Sexual Abuse Therapists in New York

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 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 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 Antoinette Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Antoinette Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SFTT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Previously, I worked part-time at an outpatient clinic for sexual assault and abuse survivors.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
Previously, I worked part-time at an outpatient clinic for sexual assault and abuse survivors.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
(646) 480-1874 View (646) 480-1874
Photo of Kaylene Graffitti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Kaylene Graffitti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping adults, teens, and children heal from trauma. Whether you're struggling with a complex trauma history or navigating through a stressful life event, I work alongside my clients to help them navigate challenging experiences, overwhelming emotions, and confusing relationship dynamics (in families or with partners). My clinical focus and passion is working with clients navigating intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual assault, abuse as a child, and other complex traumas. In recent years, I've also developed a specialty in working with parents of children with special needs.
I have a passion for helping adults, teens, and children heal from trauma. Whether you're struggling with a complex trauma history or navigating through a stressful life event, I work alongside my clients to help them navigate challenging experiences, overwhelming emotions, and confusing relationship dynamics (in families or with partners). My clinical focus and passion is working with clients navigating intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual assault, abuse as a child, and other complex traumas. In recent years, I've also developed a specialty in working with parents of children with special needs.
(585) 488-4932 View (585) 488-4932
Photo of Uprise Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in New York
Uprise Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850
My group practice specializes in the treatment of trauma spectrum disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, dissociative disorders, trauma-related pain, and trauma-related somatic symptoms. Ongoing experiences of verbal, physical, or sexual abuse, neglect, and bullying can lead to these symptoms. Sometimes people suffer these effects because they have experienced chronic invalidation. We treat couples, people in non-traditional partnerships, adolescents who struggle with emotional and behavioral problems. We also treat survivors of sexual violence and targets of workplace bullying.
My group practice specializes in the treatment of trauma spectrum disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, dissociative disorders, trauma-related pain, and trauma-related somatic symptoms. Ongoing experiences of verbal, physical, or sexual abuse, neglect, and bullying can lead to these symptoms. Sometimes people suffer these effects because they have experienced chronic invalidation. We treat couples, people in non-traditional partnerships, adolescents who struggle with emotional and behavioral problems. We also treat survivors of sexual violence and targets of workplace bullying.
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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 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 Roberta Shafter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Roberta Shafter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Some of the groups with which I have had especially extensive experience are: survivors of sexual abuse and abusive relationships; creative and performing artists; mental health professionals and students; individuals facing the challenges of midlife and beyond; adolescents and their families; and couples at all stages of the life cycle.
People most often contact me when a critical life event has occurred. They may be feeling anxious or depressed, or have become newly aware of a need to make changes in the way they handle their relationships, emotions, and self-esteem. For some, this is the beginning of a long journey of self-exploration. Others prefer to seek new, more effective tools to address the immediate situation. I think that a good clinician should be able to tailor the treatment to fit the needs and preferences of the client. Too often it is the other way around.
Some of the groups with which I have had especially extensive experience are: survivors of sexual abuse and abusive relationships; creative and performing artists; mental health professionals and students; individuals facing the challenges of midlife and beyond; adolescents and their families; and couples at all stages of the life cycle.
People most often contact me when a critical life event has occurred. They may be feeling anxious or depressed, or have become newly aware of a need to make changes in the way they handle their relationships, emotions, and self-esteem. For some, this is the beginning of a long journey of self-exploration. Others prefer to seek new, more effective tools to address the immediate situation. I think that a good clinician should be able to tailor the treatment to fit the needs and preferences of the client. Too often it is the other way around.
(646) 600-9240 View (646) 600-9240
Photo of Barbara Cannon, Counselor in New York
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 Shelby Catherine Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Shelby Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
My practice is dedicated to serving those who have endured the profound impacts of trauma, particularly intimate partner violence or sexual assault, as well as those grieving a loss. They are individuals who, despite their challenges, are motivated to initiate therapy, and may be grappling with mood changes, or troubling symptoms, with or without a diagnosis. Together, we will explore and develop healthy coping skills, paving the way toward healing and rediscovery of hope. They are determined to work towards a brighter, more resilient future with therapy.
My practice is dedicated to serving those who have endured the profound impacts of trauma, particularly intimate partner violence or sexual assault, as well as those grieving a loss. They are individuals who, despite their challenges, are motivated to initiate therapy, and may be grappling with mood changes, or troubling symptoms, with or without a diagnosis. Together, we will explore and develop healthy coping skills, paving the way toward healing and rediscovery of hope. They are determined to work towards a brighter, more resilient future with therapy.
