Sexual Abuse Therapists in Upper West Side, New York, NY

Photo of Lynne Julianna Beldegreen, Art Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Lynne Julianna Beldegreen
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10024
Many of my clients have experienced sexual abuse or rape.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
Many of my clients have experienced sexual abuse or rape.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
(917) 960-3953 View (917) 960-3953
Photo of Sherie L Seff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Sherie L Seff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, MA
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023
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 Melissa F Halligan, Psychologist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Melissa F Halligan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025
I have experience working with many different populations, including sexual assault survivors, police officers, college students, military veterans, and ages 65+.
Are you looking to manage intense emotions in a healthier, more effective way? I will work collaboratively with you, using proven, evidence-based psychotherapy to help you build a better life for yourself. I have been providing psychotherapy for 30+ years at major universities, hospitals, and clinics and will bring my compassion and my expertise to help you meet your personal goals for change. Even if you have struggled with suicidal thinking or self-harming behaviors, I am prepared to help you change self-destructive patterns and build a healthier life with enhanced self-esteem.
I have experience working with many different populations, including sexual assault survivors, police officers, college students, military veterans, and ages 65+.
Are you looking to manage intense emotions in a healthier, more effective way? I will work collaboratively with you, using proven, evidence-based psychotherapy to help you build a better life for yourself. I have been providing psychotherapy for 30+ years at major universities, hospitals, and clinics and will bring my compassion and my expertise to help you meet your personal goals for change. Even if you have struggled with suicidal thinking or self-harming behaviors, I am prepared to help you change self-destructive patterns and build a healthier life with enhanced self-esteem.
(646) 930-9372 View (646) 930-9372
Photo of Lisa Caren Litt, Psychologist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Lisa Caren Litt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025
I offer expertise treating issues related to trauma/PTSD, including childhood sexual abuse or physical abuse, sexual assault and rape, partner violence or other trauma you may have experienced.
I bring over 20 years of experience to my work, integrating evidence-based therapies such as CBT, mindfulness and relaxation, with traditional talk therapy. In a warm and safe environment, we will work together to help you gain relief from what is bothering you, including relationships, depression or anxiety. We'll also explore deeper experiences that may be the source of ongoing emotional difficulties. By using a flexible approach and methods that are right for you, you will develop new insights, create strategies to manage stressors, enhance your strengths, and be better able to make constructive choices for yourself.
I offer expertise treating issues related to trauma/PTSD, including childhood sexual abuse or physical abuse, sexual assault and rape, partner violence or other trauma you may have experienced.
I bring over 20 years of experience to my work, integrating evidence-based therapies such as CBT, mindfulness and relaxation, with traditional talk therapy. In a warm and safe environment, we will work together to help you gain relief from what is bothering you, including relationships, depression or anxiety. We'll also explore deeper experiences that may be the source of ongoing emotional difficulties. By using a flexible approach and methods that are right for you, you will develop new insights, create strategies to manage stressors, enhance your strengths, and be better able to make constructive choices for yourself.
(646) 681-3841 View (646) 681-3841
Photo of Donna Silbert, Psychologist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Donna Silbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience treating adults and adolescents in psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy. During the the COVID pandemic, I'm seeing patients virtually through tele-medicine, on some kind of screen or phone. I specialize in helping people with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues; sexual problems; addictions; and in treating survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
I have over 25 years of experience treating adults and adolescents in psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy. During the the COVID pandemic, I'm seeing patients virtually through tele-medicine, on some kind of screen or phone. I specialize in helping people with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues; sexual problems; addictions; and in treating survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
(646) 351-1994 View (646) 351-1994
Photo of Katherine Olesker, Psychologist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Katherine Olesker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
I have experience helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, loss, trauma, relationship problems, sexual abuse, mood disorders, and psychotic symptoms.
My style is warm and genuine. Through empathy and validation I strive to offer a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere. My goal is to help you gain insight and practical tools to improve your quality of life. Providing support and understanding along with coping strategies helps to alleviate problematic thinking, behaviors, and symptoms.
I have experience helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, loss, trauma, relationship problems, sexual abuse, mood disorders, and psychotic symptoms.
My style is warm and genuine. Through empathy and validation I strive to offer a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere. My goal is to help you gain insight and practical tools to improve your quality of life. Providing support and understanding along with coping strategies helps to alleviate problematic thinking, behaviors, and symptoms.
(917) 242-4556 View (917) 242-4556
Photo of Peggy Thomson, Psychologist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Peggy Thomson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023
In addition, I have experience working with sexual abuse, trauma, and issues affecting the LGBTQ community.
Do you worry a lot, find yourself losing your temper or getting upset easily? Wonder why your relationships get stuck and can't figure out what's holding you back? Perhaps your goals have changed and you don't know how to reach them. Whether you are in crisis or just want to understand yourself better, I can help.
