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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Dr. Sally I Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Dr. Sally I Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Hello, I'm Dr. Sally Beck, a faith-based therapist offering hope to Couples who are suffering loss of connection to those they love. Couples can again regain trust and regain trust and intimacy through renewed connection. FaithWorks specializes in trauma and abuse; trained in EMDR, a helpful tool in lessening anxiety due to PTSD. Play therapy and EMDR are effecive techniques addressing anxiety in children suffering from divorce, sexual abuse, or attachment. In fact, play therapy is such a valuable tool in assisting children in their healing that we have four rooms dedicated to play therapy in Anchor Counseling Clinic in Jordan, MN.
Hello, I'm Dr. Sally Beck, a faith-based therapist offering hope to Couples who are suffering loss of connection to those they love. Couples can again regain trust and regain trust and intimacy through renewed connection. FaithWorks specializes in trauma and abuse; trained in EMDR, a helpful tool in lessening anxiety due to PTSD. Play therapy and EMDR are effecive techniques addressing anxiety in children suffering from divorce, sexual abuse, or attachment. In fact, play therapy is such a valuable tool in assisting children in their healing that we have four rooms dedicated to play therapy in Anchor Counseling Clinic in Jordan, MN.
(952) 373-6695 View (952) 373-6695
Photo of Ruth Brooke Markowitz, Psychologist in Minnesota
Ruth Brooke Markowitz
Psychologist, MALP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I specialize in sexual healing from the sexual repercussions of sexual abuse including desire, arousal, orgasm and compulsive sexual issues.
I enjoy working with adults of all sexual orientations who want to heal sexually and intimately.I love working with couples as well as individuals. People who are creative and artistic and enjoy using a variety of therapeutic modalities to heal find me helpful. Anxious, traumatized avoidant, ,depressed and grief stricken people find me to be direct, warm,honest and a good listener. I am integrative in my approach and also believe in homework, practice and mindfulness practice. I believe I am a good fit with people who describe themselves as a bit out of the box.
I specialize in sexual healing from the sexual repercussions of sexual abuse including desire, arousal, orgasm and compulsive sexual issues.
I enjoy working with adults of all sexual orientations who want to heal sexually and intimately.I love working with couples as well as individuals. People who are creative and artistic and enjoy using a variety of therapeutic modalities to heal find me helpful. Anxious, traumatized avoidant, ,depressed and grief stricken people find me to be direct, warm,honest and a good listener. I am integrative in my approach and also believe in homework, practice and mindfulness practice. I believe I am a good fit with people who describe themselves as a bit out of the box.
(651) 401-8063 View (651) 401-8063
Photo of Jac Stringer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Jac Stringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
I am a trans-genderqueer femme, disabled radical activist & social worker. I practice trauma-focused feminist therapy exclusively for trans youth & young adults ages 13-25. I provide healthcare letters for all ages, youth and adults, in one 30 min session. My specialties surround gender & sexuality, & trauma survivors experiencing depression, bipolar, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, disability, chronic pain, multiples/alters, dissociation, sexual assault, & histories with abuse & violence. I am body, sex, & kink positive, poly-inclusive, value accountability, & recognize the intersectional impact of systematic oppression.
I am a trans-genderqueer femme, disabled radical activist & social worker. I practice trauma-focused feminist therapy exclusively for trans youth & young adults ages 13-25. I provide healthcare letters for all ages, youth and adults, in one 30 min session. My specialties surround gender & sexuality, & trauma survivors experiencing depression, bipolar, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, disability, chronic pain, multiples/alters, dissociation, sexual assault, & histories with abuse & violence. I am body, sex, & kink positive, poly-inclusive, value accountability, & recognize the intersectional impact of systematic oppression.
(612) 439-2225 View (612) 439-2225
Photo of Katelyn Connolly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Katelyn Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Branch, MN 55056  (Online Only)
The areas that I tend to see most frequently are anxiety, depression, and PTSD/Trauma including with survivors of sexual assault and military personnel working through these obstacles at the client's pace.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker offering services to individuals who are adolescents (ages 13+) and adults. I utilize various therapy models and treatment techniques tailored to the patients I meet with. Every person is different including their goals and motivations my focus is to build a plan together with them to approach the problem in a manner that is as unique as they are. Working in various settings including with with individuals involved in the legal system and the hospital allows me a unique insight to bring to the table.
