Sexual Abuse Therapists in New York

Photo of Lucien Beckford - Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional
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 Nia Millington, MHC-LP
Nia Millington
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
And I have experience treating anxiety, burnout, depression, crisis/trauma, sexual abuse, transitions, relationship issues, and grief.
Let me start by commending you on taking the first step in seeking support and working towards your healing. I'm a compassionate therapist with experience working with diverse and at-risk populations. I'm here to offer you support and be your advocate as you transform your life. I believe in the importance of developing instant connections, understanding different perspectives, assessing your needs and handling crises while fostering a safe and nurturing environment. I believe all people have the innate inward ability to change and heal themselves.
And I have experience treating anxiety, burnout, depression, crisis/trauma, sexual abuse, transitions, relationship issues, and grief.
Let me start by commending you on taking the first step in seeking support and working towards your healing. I'm a compassionate therapist with experience working with diverse and at-risk populations. I'm here to offer you support and be your advocate as you transform your life. I believe in the importance of developing instant connections, understanding different perspectives, assessing your needs and handling crises while fostering a safe and nurturing environment. I believe all people have the innate inward ability to change and heal themselves.
(332) 248-1558 View (332) 248-1558
Photo of Rachel Winckel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Winckel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
As a trauma therapist, including therapy for sexual abuse and postpartum depression, I use EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to find the root cause of your pain.
You’re not living the life you want. You’re unhappy, but you’re unsure why. At times, we can feel lost, numb, and disconnected from ourselves. There can be many reasons for this and through our work together, we will understand what these are and how to reconnect, to live a vibrant life. It’s been my experience that trauma lives in the body, as well as the mind. When we treat only the thoughts or the pictures in our heads, the deepest part of what is hurt isn't heard. Perhaps, no matter how many times you've talked about past trauma, it still feels raw. Something just isn’t healing. You feel stuck despite trying everything to help.
As a trauma therapist, including therapy for sexual abuse and postpartum depression, I use EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to find the root cause of your pain.
You’re not living the life you want. You’re unhappy, but you’re unsure why. At times, we can feel lost, numb, and disconnected from ourselves. There can be many reasons for this and through our work together, we will understand what these are and how to reconnect, to live a vibrant life. It’s been my experience that trauma lives in the body, as well as the mind. When we treat only the thoughts or the pictures in our heads, the deepest part of what is hurt isn't heard. Perhaps, no matter how many times you've talked about past trauma, it still feels raw. Something just isn’t healing. You feel stuck despite trying everything to help.
(914) 745-6970 View (914) 745-6970
Photo of John F. Crowe, MS, LMHC, BC, Counselor
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 Bridget O'Shea Bernstein, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget O'Shea Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I specialize in working with developmental trauma, sexual abuse, and addiction.
I am committed to creating a soft, genuine, relational space for my clients to get to know their inner systems. I have a graduate degree in Social Work, and I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS). I have been engaged with the IFS model for over nine years, and it is the primary model I use for psychotherapeutic work. I have assisted as a staff member on three Level 1 IFS trainings, helping other therapists and practitioners learn the model.
I specialize in working with developmental trauma, sexual abuse, and addiction.
I am committed to creating a soft, genuine, relational space for my clients to get to know their inner systems. I have a graduate degree in Social Work, and I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS). I have been engaged with the IFS model for over nine years, and it is the primary model I use for psychotherapeutic work. I have assisted as a staff member on three Level 1 IFS trainings, helping other therapists and practitioners learn the model.
(929) 419-4486 View (929) 419-4486
Photo of Barbara Cannon, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Barbara Cannon
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12305
I specialize in working with sexual abuse victims and offenders.
Okay, so you are here, that’s the first step. Not so bad, right? I would be happy to help you with whatever it is you are working through. When we meet, I hope that you will find a safe place where you are free to be yourself, without judgement. Together we can develop a plan that will have you living your best life. I believe that YOU are the expert of your own life. My approach is integrative, incorporating different therapeutic techniques to make sure that your specific concern is addressed in the way most effective for you. Everyone is unique, and there is no one size fits all approach.
I specialize in working with sexual abuse victims and offenders.
Okay, so you are here, that’s the first step. Not so bad, right? I would be happy to help you with whatever it is you are working through. When we meet, I hope that you will find a safe place where you are free to be yourself, without judgement. Together we can develop a plan that will have you living your best life. I believe that YOU are the expert of your own life. My approach is integrative, incorporating different therapeutic techniques to make sure that your specific concern is addressed in the way most effective for you. Everyone is unique, and there is no one size fits all approach.
