Photo of Gay Men's Counseling Alliance - Jonathan Merker, Counselor in New York, NY
Gay Men's Counseling Alliance - Jonathan Merker
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
My ideal client identifies as a gay/bi/queer/questioning man who has survived childhood sexual abuse and/or a conversion therapy program (i.e. “ex-gay” or “pray the gay away"). The symptoms my ideal client is struggling with after surviving abuse manifest in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship & sexual dysfunction, and others. My clients come to me to become empowered in their mental health, their feelings, their relationships, and their sexuality.
My ideal client identifies as a gay/bi/queer/questioning man who has survived childhood sexual abuse and/or a conversion therapy program (i.e. “ex-gay” or “pray the gay away"). The symptoms my ideal client is struggling with after surviving abuse manifest in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship & sexual dysfunction, and others. My clients come to me to become empowered in their mental health, their feelings, their relationships, and their sexuality.
(332) 529-6933 View (332) 529-6933
Photo of Pamela Ann Kirsch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Pamela Ann Kirsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
I earned my master’s degree in social work from Columbia University where I focused on clinical practice and contemporary social issues. I follow an anti-oppressive framework and apply a strength based and client-centered approach to my work with survivors of sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence. I have extensive experience providing crisis support and on-going counseling to patients who identify as LGBTQIA or HIV-affected and have been impacted by violence and/or struggle with depression, anxiety or PTSD. In practice, I use a combination of trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I earned my master’s degree in social work from Columbia University where I focused on clinical practice and contemporary social issues. I follow an anti-oppressive framework and apply a strength based and client-centered approach to my work with survivors of sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence. I have extensive experience providing crisis support and on-going counseling to patients who identify as LGBTQIA or HIV-affected and have been impacted by violence and/or struggle with depression, anxiety or PTSD. In practice, I use a combination of trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(347) 380-7051 View (347) 380-7051
Photo of Zoe Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Zoe Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
(347) 514-6386 View (347) 514-6386
Photo of Jessica Muñoz in New York, NY
Jessica Muñoz
LMHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10012
I am a gender-based violence expert completing doctoral studies with a clinical focus on sexual assault survivors.
I love to work with any adult who is ready to show up and work, just as I am. I enjoy working with clients in person, the walk you take to my office is part of our clinical focus on setting routines and making space for ourselves. That said, some of my most loyal clients see me on zoom, we work together to get therapy in.
I am a gender-based violence expert completing doctoral studies with a clinical focus on sexual assault survivors.
I love to work with any adult who is ready to show up and work, just as I am. I enjoy working with clients in person, the walk you take to my office is part of our clinical focus on setting routines and making space for ourselves. That said, some of my most loyal clients see me on zoom, we work together to get therapy in.
(646) 791-3755 View (646) 791-3755
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
Photo of Lynne Julianna Beldegreen, Art Therapist in New York, NY
Lynne Julianna Beldegreen
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
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 New York, NY
Sherie L Seff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
(646) 600-5012 View (646) 600-5012
Photo of Shelby Catherine Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Shelby Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
My practice is dedicated to serving those who have endured the profound impacts of trauma, particularly intimate partner violence or sexual assault, as well as those grieving a loss. They are individuals who, despite their challenges, are motivated to initiate therapy, and may be grappling with mood changes, or troubling symptoms, with or without a diagnosis. Together, we will explore and develop healthy coping skills, paving the way toward healing and rediscovery of hope. They are determined to work towards a brighter, more resilient future with therapy.
My practice is dedicated to serving those who have endured the profound impacts of trauma, particularly intimate partner violence or sexual assault, as well as those grieving a loss. They are individuals who, despite their challenges, are motivated to initiate therapy, and may be grappling with mood changes, or troubling symptoms, with or without a diagnosis. Together, we will explore and develop healthy coping skills, paving the way toward healing and rediscovery of hope. They are determined to work towards a brighter, more resilient future with therapy.
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Photo of Antoinette Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Antoinette Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SFTT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Previously, I worked part-time at an outpatient clinic for sexual assault and abuse survivors.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
Previously, I worked part-time at an outpatient clinic for sexual assault and abuse survivors.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
(646) 480-1874 View (646) 480-1874
Photo of Lauren Deakin, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Lauren Deakin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
In addition to treating individuals with general anxiety and depression, I specialize in trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sex addiction, work addiction, low-self esteem and religious abuse.
My approach to therapy is clear, curious, warm, and adaptive to your needs. I utilize a blend of techniques from various therapeutic modalities that are proven effective and backed by research. You can expect our work to flow through two main focal points: practical insights and exercises based on neuroscience and mind-body integration that bring needed relief; and a deeper exploration of lifelong patterns in the subconscious mind to bring lasting change and healing. I am a supportive agent toward self-knowing so my clients can inhabit their lives and relationships from a place of vibrancy and clarity.
In addition to treating individuals with general anxiety and depression, I specialize in trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sex addiction, work addiction, low-self esteem and religious abuse.
