Photo of Lisa Merz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Lisa Merz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
Beginning therapy can be a vulnerable time for someone. Therapy provides a safe space to work on healing, increase feelings of hope and gain support. I provide therapy to children, teens and adults who are experiencing stress, life transitions/changes or who have experienced trauma. I have experience in working in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, divorce, abuse, neglect, domestic violence, sexual abuse and adoption. I also enjoy working with women on relationships, stress and fertility struggles.
Beginning therapy can be a vulnerable time for someone. Therapy provides a safe space to work on healing, increase feelings of hope and gain support. I provide therapy to children, teens and adults who are experiencing stress, life transitions/changes or who have experienced trauma. I have experience in working in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, divorce, abuse, neglect, domestic violence, sexual abuse and adoption. I also enjoy working with women on relationships, stress and fertility struggles.
(531) 233-3176 View (531) 233-3176
Photo of Brenda Berenis Jewell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Omaha, NE
Brenda Berenis Jewell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
Hello! My name is Brenda Jewell and I am originally from South Texas but have made Nebraska my home for the past 18 years. I am bilingual in Spanish. I have experience in working with families that have endured a trauma through sexual abuse, physical and domestic abuse, neglect as well as families that are involved in foster care. Working with children and their families has been my calling for many years and my hope is to continue to be an advocate for families in this community
Hello! My name is Brenda Jewell and I am originally from South Texas but have made Nebraska my home for the past 18 years. I am bilingual in Spanish. I have experience in working with families that have endured a trauma through sexual abuse, physical and domestic abuse, neglect as well as families that are involved in foster care. Working with children and their families has been my calling for many years and my hope is to continue to be an advocate for families in this community
(531) 233-3109 View (531) 233-3109
Photo of Linda Degner, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Linda Degner
Counselor, LIMHP, CPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
My name is Linda Degner and I have lived in several different places across the US finally landing in Nebraska in 2014. I believe that inviting a therapist into your life takes courage and I take that honor very seriously. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization), PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Therapy), Theraplay, and TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy). I have significant experience working with victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, children in foster care, couples, and Christian Counseling.
My name is Linda Degner and I have lived in several different places across the US finally landing in Nebraska in 2014. I believe that inviting a therapist into your life takes courage and I take that honor very seriously. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization), PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Therapy), Theraplay, and TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy). I have significant experience working with victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, children in foster care, couples, and Christian Counseling.
(402) 347-7947 View (402) 347-7947
Photo of Nicki Daubenmier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Nicki Daubenmier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
I have more than 25 years of experience working with and advocating for children and families impacted by abuse and neglect, grief and loss, divorce, attachment difficulties, foster care and adoption, problematic sexual behaviors, sexual abuse, domestic violence and trauma. Children and caregivers express their reactions in a variety of ways. Their reactions may be expressed through their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical symptoms. I am focused on utilizing effective treatment practices to provide healing and hope to children and families impacted by a variety of mental health needs and challenges.
I have more than 25 years of experience working with and advocating for children and families impacted by abuse and neglect, grief and loss, divorce, attachment difficulties, foster care and adoption, problematic sexual behaviors, sexual abuse, domestic violence and trauma. Children and caregivers express their reactions in a variety of ways. Their reactions may be expressed through their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical symptoms. I am focused on utilizing effective treatment practices to provide healing and hope to children and families impacted by a variety of mental health needs and challenges.
(531) 233-5751 View (531) 233-5751
Photo of Elizabeth Ferzely, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Elizabeth Ferzely
Counselor, MS, LIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization reprocessing. I have also completed clinical-endorsed training for youth with problematic sexual behaviors and have experience working with youth and families impacted by sexual abuse and trauma. I am an adoption-competent provider.
I am trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization reprocessing. I have also completed clinical-endorsed training for youth with problematic sexual behaviors and have experience working with youth and families impacted by sexual abuse and trauma. I am an adoption-competent provider.
(402) 383-5091 View (402) 383-5091
Photo of Jenni Thomsen, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Jenni Thomsen
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals who were impacted by child sexual abuse or those who have experienced one or multiple trauma’s.
Our personal experiences are what form us into the person we are today. Naturally, because we are human, we tend to avoid thinking or talking about our painful experiences. Often, we need to acknowledge and address our pain to overcome it. My sole purpose is to help you reach your full potential, and to make you feel seen and heard.
I work with individuals who were impacted by child sexual abuse or those who have experienced one or multiple trauma’s.
Our personal experiences are what form us into the person we are today. Naturally, because we are human, we tend to avoid thinking or talking about our painful experiences. Often, we need to acknowledge and address our pain to overcome it. My sole purpose is to help you reach your full potential, and to make you feel seen and heard.