(518) 240-1903 View (518) 240-1903
Photo of Jessica Muñoz, LMHC-LP
Jessica Muñoz
LMHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
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 Katie Fowler, MA, LMHC, CCTP, PLLC, Counselor
Katie Fowler
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP, PLLC
Verified Verified
Hauppauge, NY 11788  (Online Only)
I specialize in, but am not limited to, working with adults and teens who have lived through painful experiences such as life transitions, domestic violence, sexual assault, or psychological/emotional abuse or neglect.
At some point in life, everyone finds themselves “stuck.” You may be stuck due to a traumatic event, a painful life transition, loss of relationship, family difficulties or concerning thoughts and feelings. Feeling stuck after these occurrences can cause a number of reactions including depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, intrusive thoughts and memories, isolation, and physical symptoms. My goal is to meet you at your “stuck point” and help you through the process of healing. I do this by providing a safe, nonjudgmental partnership that enables you to create goals and make strides towards them.
I specialize in, but am not limited to, working with adults and teens who have lived through painful experiences such as life transitions, domestic violence, sexual assault, or psychological/emotional abuse or neglect.
At some point in life, everyone finds themselves “stuck.” You may be stuck due to a traumatic event, a painful life transition, loss of relationship, family difficulties or concerning thoughts and feelings. Feeling stuck after these occurrences can cause a number of reactions including depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, intrusive thoughts and memories, isolation, and physical symptoms. My goal is to meet you at your “stuck point” and help you through the process of healing. I do this by providing a safe, nonjudgmental partnership that enables you to create goals and make strides towards them.
(516) 699-2920 View (516) 699-2920
Photo of Linnie Larson Pickering, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linnie Larson Pickering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rye, NY 10580
I have extensive experience in the prevention/treatment of dating/domestic violence and child abuse, as well as suicide prevention, sexual harassment and sexual assault, .
I grew up in San Francisco and got my BA from the University of Pennsylvania and my MS in Social work from Columbia University, where I received the Dean's Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement. I view my role as being a "Sherpa" (experienced guide), walking with you, helping you acquire the tools, skills and insights to handle life's difficulties and challenges and identifying and navigating the obstacles. We all need help at times, and I will be by your side to provide comfort, support and guidance. I offer both individual therapy and grief support groups. Finding the right "Sherpa" can make all the difference.
I have extensive experience in the prevention/treatment of dating/domestic violence and child abuse, as well as suicide prevention, sexual harassment and sexual assault, .
I grew up in San Francisco and got my BA from the University of Pennsylvania and my MS in Social work from Columbia University, where I received the Dean's Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement. I view my role as being a "Sherpa" (experienced guide), walking with you, helping you acquire the tools, skills and insights to handle life's difficulties and challenges and identifying and navigating the obstacles. We all need help at times, and I will be by your side to provide comfort, support and guidance. I offer both individual therapy and grief support groups. Finding the right "Sherpa" can make all the difference.
(914) 556-1798 View (914) 556-1798
Photo of Mindy Lee At Nassau Psychology Pc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Lee At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12208  (Online Only)
Mindy specializes in sexual abuse, trauma and complex trauma, family life stages, loss and grief, delinquency.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Mindy completed her Master of Social Work at Adelphi University and has over 25 years of program and clinical experience providing therapy and therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and families in community based and residential programs, outpatient mental health and private practice. Mindy has provided supervision to licensed social workers and expressive arts therapist and interns.
Mindy specializes in sexual abuse, trauma and complex trauma, family life stages, loss and grief, delinquency.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Mindy completed her Master of Social Work at Adelphi University and has over 25 years of program and clinical experience providing therapy and therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and families in community based and residential programs, outpatient mental health and private practice. Mindy has provided supervision to licensed social workers and expressive arts therapist and interns.
(516) 908-5599 View (516) 908-5599
Photo of Billye J Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Christin Guilder, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christin Guilder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corinth, NY 12822  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, sexual abuse, PTSD, complex PTSD, anxiety, depression and chronic illness.
I believe that seeking help is a tremendously courageous decision. My goal is to meet you wherever you might be in your healing journey with compassion and empathy. I strive to provide a safe, welcoming and nonjudgemental space for you to work through past or present experiences and emotions causing you discomfort. Together we will explore your strengths, practice skills to help alleviate distress, and identify any unhelpful patterns that may be keeping you from living your most fulfilling life. My therapeutic approach is best described as compassionate, holistic, down to earth, and supportive.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, sexual abuse, PTSD, complex PTSD, anxiety, depression and chronic illness.
