Sexual Abuse Therapists in Ohio

Photo of Olena Sowers, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio
Olena Sowers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44109
Making the decision to find help is hard enough. That is why my goal in counseling is to create a place where you feel safe enough to tell your story. I am Olena Sowers, LPCC, and while I work with many concerns, I specialize in trauma and PTSD and EMDR. I have worked with a variety of client concerns, from anxiety, foster care and adoption to addiction, family conflict, anger, and others. I specialize in trauma and PTSD and am trained in EMDR. I have experience working with individuals who survived physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and neglect, assault, first responders, veterans, motor vehicle accident victims, and many more.
Making the decision to find help is hard enough. That is why my goal in counseling is to create a place where you feel safe enough to tell your story. I am Olena Sowers, LPCC, and while I work with many concerns, I specialize in trauma and PTSD and EMDR. I have worked with a variety of client concerns, from anxiety, foster care and adoption to addiction, family conflict, anger, and others. I specialize in trauma and PTSD and am trained in EMDR. I have experience working with individuals who survived physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and neglect, assault, first responders, veterans, motor vehicle accident victims, and many more.
(216) 303-6692 View (216) 303-6692
Photo of Marlene Dolinar, Counselor in Ohio
Marlene Dolinar
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43606
I work with children, adolescents and teenagers struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum, ODD, sexual abuse/reactivity, sexual offenses, PTSD, and self-esteem issues along with many others.
As a play therapist and counselor, I reach children and adults using a variety of techniques including the natural language of play. I am amazed to see the transformation people can make through the power of play, sandtray and expressive therapies. I am a Registered Play Therapist by the Association for Play Therapy and a certified Autplay Provider (Autism Play Therapy). I am currently the owner and founder of Mending Hearts Counseling Center. I provide mental health counseling and play therapy services to children, adolescents and adults. In my free time I enjoy camping, traveling, and spending time with my family.
I work with children, adolescents and teenagers struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum, ODD, sexual abuse/reactivity, sexual offenses, PTSD, and self-esteem issues along with many others.
As a play therapist and counselor, I reach children and adults using a variety of techniques including the natural language of play. I am amazed to see the transformation people can make through the power of play, sandtray and expressive therapies. I am a Registered Play Therapist by the Association for Play Therapy and a certified Autplay Provider (Autism Play Therapy). I am currently the owner and founder of Mending Hearts Counseling Center. I provide mental health counseling and play therapy services to children, adolescents and adults. In my free time I enjoy camping, traveling, and spending time with my family.
(567) 278-9758 View (567) 278-9758
Photo of Kora Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Kora Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Elyria, OH 44035
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master's degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University. I specialize in treating children and adolescents ages 3-12 navigate feelings they may have related to past trauma including but not limited to experiencing sexual abuse, witnessing domestic violence and experiencing physical, emotional abuse or neglect. My primary area of interest includes treating trauma (PTSD), dissociative disorders, anxiety and depression. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic interventions including Play Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Ego State Therapy, expressive arts, bibliotherapy and Sandtray.
I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master's degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University. I specialize in treating children and adolescents ages 3-12 navigate feelings they may have related to past trauma including but not limited to experiencing sexual abuse, witnessing domestic violence and experiencing physical, emotional abuse or neglect. My primary area of interest includes treating trauma (PTSD), dissociative disorders, anxiety and depression. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic interventions including Play Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Ego State Therapy, expressive arts, bibliotherapy and Sandtray.
(440) 323-5121 View (440) 323-5121
Photo of Devyn Thompson Sanders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Devyn Thompson Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, S22076
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242
In my practice, I've offered support to survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, and trafficking.
Hi! I appreciate you taking the time to get to know me better as you explore your therapeutic journey. I'm a licensed social worker based in Ohio, and I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Cincinnati, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Kentucky. My career choice in behavioral and mental health was fueled by a deep-seated desire to enable people to feel truly heard, seen, and valued for who they are.
In my practice, I've offered support to survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, and trafficking.
Hi! I appreciate you taking the time to get to know me better as you explore your therapeutic journey. I'm a licensed social worker based in Ohio, and I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Cincinnati, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Kentucky. My career choice in behavioral and mental health was fueled by a deep-seated desire to enable people to feel truly heard, seen, and valued for who they are.
(513) 848-5517 View (513) 848-5517
Photo of Karen Weiman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Karen Weiman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LMSW, PMH-C, LICDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230  (Online Only)
Trauma & PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Anxiety, are my top specialties, though I have numerous years helping those heal from most all traumas.
I have been in the mental health field, working with anxiety and trauma, for 20+ years! YOU appear driven and put together on the outside, but are struggling internally. You are wanting relief. Perhaps the anxiety is the result of something that happened to you. If your life is inhibited by your past in any way, this is the right place for you. I can help you find what is on the other side of the anxiety and fear, which could be peace, relief, and authenticity. I have intensive and specialized training in Trauma, PTSD and the resulting anxiety that comes from overwhelming or unsafe situations & people.