(531) 233-1002 View (531) 233-1002
Photo of Maddie Doerr, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Maddie Doerr
Counselor, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68132
I have extensive experience working with those diagnosed with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and those who have been impacted by sexual abuse(including male sexual offenders).
I believe that while many of us feel unwell, we can improve our outlook and many areas of our lives with enough support and encouragement. Trauma, stress, abuse, and pain have caused us to become overwhelmed and unable to deal with life as it comes. Utilizing a holistic wellness model, I can assist you in creating a new life, with beautiful new dreams that can finally become reality. Together, we can pinpoint the parts of life that have never seemed to go well, and create real life solutions for them by addressing and resolving the pain of loss, grief, and oppression that have hurt us over time.
I have extensive experience working with those diagnosed with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and those who have been impacted by sexual abuse(including male sexual offenders).
I believe that while many of us feel unwell, we can improve our outlook and many areas of our lives with enough support and encouragement. Trauma, stress, abuse, and pain have caused us to become overwhelmed and unable to deal with life as it comes. Utilizing a holistic wellness model, I can assist you in creating a new life, with beautiful new dreams that can finally become reality. Together, we can pinpoint the parts of life that have never seemed to go well, and create real life solutions for them by addressing and resolving the pain of loss, grief, and oppression that have hurt us over time.
(531) 229-0782 View (531) 229-0782
Photo of Paige Seier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Paige Seier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, CMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
I have success in helping clients who are struggling with a variety of issues including trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, and self esteem.
Taking the first step to start therapy can be overwhelming. I strive to help my clients feel understood and comfortable by creating a therapy environment where clients can feel empowered to make positive changes in their personal lives. Healing is possible, even after the most difficult experiences. The important thing to know is that you do not have to do it alone. My clinical experience includes helping adults in various settings which include outpatient mental health therapy, inpatient treatment centers, and shelter settings.
I have success in helping clients who are struggling with a variety of issues including trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, and self esteem.
Taking the first step to start therapy can be overwhelming. I strive to help my clients feel understood and comfortable by creating a therapy environment where clients can feel empowered to make positive changes in their personal lives. Healing is possible, even after the most difficult experiences. The important thing to know is that you do not have to do it alone. My clinical experience includes helping adults in various settings which include outpatient mental health therapy, inpatient treatment centers, and shelter settings.
(402) 243-6547 View (402) 243-6547
Photo of Jessica Martinez, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Jessica Martinez
Counselor, LIMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
Hi, my name is Jessica Martinez. I have nearly 10 years of experience working with teens and adult who have experienced crisis and varying forms of trauma to include sexual abuse, human sex trafficking, physical abuse/neglect, domestic violence, witnessing violent crimes, witnessing a death, as well as teens who have been involved with the foster care system and/or the juvenile justice system. I also have experience working with parents in providing support and education on trauma. I enjoy meeting with families and helping families understand, they are not alone.
Hi, my name is Jessica Martinez. I have nearly 10 years of experience working with teens and adult who have experienced crisis and varying forms of trauma to include sexual abuse, human sex trafficking, physical abuse/neglect, domestic violence, witnessing violent crimes, witnessing a death, as well as teens who have been involved with the foster care system and/or the juvenile justice system. I also have experience working with parents in providing support and education on trauma. I enjoy meeting with families and helping families understand, they are not alone.
(402) 389-3924 View (402) 389-3924
Photo of Cassie Augustine, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Cassie Augustine
Counselor, MS, PLHMP, NCC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I have experience working with PTSD, grief, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, mood disorders.
Life is hard, and asking for help can be even harder. I am here to walk alongside you in your healing journey. I am here to encourage you, allowing space to process anything on your mind. This is your time to find your voice and feel empowered in the journey to overcome any difficulties that come your way. I am here to equip you with the tools to help you navigate your daily life.
I have experience working with PTSD, grief, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, mood disorders.
Life is hard, and asking for help can be even harder. I am here to walk alongside you in your healing journey. I am here to encourage you, allowing space to process anything on your mind. This is your time to find your voice and feel empowered in the journey to overcome any difficulties that come your way. I am here to equip you with the tools to help you navigate your daily life.
(531) 331-2430 View (531) 331-2430
Photo of Michelle Book, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Michelle Book
Counselor, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
I have training in many evidence based practices: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, and specialized training in working with children/families affected by sexual abuse.
If you are going through a difficult life transition, struggling in relationships, feeling emotionally overwhelmed then you're in the right place. Admitting you need assistance is difficult, but is the first step to bettering your future. Therapy is investing in yourself and/or your family! It is my priority to gain a true understanding of each client's goals and difficulties as this will assist in growth and healing. I enjoy working with adolescents, families and adults. I strive to provide my clients with truth and hope. "The only way out is through." -Dr. Hildegard Messenbaugh,MD
I have training in many evidence based practices: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, and specialized training in working with children/families affected by sexual abuse.
