Sexual Abuse Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Alison Moore Keene, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Alison Moore Keene
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27610
Waitlist for new clients
I am available to counsel children, adolescents, and adults and have experience and training in trauma, rape recovery/sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, transition/adjustment, anger management, and eating disorders.
"There is no greater journey than the one you take to discover all the mysteries that lie inside you." - Michelle Sandlin The journey towards healing starts with one courageous step. As a counselor, my goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can take those steps towards hope and increased clarity. My approach to counseling includes the whole person. I use sensorimotor experiencing and mindfulness in learning how to regulate the body and emotions, while exploring how thought patterns can be helpful or hurtful.
I am available to counsel children, adolescents, and adults and have experience and training in trauma, rape recovery/sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, transition/adjustment, anger management, and eating disorders.
"There is no greater journey than the one you take to discover all the mysteries that lie inside you." - Michelle Sandlin The journey towards healing starts with one courageous step. As a counselor, my goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can take those steps towards hope and increased clarity. My approach to counseling includes the whole person. I use sensorimotor experiencing and mindfulness in learning how to regulate the body and emotions, while exploring how thought patterns can be helpful or hurtful.
(910) 370-8977 View (910) 370-8977
Photo of Summer Parkins Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Summer Parkins Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! As a therapist, I strive to support young adults (18-35) who are working toward recovery from trauma. I work with clients who have experienced a variety of traumas including sexual assault, accidents, interpersonal violence, arrests/incarceration, abuse and neglect in childhood, etc. Common goals in my work are eliminating unhelpful thinking, eradicating feelings of guilt and shame, enhancing future safety, increasing self-esteem, and improving self-advocacy skills. Additionally, I encourage my clients to work with me to create goals specific to their needs and circumstances.
Accepting new clients! As a therapist, I strive to support young adults (18-35) who are working toward recovery from trauma. I work with clients who have experienced a variety of traumas including sexual assault, accidents, interpersonal violence, arrests/incarceration, abuse and neglect in childhood, etc. Common goals in my work are eliminating unhelpful thinking, eradicating feelings of guilt and shame, enhancing future safety, increasing self-esteem, and improving self-advocacy skills. Additionally, I encourage my clients to work with me to create goals specific to their needs and circumstances.
(919) 396-5021 View (919) 396-5021
Photo of Mallory Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Mallory Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Reaching out is a hard step - and should be commended! I specialize in working with individuals (children 6+, young adults, and adults) who are experiencing struggles related to trauma histories, with a specialty in sexual assault/violence and child abuse; anxiety, general life stressors, perinatal/postpartum/birth trauma, self-esteem/self-compassion, self-harm, coping, and boundary setting.
Reaching out is a hard step - and should be commended! I specialize in working with individuals (children 6+, young adults, and adults) who are experiencing struggles related to trauma histories, with a specialty in sexual assault/violence and child abuse; anxiety, general life stressors, perinatal/postpartum/birth trauma, self-esteem/self-compassion, self-harm, coping, and boundary setting.
(919) 897-7099 View (919) 897-7099
Photo of Lawrence Ellsworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Lawrence Ellsworth, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610
I earned a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BS in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. I have significant experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults and families dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. I was a clinician and program supervisor at Wake County Mental Health/Human Services where I developed and managed an innovative treatment program for children and families dealing with sexual abuse. I also provide clinical supervision, consultation and mental health trainings around North Carolina through the Area Health Education Centers (AHEC).
I earned a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BS in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. I have significant experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults and families dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. I was a clinician and program supervisor at Wake County Mental Health/Human Services where I developed and managed an innovative treatment program for children and families dealing with sexual abuse. I also provide clinical supervision, consultation and mental health trainings around North Carolina through the Area Health Education Centers (AHEC).
(919) 883-4240 View (919) 883-4240
Photo of Sharon Lynn Sheppard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Sharon Lynn Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
I specialize in clients with a history of childhood sexual abuse.
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
I specialize in clients with a history of childhood sexual abuse.
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
(919) 373-3355 View (919) 373-3355
Photo of Judy Holland, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Judy Holland
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, EMDR, AAI, Flash
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604  (Online Only)
I believe that each person is unique and I am flexible in my approach to each client's needs. I specialize in trauma and trauma related disorders. This includes PTSD, crisis, anxiety, grief, loss, child sexual abuse, low self-esteem, low self-worth, and other trauma related symptoms. I especially enjoy working with emergency service workers who are exposed to repeated trauma in their jobs, however I do not limit my practice to those workers. It can be hard to admit needing help, but sometimes we do. Call for help today and get the help you deserve from a caring compassionate counselor.