Trauma & PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Anxiety, are my top specialties, though I have numerous years helping those heal from most all traumas.
I have been in the mental health field, working with anxiety and trauma, for 20+ years! YOU appear driven and put together on the outside, but are struggling internally. You are wanting relief. Perhaps the anxiety is the result of something that happened to you. If your life is inhibited by your past in any way, this is the right place for you. I can help you find what is on the other side of the anxiety and fear, which could be peace, relief, and authenticity. I have intensive and specialized training in Trauma, PTSD and the resulting anxiety that comes from overwhelming or unsafe situations & people.
(740) 685-4452 View (740) 685-4452
Photo of Marissa Marie Gray, Counselor in Ohio
Marissa Marie Gray
Counselor, LPCC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Youngstown, OH 44512  (Online Only)
I first give you so much credit for your courage and steps towards healing. I am here to support you along your journey. I work with clients of all walks of life, though I specialize in sexual abuse and traumatic events. Healing is possible, and there is a light on the other side. While it may be difficult to trust, together we can work towards your goals and a life liberated from the pain of the past, where you can embrace the future. If you are struggling, the first step is knowing you are worthy of support, and seeking it out. I would be honored to walk alongside you in your journey!
I first give you so much credit for your courage and steps towards healing. I am here to support you along your journey. I work with clients of all walks of life, though I specialize in sexual abuse and traumatic events. Healing is possible, and there is a light on the other side. While it may be difficult to trust, together we can work towards your goals and a life liberated from the pain of the past, where you can embrace the future. If you are struggling, the first step is knowing you are worthy of support, and seeking it out. I would be honored to walk alongside you in your journey!
(513) 548-3661 View (513) 548-3661
Photo of Charity Harrison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio
Charity Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Waitlist for new clients
Charity specializes in working with children and adolescents (sees adults as well) with mental health issues relating to trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, and depression.
Charity is passionately committed to assisting individuals, couples, and families on their journey towards greater self-awareness, restorative care, and holistic wellness. Her goal is to help clients better understand their everyday lived experiences, how they have shaped their health, well-being, and relationship with self and others. Additionally, live a life that aligns with their truest self, values, and goals. It is her hope, together with clients, therapy can become a safe space where you can share your story, heal, and feel empowered as you make positive changes.
Charity specializes in working with children and adolescents (sees adults as well) with mental health issues relating to trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, and depression.
Charity is passionately committed to assisting individuals, couples, and families on their journey towards greater self-awareness, restorative care, and holistic wellness. Her goal is to help clients better understand their everyday lived experiences, how they have shaped their health, well-being, and relationship with self and others. Additionally, live a life that aligns with their truest self, values, and goals. It is her hope, together with clients, therapy can become a safe space where you can share your story, heal, and feel empowered as you make positive changes.
(614) 714-1973 View (614) 714-1973
Photo of Linda Stout, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Linda Stout
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114  (Online Only)
My primary areas of fucus have been anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, behavioral issues, anger management, stress management and sexual abuse.
We all experience life differently and sometimes trying to figure out how to handle those experiences can be overwhelming. I am here for you, so you don't have to do it alone. My goal is to provide you with a warm, safe, and inviting environment where I can help you with processing any thoughts and feelings you may have about life challenges. I am a LISW-S and have over 16 years experience working with adults, children, teens, families, and groups.
My primary areas of fucus have been anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, behavioral issues, anger management, stress management and sexual abuse.
We all experience life differently and sometimes trying to figure out how to handle those experiences can be overwhelming. I am here for you, so you don't have to do it alone. My goal is to provide you with a warm, safe, and inviting environment where I can help you with processing any thoughts and feelings you may have about life challenges. I am a LISW-S and have over 16 years experience working with adults, children, teens, families, and groups.
(216) 859-0224 View (216) 859-0224
Photo of Andrea Lisowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Andrea Lisowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Not currently accepting new clients. I believe therapy should be unique to each client because everyone has different needs. I enjoy getting to know each of my clients and how I can best work with them. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, and have a special interest in working with trauma/ PTSD, dissociation and sexual abuse. I offer EMDR Intensive sessions (sessions over 1 hour) for self pay clients. I currently see client's ages 4 and above. I am also trained in the World Professional Association For Transgender Health (WPATH) standards to evaluate and write letters for life/gender affirming care.
Not currently accepting new clients. I believe therapy should be unique to each client because everyone has different needs. I enjoy getting to know each of my clients and how I can best work with them. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, and have a special interest in working with trauma/ PTSD, dissociation and sexual abuse. I offer EMDR Intensive sessions (sessions over 1 hour) for self pay clients. I currently see client's ages 4 and above. I am also trained in the World Professional Association For Transgender Health (WPATH) standards to evaluate and write letters for life/gender affirming care.