If you are going through a difficult life transition, struggling in relationships, feeling emotionally overwhelmed then you're in the right place. Admitting you need assistance is difficult, but is the first step to bettering your future. Therapy is investing in yourself and/or your family! It is my priority to gain a true understanding of each client's goals and difficulties as this will assist in growth and healing. I enjoy working with adolescents, families and adults. I strive to provide my clients with truth and hope. "The only way out is through." -Dr. Hildegard Messenbaugh,MD
(531) 233-1307 View (531) 233-1307
Photo of Terri Essel, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Terri Essel
Counselor, MS, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68134
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages that are going through a crisis, mental illnesses, anger issues, family problems, going through grief, sexual abuse or trying to work through traumatic events in their lives.
My clients are treated like the individuals that they are with dignity and respect. I make sure my clients feel safe knowing that everything is confidential, and they are not judged for who they are and how they feel. Feelings and beliefs are important at any age.
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages that are going through a crisis, mental illnesses, anger issues, family problems, going through grief, sexual abuse or trying to work through traumatic events in their lives.
My clients are treated like the individuals that they are with dignity and respect. I make sure my clients feel safe knowing that everything is confidential, and they are not judged for who they are and how they feel. Feelings and beliefs are important at any age.
(402) 281-9504 View (402) 281-9504
Photo of Penny Cavender, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Penny Cavender
Counselor, MS, LMHP, LIMHP, NBCC, CPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68114
I work closely with Lutheran Family Services and their R SAFE group for sexual abuse victims.
I specialize working with children 12 and under. I am also a Certified Geriatric Counselor. I have spent many years working with trauma and crisis children using cognitive as well as play therapy skills. I am a Registered Play Therapist. I worked in Residential Treatment for three years and also worked for three years as the Social Services Coordinator for a nursing home.However I do work with adults as well. I do a parent training group to help parents have better relationshps with their children and help parents of Reactive Attachment Children to have more success with bonding and behaviors.
I work closely with Lutheran Family Services and their R SAFE group for sexual abuse victims.
I specialize working with children 12 and under. I am also a Certified Geriatric Counselor. I have spent many years working with trauma and crisis children using cognitive as well as play therapy skills. I am a Registered Play Therapist. I worked in Residential Treatment for three years and also worked for three years as the Social Services Coordinator for a nursing home.However I do work with adults as well. I do a parent training group to help parents have better relationshps with their children and help parents of Reactive Attachment Children to have more success with bonding and behaviors.
(402) 522-6923 View (402) 522-6923
Photo of John-Paul Witt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
John-Paul Witt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68122
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with people of all ages and people leaving & scared of relationships, survivors of sexual abuse, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Especially in difficult times, it can be hard to find sources of acceptance, affirmation, and healing. Often the people closest to us - family, classmates, and co-workers, don't accept us for who we are. Perhaps we are gifted and see the world differently, in a new relationship and scared of old mistakes, are living an alternative lifestyle, or are trying to better understand ourselves and our past. Whatever the reason, we also desire to be happy, whole, and loved - and especially to become something more than what we are. Trauma can hold us back no matter our age - creating negative habits and barriers to our success.
I have experience with people of all ages and people leaving & scared of relationships, survivors of sexual abuse, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Especially in difficult times, it can be hard to find sources of acceptance, affirmation, and healing. Often the people closest to us - family, classmates, and co-workers, don't accept us for who we are. Perhaps we are gifted and see the world differently, in a new relationship and scared of old mistakes, are living an alternative lifestyle, or are trying to better understand ourselves and our past. Whatever the reason, we also desire to be happy, whole, and loved - and especially to become something more than what we are. Trauma can hold us back no matter our age - creating negative habits and barriers to our success.
(531) 201-1965 View (531) 201-1965
Photo of Sarah E Abegglen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Omaha, NE
Sarah E Abegglen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LIMHP, MSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68130  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, domestic violence and abuse, sexual abuse, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Reaching out for help or just someone to talk to can be a difficult first step. I am glad you are here and considering therapy. I am a client-centered, gender affirming, non-judgmental, compassionate and empathetic person. My goal is to help you be and feel your best. My focus is on the relationship between the client and the therapist to make change. I believe when you cultivate a therapeutic relationship based on trust and honesty it allows the client to be vulnerable and make change.
I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, domestic violence and abuse, sexual abuse, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Reaching out for help or just someone to talk to can be a difficult first step. I am glad you are here and considering therapy. I am a client-centered, gender affirming, non-judgmental, compassionate and empathetic person. My goal is to help you be and feel your best. My focus is on the relationship between the client and the therapist to make change. I believe when you cultivate a therapeutic relationship based on trust and honesty it allows the client to be vulnerable and make change.