I believe that each person is unique and I am flexible in my approach to each client's needs. I specialize in trauma and trauma related disorders. This includes PTSD, crisis, anxiety, grief, loss, child sexual abuse, low self-esteem, low self-worth, and other trauma related symptoms. I especially enjoy working with emergency service workers who are exposed to repeated trauma in their jobs, however I do not limit my practice to those workers. It can be hard to admit needing help, but sometimes we do. Call for help today and get the help you deserve from a caring compassionate counselor.
(919) 583-6282 View (919) 583-6282
Photo of Wendy Lehnertz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Wendy Lehnertz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe it's not only important but essential for individuals and couples to have a safe, non-judgemental space to share and work through problems. I have nearly twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe it's not only important but essential for individuals and couples to have a safe, non-judgemental space to share and work through problems. I have nearly twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
(919) 343-9011 View (919) 343-9011
Photo of Bianca Mason, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Bianca Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating adults that have endured trauma, treatment for PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, anxiety, life stressors, self-esteem, depression, boundaries and other issues. In addition, I have experience working with survivors of sexual assault, human trafficking and complex childhood trauma. I believe in meeting people where they are in a non-judgmental, positive, open minded, relational approach. Therapy is not a "one size fits all" experience and each person's process is unique. My goal is to partner with clients to create a process that meets the client's needs and goals for fulfilling lives.
I specialize in treating adults that have endured trauma, treatment for PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, anxiety, life stressors, self-esteem, depression, boundaries and other issues. In addition, I have experience working with survivors of sexual assault, human trafficking and complex childhood trauma. I believe in meeting people where they are in a non-judgmental, positive, open minded, relational approach. Therapy is not a "one size fits all" experience and each person's process is unique. My goal is to partner with clients to create a process that meets the client's needs and goals for fulfilling lives.
(919) 372-0420 View (919) 372-0420
Photo of Heidi Yvette Herring, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Heidi Yvette Herring
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Some of the areas I focus on in treatment include anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, trauma, sexual abuse, childhood abuse/neglect issues, relationship dysfunction, ADHD, childhood/adolescent behavior issues, substance abuse (alcohol/drugs), and various issues with people with disabilities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist who has been in practice for over fifteen years. I have experience as a special education teacher and public-school administrator. I have a wealth of experience providing progressive therapeutic strategies and interventions to change personal and/or family situations, solve problems, and/or simply bring a healthier balance to individuals’ lives. Being a single parent and working mom, I understand, firsthand, the joys and struggles of living in this society and parenting children today.
Some of the areas I focus on in treatment include anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, trauma, sexual abuse, childhood abuse/neglect issues, relationship dysfunction, ADHD, childhood/adolescent behavior issues, substance abuse (alcohol/drugs), and various issues with people with disabilities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist who has been in practice for over fifteen years. I have experience as a special education teacher and public-school administrator. I have a wealth of experience providing progressive therapeutic strategies and interventions to change personal and/or family situations, solve problems, and/or simply bring a healthier balance to individuals’ lives. Being a single parent and working mom, I understand, firsthand, the joys and struggles of living in this society and parenting children today.
(919) 642-4935 View (919) 642-4935
Photo of Inner Strength Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Inner Strength Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel overwhelmed with life and the pressures of day to day responsibilities? Sometimes these feelings can be related to stressors that are currently happening or related to past traumas. I empower people to overcome the challenges of day to day life as well as overcoming the toll and burden of carrying the weight of the past. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but you're making the right choice. I specialize in working with trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed with life and the pressures of day to day responsibilities? Sometimes these feelings can be related to stressors that are currently happening or related to past traumas. I empower people to overcome the challenges of day to day life as well as overcoming the toll and burden of carrying the weight of the past. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but you're making the right choice. I specialize in working with trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
(803) 836-8607 View (803) 836-8607
Photo of Caitlin Eckert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Caitlin Eckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with survivors of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
Working with a therapist should feel safe, and that is one of my top priorities. Some of my clients have had therapists before, and others are brand new to therapy. My ideal client comes with a desire to free themselves from pain and move toward a better sense of self in the process. Many of my clients are working through previous trauma (childhood and adult), have experienced loss, and many belong to a marginalized community. Some of my clients benefit from long-term therapy, while others engage in brief therapy to help get back on track to a better quality of life.