(440) 290-5428 View (440) 290-5428
Photo of Shirley Zhao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Shirley Zhao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hello, there. I want to express how glad I am that you have taken this important step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being, and I would be genuinely happy to join you on your journey. Throughout my years as a therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals who have experienced mental health challenges related to sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and PTSD. And it has absolutely become my passion to work with each of you for these issues. If you would like to, please go to my website I posted under my profile picture to learn more about me.
Hello, there. I want to express how glad I am that you have taken this important step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being, and I would be genuinely happy to join you on your journey. Throughout my years as a therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals who have experienced mental health challenges related to sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and PTSD. And it has absolutely become my passion to work with each of you for these issues. If you would like to, please go to my website I posted under my profile picture to learn more about me.
(216) 677-3930 View (216) 677-3930
Photo of Dr. Kearisten Gaines, Psychologist in Ohio
Dr. Kearisten Gaines
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Youngstown, OH 44512
My specialties include treating trauma, depression, anxiety, identity issues, relationship difficulties, sexual assault survivors, grief, perinatal/postpartum mental health, and substance abuse.
Hello and welcome, I am so glad you are here! I am Dr. Kearisten Gaines, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Ohio. Taking the first step towards therapy can be difficult. That is why when working with clients my goal is to always create a compassionate, safe, and judgement free atmosphere. This allows me to work in collaboration with my clients, as I believe they are the experts of their lives. Through the therapeutic process we will work together to address the difficulties you are facing, create meaningful change, and help you to feel empowered and in control of your life!
My specialties include treating trauma, depression, anxiety, identity issues, relationship difficulties, sexual assault survivors, grief, perinatal/postpartum mental health, and substance abuse.
Hello and welcome, I am so glad you are here! I am Dr. Kearisten Gaines, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Ohio. Taking the first step towards therapy can be difficult. That is why when working with clients my goal is to always create a compassionate, safe, and judgement free atmosphere. This allows me to work in collaboration with my clients, as I believe they are the experts of their lives. Through the therapeutic process we will work together to address the difficulties you are facing, create meaningful change, and help you to feel empowered and in control of your life!
View
Photo of Annie Kondrot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Annie Kondrot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
I believe that positive relationships are the most powerful agent of healing. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, body image, life transitions, or a history of trauma such as physical or sexual abuse or neglect, we will work together to strengthen your relationship with your therapist, the people around you, and ultimately yourself. I use a warm, person-centered approach to help you feel that I am your partner in reaching your goals.
I believe that positive relationships are the most powerful agent of healing. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, body image, life transitions, or a history of trauma such as physical or sexual abuse or neglect, we will work together to strengthen your relationship with your therapist, the people around you, and ultimately yourself. I use a warm, person-centered approach to help you feel that I am your partner in reaching your goals.
(380) 600-9416 View (380) 600-9416
Photo of Jillian Potter-Bonsell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Jillian Potter-Bonsell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, OH 45502
Waitlist for new clients
It is my privilege and joy to provide a safe and supportive environment for each client that I work with. Using a holistic approach to healing, I've been providing counseling services for over 11 years. I specialize in working with survivors of complex traumas such as sexual abuse, human trafficking and domestic violence, or one-time incidents such as a car accident or sudden loss. I am certified in EMDR and trained in Brainspotting, and I incorporate IFS and other modalities. I'm happy to announce that I am now offering neurofeedback sessions as well, using the Neuroptimal system, in combination with EMDR or as a separate service.
It is my privilege and joy to provide a safe and supportive environment for each client that I work with. Using a holistic approach to healing, I've been providing counseling services for over 11 years. I specialize in working with survivors of complex traumas such as sexual abuse, human trafficking and domestic violence, or one-time incidents such as a car accident or sudden loss. I am certified in EMDR and trained in Brainspotting, and I incorporate IFS and other modalities. I'm happy to announce that I am now offering neurofeedback sessions as well, using the Neuroptimal system, in combination with EMDR or as a separate service.
(937) 966-6017 View (937) 966-6017
Photo of Adam Fields, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ohio
Adam Fields
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Other areas of focus include parenting, aging, and past history of sexual abuse.
Are you living in a sexless relationship? Or perhaps the sex you're having is unsatisfying, or hampered by something specific. My office provides you with a safe, comfortable space to discuss your sexual life, answer your questions, all within the framework of a sex-positive atmosphere. I don't believe in pathologizing someone's sexual behaviors. As an AASECT-certified sex therapist, my philosophy is simple: if it's consensual, and it's not hurting you or your partner(s), your sexuality and all that it entails (your fantasies, experimentation, whatever turns you on) will be supported, nurtured, and listened to without judgment.
