Sexual Abuse Therapists in Kansas

Photo of Sarah Okun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Sarah Okun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66106
For the last 3 years, I have worked as an inpatient residential psychotherapist, specializing in those experiencing PTSD, trauma, sexual abuse, and relationship issues.
I have a passion for learning, growing, and adapting through difficult times. I aim to challenge my clients and push you just enough outside your comfort zone to elicit growth and sustainable change. My client population ranges from teens into late adulthood and focuses on chronic stress, depression, grief and loss, acute and complex trauma, and life transitions. Most of my clients are experiencing relationship issues and transitions, career struggles, or just general overwhelm juggling all the things that life throws at us.
For the last 3 years, I have worked as an inpatient residential psychotherapist, specializing in those experiencing PTSD, trauma, sexual abuse, and relationship issues.
I have a passion for learning, growing, and adapting through difficult times. I aim to challenge my clients and push you just enough outside your comfort zone to elicit growth and sustainable change. My client population ranges from teens into late adulthood and focuses on chronic stress, depression, grief and loss, acute and complex trauma, and life transitions. Most of my clients are experiencing relationship issues and transitions, career struggles, or just general overwhelm juggling all the things that life throws at us.
(913) 354-7596 View (913) 354-7596
Photo of Larry W Tyndall, Psychologist in Kansas
Larry W Tyndall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66213
My expertise with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder also includes working with adults who have experienced more recent trauma (combat, domestic violence, assault, etc.
I believe psychotherapy is a mixture of psychoeducation (providing information to help people develop new coping and relationship skills), emotional processing (learning to identify and work through uncomfortable feelings), and corrective emotional experience (using the counseling relationship as a safe place to experiment with new interpersonal skills). I utilize a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (addressing how our thoughts and beliefs impact our emotional experience, self-image, and behavior); Family Systems Therapy (helping people gain insight into characteristic relationship patterns); and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (understanding how ways of coping developed earlier in life may not serve us well in the present).
My expertise with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder also includes working with adults who have experienced more recent trauma (combat, domestic violence, assault, etc.
I believe psychotherapy is a mixture of psychoeducation (providing information to help people develop new coping and relationship skills), emotional processing (learning to identify and work through uncomfortable feelings), and corrective emotional experience (using the counseling relationship as a safe place to experiment with new interpersonal skills). I utilize a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (addressing how our thoughts and beliefs impact our emotional experience, self-image, and behavior); Family Systems Therapy (helping people gain insight into characteristic relationship patterns); and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (understanding how ways of coping developed earlier in life may not serve us well in the present).
(913) 721-4580 View (913) 721-4580
Photo of Tychelle Schi'erre Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Tychelle Schi'erre Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Manhattan, KS 66502  (Online Only)
“I believe everyone deserves a chance; a chance at happiness, a chance at love, a chance at life, any CHANCE! I find extreme purpose as I assist individuals to find what satisfies them as well as presented barriers, restrictions, and issues faced in their journey. I strive to support them in finding peace and finding their own purpose.” My personal choices have lead me towards a career of advocacy and service on behalf of the abused, neglected and traumatized due to family violence and sexual assault. “Whatever issue you may be facing, you do not have to do so alone. Allow me to join you on the journey to find the Greater in YOU!”
“I believe everyone deserves a chance; a chance at happiness, a chance at love, a chance at life, any CHANCE! I find extreme purpose as I assist individuals to find what satisfies them as well as presented barriers, restrictions, and issues faced in their journey. I strive to support them in finding peace and finding their own purpose.” My personal choices have lead me towards a career of advocacy and service on behalf of the abused, neglected and traumatized due to family violence and sexual assault. “Whatever issue you may be facing, you do not have to do so alone. Allow me to join you on the journey to find the Greater in YOU!”
(785) 264-4094 View (785) 264-4094
Photo of Isabella Tambone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Isabella Tambone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I am here to be a compassionate, non-judgmental witness to any human that needs one. I believe a strong, collaborative relationship between client and therapist is important to helping you grow and heal. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR trained. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults, with an emphasis on trauma-work and sexual assault. I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals. I am also mindful of my clients’ intersectional and multicultural identities and how that may influence our work together. Reach out to schedule a free 15 minute consult!
