Sexual Abuse Therapists in Maryland

Photo of Lynn Strange in Maryland
Lynn Strange
MA
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20721  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty are Domestic Violence, Grief, Sexual Assault, Low Self-Esteem, Abandonment, and Family Counseling.
If you are someone, that is in need of a caring, supportive, compassionate, and non-judgmental counseling, to unload the burdens, issues, and difficult situations occurring in your life, I am ready to provide a safe & trusted place for you.
My areas of specialty are Domestic Violence, Grief, Sexual Assault, Low Self-Esteem, Abandonment, and Family Counseling.
If you are someone, that is in need of a caring, supportive, compassionate, and non-judgmental counseling, to unload the burdens, issues, and difficult situations occurring in your life, I am ready to provide a safe & trusted place for you.
(301) 923-4425 View (301) 923-4425
Photo of Sakina R Nesbit, Psychologist in Maryland
Sakina R Nesbit
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774  (Online Only)
, bereavement, childhood sexual abuse, separation/divorce, career).
The clients I work with tend to be introspective, insightful, responsible, and intelligent and are capable of working through their life difficulties. This can be accomplished on a short-term or on a long-term basis. My clients "bring much to the table" but tend to undervalue their worth in one or more areas and may have low self-esteem/confidence. I have worked with very diverse racial and ethnic populations, including first- or second-generation immigrants from Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, the Caribbean, and Canada. I have also worked extensively with many lesbian, gay, and bisexual clients.
, bereavement, childhood sexual abuse, separation/divorce, career).
The clients I work with tend to be introspective, insightful, responsible, and intelligent and are capable of working through their life difficulties. This can be accomplished on a short-term or on a long-term basis. My clients "bring much to the table" but tend to undervalue their worth in one or more areas and may have low self-esteem/confidence. I have worked with very diverse racial and ethnic populations, including first- or second-generation immigrants from Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, the Caribbean, and Canada. I have also worked extensively with many lesbian, gay, and bisexual clients.
(240) 334-6462 View (240) 334-6462
Photo of Dionne M Jimenez, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland
Dionne M Jimenez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
My professional strengths include: domestic and sexual abuse, relationship issues, trauma, attachment disorder, anxiety and depression, family systems, mind-body interventions, wellness, grief, self-esteem, and women's issues.
If you have experienced trauma or emotional pain in a current or past relationship, I am able to offer a safe,non-judgemental, empowering atmosphere as you gain insight and knowledge to move toward personal growth. It is my privilege to work with individuals of all ages with diverse spiritual and cultural backgrounds. I am invested in creating a nurturing and trusting environment in treatment in order for healing to take place, and I believe that an empathic and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the foundation for therapeutic growth.
My professional strengths include: domestic and sexual abuse, relationship issues, trauma, attachment disorder, anxiety and depression, family systems, mind-body interventions, wellness, grief, self-esteem, and women's issues.
If you have experienced trauma or emotional pain in a current or past relationship, I am able to offer a safe,non-judgemental, empowering atmosphere as you gain insight and knowledge to move toward personal growth. It is my privilege to work with individuals of all ages with diverse spiritual and cultural backgrounds. I am invested in creating a nurturing and trusting environment in treatment in order for healing to take place, and I believe that an empathic and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the foundation for therapeutic growth.
(443) 486-0196 View (443) 486-0196
Photo of Rachel Bollinger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Maryland
Rachel Bollinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive knowledge in working with individuals who have been impacted by sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Do you find yourself overthinking? Are you a people pleaser who feels their needs are unimportant? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event. This can be exhausting and may be impacting your current relationships, job functioning, or daily mood. I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to trust and be vulnerable with others. My goal in our work together is that you can be yourself, while feeling supported and cared for.
I have extensive knowledge in working with individuals who have been impacted by sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Do you find yourself overthinking? Are you a people pleaser who feels their needs are unimportant? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event. This can be exhausting and may be impacting your current relationships, job functioning, or daily mood. I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to trust and be vulnerable with others. My goal in our work together is that you can be yourself, while feeling supported and cared for.