My approach to therapy is clear, curious, warm, and adaptive to your needs. I utilize a blend of techniques from various therapeutic modalities that are proven effective and backed by research. You can expect our work to flow through two main focal points: practical insights and exercises based on neuroscience and mind-body integration that bring needed relief; and a deeper exploration of lifelong patterns in the subconscious mind to bring lasting change and healing. I am a supportive agent toward self-knowing so my clients can inhabit their lives and relationships from a place of vibrancy and clarity.
(929) 357-2579 View (929) 357-2579
Photo of Elizabeth J. Carroll, Psychologist in New York, NY
Elizabeth J. Carroll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I'm a warm and relational provider who specializes in working with emerging adults, high-achieving women, members of the LGBT+ community, anxiety and depression, a history of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, current or historical family conflict, and relationship exploration.
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I'm a warm and relational provider who specializes in working with emerging adults, high-achieving women, members of the LGBT+ community, anxiety and depression, a history of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, current or historical family conflict, and relationship exploration.
(347) 427-9165 View (347) 427-9165
Photo of Amber Lust, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Amber Lust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I'm an EMDR practicing, strength based & client-centered therapist. I understand that you are the expert of your experiences, and I’m here to listen & support you in your healing. I specialize in working with people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence. Treatment will be tailored to your needs. My practice is Queer, kink, sex work and poly positive. Originally from Canada, my practice is immigrant affirming, and I can speak conversational French if needed. I facilitate a support group for adult survivors of intimate partner abuse on Friday afternoons. Please contact me for more info!
I'm an EMDR practicing, strength based & client-centered therapist. I understand that you are the expert of your experiences, and I’m here to listen & support you in your healing. I specialize in working with people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence. Treatment will be tailored to your needs. My practice is Queer, kink, sex work and poly positive. Originally from Canada, my practice is immigrant affirming, and I can speak conversational French if needed. I facilitate a support group for adult survivors of intimate partner abuse on Friday afternoons. Please contact me for more info!
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Photo of Daniel Blausey, Art Therapist in New York, NY
Daniel Blausey
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014
Stress reduction, sexuality, grief and loss, sadness, and childhood sexual abuse are just a few common areas of focus for my clients.
Welcome to my art therapy and psychotherapy practice page. For over 25 years I have successfully worked with adults and young people seeking change. I am equally at ease with traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or an integration of the two and collaborate with my clients to establish the safest approach to realize personal intentions. My engagement style is gentle and encouraging, yet more thought-provoking and compassionately challenging when it is advantageous to the therapy.
Stress reduction, sexuality, grief and loss, sadness, and childhood sexual abuse are just a few common areas of focus for my clients.
Welcome to my art therapy and psychotherapy practice page. For over 25 years I have successfully worked with adults and young people seeking change. I am equally at ease with traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or an integration of the two and collaborate with my clients to establish the safest approach to realize personal intentions. My engagement style is gentle and encouraging, yet more thought-provoking and compassionately challenging when it is advantageous to the therapy.
(646) 480-7303 View (646) 480-7303
Photo of Will Higdon-Sudow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Will Higdon-Sudow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a queer therapist, I believe that therapy is different for every individual. My passion for understanding people and relationships has always been driven by curiosity. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and have experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As a career changer, my previous career in advertising and fashion informs my extensive experience working with clients in the performing arts and other creative fields.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a queer therapist, I believe that therapy is different for every individual. My passion for understanding people and relationships has always been driven by curiosity. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and have experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As a career changer, my previous career in advertising and fashion informs my extensive experience working with clients in the performing arts and other creative fields.
(347) 227-1963 View (347) 227-1963
Photo of Karen Rich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Karen Rich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10002  (Online Only)
My clients often struggle with relationship issues stemming from early childhood trauma; this results in coping mechanisms that work, but may carry a big price tag. They may grapple with sexual abuse, partner violence, sexual orientation and/ or disability related issues. Often, these manifest as substance abuse, cutting, communication problems or self- isolating behaviors. They may have friends and family members who do not truly "see" them, and as a result their own view of self is dim. Other clients are coping with situational anxiety and depression related to Covid, and need to establish safety, structure and hope.
My clients often struggle with relationship issues stemming from early childhood trauma; this results in coping mechanisms that work, but may carry a big price tag. They may grapple with sexual abuse, partner violence, sexual orientation and/ or disability related issues. Often, these manifest as substance abuse, cutting, communication problems or self- isolating behaviors. They may have friends and family members who do not truly "see" them, and as a result their own view of self is dim. Other clients are coping with situational anxiety and depression related to Covid, and need to establish safety, structure and hope.
(845) 303-2805 View (845) 303-2805
Photo of Bridget O'Shea Bernstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Bridget O'Shea Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with attachment/developmental trauma, sexual abuse, addiction, and chronic illness.
I am committed to creating a soft, genuine, relational space for my clients to get to know their inner systems. I have a graduate degree in Social Work, and I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS). I have been engaged with the IFS model for over nine years, and it is the primary model I use for psychotherapeutic work. I have assisted as a staff member on three Level 1 IFS trainings, helping other therapists and practitioners learn the model.
I specialize in working with attachment/developmental trauma, sexual abuse, addiction, and chronic illness.
