Sexual Abuse Therapists in Minnesota

Photo of Illumé North, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minnesota
Illumé North
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, LPCC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55802
Illumé North is a mental health center dedicated to preventing sexual abuse, increasing awareness of sexual health, and healing the effects of sexual trauma. Located in Duluth, Minnesota, and offering services in both Minnesota and Wisconsin, our experienced team offers psychotherapy and assessment services throughout the state, with a focus on sexual concerns and disorders as well as harmful sexual behavior. We are proud to offer sexual health treatment and assessment services to remote locations through telehealth, allowing for increased access to care and for expanded community safety.
Illumé North is a mental health center dedicated to preventing sexual abuse, increasing awareness of sexual health, and healing the effects of sexual trauma. Located in Duluth, Minnesota, and offering services in both Minnesota and Wisconsin, our experienced team offers psychotherapy and assessment services throughout the state, with a focus on sexual concerns and disorders as well as harmful sexual behavior. We are proud to offer sexual health treatment and assessment services to remote locations through telehealth, allowing for increased access to care and for expanded community safety.
(218) 522-4469 View (218) 522-4469
Photo of Krista Vosberg PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Krista Vosberg PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
childhood abuse, sexual assault, loss, accidents and unexpected life events).
I provide individual, couples and family therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing a number of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and marital problems, sexual issues, behavior problems, anger, life transitions, separation and divorce, family conflict, parenting issues, and grief and loss. I worked for 3 years at an inpatient treatment program for high risk adolescents and 15 years at an outpatient mental health clinic before starting my own practice.
childhood abuse, sexual assault, loss, accidents and unexpected life events).
I provide individual, couples and family therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing a number of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and marital problems, sexual issues, behavior problems, anger, life transitions, separation and divorce, family conflict, parenting issues, and grief and loss. I worked for 3 years at an inpatient treatment program for high risk adolescents and 15 years at an outpatient mental health clinic before starting my own practice.
(320) 289-5401 View (320) 289-5401
Photo of Kara E Aguilar, Counselor in Minnesota
Kara E Aguilar
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Fridley, MN 55432  (Online Only)
Pain and hurt seem to find each of us, myself included. I am passionate about helping people find healing, which is what has led me to specialize in trauma, grief and loss. This covers a very broad range of topics, such as sexual abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, healing from break-up, and much more. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, or just a broken heart, I would love to help you move forward toward finding joy in your life again.
Pain and hurt seem to find each of us, myself included. I am passionate about helping people find healing, which is what has led me to specialize in trauma, grief and loss. This covers a very broad range of topics, such as sexual abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, healing from break-up, and much more. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, or just a broken heart, I would love to help you move forward toward finding joy in your life again.
(651) 213-9066 View (651) 213-9066
Photo of Janet K Schlegel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Janet K Schlegel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Champlin, MN 55316
My specialties include sexual abuse, anger management, couples and marriage counseling, anxiety and depression.
Do you think change has to be hard or take a long time? Do you want more out of life? Are you wondering if you will ever be happy again? Do you want better quality relationships? Do you wish you could put a spark back into your marriage? Are you tired of trying and feeling hopeless? I take a no nonsense approach to therapy and use razor sharp precision to get to the core issues. I am highly skilled at helping clients remove the "porcupine quills" that hurt whenever a bad memory is triggered.
My specialties include sexual abuse, anger management, couples and marriage counseling, anxiety and depression.
Do you think change has to be hard or take a long time? Do you want more out of life? Are you wondering if you will ever be happy again? Do you want better quality relationships? Do you wish you could put a spark back into your marriage? Are you tired of trying and feeling hopeless? I take a no nonsense approach to therapy and use razor sharp precision to get to the core issues. I am highly skilled at helping clients remove the "porcupine quills" that hurt whenever a bad memory is triggered.
(763) 260-1889 x1 View (763) 260-1889 x1
Photo of Ruth Grambush, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Ruth Grambush
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
My experience with complex trauma, first responders, veterans, sexual abuse, etc.
We hold trauma, grief, loss, and painful memories in our minds and bodies. If these issues aren't healed, they come out in painful and often destructive ways: Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger, struggles with parenting, substance abuse, isolation, fear, etc. People often feel "stuck" in these issues and are caught in cycles that are difficult to break free. These destructive and painful cycles can be broken and you can thrive personally and in your relationships. I create a welcoming environment where all feel safe to experience healing and transformational change. Each session is unique to you.
My experience with complex trauma, first responders, veterans, sexual abuse, etc.
We hold trauma, grief, loss, and painful memories in our minds and bodies. If these issues aren't healed, they come out in painful and often destructive ways: Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger, struggles with parenting, substance abuse, isolation, fear, etc. People often feel "stuck" in these issues and are caught in cycles that are difficult to break free. These destructive and painful cycles can be broken and you can thrive personally and in your relationships. I create a welcoming environment where all feel safe to experience healing and transformational change. Each session is unique to you.
