Sexual Abuse Therapists in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV

Photo of Sherry D'Andrea, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Sherry D'Andrea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89146  (Online Only)
With 13+ years experience, I specialize in overcoming perfectionism and people-pleasing, trauma resolution of all kinds (childhood, medical trauma, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse).
Stressed, overwhelmed, or burned out, or struggling with trauma? Do you always put others needs before yours? Are you often second-guessing yourself, or "people pleasing"? Feel guilty setting boundaries, saying no, or asking for what you need? If you are seeking to manage overwhelm and anxiety, heal past trauma, or focus on self-growth, I can help.
With 13+ years experience, I specialize in overcoming perfectionism and people-pleasing, trauma resolution of all kinds (childhood, medical trauma, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse).
Stressed, overwhelmed, or burned out, or struggling with trauma? Do you always put others needs before yours? Are you often second-guessing yourself, or "people pleasing"? Feel guilty setting boundaries, saying no, or asking for what you need? If you are seeking to manage overwhelm and anxiety, heal past trauma, or focus on self-growth, I can help.
(303) 622-5248 View (303) 622-5248
Photo of Janet Nordine, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Janet Nordine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89146
I have had over 20 years of working with women, men, and children who have been affected by sexual abuse.
I am the only Registered Play Therapist Supervisor in private practice in Las Vegas. I enjoy working with children, adults, & families looking for a supportive environment where they will be seen as miraculous! I promise to reflect the preciousness within you & your children without judgment. I strive to be an ally for anyone navigating the complexities of life, trauma, & relationship challenges. I am an Adoption Competent Therapist & I understand the journey of foster care & adoption. I am dedicated to guiding individuals and families toward Las Vegas Play Therapy and Experience Courage Therapy and Consultation,
I have had over 20 years of working with women, men, and children who have been affected by sexual abuse.
I am the only Registered Play Therapist Supervisor in private practice in Las Vegas. I enjoy working with children, adults, & families looking for a supportive environment where they will be seen as miraculous! I promise to reflect the preciousness within you & your children without judgment. I strive to be an ally for anyone navigating the complexities of life, trauma, & relationship challenges. I am an Adoption Competent Therapist & I understand the journey of foster care & adoption. I am dedicated to guiding individuals and families toward Las Vegas Play Therapy and Experience Courage Therapy and Consultation,
(725) 220-4828 View (725) 220-4828
Photo of Dr. Sandra Leon-Villa, Psychologist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Dr. Sandra Leon-Villa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89146
Dr. Sandra León-Villa is a first gen, daughter of immigrants, Autistic Xicana, Activist, Speaker, Liberation Psychologist. Her work primarily focuses on the treatment of trauma, BIPOC mental health, and first generation BIPOC career professionals. She has been in the mental health field for 15 years working directly with trauma survivors and is a survivor herself. Dr. León-Villa published her research study, Exploring Gender and Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Effects of Child Sexual Abuse in the Journal of Child Sexual Abuse in 2018. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and TF-CBT.
Dr. Sandra León-Villa is a first gen, daughter of immigrants, Autistic Xicana, Activist, Speaker, Liberation Psychologist. Her work primarily focuses on the treatment of trauma, BIPOC mental health, and first generation BIPOC career professionals. She has been in the mental health field for 15 years working directly with trauma survivors and is a survivor herself. Dr. León-Villa published her research study, Exploring Gender and Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Effects of Child Sexual Abuse in the Journal of Child Sexual Abuse in 2018. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and TF-CBT.
(702) 872-3442 View (702) 872-3442
Photo of Aspire Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Aspire Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89146
We specialize in many conditions such as; trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, ADHD, marital issues, Child and Adolescent issues, and offer services to all who are struggling in life.
Michelle McAninch owner, Aspire Mental Health is a native to Las Vegas and cares about her community. She has built positive relationships within the community and believes strongly in valuing clients, committing to serve without judgement, and understands importance of meeting the client where they are at in life. ASPIRE Specializes in working with resist/refusal cases, anxiety, sexual abuse, trauma, depression, child and teen issues, and family conflict.