I am committed to creating a soft, genuine, relational space for my clients to get to know their inner systems. I have a graduate degree in Social Work, and I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS). I have been engaged with the IFS model for over nine years, and it is the primary model I use for psychotherapeutic work. I have assisted as a staff member on three Level 1 IFS trainings, helping other therapists and practitioners learn the model.
(929) 419-4486 View (929) 419-4486
Photo of Dr. Thomas Whitfield, Psychologist in New York, NY
Dr. Thomas Whitfield
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
Curious about CBT, EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and online therapy? Click "website" to quickly set up a free 30-minute phone consultation. I view therapy as a collaborative experience aimed at helping patients become the best version of themselves. I love working with patients who are motivated to make change and excited to learn more about who they are and how they navigate the world. I have a plethora of experience working with individuals and couples who have mood disorders, anxiety related disorders, complex physical and sexual abuse traumas, and those who have difficulty adjusting to life changes.
Curious about CBT, EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and online therapy? Click "website" to quickly set up a free 30-minute phone consultation. I view therapy as a collaborative experience aimed at helping patients become the best version of themselves. I love working with patients who are motivated to make change and excited to learn more about who they are and how they navigate the world. I have a plethora of experience working with individuals and couples who have mood disorders, anxiety related disorders, complex physical and sexual abuse traumas, and those who have difficulty adjusting to life changes.
(914) 228-4134 View (914) 228-4134
Photo of Nyx Melody, Counselor in New York, NY
Nyx Melody
Counselor, MA, EdM, LMHC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I have experienced the loss of my brother, childhood physical/sexual abuse, and I am a cancer survivor.
Are you exploring your gender, sexuality, alternative sexual practices and/or relationship dynamics? Have you tried to heal from your past trauma and been unable to feel more embodied and liberated? Do you find yourself feeling hopeless that you will ever find a sense of belonging or connection with others because your way of engaging in the world or an identity you possess is labeled as “other”? Would you like to live life with greater authenticity, self-compassion, empathy, and self-confidence? Are you looking to dismantle internalized oppression or privilege to be a more accountable partner in creating a more just society?
I have experienced the loss of my brother, childhood physical/sexual abuse, and I am a cancer survivor.
Are you exploring your gender, sexuality, alternative sexual practices and/or relationship dynamics? Have you tried to heal from your past trauma and been unable to feel more embodied and liberated? Do you find yourself feeling hopeless that you will ever find a sense of belonging or connection with others because your way of engaging in the world or an identity you possess is labeled as “other”? Would you like to live life with greater authenticity, self-compassion, empathy, and self-confidence? Are you looking to dismantle internalized oppression or privilege to be a more accountable partner in creating a more just society?
(878) 666-9186 View (878) 666-9186
Photo of Prerna Menon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Prerna Menon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, SIFI
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
Living in fear, & avoidance is much the same as not living at all. Although pain is a universal inevitability across all life forms, suffering is a uniquely human quality. But, does suffering have to be terminal? Is it always destined? I am confident in my ability to help folks navigate the entanglement & beauty of sexuality, gender, spirituality, race, culture, & identity. I specialize in depression, complex trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, acculturation & race-based stress, sexual abuse, & interpersonal conflicts. My goal is to help you feel liberated in your body, unashamedly free, & excited for the future. So how do we do this together?
Living in fear, & avoidance is much the same as not living at all. Although pain is a universal inevitability across all life forms, suffering is a uniquely human quality. But, does suffering have to be terminal? Is it always destined? I am confident in my ability to help folks navigate the entanglement & beauty of sexuality, gender, spirituality, race, culture, & identity. I specialize in depression, complex trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, acculturation & race-based stress, sexual abuse, & interpersonal conflicts. My goal is to help you feel liberated in your body, unashamedly free, & excited for the future. So how do we do this together?
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Photo of Kyle William McEvoy, Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY
Kyle William McEvoy
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I have helped those overcome substance abuse issues, explore individual identity (LGBTQ), cope with psychological/cognitive/developmental disorders, accept medical diagnoses, overcome sexual abuse/intimate partner violence, and various maladaptive behaviors.
Kyle is the Founder and President of Collaborative, a multidisciplinary clinical community focused on establishing effective, evidence-based treatment founded on an adaptive mentalization-based treatment model. He holds advanced training in mentalization-based and adaptive mentalization-based integrative treatment through the Anna Freud Centre for Children and Families. He specializes in complex attachment and identity-related disorders such as borderline, avoidant, antisocial, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personalities, along with gender-diverse individuals.
I have helped those overcome substance abuse issues, explore individual identity (LGBTQ), cope with psychological/cognitive/developmental disorders, accept medical diagnoses, overcome sexual abuse/intimate partner violence, and various maladaptive behaviors.
Kyle is the Founder and President of Collaborative, a multidisciplinary clinical community focused on establishing effective, evidence-based treatment founded on an adaptive mentalization-based treatment model. He holds advanced training in mentalization-based and adaptive mentalization-based integrative treatment through the Anna Freud Centre for Children and Families. He specializes in complex attachment and identity-related disorders such as borderline, avoidant, antisocial, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personalities, along with gender-diverse individuals.
(929) 226-6119 View (929) 226-6119
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.