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Photo of Ashlee Sapienza, Counselor in Maryland
Ashlee Sapienza
Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
My background is in trauma, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, life changes, parenting struggles and relational challenges.
Welcome! Chances are, if you're coming to this page you're struggling with something. Making that first step to see a therapist takes a lot of courage and shows a ton of strength. It is my belief that we all need support and a safe place to process and grow. Creating that space and working with you to understand and grow through this time, is an honor for me. I love working with families, couples, individuals and adolescents and feel that one of my strengths is my ability to put you at ease and make the challenging process of therapy more comfortable for you.  
My background is in trauma, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, life changes, parenting struggles and relational challenges.
Welcome! Chances are, if you're coming to this page you're struggling with something. Making that first step to see a therapist takes a lot of courage and shows a ton of strength. It is my belief that we all need support and a safe place to process and grow. Creating that space and working with you to understand and grow through this time, is an honor for me. I love working with families, couples, individuals and adolescents and feel that one of my strengths is my ability to put you at ease and make the challenging process of therapy more comfortable for you.  
(410) 267-4268 View (410) 267-4268
Photo of Vicki Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Vicki Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20783  (Online Only)
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress, and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. As you gain emotional freedom, you will be able to move forward in your work and personal life.
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress, and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. As you gain emotional freedom, you will be able to move forward in your work and personal life.
(301) 684-8194 View (301) 684-8194
Photo of Nina Davey, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland
Nina Davey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help those going through a traumatic experience (childhood or recent trauma), challenges related to depression and anxiety, sexual abuse, life transitions, self-esteem and stress management.
I believe that everyone is capable of healing, growth, and resiliency. Although life is constantly changing and moving, I believe that each person can achieve the life and level of happiness they desire through self-exploration and a deeper look into their experiences. I work from an experiential based, relational/attachment model to support your healing journey and to strengthen self-awareness. I use a variety of modalities through a trauma-informed perspective, including Art Therapy, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing.
I help those going through a traumatic experience (childhood or recent trauma), challenges related to depression and anxiety, sexual abuse, life transitions, self-esteem and stress management.
I believe that everyone is capable of healing, growth, and resiliency. Although life is constantly changing and moving, I believe that each person can achieve the life and level of happiness they desire through self-exploration and a deeper look into their experiences. I work from an experiential based, relational/attachment model to support your healing journey and to strengthen self-awareness. I use a variety of modalities through a trauma-informed perspective, including Art Therapy, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing.
(443) 213-0224 View (443) 213-0224
Photo of Anne K Eckman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Anne K Eckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW, EMDR-C, SEP
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
I believe that all people have the innate capacity to heal and grow from trauma and distress. I specialize in working with adults who have experienced challenging situations, past and present. These include trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and difficult pregnancy & birth-related experiences. I also help people to address anxiety, grief and loss, and other life transitions. Drawing on a range of complementary approaches, I collaborate with you to strengthen your skills to navigate present-moment distress, explore what’s feeling painful or stuck, and together find ways to help you flourish.
I believe that all people have the innate capacity to heal and grow from trauma and distress. I specialize in working with adults who have experienced challenging situations, past and present. These include trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and difficult pregnancy & birth-related experiences. I also help people to address anxiety, grief and loss, and other life transitions. Drawing on a range of complementary approaches, I collaborate with you to strengthen your skills to navigate present-moment distress, explore what’s feeling painful or stuck, and together find ways to help you flourish.
(301) 970-4289 View (301) 970-4289
Photo of Vanity C Dawson, Counselor in Maryland
Vanity C Dawson
Counselor, LGPC, NCC, CCTP-I
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20716  (Online Only)
Our mission at Take my Hand is to be a hand of support for survivors of sexual abuse and a champion for prevention.