My specialties include working with survivors of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
Working with a therapist should feel safe, and that is one of my top priorities. Some of my clients have had therapists before, and others are brand new to therapy. My ideal client comes with a desire to free themselves from pain and move toward a better sense of self in the process. Many of my clients are working through previous trauma (childhood and adult), have experienced loss, and many belong to a marginalized community. Some of my clients benefit from long-term therapy, while others engage in brief therapy to help get back on track to a better quality of life.
(984) 464-4597 View (984) 464-4597
Photo of Paige Tharrington, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Paige Tharrington
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
My specialties include women's issues (spousal/partner abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault), survivors of childhood sexual abuse/incest, EMDR, relationship issues, life transitions, depression and anxiety.
I believe that the client/counselor relationship is crucial - especially elements such as mutual respect, cooperation and confidentiality. We will work together to better understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, while empowering you to think about and communicate more clearly your wants, needs and expectations. I offer both long and short-term therapy to adult individuals using a confidential, practical, positive approach.
My specialties include women's issues (spousal/partner abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault), survivors of childhood sexual abuse/incest, EMDR, relationship issues, life transitions, depression and anxiety.
I believe that the client/counselor relationship is crucial - especially elements such as mutual respect, cooperation and confidentiality. We will work together to better understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, while empowering you to think about and communicate more clearly your wants, needs and expectations. I offer both long and short-term therapy to adult individuals using a confidential, practical, positive approach.
(919) 407-8052 View (919) 407-8052
Photo of Alison Sappie, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Alison Sappie
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
She has a passion for working with clients on personal growth, body image, sexual assault trauma, college counseling, anxiety and depression, life and career transitions, and incorporating social justice into her work.
Dr. Alison Sappie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with a doctorate in counseling and counselor education from North Carolina State University. During her education and counseling experience she has served a diverse range of clients in both community mental health and university settings.
She has a passion for working with clients on personal growth, body image, sexual assault trauma, college counseling, anxiety and depression, life and career transitions, and incorporating social justice into her work.
Dr. Alison Sappie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with a doctorate in counseling and counselor education from North Carolina State University. During her education and counseling experience she has served a diverse range of clients in both community mental health and university settings.
(919) 823-5493 View (919) 823-5493
Photo of Annette Sheppard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Annette Sheppard
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
My background includes working with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, individuals on death row or facing the death penalty at trial, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life events, and/or relationship issues. I am passionate about understanding and healing the client's identified needs. As a therapist, I am both proactively engaged and practical while being sensitive and compassionate. I love helping people create a better, happier life for themselves. Additionally, I work with issues relevant to the LGBTQ+ community, their families, friends, and allies. My other areas of focus include individuals with trauma histories, loss and grief, stress management, and identity development.
My background includes working with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, individuals on death row or facing the death penalty at trial, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life events, and/or relationship issues. I am passionate about understanding and healing the client's identified needs. As a therapist, I am both proactively engaged and practical while being sensitive and compassionate. I love helping people create a better, happier life for themselves. Additionally, I work with issues relevant to the LGBTQ+ community, their families, friends, and allies. My other areas of focus include individuals with trauma histories, loss and grief, stress management, and identity development.
(919) 813-7718 View (919) 813-7718
Photo of Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC in Raleigh, NC
Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
(919) 587-8394 View (919) 587-8394
Photo of Juan Prandoni, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Juan Prandoni
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I am trained as a Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapist and worked under a fully adherent DBT team during my predoctoral internship, I have specialized capacity for treating trauma across the lifespan, with training in Prolonged Exposure for simple and complex trauma as well as Game-Based Cognitive Behaioral Therapy for childhood sexual abuse.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and their families in a culturally responsive manner. This means that I use the knowledge I have gained as a psychologist and cultural researcher, as well as my experiences as an immigrant. While my approach to therapy incorporates a larger understanding of systems and social justice, I take the time to get to know my clients as individuals. I seek to empower my clients to harness their inner strengths and passions to live life according to their values. Please contact me via email if you would like to schedule an initial free 30-min consult.
I am trained as a Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapist and worked under a fully adherent DBT team during my predoctoral internship, I have specialized capacity for treating trauma across the lifespan, with training in Prolonged Exposure for simple and complex trauma as well as Game-Based Cognitive Behaioral Therapy for childhood sexual abuse.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and their families in a culturally responsive manner. This means that I use the knowledge I have gained as a psychologist and cultural researcher, as well as my experiences as an immigrant. While my approach to therapy incorporates a larger understanding of systems and social justice, I take the time to get to know my clients as individuals. I seek to empower my clients to harness their inner strengths and passions to live life according to their values. Please contact me via email if you would like to schedule an initial free 30-min consult.