In addition, I have experience working with sexual abuse, trauma, and issues affecting the LGBTQ community.
Do you worry a lot, find yourself losing your temper or getting upset easily? Wonder why your relationships get stuck and can't figure out what's holding you back? Perhaps your goals have changed and you don't know how to reach them. Whether you are in crisis or just want to understand yourself better, I can help.
(646) 362-1205 View (646) 362-1205
Photo of Ashley Retta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Ashley Retta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10024
I’ve worked in child welfare, domestic violence, & sexual assault, helping survivors find their voice & reclaim their power.
My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, healing and safe space for you discuss and navigate your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to confront anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, family dynamics, major life changes and generational trauma. I take a warm, down to earth, person centered approach and am an active participant in the session. I utilize a variety of tools including curiosity, empathy, humor and vulnerability to learn about you, and help create trust in our therapeutic relationship.
I’ve worked in child welfare, domestic violence, & sexual assault, helping survivors find their voice & reclaim their power.
My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, healing and safe space for you discuss and navigate your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to confront anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, family dynamics, major life changes and generational trauma. I take a warm, down to earth, person centered approach and am an active participant in the session. I utilize a variety of tools including curiosity, empathy, humor and vulnerability to learn about you, and help create trust in our therapeutic relationship.
(914) 960-0705 View (914) 960-0705
Photo of Sade Arzu Consulting & Practice, Counselor in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Sade Arzu Consulting & Practice
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10024
I have a specialty in treating adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse through a psychodynamic approach.
As a true believer in human strength, many of us spend our lives searching for what is already there. A fuller and meaningful life is lived when we have discovered our inner strength. I am trained to help you find your inner strength so you can live a healthier and more meaningful life. My practice is rooted on a psychodynamic approach--assisting the client in gaining a perspective of pure insight in order to recognize the character, traits, actions, responses, and behaviors that will be transformed.
I have a specialty in treating adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse through a psychodynamic approach.
As a true believer in human strength, many of us spend our lives searching for what is already there. A fuller and meaningful life is lived when we have discovered our inner strength. I am trained to help you find your inner strength so you can live a healthier and more meaningful life. My practice is rooted on a psychodynamic approach--assisting the client in gaining a perspective of pure insight in order to recognize the character, traits, actions, responses, and behaviors that will be transformed.
(347) 321-4167 View (347) 321-4167
Photo of Hillary Leigh Perlman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Hillary Leigh Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10024
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and supportive space to help you to find a greater sense of purpose and trust your unique wisdom. I work collaboratively with individuals and couples to confront issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, domestic violence, physical/sexual abuse, complicated grief, sexuality and gender issues, major life changes and chronic health issues including HIV/AIDS. I have experience working with diverse groups and weave an anti-oppressive stance into my understanding of complex issues.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and supportive space to help you to find a greater sense of purpose and trust your unique wisdom. I work collaboratively with individuals and couples to confront issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, domestic violence, physical/sexual abuse, complicated grief, sexuality and gender issues, major life changes and chronic health issues including HIV/AIDS. I have experience working with diverse groups and weave an anti-oppressive stance into my understanding of complex issues.
(512) 957-3702 View (512) 957-3702
Ronit Reguer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10027
As a trained psychodynamic psychotherapist, I specialize in trauma and victim/survivor advocacy including family violence, sexual assault, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
I am a NY State Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of post-masters experience working with trauma, specifically victims and survivors of interpersonal violence. East End Psychotherapy is a clinical practice committed to assisting, supporting, and empowering individuals through challenging periods in their lives. Along with the client, a treatment plan will be developed based on specific needs and goals utilizing evidenced-based therapeutic modalities (an interdisciplinary approach to clinical practice supported by research).
As a trained psychodynamic psychotherapist, I specialize in trauma and victim/survivor advocacy including family violence, sexual assault, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
I am a NY State Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of post-masters experience working with trauma, specifically victims and survivors of interpersonal violence. East End Psychotherapy is a clinical practice committed to assisting, supporting, and empowering individuals through challenging periods in their lives. Along with the client, a treatment plan will be developed based on specific needs and goals utilizing evidenced-based therapeutic modalities (an interdisciplinary approach to clinical practice supported by research).
(646) 490-1637 View (646) 490-1637
Photo of Heidi Knoll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Heidi Knoll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10024  (Online Only)
My clinical work over the past 20 plus years has included working with many different issues including eating disorders, women in transition in their lives, adolescents, sexual abuse, infertility, divorce.