(308) 252-3836 View (308) 252-3836
Photo of Your Story Matters Therapy Group in Omaha, NE
Your Story Matters Therapy Group
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
Your Story Matters Therapy group offers therapy and mental health counseling services for children, adults and families in the Omaha Metro Area. Our main office is located in the Modern Work space at 88th and F Street. We also have a West Omaha office located near Boys Town and a Council Bluffs office located on the historic 100 Block. Our therapists and counselors expertly interweave evidence-based practices with each client’s unique background and experiences to chart the best journey toward healing. We are here to listen, guide, and empower. Let us help you start a new chapter.
Your Story Matters Therapy group offers therapy and mental health counseling services for children, adults and families in the Omaha Metro Area. Our main office is located in the Modern Work space at 88th and F Street. We also have a West Omaha office located near Boys Town and a Council Bluffs office located on the historic 100 Block. Our therapists and counselors expertly interweave evidence-based practices with each client’s unique background and experiences to chart the best journey toward healing. We are here to listen, guide, and empower. Let us help you start a new chapter.
(402) 915-2431 View (402) 915-2431
Photo of Megan Donovan, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Megan Donovan
Counselor, LIMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68124
Taking the first step to start therapy is really intimidating. I am here to guide you through that process and create a space for you that promotes healing. I am a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner and I believe that therapy should be a collaboration, between therapist and client, working together to create changes in your life so you can feel fulfilled and centered again. Starting this journey is not easy but once you do, you will feel hope and potential to make your life yours again. I have experience will all walks of life and offer a safe space for everyone searching for help.
Taking the first step to start therapy is really intimidating. I am here to guide you through that process and create a space for you that promotes healing. I am a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner and I believe that therapy should be a collaboration, between therapist and client, working together to create changes in your life so you can feel fulfilled and centered again. Starting this journey is not easy but once you do, you will feel hope and potential to make your life yours again. I have experience will all walks of life and offer a safe space for everyone searching for help.
(402) 703-2853 View (402) 703-2853
Photo of Saira Bhatti, Provisional Master Social Worker in Omaha, NE
Saira Bhatti
Provisional Master Social Worker, PLMHP, PMSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68134
I have 8 years of experience within this field. I believe that my job as a therapist is to walk you through your journey in a partnership with clients as they find their true happiness from resolving and healing from past pain. Engaging and allow you to share freely without judgement or shame. Helping clients find their own happiness, and goal, you may have for yourself in ways that can be achieve in a positive and healthy way. Personal growth and happiness are individualized and unique for everyone. I do not feel it is my job to force my lifestyle or goals on a client.
I have 8 years of experience within this field. I believe that my job as a therapist is to walk you through your journey in a partnership with clients as they find their true happiness from resolving and healing from past pain. Engaging and allow you to share freely without judgement or shame. Helping clients find their own happiness, and goal, you may have for yourself in ways that can be achieve in a positive and healthy way. Personal growth and happiness are individualized and unique for everyone. I do not feel it is my job to force my lifestyle or goals on a client.
(531) 530-3202 View (531) 530-3202
Photo of Buoyant Family Services Counseling and Consulting, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Buoyant Family Services Counseling and Consulting
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, CPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68105
Daily stressors of life can take a toll on anyone. No one is immune to stress and trauma which left untreated can lead to significant health related issues. Talking to a professional is not a sign of weakness. Things don't have to be wrong to seek extra help.
Daily stressors of life can take a toll on anyone. No one is immune to stress and trauma which left untreated can lead to significant health related issues. Talking to a professional is not a sign of weakness. Things don't have to be wrong to seek extra help.
(402) 413-8268 View (402) 413-8268
Photo of Erin Talbert, Counselor in Omaha, NE
Erin Talbert
Counselor, LIMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
I am an LGBTQ+ therapist at A Better Way Therapy in Omaha, NE. I work with adults, adolescents, families, couples, and military personnel in my career, and I enjoy every minute of it. I love seeing the progress individuals and groups make throughout the therapeutic process, and seeing how strong people can be on a daily basis. I enjoy seeing my clients realize that they are in charge of their own lives and witnessing the confidence that builds within them. I am also working on completing my certification for Sex Therapy and am a member of AASECT.
I am an LGBTQ+ therapist at A Better Way Therapy in Omaha, NE. I work with adults, adolescents, families, couples, and military personnel in my career, and I enjoy every minute of it. I love seeing the progress individuals and groups make throughout the therapeutic process, and seeing how strong people can be on a daily basis. I enjoy seeing my clients realize that they are in charge of their own lives and witnessing the confidence that builds within them. I am also working on completing my certification for Sex Therapy and am a member of AASECT.
(402) 703-2361 View (402) 703-2361
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.