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Photo of Elizabeth Nicholaides, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Elizabeth Nicholaides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
She counsels clients of all ages, specializing in those struggling with the following areas of specialty: Multiculturalism, Addiction/Substance abuse, Life and Family Transitions, Mental Health, Trauma and PTSD, Sex and Sexuality including Sexual Abuse, Midlife and Aging, and Grief.
Elizabeth is an experienced clinician committed to empowering people to understand and experience their lives in a more satisfying way. She supports clients through a combined practical, cultural, spiritual and narrative approach. She strives to help people find meaning in their lives and increase the congruence between their value systems, behaviors, and life contexts.
She counsels clients of all ages, specializing in those struggling with the following areas of specialty: Multiculturalism, Addiction/Substance abuse, Life and Family Transitions, Mental Health, Trauma and PTSD, Sex and Sexuality including Sexual Abuse, Midlife and Aging, and Grief.
Elizabeth is an experienced clinician committed to empowering people to understand and experience their lives in a more satisfying way. She supports clients through a combined practical, cultural, spiritual and narrative approach. She strives to help people find meaning in their lives and increase the congruence between their value systems, behaviors, and life contexts.
(919) 516-9084 View (919) 516-9084
Photo of Miriam Gold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Miriam Gold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
Treating children and adolescents; Neglect/Sexual Abuse/Physical abuse, Community/War/Political Violence, Natural Disasters, Life Threatening Medical illness, Serious Accidents, School Violence, Traumatic Loss, Foster Care and Adoption, Attachment Concerns.
I will help you understand and overcome barriers and challenges as we foster opportunities for options and possibilities. I look forward to working with you through an interactive and dynamic partnership driven by your needs and dreams, motivation, commitment, strengths, and goals. I provide a supportive, caring, non-judgmental, responsive approach to a therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration. I have over 25 years experience empowering people in the development, utilization, and enhancement of coping skills long after completion of therapeutic services. Therapy is tailored to each client or family's unique needs, goals, and strengths. Saturday and evening availability.
Treating children and adolescents; Neglect/Sexual Abuse/Physical abuse, Community/War/Political Violence, Natural Disasters, Life Threatening Medical illness, Serious Accidents, School Violence, Traumatic Loss, Foster Care and Adoption, Attachment Concerns.
I will help you understand and overcome barriers and challenges as we foster opportunities for options and possibilities. I look forward to working with you through an interactive and dynamic partnership driven by your needs and dreams, motivation, commitment, strengths, and goals. I provide a supportive, caring, non-judgmental, responsive approach to a therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration. I have over 25 years experience empowering people in the development, utilization, and enhancement of coping skills long after completion of therapeutic services. Therapy is tailored to each client or family's unique needs, goals, and strengths. Saturday and evening availability.
(919) 289-8171 View (919) 289-8171
Photo of Abby Carlquist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Abby Carlquist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: Symptoms often emerge as adaptive mechanisms and solutions to address events and emotions. This is particularly applicable to survivors of trauma, encompassing physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as other experiences involving loss and grief. These symptoms can shift from being solutions to becoming the very problems clients aim to address in therapy in pursuit of relief. In addition to imparting new coping strategies designed to alleviate these symptoms, when applicable, clients are also supported in addressing the underlying issues that gave rise to the development of these symptoms.
Accepting New Clients: Symptoms often emerge as adaptive mechanisms and solutions to address events and emotions. This is particularly applicable to survivors of trauma, encompassing physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as other experiences involving loss and grief. These symptoms can shift from being solutions to becoming the very problems clients aim to address in therapy in pursuit of relief. In addition to imparting new coping strategies designed to alleviate these symptoms, when applicable, clients are also supported in addressing the underlying issues that gave rise to the development of these symptoms.
(984) 254-3713 View (984) 254-3713
Photo of Sanne Henninger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Sanne Henninger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Dr. Sanne Henninger is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults, families, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Sanne specializes in anxiety, depression, OCD, family dynamics, childhood sexual abuse, grief/trauma, childhood abuse, self-esteem, career issues, coping skills, workplace stress management, healthcare staff and physician stress, divorce, relationships, and leadership.
Dr. Sanne Henninger is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults, families, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Sanne specializes in anxiety, depression, OCD, family dynamics, childhood sexual abuse, grief/trauma, childhood abuse, self-esteem, career issues, coping skills, workplace stress management, healthcare staff and physician stress, divorce, relationships, and leadership.
(984) 333-5380 View (984) 333-5380
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.