(952) 295-4836 View (952) 295-4836
Photo of Eden Broberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minnesota
Eden Broberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stillwater, MN 55082
Waitlist for new clients
I currently specialize in eating disorders but am also qualified and experienced to treat depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and sexual trauma/assault.
I believe that all bodies are good bodies, that to find self-acceptance you must explore your self-hate, and that authentic personal growth looks different for everyone. I am passionate about practicing in a client-centered way and utilizing a feminist approach to explore and challenge notions of boundary-setting, self-exploration, guilt, success, progress, people-pleasing, and diet culture (BMI, ‘Obesity epidemic,’ why diets don’t work, restriction, symptom swapping, minimalism, etc.) I work fulltime at a nationally-renowned eating disorder clinic in the Twin Cities area.
I currently specialize in eating disorders but am also qualified and experienced to treat depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and sexual trauma/assault.
I believe that all bodies are good bodies, that to find self-acceptance you must explore your self-hate, and that authentic personal growth looks different for everyone. I am passionate about practicing in a client-centered way and utilizing a feminist approach to explore and challenge notions of boundary-setting, self-exploration, guilt, success, progress, people-pleasing, and diet culture (BMI, ‘Obesity epidemic,’ why diets don’t work, restriction, symptom swapping, minimalism, etc.) I work fulltime at a nationally-renowned eating disorder clinic in the Twin Cities area.
(651) 401-8162 View (651) 401-8162
Photo of Rachal Noell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minnesota
Rachal Noell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Luverne, MN 56156
I am a therapist at Luverne Counseling in Luverne, MN. Prior to joining this practice I was at The Compass Center in Sioux Falls where I worked exclusively with clients who were survivors of family violence and sexual assault. In addition to working with trauma survivors, I have experience and interest in working with clients who struggle with parenting issues, healthy relationships, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I am passionate about empowering clients to rediscover their worth, set healthy boundaries, and move beyond thoughts and behaviors that are no longer serving them.
I am a therapist at Luverne Counseling in Luverne, MN. Prior to joining this practice I was at The Compass Center in Sioux Falls where I worked exclusively with clients who were survivors of family violence and sexual assault. In addition to working with trauma survivors, I have experience and interest in working with clients who struggle with parenting issues, healthy relationships, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I am passionate about empowering clients to rediscover their worth, set healthy boundaries, and move beyond thoughts and behaviors that are no longer serving them.
(507) 708-6527 View (507) 708-6527
Photo of Tamera Mensink, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Tamera Mensink
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
This powerful short-term therapy is highly effective for a wide range of disorders including depression, panic attacks, stress, worry, recovery from sexual abuse and traumatic incidents.
Does depression or trauma hold you back? Do you want to live a more fulfilling life? Are you a person who struggles with hopelessness, anxiety, stress and sadness? Your life can be more fulfilling and hopeful.Are you a veteran and feel like there is no help for you? You can get rid of your emotional pain and lead a happy and pain-free life from past trauma and abuse.I can offer you hope by treating your depression and anxiety and counseling you on your trauma issues. It will change the way you feel about life, your relationships, and yourself.
This powerful short-term therapy is highly effective for a wide range of disorders including depression, panic attacks, stress, worry, recovery from sexual abuse and traumatic incidents.
Does depression or trauma hold you back? Do you want to live a more fulfilling life? Are you a person who struggles with hopelessness, anxiety, stress and sadness? Your life can be more fulfilling and hopeful.Are you a veteran and feel like there is no help for you? You can get rid of your emotional pain and lead a happy and pain-free life from past trauma and abuse.I can offer you hope by treating your depression and anxiety and counseling you on your trauma issues. It will change the way you feel about life, your relationships, and yourself.
(651) 504-3788 View (651) 504-3788
Photo of Denise Kautzer, MA, LPCC, Counselor in Minnesota
Denise Kautzer, MA, LPCC
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Shoreview, MN 55126  (Online Only)
I have experience addressing sexual abuse and trauma, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.
Is your life weighed down by sadness, stress or conflict? Have you lost interest in activities you used to enjoy or feel irritable and don't understand why? Are fatigue, feelings of worthlessness and difficulty concentrating your constant companions? Are you and your spouse or partner constantly arguing? Do you feel stuck and have lost hope of improvement? If you answered yes then it is time to consider that change is possible. In an environment that is caring, compassionate, supportive and respectful I will work with you to address those issues that are negatively impacting the quality of your life.
I have experience addressing sexual abuse and trauma, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.
