Photo of Shawne Ellen Steiger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Shawne Ellen Steiger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13210  (Online Only)
I have 31 years of experience helping people who are hurting change their lives. Often, we develop skills to survive difficult situations -childhood abuse, bullying in school, a bad car accident, sexual assault, an abusive marriage or boss - and it's hard to stop using those old skills, even when we no longer need them. We react in a new relationship as if we have to protect ourselves from things in the past. This often leads to more pain and unwanted outcomes. I can help you recognize those maladaptive coping skills. Change is difficult and often scary, but so worth it. I will be there cheerleading you as you practice new skills.
I have 31 years of experience helping people who are hurting change their lives. Often, we develop skills to survive difficult situations -childhood abuse, bullying in school, a bad car accident, sexual assault, an abusive marriage or boss - and it's hard to stop using those old skills, even when we no longer need them. We react in a new relationship as if we have to protect ourselves from things in the past. This often leads to more pain and unwanted outcomes. I can help you recognize those maladaptive coping skills. Change is difficult and often scary, but so worth it. I will be there cheerleading you as you practice new skills.
(680) 206-2402 View (680) 206-2402
Photo of Elizabeth J. Carroll, Psychologist in New York
Elizabeth J. Carroll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I'm a warm and relational provider who specializes in working with emerging adults, high-achieving women, members of the LGBT+ community, anxiety and depression, a history of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, current or historical family conflict, and relationship exploration.
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I'm a warm and relational provider who specializes in working with emerging adults, high-achieving women, members of the LGBT+ community, anxiety and depression, a history of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, current or historical family conflict, and relationship exploration.
(347) 427-9165 View (347) 427-9165
Photo of Tami Michelle Gatta Psychotherapist, Licensed Creative Arts Therapist in New York
Tami Michelle Gatta Psychotherapist
Licensed Creative Arts Therapist, MA, LCAT, RDT
Verified Verified
Floral Park, NY 11001  (Online Only)
I’m a non-judgmental, queer-empowering, anti-racist therapist dedicated to supporting those impacted by stress, depression, and emotional/physical/sexual abuse.
It takes true courage to share a story that contains a history of struggle or abuse. Have you found yourself overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and want to better understand the triggers? Have you tried to ignore relationship or professional struggles in hopes they would eventually disappear? Have you reflected on past pain, and worry you are overreacting, won’t be believed, or are at fault? Perhaps you’ve achieved those goals related to wealth, fame and success, only to find your “perfect” life does not bring the satisfaction you anticipated. The old strategies no longer serve you, and now you need to try something new.
I’m a non-judgmental, queer-empowering, anti-racist therapist dedicated to supporting those impacted by stress, depression, and emotional/physical/sexual abuse.
It takes true courage to share a story that contains a history of struggle or abuse. Have you found yourself overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and want to better understand the triggers? Have you tried to ignore relationship or professional struggles in hopes they would eventually disappear? Have you reflected on past pain, and worry you are overreacting, won’t be believed, or are at fault? Perhaps you’ve achieved those goals related to wealth, fame and success, only to find your “perfect” life does not bring the satisfaction you anticipated. The old strategies no longer serve you, and now you need to try something new.
(516) 619-2160 View (516) 619-2160
Photo of Maggie Gelen, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York
Maggie Gelen
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235  (Online Only)
My practice is informed by over 8 years of experience working with survivors of trauma, including families affected by police brutality, survivors of sexual assault, and refugees who have been impacted by war and terrorism.
Therapy is a brave and creative space where you can allow yourself to open up, let go, or dig in- depending on what you need. Deepen you relationship with yourself, and express parts of you that may not find expression elsewhere in life. My invitation is to show up as honestly and authentically as you can with whatever it is that you're working through. This a space free from judgment, where you are truly welcomed and encouraged to explore.
My practice is informed by over 8 years of experience working with survivors of trauma, including families affected by police brutality, survivors of sexual assault, and refugees who have been impacted by war and terrorism.
Therapy is a brave and creative space where you can allow yourself to open up, let go, or dig in- depending on what you need. Deepen you relationship with yourself, and express parts of you that may not find expression elsewhere in life. My invitation is to show up as honestly and authentically as you can with whatever it is that you're working through. This a space free from judgment, where you are truly welcomed and encouraged to explore.
(347) 342-1495 View (347) 342-1495
Photo of Katherine Ripley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Katherine Ripley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231
Waitlist for new clients
I am especially passionate about working with adult children of dysfunctional families, survivors of family violence or domestic violence, and survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault.