I am here to be a compassionate, non-judgmental witness to any human that needs one. I believe a strong, collaborative relationship between client and therapist is important to helping you grow and heal. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR trained. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults, with an emphasis on trauma-work and sexual assault. I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals. I am also mindful of my clients’ intersectional and multicultural identities and how that may influence our work together. Reach out to schedule a free 15 minute consult!
(913) 382-8874 View (913) 382-8874
Photo of Seth L Wescott, Psychological Associate in Kansas
Seth L Wescott
Psychological Associate, MS, ATSA-F
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
I am a Clinical Member of the Association for the Treatment and Prevention of Sexual Abuse (ATSA), an international organization dedicated to sexual abuse prevention.
I'm a Licensed Masters Level Psychologist. I’ve devoted my career to the field of sexual abuse prevention. I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with problematic sexual behaviors. I work with individuals convicted of sexual crimes, those at risk, and teens who have displayed inappropriate sexual behaviors. I work with males who have a history of sexual behavior problems and those whose relationships have been adversely affected by sexual behaviors or pornography use. I have presented at numerous international conferences on topics such as: pornography use among adults & adolescents, social media & sexting.
I am a Clinical Member of the Association for the Treatment and Prevention of Sexual Abuse (ATSA), an international organization dedicated to sexual abuse prevention.
I'm a Licensed Masters Level Psychologist. I’ve devoted my career to the field of sexual abuse prevention. I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with problematic sexual behaviors. I work with individuals convicted of sexual crimes, those at risk, and teens who have displayed inappropriate sexual behaviors. I work with males who have a history of sexual behavior problems and those whose relationships have been adversely affected by sexual behaviors or pornography use. I have presented at numerous international conferences on topics such as: pornography use among adults & adolescents, social media & sexting.
(913) 347-5220 View (913) 347-5220
Photo of Sharilyn Ray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Sharilyn Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67226
I have many years of experience in child welfare, fostering, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. I have experience working with victims of sexual abuse and their caretakers, helping in the healing process. I provide services in the areas of - Children and adolescents with behavioral and sexual issues - Anxiety and depression (including postpartum depression) - Relationship challenges: couples and families - Phase-of-life changes, grief, and loss - Life stresses and next steps.
I have many years of experience in child welfare, fostering, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. I have experience working with victims of sexual abuse and their caretakers, helping in the healing process. I provide services in the areas of - Children and adolescents with behavioral and sexual issues - Anxiety and depression (including postpartum depression) - Relationship challenges: couples and families - Phase-of-life changes, grief, and loss - Life stresses and next steps.
(316) 395-9433 View (316) 395-9433
Photo of Yvonne Amanor-Boadu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas
Yvonne Amanor-Boadu
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan, KS 66503
I specialize in working with high conflict couples, survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault/abuse, individuals with mood disorders, military families, and LGBT individuals and couples.
I think all of us could use a little help at one time or another. Difficult situations can get the better of us, and we need someone to help us remember who we are, figure out our options, develop new skills, and make changes that support our growth. Whether I am working with an individual, couple, or family, I see my role as helping clients remember their strengths and capabilities, and find ways to work with the people they care about to create solutions.
I specialize in working with high conflict couples, survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault/abuse, individuals with mood disorders, military families, and LGBT individuals and couples.
I think all of us could use a little help at one time or another. Difficult situations can get the better of us, and we need someone to help us remember who we are, figure out our options, develop new skills, and make changes that support our growth. Whether I am working with an individual, couple, or family, I see my role as helping clients remember their strengths and capabilities, and find ways to work with the people they care about to create solutions.
(785) 227-9466 View (785) 227-9466
Photo of Anna Saviano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Anna Saviano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
I specialize in work with developmental as well as single-incident trauma, particularly sexual abuse and borderline personality disorder.
Being in the world can be hard *and* I believe the universe is abundant. My work focuses on supporting individuals on their journey of healing, growth and actualization. I provide a safe and comfortable space to explore and process whatever past or current concerns are disconnecting you from your life path. My goal is to help young adults and adults resolve trauma and fully engage in the life you choose.
I specialize in work with developmental as well as single-incident trauma, particularly sexual abuse and borderline personality disorder.
Being in the world can be hard *and* I believe the universe is abundant. My work focuses on supporting individuals on their journey of healing, growth and actualization. I provide a safe and comfortable space to explore and process whatever past or current concerns are disconnecting you from your life path. My goal is to help young adults and adults resolve trauma and fully engage in the life you choose.