The areas that I tend to see most frequently are anxiety, depression, and PTSD/Trauma including with survivors of sexual assault and military personnel working through these obstacles at the client's pace.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker offering services to individuals who are adolescents (ages 13+) and adults. I utilize various therapy models and treatment techniques tailored to the patients I meet with. Every person is different including their goals and motivations my focus is to build a plan together with them to approach the problem in a manner that is as unique as they are. Working in various settings including with with individuals involved in the legal system and the hospital allows me a unique insight to bring to the table.
(507) 203-2836 View (507) 203-2836
Photo of Love the Journey Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Love the Journey Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051
Located in Hinckley and Mora. We help with anxiety, behavioral concerns, children issues, communication skills, depression, parenting issues, physical abuse, sexual abuse, stress management, transitions, & trauma. What to expect: We start everyone the same, which means, we gather a lot of back ground information, this includes current issues and history information, based on the information provided we make a diagnostic assessment, and together we will make a plan to help you achieve your personal and professional goals, all in a manner that feels safe to express thoughts and feelings. Therapy is a dual effort; it takes both of us.
Located in Hinckley and Mora. We help with anxiety, behavioral concerns, children issues, communication skills, depression, parenting issues, physical abuse, sexual abuse, stress management, transitions, & trauma. What to expect: We start everyone the same, which means, we gather a lot of back ground information, this includes current issues and history information, based on the information provided we make a diagnostic assessment, and together we will make a plan to help you achieve your personal and professional goals, all in a manner that feels safe to express thoughts and feelings. Therapy is a dual effort; it takes both of us.
(320) 313-1241 View (320) 313-1241
Marsha Molinari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305
I am trained to help those with a variety of life problems including; depression, anxiety, grief, loss and separation, self-esteem issues, family, parenting and/or relationship issues, physical and sexual abuse, anger management and substance use issues.
By combining a back-ground in nursing, psychology and social work, my goal is to help individuals achieve a greater sense of physical, emotional and spiritual well being. I provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals and couples who want to explore issues that may be contributing to their feelings of being stuck or dissatisfied with their way of being. I view the therapy process as a joint venture between myself and the client. I believe that every individual has the capacity to answer their own questions by drawing from their own inner wisdom.
I am trained to help those with a variety of life problems including; depression, anxiety, grief, loss and separation, self-esteem issues, family, parenting and/or relationship issues, physical and sexual abuse, anger management and substance use issues.
By combining a back-ground in nursing, psychology and social work, my goal is to help individuals achieve a greater sense of physical, emotional and spiritual well being. I provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals and couples who want to explore issues that may be contributing to their feelings of being stuck or dissatisfied with their way of being. I view the therapy process as a joint venture between myself and the client. I believe that every individual has the capacity to answer their own questions by drawing from their own inner wisdom.
(952) 314-3943 View (952) 314-3943
Photo of Eric E Strom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Eric E Strom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55343
I am focused on helping clients who are at a point in their life where they want and need a change. We will work together to help you identify what the underlying issues are, and how to best address them so that you can continue with life in the best way possible. I have experience working with clients who have suffered a life changing traumatic event such as combat, sexual abuse, physical abuse, sexual assault, and other traumatic events. Together, we can help you heal from these events in your life. They are a part of you, but do not need to define you.
I am focused on helping clients who are at a point in their life where they want and need a change. We will work together to help you identify what the underlying issues are, and how to best address them so that you can continue with life in the best way possible. I have experience working with clients who have suffered a life changing traumatic event such as combat, sexual abuse, physical abuse, sexual assault, and other traumatic events. Together, we can help you heal from these events in your life. They are a part of you, but do not need to define you.
(612) 230-5228 x702 View (612) 230-5228 x702
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
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.