Photo of Sharon Lynn Sheppard, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Sharon Lynn Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I specialize in clients with a history of childhood sexual abuse.
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
I specialize in clients with a history of childhood sexual abuse.
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
(919) 373-3355 View (919) 373-3355
Photo of Charlene J Baca, Pre-Licensed Professional in North Carolina
Charlene J Baca
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334
Areas I specialize in sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to cope with life? Zoom right in, and I will reserve a space for you. I am prepared to listen, motivate, and help you resolve the difficult challenges in your life. Whatever struggles you are going through, I am here to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take back your life. The first step is to get to know you and your current needs so that I can help you accomplish your life goals.
Areas I specialize in sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to cope with life? Zoom right in, and I will reserve a space for you. I am prepared to listen, motivate, and help you resolve the difficult challenges in your life. Whatever struggles you are going through, I am here to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take back your life. The first step is to get to know you and your current needs so that I can help you accomplish your life goals.
(909) 212-0050 View (909) 212-0050
Photo of Jenny Lopez Guy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Jenny Lopez Guy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28546  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual therapist with more than two decades of experience working with immigrant survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and other traumas.
You deserve to be happy! Your trauma experiences don't define your worth. Your healing journey will allow you to thrive and reach your full potential!
I am a bilingual therapist with more than two decades of experience working with immigrant survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and other traumas.
You deserve to be happy! Your trauma experiences don't define your worth. Your healing journey will allow you to thrive and reach your full potential!
(571) 206-1121 View (571) 206-1121
Photo of Voice for Children & Nurturing Families , Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Voice for Children & Nurturing Families
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, CCTP, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
It assists with behavioral issues caused by physical and sexual abuse, divorce, abandonment, bullying, grief and loss.
Accepting New Patients! VCNF specializes and is committed to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to achieve their goals and find healing within a safe environment. VCNF's goal is to assist patients in finding and expressing their maximum potential. VCNF specializes in treating trauma, adoption, foster care, depression, attachment, and attachment. VCNF's approach to therapy is unique in that she uses up-to-date interventions and various types of evidenced based treatment modalities to treat psychological and behavioral issues. VCNF is also a champion of healthy development, personal growth and relationships.
It assists with behavioral issues caused by physical and sexual abuse, divorce, abandonment, bullying, grief and loss.
Accepting New Patients! VCNF specializes and is committed to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to achieve their goals and find healing within a safe environment. VCNF's goal is to assist patients in finding and expressing their maximum potential. VCNF specializes in treating trauma, adoption, foster care, depression, attachment, and attachment. VCNF's approach to therapy is unique in that she uses up-to-date interventions and various types of evidenced based treatment modalities to treat psychological and behavioral issues. VCNF is also a champion of healthy development, personal growth and relationships.
(336) 739-4013 View (336) 739-4013
Photo of Mauri Wilke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Mauri Wilke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, TFCBT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I specialize in children and adolescents who experienced complex trauma, sexual abuse, neglect, and/or engage in sexual reactivity.
Identifying strengths in each person is the foundation of my work. I work with children, families, teenagers, & adults. Families & individuals come to see me if they are experiencing significant life transitions, like divorce, grief, or loss, or they are struggling with interpersonal relationships or unhealthy attachment styles. I am passionate about supporting adolescents processing trauma & helping them find their innate resiliencies to cultivate healthy lifestyles. I work with young adults transitioning into adulthood, identify their values, goals, & work on their unhealthy thoughts or actions keeping them from excelling in life.
I specialize in children and adolescents who experienced complex trauma, sexual abuse, neglect, and/or engage in sexual reactivity.
Identifying strengths in each person is the foundation of my work. I work with children, families, teenagers, & adults. Families & individuals come to see me if they are experiencing significant life transitions, like divorce, grief, or loss, or they are struggling with interpersonal relationships or unhealthy attachment styles. I am passionate about supporting adolescents processing trauma & helping them find their innate resiliencies to cultivate healthy lifestyles. I work with young adults transitioning into adulthood, identify their values, goals, & work on their unhealthy thoughts or actions keeping them from excelling in life.