At Take My Hand Counseling & Consulting LLC, we specialize in providing trauma-informed care for young adults who encounter mental, emotional & relational stress from sexual & physical traumatic experiences. We also serve survivors who may be experiencing complications related to childhood trauma. Some common difficulties related to trauma could be presented as anxiety, anger, socio-emotional difficulties, stress, outburst, and poor relational skills. Commit to your reward of emotional resilience, positive relationships, healthy communication, freedom from anxiety, and overall life satisfaction today.
Our mission at Take my Hand is to be a hand of support for survivors of sexual abuse and a champion for prevention.
At Take My Hand Counseling & Consulting LLC, we specialize in providing trauma-informed care for young adults who encounter mental, emotional & relational stress from sexual & physical traumatic experiences. We also serve survivors who may be experiencing complications related to childhood trauma. Some common difficulties related to trauma could be presented as anxiety, anger, socio-emotional difficulties, stress, outburst, and poor relational skills. Commit to your reward of emotional resilience, positive relationships, healthy communication, freedom from anxiety, and overall life satisfaction today.
(301) 945-7207 View (301) 945-7207
Photo of Stacy McCoy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counsel in Maryland
Stacy McCoy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counsel, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772  (Online Only)
Try talk therapy if you've experienced trauma, are stressed, have survived a sexual assault, struggle with anger, irritability, mood instability, or suffer from anxiety.
Try talk therapy if you've experienced trauma, are stressed, have survived a sexual assault, struggle with anger, irritability, mood instability, or suffer from anxiety.
(240) 201-9627 View (240) 201-9627
Photo of Vicki Lynn Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Vicki Lynn Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. You will be able to move forward in your work and personal life as you will have gained emotional freedom,
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. You will be able to move forward in your work and personal life as you will have gained emotional freedom,
(301) 979-7311 View (301) 979-7311
Photo of Olivia McGirr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Olivia McGirr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
Each and every one of us has learned how to survive in a complex set of circumstances. It is my job to help my clients decide which of those survival skills are still helpful, and which ones served them as a child, and now hurt them in their adult or young adult life. I believe that everyone already has everything within them to heal, and I enjoy challenging clients to see that for themselves. I have years of experience working with adults, children, groups, and families. I specialize in working with complex trauma, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, grief, attachment, anxiety, and depression.
Each and every one of us has learned how to survive in a complex set of circumstances. It is my job to help my clients decide which of those survival skills are still helpful, and which ones served them as a child, and now hurt them in their adult or young adult life. I believe that everyone already has everything within them to heal, and I enjoy challenging clients to see that for themselves. I have years of experience working with adults, children, groups, and families. I specialize in working with complex trauma, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, grief, attachment, anxiety, and depression.
(240) 624-2823 View (240) 624-2823
Photo of Lisa Ades, Psychologist in Maryland
Lisa Ades
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815
In my 20 years of clinical, academic, and advocacy experience, I have worked with clients who present with a wide range of issues. I specialize in recovery from trauma (particularly childhood abuse/neglect, sexual assault and domestic violence), successful movement through life transitions (young adulthood, career, parenthood, mid-life and loss), and repair of interpersonal relationships (including a specialty in couples therapy). I have advanced training in both trauma treatment and couples therapy, which uniquely positions me to treat couples where one or both partners have a trauma history.
In my 20 years of clinical, academic, and advocacy experience, I have worked with clients who present with a wide range of issues. I specialize in recovery from trauma (particularly childhood abuse/neglect, sexual assault and domestic violence), successful movement through life transitions (young adulthood, career, parenthood, mid-life and loss), and repair of interpersonal relationships (including a specialty in couples therapy). I have advanced training in both trauma treatment and couples therapy, which uniquely positions me to treat couples where one or both partners have a trauma history.
(202) 430-6361 View (202) 430-6361
Photo of Tiffany Jerinsky, Counselor in Maryland
Tiffany Jerinsky
Counselor, MS, LGPC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20742  (Online Only)
I am a counselor with years of experience working with clients who are managing depression, anxiety, and chronic illnesses. I have specialized training in working with those who experience interpersonal violence and sexual assault/abuse. When an individual survives a trauma or hardship it can be extremely difficult to cope and obtain fulfillment. Whatever the struggle is I believe in helping clients identify their strengths in order to overcome the obstacle.