I believe that seeking help is a tremendously courageous decision. My goal is to meet you wherever you might be in your healing journey with compassion and empathy. I strive to provide a safe, welcoming and nonjudgemental space for you to work through past or present experiences and emotions causing you discomfort. Together we will explore your strengths, practice skills to help alleviate distress, and identify any unhelpful patterns that may be keeping you from living your most fulfilling life. My therapeutic approach is best described as compassionate, holistic, down to earth, and supportive.
(518) 809-8478 View (518) 809-8478
Photo of Will Higdon-Sudow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Sura Page, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Kaylee Bayer, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaylee Bayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Your goals are at the forefront of our work, tailoring sessions to meet your needs including sexual abuse, childhood trauma or recent events.
Welcome! I'm trauma therapist for teens, adults, and couples in Westchester. I hope to be your partner in finding and healing the root cause of your suffering. If you break a bone or get sick, you seek medical treatment. The same care and attention should be given to your mental health. I believe that great therapy is not just about addressing your mental health — it's about nurturing the whole self- mind, body, and spirit. Our lives are shaped by our experiences, emotions, and somatic responses to everyday life. As your therapist, I will guide you with authenticity and warmth, helping you navigate your unique therapeutic journey.
Your goals are at the forefront of our work, tailoring sessions to meet your needs including sexual abuse, childhood trauma or recent events.
Welcome! I'm trauma therapist for teens, adults, and couples in Westchester. I hope to be your partner in finding and healing the root cause of your suffering. If you break a bone or get sick, you seek medical treatment. The same care and attention should be given to your mental health. I believe that great therapy is not just about addressing your mental health — it's about nurturing the whole self- mind, body, and spirit. Our lives are shaped by our experiences, emotions, and somatic responses to everyday life. As your therapist, I will guide you with authenticity and warmth, helping you navigate your unique therapeutic journey.
(914) 685-9788 View (914) 685-9788
Photo of Maggie Gelen, LMSW
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.
I specialize in trauma-informed somatic therapy, meaning that my practice is a fusion of talk therapy and body-based methods including breathwork, guided meditation, and movement. I'm also an artist, and I enjoy playing with more creative approaches that highlight each person's unique intuitive gifts. Therapy is a brave and creative space, free from judgment, where you are truly welcomed and encouraged to explore. My invitation to you is to show up as authentically as you can, with whatever it is that you're working through.
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.
I specialize in trauma-informed somatic therapy, meaning that my practice is a fusion of talk therapy and body-based methods including breathwork, guided meditation, and movement. I'm also an artist, and I enjoy playing with more creative approaches that highlight each person's unique intuitive gifts. Therapy is a brave and creative space, free from judgment, where you are truly welcomed and encouraged to explore. My invitation to you is to show up as authentically as you can, with whatever it is that you're working through.
(347) 342-1495 View (347) 342-1495
Photo of Lisa Gladden, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Gladden
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11233
Great News! You’ve made it. Way to go. Life can be so changing and demanding. Dealing with everyday stressors can get us down. However, I am here to help support you on your journey to healing and recovery. I have been working in the Social Service field for over 20 plus years. I have dealt with homelessness, domestic violence, adolescents, LGBTQIA+, mental health, sexual abuse, substance abuse and the criminal justice system. I am a therapist with my MSW under the supervision of Amira Crawford, LCSW at Amira For Her, a group practice dedicated to supporting BIPOC with their mental health.
Great News! You’ve made it. Way to go. Life can be so changing and demanding. Dealing with everyday stressors can get us down. However, I am here to help support you on your journey to healing and recovery. I have been working in the Social Service field for over 20 plus years. I have dealt with homelessness, domestic violence, adolescents, LGBTQIA+, mental health, sexual abuse, substance abuse and the criminal justice system. I am a therapist with my MSW under the supervision of Amira Crawford, LCSW at Amira For Her, a group practice dedicated to supporting BIPOC with their mental health.
(347) 695-4785 View (347) 695-4785
Photo of Elizabeth J. Carroll, PhD, Psychologist
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. I also do work with couples seeking to learn how to better understand their relationship, communicate in healthier ways with each other, and build more emotional intimacy.
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. I also do work with couples seeking to learn how to better understand their relationship, communicate in healthier ways with each other, and build more emotional intimacy.
(347) 427-9165 View (347) 427-9165
Photo of Sherie L Seff, LCSWR, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherie L Seff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
(646) 600-5012 View (646) 600-5012
Photo of Christine Cione - Christine Cione, LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Christine Cione, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience assisting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and those with long standing depression, anxiety and prolonged grief disorder.
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, anxiety and prolonged grief disorder.
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
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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.