If Self Help advice and strategies had been enough you probably would not be looking for a therapist. Those strategies make sense but are often very difficult to implement. The human psyche is a complicated mechanism which tends to resist change. Breaking problematic patterns of behavior and interactions with family, friends and in work environments is harder than it looks. Past history , fears and anxieties often contribute to making it difficult to make positive changes in ones life. My work with you includes examination of factors making it difficult to change and strengthening your resolve to make beneficial changes.
My clinical work over the past 20 plus years has included working with many different issues including eating disorders, women in transition in their lives, adolescents, sexual abuse, infertility, divorce.
If Self Help advice and strategies had been enough you probably would not be looking for a therapist. Those strategies make sense but are often very difficult to implement. The human psyche is a complicated mechanism which tends to resist change. Breaking problematic patterns of behavior and interactions with family, friends and in work environments is harder than it looks. Past history , fears and anxieties often contribute to making it difficult to make positive changes in ones life. My work with you includes examination of factors making it difficult to change and strengthening your resolve to make beneficial changes.
(914) 747-2008 View (914) 747-2008
Photo of Shelley Messing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Shelley Messing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MSW
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023
Whether working with a survivor of childhood sexual abuse having flashbacks; a couple having the same fight; a young adult unable to transition to independent life; or a person trapped in an unsatisfying job or relationship, I have an extensive "tool kit" to facilitate change.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, with over 35 years of experience. I have a variety of clinical interests and areas of specialization, including the treatment of trauma and PTSD; couples therapy with heterosexual, gay and lesbian couples; analytic work "launching" young adults; Ericksonian hypnosis; EMDR;Sensorimotor Psychotherapy; adolescent and family therapy; and in-depth analytic work with individuals who are feeling stuck in repetitive patterns or dynamics left over from childhood, and want to change. I have led ongoing therapy groups for women with interpersonal trauma histories for over 30 years.
Whether working with a survivor of childhood sexual abuse having flashbacks; a couple having the same fight; a young adult unable to transition to independent life; or a person trapped in an unsatisfying job or relationship, I have an extensive "tool kit" to facilitate change.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, with over 35 years of experience. I have a variety of clinical interests and areas of specialization, including the treatment of trauma and PTSD; couples therapy with heterosexual, gay and lesbian couples; analytic work "launching" young adults; Ericksonian hypnosis; EMDR;Sensorimotor Psychotherapy; adolescent and family therapy; and in-depth analytic work with individuals who are feeling stuck in repetitive patterns or dynamics left over from childhood, and want to change. I have led ongoing therapy groups for women with interpersonal trauma histories for over 30 years.
(646) 480-7155 View (646) 480-7155
Photo of Lynn Krigbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Lynn Krigbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023
Waitlist for new clients
Choosing a therapist is a very personal matter, especially if you have never been in therapy before. Being able to talk in a safe environment is essential. I am a caring and empathic therapist with 20 years experience in body/mind psychotherapy. I bring to my work the utmost respect for the innate wisdom of each individual. As a former dancer, I have worked with many performing artists and as an Interfaith Minister I am comfortable with spiritual matters. I treat people with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, eating disorders, alcohol abuse, sexual abuse, incest and life transitions. Please visit my website, lynnkrigbaum.com.
Choosing a therapist is a very personal matter, especially if you have never been in therapy before. Being able to talk in a safe environment is essential. I am a caring and empathic therapist with 20 years experience in body/mind psychotherapy. I bring to my work the utmost respect for the innate wisdom of each individual. As a former dancer, I have worked with many performing artists and as an Interfaith Minister I am comfortable with spiritual matters. I treat people with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, eating disorders, alcohol abuse, sexual abuse, incest and life transitions. Please visit my website, lynnkrigbaum.com.
(646) 593-7581 View (646) 593-7581
Photo of Shalini Sehgal, Psychologist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Shalini Sehgal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025
I have experience in treating a wide range of issues including trauma, bereavement, major depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, divorce, sexual abuse, and immigration and acculturation.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process where we can work together to try to understand your problems, identify obstacles, and consider new alternatives. I believe a trusting patient-therapist relationship is important to sucess in therapy. I strive to provide a warm & supportive space where you are encouraged to learn more about yourself so that you can work toward living the most rewarding and meaningful life possible.
I have experience in treating a wide range of issues including trauma, bereavement, major depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, divorce, sexual abuse, and immigration and acculturation.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process where we can work together to try to understand your problems, identify obstacles, and consider new alternatives. I believe a trusting patient-therapist relationship is important to sucess in therapy. I strive to provide a warm & supportive space where you are encouraged to learn more about yourself so that you can work toward living the most rewarding and meaningful life possible.
(646) 600-8195 View (646) 600-8195
Photo of Jan C. Niemira, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Jan C. Niemira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in the treatment of gay men's intimacy and relationship issues, identity concerns, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and LGBT issues.