I'm very passionate about body-focused therapeutic work and parts work. I utilize EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Internal Family Systems techniques to support you embracing all parts of yourself and processing your emotions through your body. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, burnout, self-esteem issues, difficulties in relationships, boundary setting, and emotional overwhelm. I will support you in better understanding the root causes of your problems, shifting your relationship with yourself and your emotions, and letting go of negative beliefs.
I am especially passionate about working with adult children of dysfunctional families, survivors of family violence or domestic violence, and survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault.
I'm very passionate about body-focused therapeutic work and parts work. I utilize EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Internal Family Systems techniques to support you embracing all parts of yourself and processing your emotions through your body. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, burnout, self-esteem issues, difficulties in relationships, boundary setting, and emotional overwhelm. I will support you in better understanding the root causes of your problems, shifting your relationship with yourself and your emotions, and letting go of negative beliefs.
(929) 305-1753 View (929) 305-1753
Photo of Bianca Massi, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York
Bianca Massi
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bridgehampton, NY 11932  (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families, creating a safe and empowering environment that fosters healing and growth. My areas of expertise include treating addiction, trauma, PTSD, physical and sexual abuse, family violence, depression, anxiety, and helping individuals navigate life transitions and grief and loss.
As a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families, creating a safe and empowering environment that fosters healing and growth. My areas of expertise include treating addiction, trauma, PTSD, physical and sexual abuse, family violence, depression, anxiety, and helping individuals navigate life transitions and grief and loss.
(347) 508-9157 View (347) 508-9157
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
Photo of Christine Cione, LMHC, Counselor in New York
Christine Cione, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience assisting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and those with long standing depression and anxiety.
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you've imagined. Are you at a crossroads in your life? Are you feeling stuck and wish you could change your perspective? Are you overwhelmed by emotions that make it challenging to navigate through life? You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past or current traumatic events, or everyday life stressors. If so, you probably are seeking peace of mind, gratitude, hope, inner strength, and healthy coping skills. If this sounds like you, I welcome the opportunity to assist you on your path towards healing.
I have extensive experience assisting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and those with long standing depression and anxiety.
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you've imagined. Are you at a crossroads in your life? Are you feeling stuck and wish you could change your perspective? Are you overwhelmed by emotions that make it challenging to navigate through life? You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past or current traumatic events, or everyday life stressors. If so, you probably are seeking peace of mind, gratitude, hope, inner strength, and healthy coping skills. If this sounds like you, I welcome the opportunity to assist you on your path towards healing.
(516) 217-2150 View (516) 217-2150
Photo of Lauren Deakin, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York
Lauren Deakin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
In addition to treating individuals with general anxiety and depression, I specialize in trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sex addiction, work addiction, low-self esteem and religious abuse.
My approach to therapy is clear, curious, warm, and adaptive to your needs. I utilize a blend of techniques from various therapeutic modalities that are proven effective and backed by research. You can expect our work to flow through two main focal points: practical insights and exercises based on neuroscience and mind-body integration that bring needed relief; and a deeper exploration of lifelong patterns in the subconscious mind to bring lasting change and healing. I am a supportive agent toward self-knowing so my clients can inhabit their lives and relationships from a place of vibrancy and clarity.
In addition to treating individuals with general anxiety and depression, I specialize in trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sex addiction, work addiction, low-self esteem and religious abuse.
My approach to therapy is clear, curious, warm, and adaptive to your needs. I utilize a blend of techniques from various therapeutic modalities that are proven effective and backed by research. You can expect our work to flow through two main focal points: practical insights and exercises based on neuroscience and mind-body integration that bring needed relief; and a deeper exploration of lifelong patterns in the subconscious mind to bring lasting change and healing. I am a supportive agent toward self-knowing so my clients can inhabit their lives and relationships from a place of vibrancy and clarity.
(929) 357-2579 View (929) 357-2579
Photo of Will Higdon-Sudow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Will Higdon-Sudow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a queer therapist, I believe that therapy is different for every individual. My passion for understanding people and relationships has always been driven by curiosity. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and have experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As a career changer, my previous career in advertising and fashion informs my extensive experience working with clients in the performing arts and other creative fields.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a queer therapist, I believe that therapy is different for every individual. My passion for understanding people and relationships has always been driven by curiosity. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and have experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As a career changer, my previous career in advertising and fashion informs my extensive experience working with clients in the performing arts and other creative fields.
(347) 227-1963 View (347) 227-1963
Photo of Lynne Julianna Beldegreen, Art Therapist in New York
Lynne Julianna Beldegreen
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Many of my clients have experienced sexual abuse or rape.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
Many of my clients have experienced sexual abuse or rape.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
(917) 960-3953 View (917) 960-3953
Photo of Donna J Grant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Donna J Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14620
Since 1983, I have dedicated myself to helping thousands of individuals and couples whose lives are affected by a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, relationship issues, sexual abuse recovery, borderline personality disorder, OCD, and just generally feeling stuck.