(828) 232-8157 View (828) 232-8157
Photo of Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTP, RTP, CFSW, CHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Horizon's Play Therapy Center- We have welcoming and culturally sensitive playroom to address all childhood challenges from anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, aggression, ODD, ADHD, and other behavioral issues.
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC was developed with the idea that peoples' struggles and challenges are not a reflection of them having failed in their lives, but rather, an array of experiences, exchanges, and relationships the individual has in the context of some or all of them. We offer a unique approach that considers people's relationships, families, work/career, and the implications/barriers they may have on an individual's well-being, resilience, empowerment, their happiness, and ultimately their self-acceptance/self-love.
Horizon's Play Therapy Center- We have welcoming and culturally sensitive playroom to address all childhood challenges from anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, aggression, ODD, ADHD, and other behavioral issues.
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC was developed with the idea that peoples' struggles and challenges are not a reflection of them having failed in their lives, but rather, an array of experiences, exchanges, and relationships the individual has in the context of some or all of them. We offer a unique approach that considers people's relationships, families, work/career, and the implications/barriers they may have on an individual's well-being, resilience, empowerment, their happiness, and ultimately their self-acceptance/self-love.
(984) 205-4778 View (984) 205-4778
Photo of Kaitlyn Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Kaitlyn Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I am also passionate about helping those who have been impacted by image-based sexual abuse.
Often, people experience stress and anxiety if they believe they do not live up to others' expectations of them. It can feel extremely isolating if you think you are outside of the "normal". I believe that "normal" is subjective, and that there is no standard "normal". I enjoy working with clients who are wanting to embrace the parts of themselves that they've been conditioned to keep private. I see strength in vulnerability. I think there is so much to be said for a person who is able to acknowledge the pain that they've been through. Without doing so, it can be difficult to learn, heal, and grow.
I am also passionate about helping those who have been impacted by image-based sexual abuse.
Often, people experience stress and anxiety if they believe they do not live up to others' expectations of them. It can feel extremely isolating if you think you are outside of the "normal". I believe that "normal" is subjective, and that there is no standard "normal". I enjoy working with clients who are wanting to embrace the parts of themselves that they've been conditioned to keep private. I see strength in vulnerability. I think there is so much to be said for a person who is able to acknowledge the pain that they've been through. Without doing so, it can be difficult to learn, heal, and grow.
(980) 635-0180 View (980) 635-0180
Photo of Camel City Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Camel City Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
racial battle fatigue, religious harm, sexual abuse), and process gender identity, executive functioning, maternal mental health, emerging into adulthood, the Latinx community, anxiety issues, and more.
We are a diverse practice with locations in Lake Norman and Winston-Salem that provides psychotherapy in person or online, psychological testing, consulting services, and clinical supervision in NC. We serve children ages 3 and up, families, teens, couples and adults. We also provide educational consulting for 504/IEP planning. Our organizational consulting services help leadership teams grow and learn and our private practice consulting helps clinicians ready to take the leap into private practice. Our clinical supervision services are available to LCMHCA's, LCSWA's, and LPA's in NC.
racial battle fatigue, religious harm, sexual abuse), and process gender identity, executive functioning, maternal mental health, emerging into adulthood, the Latinx community, anxiety issues, and more.
We are a diverse practice with locations in Lake Norman and Winston-Salem that provides psychotherapy in person or online, psychological testing, consulting services, and clinical supervision in NC. We serve children ages 3 and up, families, teens, couples and adults. We also provide educational consulting for 504/IEP planning. Our organizational consulting services help leadership teams grow and learn and our private practice consulting helps clinicians ready to take the leap into private practice. Our clinical supervision services are available to LCMHCA's, LCSWA's, and LPA's in NC.
(336) 542-2798 View (336) 542-2798
Photo of La Vida Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
La Vida Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Trauma related experience includes: domestic violence, assault and sexual abuse.
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
Trauma related experience includes: domestic violence, assault and sexual abuse.
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
(704) 935-4208 View (704) 935-4208
Photo of Chris Elliott, Counselor in North Carolina
Chris Elliott
Counselor, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27455
I have worked with children, teens, and families for the past sixteen years, first in an educational capacity and then in counseling and mentorship. While in graduate school for counseling, coursework has included family systems, marital conflict, crisis, career, human sexuality, and addictive behaviors. My practicum has involved domestic violence and sexual assault victims and perpetrators. My internship has included a very diverse population and a variety of concerns, but I have developed my focus toward teenagers, families, and couples. My passion is to help teens and families achieve their potential and live from a perspective of optimal holistic wellness.