We specialize in many conditions such as; trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, ADHD, marital issues, Child and Adolescent issues, and offer services to all who are struggling in life.
Michelle McAninch owner, Aspire Mental Health is a native to Las Vegas and cares about her community. She has built positive relationships within the community and believes strongly in valuing clients, committing to serve without judgement, and understands importance of meeting the client where they are at in life. ASPIRE Specializes in working with resist/refusal cases, anxiety, sexual abuse, trauma, depression, child and teen issues, and family conflict.
(702) 793-2824 View (702) 793-2824
Photo of Janneth Nodal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Janneth Nodal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89146  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adolescents and adults dealing with trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
I understand that making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult. Whether you would like help dealing with life transitions, working through difficult relationships, or simply trying to develop an understanding of what is holding you back from having a meaningful life, I am here to help. My goal is to help you grow and develop the skills you need to get through difficult times for you to achieve a satisfying and enriching life.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults dealing with trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
I understand that making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult. Whether you would like help dealing with life transitions, working through difficult relationships, or simply trying to develop an understanding of what is holding you back from having a meaningful life, I am here to help. My goal is to help you grow and develop the skills you need to get through difficult times for you to achieve a satisfying and enriching life.
(725) 239-8426 View (725) 239-8426
Photo of Temieka C Meadows, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Temieka C Meadows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89147
Hello my name is Temieka Meadows and I recently graduated from the University of Nevada Las Vegas with my masters in Social work and am currently pursuing her PhD in Social Work with a specialization in Clinical Expertise. I have been working with children for the past 9 years and enjoy working with children of all ages and adults. I work for the school district with children and adolescents suffering from mental health illnesses as well as behavioral issues. I also work with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with management issues, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, and grief. I work with families as well.
Hello my name is Temieka Meadows and I recently graduated from the University of Nevada Las Vegas with my masters in Social work and am currently pursuing her PhD in Social Work with a specialization in Clinical Expertise. I have been working with children for the past 9 years and enjoy working with children of all ages and adults. I work for the school district with children and adolescents suffering from mental health illnesses as well as behavioral issues. I also work with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with management issues, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, and grief. I work with families as well.
(725) 215-5037 View (725) 215-5037
Photo of Emily Burggraf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Emily Burggraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89147
Are you struggling with depression, emptiness, conflict in relationships or lack of purpose? Allow me the opportunity to help you discover the correct Steps for Your Success! "I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years working in the helping profession. My background includes working with individuals of all ages, couples, families, and groups. I have extensive experience working with adult women, who are survivors of trauma, particularly sexual abuse. My experience also involves treatment of dissociative disorders. Christian counseling is also offered."
Are you struggling with depression, emptiness, conflict in relationships or lack of purpose? Allow me the opportunity to help you discover the correct Steps for Your Success! "I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years working in the helping profession. My background includes working with individuals of all ages, couples, families, and groups. I have extensive experience working with adult women, who are survivors of trauma, particularly sexual abuse. My experience also involves treatment of dissociative disorders. Christian counseling is also offered."
(725) 217-9852 View (725) 217-9852
Photo of Stephanie M Liester, Counselor in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Stephanie M Liester
Counselor, MA, NCC, CPC
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89148
Welcome. I specialize in treating a variety of women's issues including trauma, domestic abuse, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, self-esteem, grief and loss, and infertility and reproductive counseling. I am a member of the Mental Health Professionals Group through the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and a member of the Nevada Network Against Domestic Violence. With over 15 years of clinical experience, I am skilled at creating a therapeutic relationship that brings about hope, healing, change, transformation and growth.
Welcome. I specialize in treating a variety of women's issues including trauma, domestic abuse, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, self-esteem, grief and loss, and infertility and reproductive counseling. I am a member of the Mental Health Professionals Group through the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and a member of the Nevada Network Against Domestic Violence. With over 15 years of clinical experience, I am skilled at creating a therapeutic relationship that brings about hope, healing, change, transformation and growth.