When your inner world feels out of balance, it's time to talk. Sometimes sadness or worry sends up a red flag and lets you know when you need support. Other times you might feel lonely or disconnected and not certain how to make things right. These are great opportunities to get to know yourself better. My therapeutic approach emphasizes 'true self experience' and aims to peel back the layers of compromise that come to feel so heavy, ill-fitting, or inauthentic over time. Feeling more alive and a renewed sense of discovery are the benefits of this deeply personal process.
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in the treatment of gay men's intimacy and relationship issues, identity concerns, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and LGBT issues.
When your inner world feels out of balance, it's time to talk. Sometimes sadness or worry sends up a red flag and lets you know when you need support. Other times you might feel lonely or disconnected and not certain how to make things right. These are great opportunities to get to know yourself better. My therapeutic approach emphasizes 'true self experience' and aims to peel back the layers of compromise that come to feel so heavy, ill-fitting, or inauthentic over time. Feeling more alive and a renewed sense of discovery are the benefits of this deeply personal process.
(646) 583-3935 View (646) 583-3935
Photo of Eric J. Dammann, Psychologist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Eric J. Dammann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023
I have trained in a number of therapy modalities (interpersonal psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, coaching), and use an eclectic and flexible approach which takes into account the particular client and their goals. I am the co-director of the Artist Program at the William Alanson White Institute, where I also serve as director of referrals for their Sexual Abuse Service. Other areas of specialization are financial therapy and executive coaching and leadership development. I do consulting work with financial firms and planners, as well as executives and other professionals going through career transitions, or looking to improve their work performance.
I have trained in a number of therapy modalities (interpersonal psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, coaching), and use an eclectic and flexible approach which takes into account the particular client and their goals. I am the co-director of the Artist Program at the William Alanson White Institute, where I also serve as director of referrals for their Sexual Abuse Service. Other areas of specialization are financial therapy and executive coaching and leadership development. I do consulting work with financial firms and planners, as well as executives and other professionals going through career transitions, or looking to improve their work performance.
(212) 223-8085 View (212) 223-8085
Photo of Mary McRae, Psychologist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Mary McRae
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with people dealing with depression, anxiety, stressful relationships, concerns with eating and body, career and work issues, trauma due to sexual abuse, as well as wellness and health issues.
I help people to become more aware of their emotions and ways of thinking about concerns and problems that impact them in daily life. I believe that awareness leads to a better understanding which enhances coping skills. I am also interested in how an individual is impacted emotionally by their environment and social context. People who work with me comment on my being authentic and genuine, willing to engage and challenge as necessary.
I specialize in working with people dealing with depression, anxiety, stressful relationships, concerns with eating and body, career and work issues, trauma due to sexual abuse, as well as wellness and health issues.
I help people to become more aware of their emotions and ways of thinking about concerns and problems that impact them in daily life. I believe that awareness leads to a better understanding which enhances coping skills. I am also interested in how an individual is impacted emotionally by their environment and social context. People who work with me comment on my being authentic and genuine, willing to engage and challenge as necessary.
(646) 679-6343 View (646) 679-6343
Photo of Agresta Psychotherapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Agresta Psychotherapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC, NCAC, II
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025
I seek to help you acheive a sense of balance in your life by creating a safe, caring space to explore your feelings and overcome your issues. The Agresta Psychotherapy Group has been serving the needs of the Metropolitan area for over 30 years by providing psychotherapeutic services to individuals, couples and families. I have experience dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sexual abuse, addictions, gender and relationship issues. Treatment plans are individually tailored to you and your needs. I believe with proper treatment and care all people can overcome their issues and lead a happy fulfilling life.
I seek to help you acheive a sense of balance in your life by creating a safe, caring space to explore your feelings and overcome your issues. The Agresta Psychotherapy Group has been serving the needs of the Metropolitan area for over 30 years by providing psychotherapeutic services to individuals, couples and families. I have experience dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sexual abuse, addictions, gender and relationship issues. Treatment plans are individually tailored to you and your needs. I believe with proper treatment and care all people can overcome their issues and lead a happy fulfilling life.
(212) 627-7727 View (212) 627-7727
Photo of Margaret Schiliro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Margaret Schiliro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
I am easy to talk to, caring, and non-judgmental. I am an experienced therapist, former Clinical Supervisor at Columbia University, and adjunct faculty at the City University of New York. I work with most issues, but specialize in relationships, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and adult female survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
I am easy to talk to, caring, and non-judgmental. I am an experienced therapist, former Clinical Supervisor at Columbia University, and adjunct faculty at the City University of New York. I work with most issues, but specialize in relationships, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and adult female survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
(646) 793-4395 View (646) 793-4395

See more therapy options for Upper West Side, New York

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.