Is your life weighed down by sadness, stress or conflict? Have you lost interest in activities you used to enjoy or feel irritable and don't understand why? Are fatigue, feelings of worthlessness and difficulty concentrating your constant companions? Are you and your spouse or partner constantly arguing? Do you feel stuck and have lost hope of improvement? If you answered yes then it is time to consider that change is possible. In an environment that is caring, compassionate, supportive and respectful I will work with you to address those issues that are negatively impacting the quality of your life.
(651) 829-6237 View (651) 829-6237
Photo of Sarah Rose Edwards, Psychologist in Minnesota
Sarah Rose Edwards
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moorhead, MN 56560  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma or verbal, emotional, physical or sexual abuse in their families or close relationships. Particularly when abuse happens earlier in life or over a long period, those suffering may develop various symptoms including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, self harm, substance use, and anger issues. I view symptoms as ways of coping that have helped you survive so far. We collaborate in therapy to help you find new ways to relate to yourself and others, and create a more meaningful and satisfying life, however that might look for you.
I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma or verbal, emotional, physical or sexual abuse in their families or close relationships. Particularly when abuse happens earlier in life or over a long period, those suffering may develop various symptoms including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, self harm, substance use, and anger issues. I view symptoms as ways of coping that have helped you survive so far. We collaborate in therapy to help you find new ways to relate to yourself and others, and create a more meaningful and satisfying life, however that might look for you.
(701) 380-5916 View (701) 380-5916
Photo of Kelly Ann Street, Counselor in Minnesota
Kelly Ann Street
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Northfield, MN 55057
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on clients navigating a difficult time in their lives, whether that is infertility, infidelity, divorce, or realizing that they have a history of spiritual trauma or sexual abuse to heal from. I have a particular affinity for people who are navigating a Dark Night of the Soul, sometimes thought of as an existential crisis. My ideal client is looking to heal and move through difficult times by exploring deeply into their issues, challenges, and traumas.
I focus on clients navigating a difficult time in their lives, whether that is infertility, infidelity, divorce, or realizing that they have a history of spiritual trauma or sexual abuse to heal from. I have a particular affinity for people who are navigating a Dark Night of the Soul, sometimes thought of as an existential crisis. My ideal client is looking to heal and move through difficult times by exploring deeply into their issues, challenges, and traumas.
(507) 629-1594 View (507) 629-1594
Photo of Claudia Petcu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Claudia Petcu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPsy, LGSW
Verified Verified
Little Falls, MN 56345
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
(612) 712-5203 View (612) 712-5203
Photo of Amber Manders, Counselor in Minnesota
Amber Manders
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Golden Valley, MN 55422
Amber has experience working with trauma, anxiety, anger, communication, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, and is LGBT allied.
Currently not accepting any new client............The hardest journey is the journey inwards. Amber has a passion for supporting individuals and families who have experienced trauma. She strives to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable space where her clients can share openly and make progress.
Amber has experience working with trauma, anxiety, anger, communication, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, and is LGBT allied.
Currently not accepting any new client............The hardest journey is the journey inwards. Amber has a passion for supporting individuals and families who have experienced trauma. She strives to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable space where her clients can share openly and make progress.
(612) 520-7442 x125 View (612) 520-7442 x125
Photo of Molly L Nicholson, Counselor in Minnesota
Molly L Nicholson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
(612) 204-2823 View (612) 204-2823
Photo of Andrea D Shellen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Andrea D Shellen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Prior Lake, MN 55372  (Online Only)
Areas of focus in my work have been domestic violence, sexual assault, relationship/family problems, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, traumas, loss, parenting styles and many others.
What exactly IS trauma? Trauma is any experience that the person deems negative and continues to live in the shadow of the event(s). If you feel trapped, like the trauma is following you, within you, or pops up at random, I can help. I love helping people to get "unstuck," so that they are no longer being controlled by their past traumas. I offer two life-changing therapies, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). These therapies help clients transform themselves from symptomatic to symptom-free, giving people a sense of peace, safety and the freedom to truly live life.
Areas of focus in my work have been domestic violence, sexual assault, relationship/family problems, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, traumas, loss, parenting styles and many others.
What exactly IS trauma? Trauma is any experience that the person deems negative and continues to live in the shadow of the event(s). If you feel trapped, like the trauma is following you, within you, or pops up at random, I can help. I love helping people to get "unstuck," so that they are no longer being controlled by their past traumas. I offer two life-changing therapies, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). These therapies help clients transform themselves from symptomatic to symptom-free, giving people a sense of peace, safety and the freedom to truly live life.
(952) 260-8927 View (952) 260-8927
Photo of Tracy R Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Tracy R Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Social trauma (weightism, sexism and gender bias, sexual assault, and racism) contribute to experiences such as negative body image, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD and depression.