(702) 500-1292 View (702) 500-1292
Photo of Keisha Graham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Keisha Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89146  (Online Only)
Working with adolescents & women with supports & therapeutic interventions have helped those who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, & PTSD; related to domestic violence, physical/sexual abuse, foster care, & life stressors due to relationships, parenting, work or family conflicts, bullying, seeking purpose, etc.
Dedicated to promoting overall health & wellness, I believe it is important to understand the human heart & mind and the desires & goals that one has for themselves and their future. I understand! We all have had times where we feel sad, uncertain, depressed, anxious, fearful, lonely, irritable, stressed, & scared. It helps when we have someone who can listen; someone who cares enough to help us along our journey to healing, happiness, & peace. I welcome the opportunity to take this journey with you. You, your experiences, & your feelings matter. I am here to help you make sense of it all during your healing process.
Working with adolescents & women with supports & therapeutic interventions have helped those who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, & PTSD; related to domestic violence, physical/sexual abuse, foster care, & life stressors due to relationships, parenting, work or family conflicts, bullying, seeking purpose, etc.
Dedicated to promoting overall health & wellness, I believe it is important to understand the human heart & mind and the desires & goals that one has for themselves and their future. I understand! We all have had times where we feel sad, uncertain, depressed, anxious, fearful, lonely, irritable, stressed, & scared. It helps when we have someone who can listen; someone who cares enough to help us along our journey to healing, happiness, & peace. I welcome the opportunity to take this journey with you. You, your experiences, & your feelings matter. I am here to help you make sense of it all during your healing process.
(725) 215-7739 View (725) 215-7739
Photo of Ashley Martinez Mood Resilience Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Ashley Martinez Mood Resilience Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CPC
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89118
Having had 10 plus years working directly with human trafficking victims, sexual assault, and trauma, I currently utilize a person centered approach, with some additional modalities, such as; Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, along with anxiety, depression and mindfulness related interventions.
Hey, you are here, Breathe. I know this process is A LOT. I also know it takes so much courage, strength and patience to find the right person to help you through this time of your life. Whatever it is that brings you here today, whether it is a traumatic event, a painful experience you have endured, or if you are trying to find balance in your life- I might be the one for you. If you feel we are a good fit ,after our initial visit, I would love to come along side of you and help you walk through some of the most painful experiences in your life.
Having had 10 plus years working directly with human trafficking victims, sexual assault, and trauma, I currently utilize a person centered approach, with some additional modalities, such as; Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, along with anxiety, depression and mindfulness related interventions.
Hey, you are here, Breathe. I know this process is A LOT. I also know it takes so much courage, strength and patience to find the right person to help you through this time of your life. Whatever it is that brings you here today, whether it is a traumatic event, a painful experience you have endured, or if you are trying to find balance in your life- I might be the one for you. If you feel we are a good fit ,after our initial visit, I would love to come along side of you and help you walk through some of the most painful experiences in your life.
(702) 996-4737 View (702) 996-4737
Photo of Gold Clinical Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Gold Clinical Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89103
Waitlist for new clients
I am a holistic therapist (Body, Mind, Consciousness, Emotions, Energy, & Spirit). I specialize in the area of trauma and utilize therapeutic modalities and alternative healing methods. My focus is to improve your quality of life by finding the solutions to your unique symptoms and life experiences. I strive to provide a solution to your symptoms through physical, emotional, mental, energetic, and spiritual means. Together, we create space for creating conscious intentions and closures, awareness, desensitization, digesting, processing, and reintegration. Moving towards your most authentic self.
I am a holistic therapist (Body, Mind, Consciousness, Emotions, Energy, & Spirit). I specialize in the area of trauma and utilize therapeutic modalities and alternative healing methods. My focus is to improve your quality of life by finding the solutions to your unique symptoms and life experiences. I strive to provide a solution to your symptoms through physical, emotional, mental, energetic, and spiritual means. Together, we create space for creating conscious intentions and closures, awareness, desensitization, digesting, processing, and reintegration. Moving towards your most authentic self.
