doing so, I hope to improve understanding and strengthen the connections between family members.
I enjoy working with individuals and families. I deeply believe we all have the tools within us to heal and make decisions/changes we desire. At times though, life can become so difficult that we may not be able to see those tools. I am here to help you help yourself. I aim to work with families where there may be a language gap between Spanish and English speakers. By doing so, I hope to improve understanding and strengthen the connections between family members.
(316) 403-3963 View (316) 403-3963
Photo of Julie E Herron - Root and Rise; A Healing Place, LCP, Psychologist
Root and Rise; A Healing Place
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66044
Most clients seek out therapy because something or possibly many things aren't feeling good or working out well in their lives. They are looking for healing, for worth, for growth, for change. They need a safe and trusting person and an environment where they can feel heard, can process, feel, collaborate, make sense of, and make changes to improve their lives. They are looking for someone to listen and engage without judgement but also to challenge them when necessary. Therapy is about a collaborative relationship that allows a person to open their heart and their mind to healing.
Most clients seek out therapy because something or possibly many things aren't feeling good or working out well in their lives. They are looking for healing, for worth, for growth, for change. They need a safe and trusting person and an environment where they can feel heard, can process, feel, collaborate, make sense of, and make changes to improve their lives. They are looking for someone to listen and engage without judgement but also to challenge them when necessary. Therapy is about a collaborative relationship that allows a person to open their heart and their mind to healing.
(785) 264-4620 View (785) 264-4620
Photo of Megan Diémé - Baobab Therapy and Wellness, LLC, LSCSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Baobab Therapy and Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
Almost all of us have had adverse experiences or trauma in our lives that shape how we live and interact with others.  Regardless of your trauma or experiences, we will help guide you through healing.  We will not pretend to know more about your life than you, judge you for who you are or determine what healing means for you.   Although your reasons for seeking therapy are serious, our goal is for you to feel comfortable and at ease during sessions. We believe passionately that everyone deserves healing. We are LGBTQIA+ affirmative and actively anti-racist therapists. Our entire office is focused on creating a safe space.
Almost all of us have had adverse experiences or trauma in our lives that shape how we live and interact with others.  Regardless of your trauma or experiences, we will help guide you through healing.  We will not pretend to know more about your life than you, judge you for who you are or determine what healing means for you.   Although your reasons for seeking therapy are serious, our goal is for you to feel comfortable and at ease during sessions. We believe passionately that everyone deserves healing. We are LGBTQIA+ affirmative and actively anti-racist therapists. Our entire office is focused on creating a safe space.
View
Photo of Kate Barts, LCPC, LPC, CIT
Kate Barts
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
Hello there! Life has felt overwhelming for many of us these past few years, and I'm so happy you are here looking for some extra support. Therapy can provide a nonjudgmental and objective space to help process the stressors of life. You may be here because you are dealing with things like emotional detachment, insomnia, nightmares, avoidance, irritability, depression, and intrusive thoughts (which can all be reactions to painful life events). Our brains can and do heal just like other parts of our bodies, and that healing can have big impacts on not only ourselves but those we love.
Hello there! Life has felt overwhelming for many of us these past few years, and I'm so happy you are here looking for some extra support. Therapy can provide a nonjudgmental and objective space to help process the stressors of life. You may be here because you are dealing with things like emotional detachment, insomnia, nightmares, avoidance, irritability, depression, and intrusive thoughts (which can all be reactions to painful life events). Our brains can and do heal just like other parts of our bodies, and that healing can have big impacts on not only ourselves but those we love.
(913) 347-5035 View (913) 347-5035
Photo of Pashince Ousley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pashince Ousley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061
Accepting new clients with afternoon availability! Is your child or teenager experiencing feelings of sadness, isolation, anxiety, or struggling with life transitions? Therapy can be a valuable tool in assisting children and adolescents in navigating challenging emotions and experiences. I specialize in helping young individuals develop coping strategies and providing validation for their experiences. Furthermore, I have expertise in assisting children who have undergone traumatic experiences and require support in regulating their nervous system and processing their trauma.
Accepting new clients with afternoon availability! Is your child or teenager experiencing feelings of sadness, isolation, anxiety, or struggling with life transitions? Therapy can be a valuable tool in assisting children and adolescents in navigating challenging emotions and experiences. I specialize in helping young individuals develop coping strategies and providing validation for their experiences. Furthermore, I have expertise in assisting children who have undergone traumatic experiences and require support in regulating their nervous system and processing their trauma.
(913) 565-4829 View (913) 565-4829
Photo of Dariah Van Pelt, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dariah Van Pelt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
Reach out today to learn more about our new evening hours and reduced rate options! Hi, I'm Dariah and I want you to feel welcomed here. I'm passionate about working with individuals and young adults navigating obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual trauma, general trauma, anxiety/depression, and women's counseling.
Reach out today to learn more about our new evening hours and reduced rate options! Hi, I'm Dariah and I want you to feel welcomed here. I'm passionate about working with individuals and young adults navigating obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual trauma, general trauma, anxiety/depression, and women's counseling.
(913) 361-5171 View (913) 361-5171
Photo of Catherine Morelix, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Morelix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shawnee, KS 66216  (Online Only)
Do you struggle to feel safe and secure in relationships? Do shame, guilt, and anxiety cause you to avoid talking about your own needs? Trauma from our past can affect how we relate to others. My approach is to build a warm, peaceful, shame free space for people to share their story and discover in creative ways to heal the hurt that they carry. I support people as they open doors of their hearts with compassion and care. Whether you are coming to therapy as an individual or a couple, I work to build up your inner resources and hope for your future.
Do you struggle to feel safe and secure in relationships? Do shame, guilt, and anxiety cause you to avoid talking about your own needs? Trauma from our past can affect how we relate to others. My approach is to build a warm, peaceful, shame free space for people to share their story and discover in creative ways to heal the hurt that they carry. I support people as they open doors of their hearts with compassion and care. Whether you are coming to therapy as an individual or a couple, I work to build up your inner resources and hope for your future.
(415) 329-7865 View (415) 329-7865
Photo of Thressa Newell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thressa Newell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Did you feel neglected and unloved when you were a child? Did you feel lonely and ostracized if you tried to tell your parents or other adults about your feelings or if you tried to ask them questions about life? In your adult life, do you have difficulty relating to others? Do you feel depressed and alienated from others? Do you have difficulty knowing your own feelings or how you feel in your own body? Are you afraid to trust yourself, to be yourself? I've worked for 20 years with adults abused, traumatized, and/or neglected in childhood. .
Did you feel neglected and unloved when you were a child? Did you feel lonely and ostracized if you tried to tell your parents or other adults about your feelings or if you tried to ask them questions about life? In your adult life, do you have difficulty relating to others? Do you feel depressed and alienated from others? Do you have difficulty knowing your own feelings or how you feel in your own body? Are you afraid to trust yourself, to be yourself? I've worked for 20 years with adults abused, traumatized, and/or neglected in childhood. .
(816) 368-8243 View (816) 368-8243
1
...
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.