I have worked with children, teens, and families for the past sixteen years, first in an educational capacity and then in counseling and mentorship. While in graduate school for counseling, coursework has included family systems, marital conflict, crisis, career, human sexuality, and addictive behaviors. My practicum has involved domestic violence and sexual assault victims and perpetrators. My internship has included a very diverse population and a variety of concerns, but I have developed my focus toward teenagers, families, and couples. My passion is to help teens and families achieve their potential and live from a perspective of optimal holistic wellness.
(336) 777-7499 View (336) 777-7499
Photo of P & G Clinical Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
P & G Clinical Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
(704) 207-0995 View (704) 207-0995
Photo of Dr. Anthony Andrews, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Dr. Anthony Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CRC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
My utmost priority is to assist you in reaching your goals and aspirations. I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to each individual, utilizing proven and effective treatment methods that are backed by solid evidence. With my extensive experience working with diverse clients from various backgrounds, I am well-equipped to provide a non-biased perspective and lend a compassionate ear. In today's fast-paced society, it is all too common for individuals to face their challenges alone when they don't have to. That's why I strive to create a therapeutic environment that fosters relaxation and ease.
My utmost priority is to assist you in reaching your goals and aspirations. I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to each individual, utilizing proven and effective treatment methods that are backed by solid evidence. With my extensive experience working with diverse clients from various backgrounds, I am well-equipped to provide a non-biased perspective and lend a compassionate ear. In today's fast-paced society, it is all too common for individuals to face their challenges alone when they don't have to. That's why I strive to create a therapeutic environment that fosters relaxation and ease.
(910) 499-4570 View (910) 499-4570
Photo of Allen Brooks Professional Counseling Service, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina
Allen Brooks Professional Counseling Service
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LPCS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
Hi are you thinking what Im thinking, if so you're probably thinking "GEEZZ" Im tired of searching.. then stop, because you've located the right person at the right time, to help you navigate through your life journey. Everyone has a story to tell and yours is very important & Im ready to listen and ready to do whatever it takes to promote and initiate the needed changes you desire in life at this time.Trauma's often experienced and unrecognized! Instantly we think about hurricanes and earthquakes. Your personal storm, transition or change will be handled with care. Take a look at my website !!!!
Hi are you thinking what Im thinking, if so you're probably thinking "GEEZZ" Im tired of searching.. then stop, because you've located the right person at the right time, to help you navigate through your life journey. Everyone has a story to tell and yours is very important & Im ready to listen and ready to do whatever it takes to promote and initiate the needed changes you desire in life at this time.Trauma's often experienced and unrecognized! Instantly we think about hurricanes and earthquakes. Your personal storm, transition or change will be handled with care. Take a look at my website !!!!
(910) 745-7783 View (910) 745-7783
Photo of Lifestyle Consultant Services, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Lifestyle Consultant Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
(919) 800-0881 View (919) 800-0881
Photo of Creative Counseling and Wellness Center Corp, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Creative Counseling and Wellness Center Corp
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
All of our journeys are unique. It is important that each individual finds a path to wellness that is comfortable for them. At times, life brings challenges and roadblocks that require us to seek outside supports. I strive to provide a safe and caring, judgement free environment for individuals to explore and unpack life's difficulties. I provide effective care and give individuals the respect they deserve.
All of our journeys are unique. It is important that each individual finds a path to wellness that is comfortable for them. At times, life brings challenges and roadblocks that require us to seek outside supports. I strive to provide a safe and caring, judgement free environment for individuals to explore and unpack life's difficulties. I provide effective care and give individuals the respect they deserve.
(336) 939-0428 View (336) 939-0428
Photo of Real Talk Therapy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Real Talk Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215  (Online Only)
At Real Talk Therapy we believe in helping people to become the best version of themselves! Real Talk Therapy's mission is to motivate, encourage, and challenge our client’s to reach their highest potential. We see teens (ages 12+) and adults dealing with adjustment and transitional issues such as stress, low self-esteem/confidence, work-life balance, time management, relationship and familial conflicts. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, Real Talk Therapy also provides EMDR Therapy to survivors dealing with trauma, chronic pain, depression, anxiety and women issues.