(816) 463-8672 View (816) 463-8672
Photo of Nicole Hayles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Nicole Hayles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66062
I work with survivors of sexual abuse and assault, betrayal trauma, and those affected by anaphylactic food allergies. People who've experienced these traumas often begin feeling a sense of losing control over their lives. I want you to know that you can heal from trauma and I can help you with that process. I will work with you to figure out how to mange anxiety, fear, sleep and relationship problems or any other symptoms you're experiencing. We can then work together to decide which approach to trauma processing is best for you.
I work with survivors of sexual abuse and assault, betrayal trauma, and those affected by anaphylactic food allergies. People who've experienced these traumas often begin feeling a sense of losing control over their lives. I want you to know that you can heal from trauma and I can help you with that process. I will work with you to figure out how to mange anxiety, fear, sleep and relationship problems or any other symptoms you're experiencing. We can then work together to decide which approach to trauma processing is best for you.
(816) 227-6895 View (816) 227-6895
Photo of Ariel L LANDRUM, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas
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 Leigh Higgins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Leigh Higgins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66208
I specialize in working with survivors of sexual abuse and assault and understand the long and short term impacts of trauma.
My clients are highly motivated and successful in most areas of their life and just looking for something a little better.
I specialize in working with survivors of sexual abuse and assault and understand the long and short term impacts of trauma.
My clients are highly motivated and successful in most areas of their life and just looking for something a little better.
(816) 290-6750 View (816) 290-6750
Photo of Heidi Cleveland, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas
Heidi Cleveland
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67210
I have experience with grief, domestic violence, sexual assault, abuse/neglect, attachment/bonding, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, career transitions, vicarious/secondary trauma in first responders and individuals involved in custody or the child welfare system.
Are you ready for a change? You are not alone! My practice is a warm, supportive and non judgmental place to gain insight and create positive change. We will work together to resolve your current struggles!
I have experience with grief, domestic violence, sexual assault, abuse/neglect, attachment/bonding, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, career transitions, vicarious/secondary trauma in first responders and individuals involved in custody or the child welfare system.
Are you ready for a change? You are not alone! My practice is a warm, supportive and non judgmental place to gain insight and create positive change. We will work together to resolve your current struggles!
(316) 320-0663 View (316) 320-0663
Photo of Tina Van Meter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas
Tina Van Meter
Licensed 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 Tysha Osborne, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas
Tysha Osborne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Manhattan, KS 66503
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with: Trauma, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Body Image, Perfectionism, low self-esteem, sexual abuse and ADHD. I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT, self-compassion, mindfulness, and somatic therapies. For over a decade, I have been honored to play a role in my clients’ healing journey. I provide individual counseling services to individuals ages 25 and over. I practice through a trauma-informed, holistic, neuroscience lens, helping you to put words to what you are experiencing and learn how to understand the sensations you feel in your body, your emotions, and your thoughts.
I specialize in working with: Trauma, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Body Image, Perfectionism, low self-esteem, sexual abuse and ADHD. I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT, self-compassion, mindfulness, and somatic therapies. For over a decade, I have been honored to play a role in my clients’ healing journey. I provide individual counseling services to individuals ages 25 and over. I practice through a trauma-informed, holistic, neuroscience lens, helping you to put words to what you are experiencing and learn how to understand the sensations you feel in your body, your emotions, and your thoughts.
(785) 675-5622 View (785) 675-5622
Photo of Alex Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Alex Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401
I enjoy helping clients heal from their trauma and become more empowered in their relationships and lives. I have experience working with victims of various types of trauma including sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and child abuse. I have worked with clients who suffer from depressive and anxiety disorders to help improve their symptoms and develop coping skills that work for them. I have worked with children, teenagers, and adults of various ages.
I enjoy helping clients heal from their trauma and become more empowered in their relationships and lives. I have experience working with victims of various types of trauma including sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and child abuse. I have worked with clients who suffer from depressive and anxiety disorders to help improve their symptoms and develop coping skills that work for them. I have worked with children, teenagers, and adults of various ages.
(785) 572-4104 View (785) 572-4104
Photo of Jessica Kampfe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Jessica Kampfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan, KS 66502  (Online Only)
My professional experience includes working with individuals with developmental disorders, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, military personnel and their families, and caregivers.