I offer an interactive, practical, comprehensive, respectful and resourceful style of therapy that helps people shift their focus from wondering, "What's wrong with me?" to asking a very different question: "What's right about me?" My sessions, for both individuals and couples, are designed to identify effective and practical problem-solving strategies, as well as to uncover inner strengths and healing resources to address your concerns. I am open-minded and value cultural and religious diversity.
Since 1983, I have dedicated myself to helping thousands of individuals and couples whose lives are affected by a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, relationship issues, sexual abuse recovery, borderline personality disorder, OCD, and just generally feeling stuck.
I offer an interactive, practical, comprehensive, respectful and resourceful style of therapy that helps people shift their focus from wondering, "What's wrong with me?" to asking a very different question: "What's right about me?" My sessions, for both individuals and couples, are designed to identify effective and practical problem-solving strategies, as well as to uncover inner strengths and healing resources to address your concerns. I am open-minded and value cultural and religious diversity.
(585) 563-9570 View (585) 563-9570
Photo of Amber Lust, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Amber Lust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I'm an EMDR practicing, strength based & client-centered therapist. I understand that you are the expert of your experiences, and I’m here to listen & support you in your healing. I specialize in working with people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence. Treatment will be tailored to your needs. My practice is Queer, kink, sex work and poly positive. Originally from Canada, my practice is immigrant affirming, and I can speak conversational French if needed. I facilitate a support group for adult survivors of intimate partner abuse on Friday afternoons. Please contact me for more info!
I'm an EMDR practicing, strength based & client-centered therapist. I understand that you are the expert of your experiences, and I’m here to listen & support you in your healing. I specialize in working with people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence. Treatment will be tailored to your needs. My practice is Queer, kink, sex work and poly positive. Originally from Canada, my practice is immigrant affirming, and I can speak conversational French if needed. I facilitate a support group for adult survivors of intimate partner abuse on Friday afternoons. Please contact me for more info!
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Photo of Billye J Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Billye J Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Rochelle, NY 10801  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with survivors of sexual abuse, violence, and other traumatic experiences.
Deciding to start therapy is a big decision. One of the most important first steps is to find a therapist you feel comfortable with and someone you can trust to take this important journey with you. I believe in a holistic approach to healing that emphasizes self-care, mindfulness, and creating meaningful connections. I will take the time to understand how trauma has impacted you and work with you to develop an individualized plan. I seek to create an environment where clients are heard and supported and feel safe enough to share their stories.
My specialty is working with survivors of sexual abuse, violence, and other traumatic experiences.
Deciding to start therapy is a big decision. One of the most important first steps is to find a therapist you feel comfortable with and someone you can trust to take this important journey with you. I believe in a holistic approach to healing that emphasizes self-care, mindfulness, and creating meaningful connections. I will take the time to understand how trauma has impacted you and work with you to develop an individualized plan. I seek to create an environment where clients are heard and supported and feel safe enough to share their stories.
(914) 895-6154 View (914) 895-6154
Photo of Daniel Blausey, Art Therapist in New York
Daniel Blausey
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014
Stress reduction, sexuality, grief and loss, sadness, and childhood sexual abuse are just a few common areas of focus for my clients.
Welcome to my art therapy and psychotherapy practice page. For over 25 years I have successfully worked with adults and young people seeking change. I am equally at ease with traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or an integration of the two and collaborate with my clients to establish the safest approach to realize personal intentions. My engagement style is gentle and encouraging, yet more thought-provoking and compassionately challenging when it is advantageous to the therapy.
Stress reduction, sexuality, grief and loss, sadness, and childhood sexual abuse are just a few common areas of focus for my clients.
Welcome to my art therapy and psychotherapy practice page. For over 25 years I have successfully worked with adults and young people seeking change. I am equally at ease with traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or an integration of the two and collaborate with my clients to establish the safest approach to realize personal intentions. My engagement style is gentle and encouraging, yet more thought-provoking and compassionately challenging when it is advantageous to the therapy.