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Photo of Rising Potential Counseling LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Rising Potential Counseling LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW-C, C-CTP, C-DBT, C-MDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13502
My background is in trauma-informed care and sexual abuse treatment. Most of my clientele are trying to manage depressive symptoms, anxiety, personality disorders, and battling various mental health conditions exacerbated by life. Some of the clients I see are also trying to identify who they are as individuals and find their way within this world. I work with many families, surrounding both complex and unique family issues. I am well versed in working with couples struggling with communicating with one another and having complex and unique marital issues.
My background is in trauma-informed care and sexual abuse treatment. Most of my clientele are trying to manage depressive symptoms, anxiety, personality disorders, and battling various mental health conditions exacerbated by life. Some of the clients I see are also trying to identify who they are as individuals and find their way within this world. I work with many families, surrounding both complex and unique family issues. I am well versed in working with couples struggling with communicating with one another and having complex and unique marital issues.
(315) 277-6577 View (315) 277-6577
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 Hayley Caddes in New York
Hayley Caddes
MS, CPC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014
Some things I've personally had to work through in my 20s - anxiety, major depression, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, self-harm, rock bottom self-esteem, resurfaced childhood trauma, intimate image abuse, ADHD, moving to a new city, school transfers & (many) career transitions, NYC dating, workplace sexism, & building supportive friendships as an adult.
Maybe you haven’t found a therapist who gets you. Maybe you aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for. We’ve all been there. I started my coaching business to provide young adults with a unique experience and realness you don't get with most clinical approaches: day-to-day guidance and mentorship from someone relatable who has overcome similar challenges. I specialize in helping you get unstuck and create a life you're excited about living using a process rooted in lived experience. Together, we'll set achievable goals, develop personalized coping skills, and build a support system within your real-world environment.
Some things I've personally had to work through in my 20s - anxiety, major depression, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, self-harm, rock bottom self-esteem, resurfaced childhood trauma, intimate image abuse, ADHD, moving to a new city, school transfers & (many) career transitions, NYC dating, workplace sexism, & building supportive friendships as an adult.
Maybe you haven’t found a therapist who gets you. Maybe you aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for. We’ve all been there. I started my coaching business to provide young adults with a unique experience and realness you don't get with most clinical approaches: day-to-day guidance and mentorship from someone relatable who has overcome similar challenges. I specialize in helping you get unstuck and create a life you're excited about living using a process rooted in lived experience. Together, we'll set achievable goals, develop personalized coping skills, and build a support system within your real-world environment.
(646) 248-6264 View (646) 248-6264
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 Sherie L Seff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
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 Rachel Elaine Winckel, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York
Rachel Elaine Winckel
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, particularly childhood sexual abuse, in techniques that reach the whole self, such as EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), and will work together to heal the past so that you can live fully in the present as a whole and empowered self.
Even at the hardest moments in life, everything you need for happiness is already inside you. My goal as a therapist is to work together with you in whatever struggles you currently face, to uncover your naturally occurring strengths in order to live a full and meaningful life. Perhaps you’re not living the life you want to be living. You’re unhappy, but you’re not sure 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, fully embodied life.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, particularly childhood sexual abuse, in techniques that reach the whole self, such as EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), and will work together to heal the past so that you can live fully in the present as a whole and empowered self.
Even at the hardest moments in life, everything you need for happiness is already inside you. My goal as a therapist is to work together with you in whatever struggles you currently face, to uncover your naturally occurring strengths in order to live a full and meaningful life. Perhaps you’re not living the life you want to be living. You’re unhappy, but you’re not sure 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, fully embodied life.
(929) 284-2574 View (929) 284-2574
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 Molly G. Simmons Brusick, Art Therapist in New York
Molly G. Simmons Brusick
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
Molly specializes in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, and sexual abuse.
Molly is an art therapist that practices with a person-centered approach with an emphasis on empathy, compassion, and genuineness. She seeks to promote creative expression and well-being through art therapy, but is able to work with clients who are seeking psychotherapy or working with a combination of both. Knowing that creating art can be intimidating, she creates a safe space for those who desire to express themselves in a non-verbal way. Molly focuses on building a trusting relationship with her clients and believes that establishing a meaningful relationship is most important in the healing process.
Molly specializes in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, and sexual abuse.
Molly is an art therapist that practices with a person-centered approach with an emphasis on empathy, compassion, and genuineness. She seeks to promote creative expression and well-being through art therapy, but is able to work with clients who are seeking psychotherapy or working with a combination of both. Knowing that creating art can be intimidating, she creates a safe space for those who desire to express themselves in a non-verbal way. Molly focuses on building a trusting relationship with her clients and believes that establishing a meaningful relationship is most important in the healing process.
(347) 255-1747 View (347) 255-1747
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
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.