At Real Talk Therapy we believe in helping people to become the best version of themselves! Real Talk Therapy's mission is to motivate, encourage, and challenge our client’s to reach their highest potential. We see teens (ages 12+) and adults dealing with adjustment and transitional issues such as stress, low self-esteem/confidence, work-life balance, time management, relationship and familial conflicts. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, Real Talk Therapy also provides EMDR Therapy to survivors dealing with trauma, chronic pain, depression, anxiety and women issues.
(980) 998-9009 View (980) 998-9009
Photo of Grace Davis, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Grace Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
My ideal client is willing to rethink what therapy looks and feels like - being open to a variety of techniques; collaborating; and engaging body, mind, and emotions, particularly in the outdoors. I conduct experiential outdoor sessions (when weather permits), helping clients in connecting with themselves by grounding in the supportive power of nature. Walking and talking in an outdoor space allows us to engage in an informal environment, while still providing therapeutic benefits.
My ideal client is willing to rethink what therapy looks and feels like - being open to a variety of techniques; collaborating; and engaging body, mind, and emotions, particularly in the outdoors. I conduct experiential outdoor sessions (when weather permits), helping clients in connecting with themselves by grounding in the supportive power of nature. Walking and talking in an outdoor space allows us to engage in an informal environment, while still providing therapeutic benefits.
(828) 360-8386 View (828) 360-8386
Photo of Emma Van Horne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Emma Van Horne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
As a therapist and fellow “in-progress” human I believe that we are all constantly growing and changing through many seasons. Some seasons can feel like they last a lifetime, but no matter how difficult the season or how long it sticks around, I believe no one is without hope. I strive to instill that hope and confidence in you and create a space where you feel comfortable navigating tough questions, big emotions, and difficult situations.
As a therapist and fellow “in-progress” human I believe that we are all constantly growing and changing through many seasons. Some seasons can feel like they last a lifetime, but no matter how difficult the season or how long it sticks around, I believe no one is without hope. I strive to instill that hope and confidence in you and create a space where you feel comfortable navigating tough questions, big emotions, and difficult situations.
(919) 861-4111 View (919) 861-4111
Photo of Valerie Copeland, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Valerie Copeland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am experienced with adolescents, disabled veterans, homeless individuals and families, developmentally disabled adults, Individuals, Couples, Teens,Children, and Families of trauma. Treatment includes Group Home settings, Residential Treatment Facilities, In-Patient, homeless shelters, and in the family home I am a certified a Trauma Specialist, I've received training in Gambling addiction, and have completed several hours in Transactional Analysis/Re-decision Therapy at the South East Institute in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I have been trained in Sexual Offender Treatment and Assessment with upcoming Certification 2016. I have expertise in grief and loss, launching, and communication improvement within the family structure.
I am experienced with adolescents, disabled veterans, homeless individuals and families, developmentally disabled adults, Individuals, Couples, Teens,Children, and Families of trauma. Treatment includes Group Home settings, Residential Treatment Facilities, In-Patient, homeless shelters, and in the family home I am a certified a Trauma Specialist, I've received training in Gambling addiction, and have completed several hours in Transactional Analysis/Re-decision Therapy at the South East Institute in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I have been trained in Sexual Offender Treatment and Assessment with upcoming Certification 2016. I have expertise in grief and loss, launching, and communication improvement within the family structure.
(919) 535-4883 View (919) 535-4883
Photo of Morning Star Therapeutic Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Morning Star Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheboro, NC 27205
I am provisionally licensed as a professional counselor. I started Morning Star Therapeutic Services to help those individuals and families in need specializing in At Risk/Special Needs youth. Sara is EAGALA certified utilizing horses experientially for mental health treatment and human development and has committed to uphold EAGALA standards of ethics and practice.
I am provisionally licensed as a professional counselor. I started Morning Star Therapeutic Services to help those individuals and families in need specializing in At Risk/Special Needs youth. Sara is EAGALA certified utilizing horses experientially for mental health treatment and human development and has committed to uphold EAGALA standards of ethics and practice.
(336) 963-6434 View (336) 963-6434

See more therapy options for North Carolina

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.