(702) 903-2608 View (702) 903-2608
Photo of James Maltzahn, Psychologist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
James Maltzahn
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I truly believe that our feelings and needs deserve to be heard and met by those around us. I meet my clients with compassion and non-judgment, providing a space to nurture growth and acceptance as we collaboratively explore your relationships, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I've been witness to the amazing and profound change that can come from being able to feel comfortable in expressing our most painful and challenging experiences in a environment that cultivates growth and exploration. I aim to meet my clients with unconditional positive regard and genuine empathy.
I truly believe that our feelings and needs deserve to be heard and met by those around us. I meet my clients with compassion and non-judgment, providing a space to nurture growth and acceptance as we collaboratively explore your relationships, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I've been witness to the amazing and profound change that can come from being able to feel comfortable in expressing our most painful and challenging experiences in a environment that cultivates growth and exploration. I aim to meet my clients with unconditional positive regard and genuine empathy.
(702) 829-7909 View (702) 829-7909
Photo of Derek Wise, Counselor in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Derek Wise
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89148
I am passionate about facilitating the therapeutic process and empowering clients with the ability to heal their mind, body, and spirit through evidence-based therapeutic modalities. My therapeutic style begins by creating a safe and comfortable environment where you are heard and valued. Success comes from exploring and evaluating one’s unique thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while applying practical strategies that bring positive and lasting change. Everyone deserves to become the person they want to be and experience life to its fullest.
I am passionate about facilitating the therapeutic process and empowering clients with the ability to heal their mind, body, and spirit through evidence-based therapeutic modalities. My therapeutic style begins by creating a safe and comfortable environment where you are heard and valued. Success comes from exploring and evaluating one’s unique thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while applying practical strategies that bring positive and lasting change. Everyone deserves to become the person they want to be and experience life to its fullest.
(702) 829-5820 View (702) 829-5820
Photo of Allied Psychological Services, LLC., Psychologist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Allied Psychological Services, LLC.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89103
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in treating children and adults who have experienced painful life events that result in anxiety, depression and interpersonal difficulties. I believe that success in therapy occurs through the therapeutic relationship. This relationship is collaborative, where together we seek goals for growth. In order for this relationship to form, a safe and supportive environment must be provided. I have experience working with a variety of people and cultures. I welcome everyone!
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in treating children and adults who have experienced painful life events that result in anxiety, depression and interpersonal difficulties. I believe that success in therapy occurs through the therapeutic relationship. This relationship is collaborative, where together we seek goals for growth. In order for this relationship to form, a safe and supportive environment must be provided. I have experience working with a variety of people and cultures. I welcome everyone!
(702) 825-7839 View (702) 825-7839
Photo of Sasha DeCania, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Sasha DeCania
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89118
Life feeling challenging right now or maybe it has been for a long time? Is your day or even the night hard to get through? Do you have things that have happened that maybe you can't share with friends and family? Or if you have shared, the people in your life have tried but can't seem to help you? Not living the quality of life you want or had hope for? You are certainly not alone. In the nearly 20 years I have worked helping people, I have seen many people just like you struggling with feeling sad, anxious, unwell, or just dissatisfied with how they feel or are living. It does not have to be that way.
Life feeling challenging right now or maybe it has been for a long time? Is your day or even the night hard to get through? Do you have things that have happened that maybe you can't share with friends and family? Or if you have shared, the people in your life have tried but can't seem to help you? Not living the quality of life you want or had hope for? You are certainly not alone. In the nearly 20 years I have worked helping people, I have seen many people just like you struggling with feeling sad, anxious, unwell, or just dissatisfied with how they feel or are living. It does not have to be that way.
(702) 628-9024 View (702) 628-9024
Photo of Annie Wolff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Annie Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89148
Everyone needs someone on their side, a witness to their journey. I am willing to be that someone. I have interests in life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, LGTBQ2IA+ issues, depression, anxiety and grief. I am a certified grief therapist. People experience grief with loss of job, loss of ability, loss of health, loss to addiction, loss of relationships and loss of life. It is something no one can avoid. I can be there for you and help you to navigate to the other side. If no one else has told you lately, I will: you are not alone. It takes courage to reach out for help.