My belief is that everyone deserves to be thriving throughout life, not just surviving. When our mental health starts impacting our daily activities and routines, it can be hard to see a way to improve the situation. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, caring environment for my clients to share their current struggles. Together we can address your current concerns and develop a plan that will fit your goals.
My professional experience includes working with individuals with developmental disorders, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, military personnel and their families, and caregivers.
My belief is that everyone deserves to be thriving throughout life, not just surviving. When our mental health starts impacting our daily activities and routines, it can be hard to see a way to improve the situation. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, caring environment for my clients to share their current struggles. Together we can address your current concerns and develop a plan that will fit your goals.
(785) 572-4303 View (785) 572-4303
Photo of Mary Alice Weed, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas
Mary Alice Weed
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, BSN, MSMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401
There are times in everyone's life when we are challenged to the point with seemingly no solutions. Through my years working in the Emergency Department, the sexual assault abuse unit, as an instructor, and as a therapist coupled with life experiences, I have learned about resiliency. It is not about how one falls but how one lands. I truly believe the best investment anyone can make is in themselves. Through my work as a therapist, I assist others in finding their own way through turmoil so they may invest again in themselves.
There are times in everyone's life when we are challenged to the point with seemingly no solutions. Through my years working in the Emergency Department, the sexual assault abuse unit, as an instructor, and as a therapist coupled with life experiences, I have learned about resiliency. It is not about how one falls but how one lands. I truly believe the best investment anyone can make is in themselves. Through my work as a therapist, I assist others in finding their own way through turmoil so they may invest again in themselves.
(785) 246-7450 x301 View (785) 246-7450 x301
Photo of Becky Cheek-King, Counselor in Kansas
Becky Cheek-King
Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66049
She welcomes the challenges that come with treating depression, anxiety, and sexual abuse.
Life often brings us stressors, challenges, and difficulties. Sometimes we don't know which direction to go. Therapy gets you going in a healthy direction, builds your confidence in your life choices, and reminds you to smell the roses along the way. With over 30 years of experience in the mental health field, Becky understands the challenges that many people face everyday. A graduate of Vanderbilt University, she received a masters in clinical psychology from the University of Tulsa. Becky worked for years at community mental health centers and a group private practice, gaining experience treating a variety of clinical issues.
She welcomes the challenges that come with treating depression, anxiety, and sexual abuse.
Life often brings us stressors, challenges, and difficulties. Sometimes we don't know which direction to go. Therapy gets you going in a healthy direction, builds your confidence in your life choices, and reminds you to smell the roses along the way. With over 30 years of experience in the mental health field, Becky understands the challenges that many people face everyday. A graduate of Vanderbilt University, she received a masters in clinical psychology from the University of Tulsa. Becky worked for years at community mental health centers and a group private practice, gaining experience treating a variety of clinical issues.
(785) 856-0676 View (785) 856-0676
Photo of Happy Life Therapies - Patrice Borders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas
Happy Life Therapies - Patrice Borders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, EMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67217  (Online Only)
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.
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 Dawn Sweeney Kniep, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas
Dawn Sweeney Kniep
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, CHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67219  (Online Only)
I work with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma; I have considerable training & experience working with survivors of sexual abuse/assault and work often with caregivers coping with disclosure of their loved one's abuse.
Finding time for one's own needs can be challenging in today's fast-paced world and my clients have found that meeting virtually helps overcome many of the obstacles they experience. My desire is to be an easily accessible resource of safety and hope in the lives of individuals as they are navigating difficult times in their lives; it is my belief that it is the painful and difficult times that can be the pieces of our lives that make us and our relationships stronger, healthier and beautifully unique. I find clients often already have the pieces of the puzzle within them to improve their situation and simply need a new perspective.
I work with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma; I have considerable training & experience working with survivors of sexual abuse/assault and work often with caregivers coping with disclosure of their loved one's abuse.
Finding time for one's own needs can be challenging in today's fast-paced world and my clients have found that meeting virtually helps overcome many of the obstacles they experience. My desire is to be an easily accessible resource of safety and hope in the lives of individuals as they are navigating difficult times in their lives; it is my belief that it is the painful and difficult times that can be the pieces of our lives that make us and our relationships stronger, healthier and beautifully unique. I find clients often already have the pieces of the puzzle within them to improve their situation and simply need a new perspective.
(316) 541-1567 View (316) 541-1567
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.