(646) 480-7303 View (646) 480-7303
Photo of Sura Page, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Sura Page
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oneonta, NY 13820
With over 25 years of experience as a mental health social worker, I offer individual, couples, family and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I am a trauma informed clinician with an expertise and specialty in the area of Domestic Abuse/Intimate Partner Violence, Child Abuse, Rape, Sexual Assault, family court issues (mediation) around custody/visitation. Trained and Certified in Brainspotting (www.brainspotting.com) which is a Brain-Body psychotherapy
With over 25 years of experience as a mental health social worker, I offer individual, couples, family and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I am a trauma informed clinician with an expertise and specialty in the area of Domestic Abuse/Intimate Partner Violence, Child Abuse, Rape, Sexual Assault, family court issues (mediation) around custody/visitation. Trained and Certified in Brainspotting (www.brainspotting.com) which is a Brain-Body psychotherapy
(607) 269-4163 View (607) 269-4163
Photo of Jessica Muñoz in New York
Jessica Muñoz
LMHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10012
I am a gender-based violence expert completing doctoral studies with a clinical focus on sexual assault survivors.
I love to work with any adult who is ready to show up and work, just as I am. I enjoy working with clients in person, the walk you take to my office is part of our clinical focus on setting routines and making space for ourselves. That said, some of my most loyal clients see me on zoom, we work together to get therapy in.
I am a gender-based violence expert completing doctoral studies with a clinical focus on sexual assault survivors.
I love to work with any adult who is ready to show up and work, just as I am. I enjoy working with clients in person, the walk you take to my office is part of our clinical focus on setting routines and making space for ourselves. That said, some of my most loyal clients see me on zoom, we work together to get therapy in.
(646) 791-3755 View (646) 791-3755
Photo of John F. Crowe, Counselor in New York
John F. Crowe
Counselor, MS, LMHC, BC
Verified Verified
Glenmont, NY 12077  (Online Only)
I work with men and women who have experienced traumatic life events including sexual assault, being raised in abusive families, and people living with chronic illness .
My approach with my clients is collaborative, interactive, and respectful. I am an eclectic therapist because trauma affects each individual differently. I view the client as the expert on his/her journey and myself as a consultant or guide. I focus on releasing the shame and pain of the trauma/abuse using tools and approaches with which the client is most comfortable. Together we create as safe a space as possible so that this work may occur. I am a strong believer in skill building, empowerment and visibility as antidotes to shame, secrecy and victimization.
I work with men and women who have experienced traumatic life events including sexual assault, being raised in abusive families, and people living with chronic illness .
My approach with my clients is collaborative, interactive, and respectful. I am an eclectic therapist because trauma affects each individual differently. I view the client as the expert on his/her journey and myself as a consultant or guide. I focus on releasing the shame and pain of the trauma/abuse using tools and approaches with which the client is most comfortable. Together we create as safe a space as possible so that this work may occur. I am a strong believer in skill building, empowerment and visibility as antidotes to shame, secrecy and victimization.
(518) 728-2756 View (518) 728-2756
Photo of Hillary Call - Trauma Therapist, Counselor in New York
Hillary Call - Trauma Therapist
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Working with survivors of child abuse, rape, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, and other violence, I’ve helped clients overcome unspeakable atrocities.
Sometimes you wonder: Wasn't I supposed to be happy by now? When did life get so tough? PTSD and trauma make it hard to cope, while depression and anxiety rob you of the joy you deserve in life. There may be loss, and the heavy weight of grief. Or betrayal by a trusted one, such as a parent, friend, or partner. The hurt and shame that often plague survivors can shatter relationships, jobs, and happiness. Lack of understanding by those closest to you leaves you feeling alone and isolated.
Working with survivors of child abuse, rape, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, and other violence, I’ve helped clients overcome unspeakable atrocities.
Sometimes you wonder: Wasn't I supposed to be happy by now? When did life get so tough? PTSD and trauma make it hard to cope, while depression and anxiety rob you of the joy you deserve in life. There may be loss, and the heavy weight of grief. Or betrayal by a trusted one, such as a parent, friend, or partner. The hurt and shame that often plague survivors can shatter relationships, jobs, and happiness. Lack of understanding by those closest to you leaves you feeling alone and isolated.
(516) 265-7122 View (516) 265-7122
Photo of Gay Men's Counseling Alliance - Jonathan Merker, Counselor in New York
Gay Men's Counseling Alliance - Jonathan Merker
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
My ideal client identifies as a gay/bi/queer/questioning man who has survived childhood sexual abuse and/or a conversion therapy program (i.e. “ex-gay” or “pray the gay away"). The symptoms my ideal client is struggling with after surviving abuse manifest in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship & sexual dysfunction, and others. My clients come to me to become empowered in their mental health, their feelings, their relationships, and their sexuality.
My ideal client identifies as a gay/bi/queer/questioning man who has survived childhood sexual abuse and/or a conversion therapy program (i.e. “ex-gay” or “pray the gay away"). The symptoms my ideal client is struggling with after surviving abuse manifest in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship & sexual dysfunction, and others. My clients come to me to become empowered in their mental health, their feelings, their relationships, and their sexuality.
(332) 529-6933 View (332) 529-6933
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.