Everyone needs someone on their side, a witness to their journey. I am willing to be that someone. I have interests in life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, LGTBQ2IA+ issues, depression, anxiety and grief. I am a certified grief therapist. People experience grief with loss of job, loss of ability, loss of health, loss to addiction, loss of relationships and loss of life. It is something no one can avoid. I can be there for you and help you to navigate to the other side. If no one else has told you lately, I will: you are not alone. It takes courage to reach out for help.
(702) 766-8628 View (702) 766-8628
Photo of Jasmine Stern, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Jasmine Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89118
Are you having a hard time coping with feelings of anxiety and/or depression? Are you a couple feeling stuck in old patterns but unsure what to do next? You are not alone. Often, the hardest place to be is feeling stuck and yet helpless to change your situation. Starting a new phase in life often requires us to heal the injured parts of ourselves so that we can become empowered to be the best version of ourselves. I work with individuals and couples to grow their inner strengths, to help them make sense of their feelings and to heal any past trauma that might be keeping them from moving forward.
Are you having a hard time coping with feelings of anxiety and/or depression? Are you a couple feeling stuck in old patterns but unsure what to do next? You are not alone. Often, the hardest place to be is feeling stuck and yet helpless to change your situation. Starting a new phase in life often requires us to heal the injured parts of ourselves so that we can become empowered to be the best version of ourselves. I work with individuals and couples to grow their inner strengths, to help them make sense of their feelings and to heal any past trauma that might be keeping them from moving forward.
(702) 820-4380 View (702) 820-4380
Photo of Irene Burke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Irene Burke
Licensed Professional Counselor, CPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89113
I am currently not accepting new clients. My approach to therapy is collaborative and empathetic. I believe we are all doing the best we can to manage life’s many challenges. I believe developing a trusting, genuine relationship with a client is the most important aspect of counseling. My perspective is always strengths based. Contact me for a consultation. I look forward to meeting you.
I am currently not accepting new clients. My approach to therapy is collaborative and empathetic. I believe we are all doing the best we can to manage life’s many challenges. I believe developing a trusting, genuine relationship with a client is the most important aspect of counseling. My perspective is always strengths based. Contact me for a consultation. I look forward to meeting you.
(702) 842-9647 View (702) 842-9647
Photo of Aloha Care Therapy in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Aloha Care Therapy
LMFT, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89146
Aloha Care Therapy is devoted to delivering exceptional counseling services to our esteemed clientele. We are dedicated to providing a range of therapeutic solutions for individuals of all age groups, encompassing children aged 5 and above, couples, and families seeking assistance. Our mission is to deliver top-notch mental health care within a secure and inviting setting.
Aloha Care Therapy is devoted to delivering exceptional counseling services to our esteemed clientele. We are dedicated to providing a range of therapeutic solutions for individuals of all age groups, encompassing children aged 5 and above, couples, and families seeking assistance. Our mission is to deliver top-notch mental health care within a secure and inviting setting.
(702) 508-7330 View (702) 508-7330
Photo of Kaydian Woolery, Counselor in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV
Kaydian Woolery
Counselor, MHC, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, Las Vegas, NV 89148
We all have the potential to grow and to achieve happiness and fulfillment in our lives. Sometimes this is not always an easy process. Life is full of challenges and some of them can be debilitating, impairing our ability to function. Regardless of whether you are experiencing a crisis (traumatic experience, relationship distress, divorce, grief) or desperately trying to change an old pattern of behavior, I am here to listen. I want to help you succeed and break free of whatever it may be causing you pain and suffering. Pain is inevitable suffering is not! Using evidence-based techniques I assist clients in achieving their goals.
We all have the potential to grow and to achieve happiness and fulfillment in our lives. Sometimes this is not always an easy process. Life is full of challenges and some of them can be debilitating, impairing our ability to function. Regardless of whether you are experiencing a crisis (traumatic experience, relationship distress, divorce, grief) or desperately trying to change an old pattern of behavior, I am here to listen. I want to help you succeed and break free of whatever it may be causing you pain and suffering. Pain is inevitable suffering is not! Using evidence-based techniques I assist clients in achieving their goals.
(702) 840-5372 View (702) 840-5372

See more therapy options for Spring Valley, Las Vegas

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.