I am a counselor with years of experience working with clients who are managing depression, anxiety, and chronic illnesses. I have specialized training in working with those who experience interpersonal violence and sexual assault/abuse. When an individual survives a trauma or hardship it can be extremely difficult to cope and obtain fulfillment. Whatever the struggle is I believe in helping clients identify their strengths in order to overcome the obstacle.
(202) 301-8321 View (202) 301-8321
Photo of Meaghan Tarquinio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Meaghan Tarquinio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Trauma affects people in unique ways. It can present as depression, anger, hopelessness, anxiety or PTSD. There is no “right way” to respond to trauma. If your life is being negatively impacted by your experiences, you are worthy of the chance to heal and make strides towards wholeness and peace. I am a trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals find their path to healing. I believe in the power of resilience and the importance of creating a safe space for you. For over a decade, I have specialized in trauma with a focus on intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, and adverse childhood experiences.
Trauma affects people in unique ways. It can present as depression, anger, hopelessness, anxiety or PTSD. There is no “right way” to respond to trauma. If your life is being negatively impacted by your experiences, you are worthy of the chance to heal and make strides towards wholeness and peace. I am a trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals find their path to healing. I believe in the power of resilience and the importance of creating a safe space for you. For over a decade, I have specialized in trauma with a focus on intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, and adverse childhood experiences.
(240) 802-8962 View (240) 802-8962
Photo of Christina M. Jensema, Psychologist in Maryland
Christina M. Jensema
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with individuals who find themselves suffering from relational problems, low self-esteem, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, bi-polar disorder, and psychosis.
I whole-heartedly believe in each individual's unique ability to find their true Self, the person they were meant to become. From a centered existence one is better able to make choices that promote health, supportive relationships, and passionate pursuits. At times, one may find what once was easy has become more difficult. One's emotional and perceptual landscape may become unfamiliar, what one allows others to see may not fit with how one really feels, one's path may become less certain. Therapy provides the acceptance and space with which to find oneself, perhaps for the first time.
I have extensive experience working with individuals who find themselves suffering from relational problems, low self-esteem, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, bi-polar disorder, and psychosis.
I whole-heartedly believe in each individual's unique ability to find their true Self, the person they were meant to become. From a centered existence one is better able to make choices that promote health, supportive relationships, and passionate pursuits. At times, one may find what once was easy has become more difficult. One's emotional and perceptual landscape may become unfamiliar, what one allows others to see may not fit with how one really feels, one's path may become less certain. Therapy provides the acceptance and space with which to find oneself, perhaps for the first time.
(410) 914-1138 View (410) 914-1138
Photo of Eric R Kuessner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Eric R Kuessner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
This treatment is designed for children and teens who have experienced events such as child abuse, assault, domestic violence, personal injury, traumatic grief, etc.
I offer therapy in a non-judgmental, safe and confidential environment.I provide a holding space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their concerns so that we can work together to gain insight on life's stresses and struggles.I have a knowledge base in working children (4 to 12).I collaborate with clients to develop effective coping techniques, process though life experiences, and accomplish personal goals. My clinical background includes therapy with individual, groups, and families. I utilize an eclectic approach to help the clients I serve.Currently integrating TF-CBT into practice with clients who have experienced Trauma
This treatment is designed for children and teens who have experienced events such as child abuse, assault, domestic violence, personal injury, traumatic grief, etc.
I offer therapy in a non-judgmental, safe and confidential environment.I provide a holding space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their concerns so that we can work together to gain insight on life's stresses and struggles.I have a knowledge base in working children (4 to 12).I collaborate with clients to develop effective coping techniques, process though life experiences, and accomplish personal goals. My clinical background includes therapy with individual, groups, and families. I utilize an eclectic approach to help the clients I serve.Currently integrating TF-CBT into practice with clients who have experienced Trauma
(443) 819-1044 View (443) 819-1044
Photo of Xiaofang (Bethanie) Wang Lanterman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maryland
Xiaofang (Bethanie) Wang Lanterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
I have provided individual, couple and family therapy to diverse population from systemic lens on issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma/PTSD, parenting, sexual abuse, couple relationships, marital and premarital concerns, family conflicts and connection, and interracial relationships.