I am a white, ciswoman, eager to work with adults interested in integrating Somatic Experiencing work into psychotherapy, a body based trauma therapy. If you recognize that your personal struggles are connected to the pervasive impact of the social, political, structural and power dynamics in which we live, working on that connection can be powerful. Embodied psychotherapy can be helful if you are feeling stuck and flat, or anxious and feel like you can't turn off, or if you flip back and forth between anxious and despairing. I hope to support your natural resilience so you can move through the stressors of life with more ease.
Social trauma (weightism, sexism and gender bias, sexual assault, and racism) contribute to experiences such as negative body image, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD and depression.
I am a white, ciswoman, eager to work with adults interested in integrating Somatic Experiencing work into psychotherapy, a body based trauma therapy. If you recognize that your personal struggles are connected to the pervasive impact of the social, political, structural and power dynamics in which we live, working on that connection can be powerful. Embodied psychotherapy can be helful if you are feeling stuck and flat, or anxious and feel like you can't turn off, or if you flip back and forth between anxious and despairing. I hope to support your natural resilience so you can move through the stressors of life with more ease.
(612) 324-1392 View (612) 324-1392
Photo of Maylee Chang, Counselor in Minnesota
Maylee Chang
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Maylee Chang. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who graduated from Wheaton College Graduate School. My personal and professional experience have provided me the experience to effectively work with adolescents, adults, and families with varied needs from all ethnicities. My areas of expertise include working with trauma from physical/sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, family issues, grief, immigration, war experiences; and shifts in family structure related to divorce, remarriage, child protection involvement, foster care, adoption, life transitions, acculturation, and identity formation.
Hello, I am Maylee Chang. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who graduated from Wheaton College Graduate School. My personal and professional experience have provided me the experience to effectively work with adolescents, adults, and families with varied needs from all ethnicities. My areas of expertise include working with trauma from physical/sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, family issues, grief, immigration, war experiences; and shifts in family structure related to divorce, remarriage, child protection involvement, foster care, adoption, life transitions, acculturation, and identity formation.
(651) 321-9632 View (651) 321-9632
Photo of Michele Laney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Michele Laney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I have worked for several years with individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents on many different presenting issues. I work collaboratively with people to identify strengths within themselves to address their life challenges. I work with many parents regarding parenting concerns, balancing marriage and kids, and trying to find themselves again after having children. I work with couples to re-start their relationship after many years of unspoken distance. My practice is broad-based; I have experience with a range of issues such as marital strife, blended families, substance abuse, mental illness, depression, grief, anxiety, sexual abuse, and loss.
I have worked for several years with individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents on many different presenting issues. I work collaboratively with people to identify strengths within themselves to address their life challenges. I work with many parents regarding parenting concerns, balancing marriage and kids, and trying to find themselves again after having children. I work with couples to re-start their relationship after many years of unspoken distance. My practice is broad-based; I have experience with a range of issues such as marital strife, blended families, substance abuse, mental illness, depression, grief, anxiety, sexual abuse, and loss.
(612) 419-8461 View (612) 419-8461
Photo of Rebecca Hoffman PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Rebecca Hoffman PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, EMDR and TF-CBT trained. I specialize in working with children ages 5 and up, and adults dealing with complex trauma/ PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, sexual abuse, sexual addiction.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, EMDR and TF-CBT trained. I specialize in working with children ages 5 and up, and adults dealing with complex trauma/ PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, sexual abuse, sexual addiction.
(320) 616-0481 View (320) 616-0481
Photo of Susan Ann Gustafson, Psychologist in Minnesota
Susan Ann Gustafson
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, eating disorders, ASD, ADHD, PTSD, gender identity disorder, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic pain, grief, sexual abuse and other trauma.
My commitment is to help you make positive life changes. There are times when we are faced with obstacles and difficulties that interfere with growth and development, preventing us from achieving goals and aspirations, and diminishing our happiness and wellbeing. Psychotherapy provides a safe, nonjudgmental setting to discover solutions to challenges. With the powerful tools of communication and insight, I will help you identify counterproductive patterns and habits preventing you from living an optimal life. Together we will recognize and build upon your strengths and skills, develop new resources and strategies, and discover beneficial, healing ways of approaching your life.
I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, eating disorders, ASD, ADHD, PTSD, gender identity disorder, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic pain, grief, sexual abuse and other trauma.
My commitment is to help you make positive life changes. There are times when we are faced with obstacles and difficulties that interfere with growth and development, preventing us from achieving goals and aspirations, and diminishing our happiness and wellbeing. Psychotherapy provides a safe, nonjudgmental setting to discover solutions to challenges. With the powerful tools of communication and insight, I will help you identify counterproductive patterns and habits preventing you from living an optimal life. Together we will recognize and build upon your strengths and skills, develop new resources and strategies, and discover beneficial, healing ways of approaching your life.
(612) 223-6458 View (612) 223-6458
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.