The process of finding a therapist can be daunting, but I believe it is a sign of courage and strength to seek help for lasting personal growth and for stronger relationships. My overall perspective about therapy is to show acceptance, compassion and care to all clients; to build safe, warm, trustworthy, and collaborative therapeutic relationships; to apply evidence-based and culturally-competent therapeutic concepts and skills to address clients’ specific needs; and to build upon client’s strength for change. I can speak both English and Mandarin. I provide immigration psychological evaluations. I am licensed in Maryland and D.C.
I have provided individual, couple and family therapy to diverse population from systemic lens on issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma/PTSD, parenting, sexual abuse, couple relationships, marital and premarital concerns, family conflicts and connection, and interracial relationships.
The process of finding a therapist can be daunting, but I believe it is a sign of courage and strength to seek help for lasting personal growth and for stronger relationships. My overall perspective about therapy is to show acceptance, compassion and care to all clients; to build safe, warm, trustworthy, and collaborative therapeutic relationships; to apply evidence-based and culturally-competent therapeutic concepts and skills to address clients’ specific needs; and to build upon client’s strength for change. I can speak both English and Mandarin. I provide immigration psychological evaluations. I am licensed in Maryland and D.C.
(240) 222-1529 View (240) 222-1529
Photo of Grace Carmichael, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Grace Carmichael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I specialize in working with children, youth, adults and families impacted by trauma. Utilizing my trauma-focused training, combined with my background in domestic and relationship violence prevention, I bring a strengths-based approach that is both motivational and client-centered. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and integrate both psychoeducation and skills-based techniques into my work. My specialties include trauma and PTSD, grief, and relationship and domestic/sexual abuse. More broadly, I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood-related disorders.
I specialize in working with children, youth, adults and families impacted by trauma. Utilizing my trauma-focused training, combined with my background in domestic and relationship violence prevention, I bring a strengths-based approach that is both motivational and client-centered. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and integrate both psychoeducation and skills-based techniques into my work. My specialties include trauma and PTSD, grief, and relationship and domestic/sexual abuse. More broadly, I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood-related disorders.
(443) 390-7856 View (443) 390-7856
Photo of Jenita C. Griffin, Psychologist in Maryland
Jenita C. Griffin
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706  (Online Only)
I provide services to persons' who suffer from loss which takes many difficult forms including abandonment, family stress, death of a loved one, sexual abuse (victim) and other trauma focused loss.
Now Accepting Self-Pay, Medicare and Medicaid adults; Self-Pay. Do you feel angry, lost or depressed but don't have time to meet regularly, in person, due to your busy schedule? Are you struggling with your life's purpose and questioning the meaning of your life? Are you mourning the life you once had, have problems saying "NO" or have difficulties managing your everyday stress; but you can't find the time to make it into an office to meet with a therapist? If you've answered "Yes" to at least one of these questions, it's time to take care of you, with no travel required. Schedule your appointment today and begin a healing process.
I provide services to persons' who suffer from loss which takes many difficult forms including abandonment, family stress, death of a loved one, sexual abuse (victim) and other trauma focused loss.
Now Accepting Self-Pay, Medicare and Medicaid adults; Self-Pay. Do you feel angry, lost or depressed but don't have time to meet regularly, in person, due to your busy schedule? Are you struggling with your life's purpose and questioning the meaning of your life? Are you mourning the life you once had, have problems saying "NO" or have difficulties managing your everyday stress; but you can't find the time to make it into an office to meet with a therapist? If you've answered "Yes" to at least one of these questions, it's time to take care of you, with no travel required. Schedule your appointment today and begin a healing process.
(301) 381-3389 View (301) 381-3389
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.