Other areas of focus include parenting, aging, and past history of sexual abuse.
Are you living in a sexless relationship? Or perhaps the sex you're having is unsatisfying, or hampered by something specific. My office provides you with a safe, comfortable space to discuss your sexual life, answer your questions, all within the framework of a sex-positive atmosphere. I don't believe in pathologizing someone's sexual behaviors. As an AASECT-certified sex therapist, my philosophy is simple: if it's consensual, and it's not hurting you or your partner(s), your sexuality and all that it entails (your fantasies, experimentation, whatever turns you on) will be supported, nurtured, and listened to without judgment.
(216) 294-3600 View (216) 294-3600
Photo of Sarah Lacy, Counselor in Ohio
Sarah Lacy
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Rocky River, OH 44116
Hello, I am a trauma therapist as well as a life coach. My favorite approach to helping others to overcome trauma is with EMDR. For life coaching I like to help others stay on track to help meet their goals and become their ideal self. I have experience working with clients who wish to overcome symptoms from: addiction, dual diagnosis, domestic violence, teen dating violence, depression, anxiety, bipolar, sexual abuse/assault, trauma / PTSD, codependency, stressors, career guidance, grief, sleep disturbance, and life transitions. My goal is to work with each client and help them on their own journey of recovery.
Hello, I am a trauma therapist as well as a life coach. My favorite approach to helping others to overcome trauma is with EMDR. For life coaching I like to help others stay on track to help meet their goals and become their ideal self. I have experience working with clients who wish to overcome symptoms from: addiction, dual diagnosis, domestic violence, teen dating violence, depression, anxiety, bipolar, sexual abuse/assault, trauma / PTSD, codependency, stressors, career guidance, grief, sleep disturbance, and life transitions. My goal is to work with each client and help them on their own journey of recovery.
(440) 595-3774 View (440) 595-3774
Photo of HOPE Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Ohio
HOPE Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Heath, OH 43056
I love what I do. I enjoy working with many different types of people and issues. I really enjoy doing group work as well. I have considerable experience working with people dealing with depression; self-esteem issues; divorce recovery challenges; sexual abuse trauma; PTSD; D.I.D.; a broad spectrum of relationship challenges.
I love what I do. I enjoy working with many different types of people and issues. I really enjoy doing group work as well. I have considerable experience working with people dealing with depression; self-esteem issues; divorce recovery challenges; sexual abuse trauma; PTSD; D.I.D.; a broad spectrum of relationship challenges.
(740) 200-4271 View (740) 200-4271
Photo of Ashley Campbell, Counselor in Ohio
Ashley Campbell
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have worked to help heal trauma in childhood or adulthood, those struggling with substance abuse, or are survivors of sexual assault or abuse.
The first step in any change is realizing that you want or need a change in the first place. As a therapist, I utilize a strength-based approach to allow clients to learn and hone in on the skills they already possess in order to make the changes they desire in their lives. In our sessions, I will act like a mirror, helping you to gain insight, discover patterns, and learn about the obstacles that are in the way of your happiness. I am committed to helping my clients discover their goals and create a path to personal growth.
Additionally, I have worked to help heal trauma in childhood or adulthood, those struggling with substance abuse, or are survivors of sexual assault or abuse.
The first step in any change is realizing that you want or need a change in the first place. As a therapist, I utilize a strength-based approach to allow clients to learn and hone in on the skills they already possess in order to make the changes they desire in their lives. In our sessions, I will act like a mirror, helping you to gain insight, discover patterns, and learn about the obstacles that are in the way of your happiness. I am committed to helping my clients discover their goals and create a path to personal growth.
(513) 434-6007 View (513) 434-6007
Photo of Renee Jackson, Counselor in Ohio
Renee Jackson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mentor, OH 44060
I aim to provide a safe, healing, therapeutic space for all clients. I believe in self-care and developing skills or strategies to help individuals tackle any stressor they may be facing. I have experience working with children and adolescents as well as adults. My time as a clinician has allowed me to develop a passion for providing trauma informed services to clients through extensive training on sexual assault and intimate partner violence. I work from a therapeutic style that assists me in meeting the individual needs of clients I encounter. I also enjoy practicing EMDR therapy.
I aim to provide a safe, healing, therapeutic space for all clients. I believe in self-care and developing skills or strategies to help individuals tackle any stressor they may be facing. I have experience working with children and adolescents as well as adults. My time as a clinician has allowed me to develop a passion for providing trauma informed services to clients through extensive training on sexual assault and intimate partner violence. I work from a therapeutic style that assists me in meeting the individual needs of clients I encounter. I also enjoy practicing EMDR therapy.
(440) 578-9967 View (440) 578-9967
Photo of Dr. Umona L. Sharp, Pastoral Counselor in Ohio
Dr. Umona L. Sharp
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, TRS, CLC, CCPC, LCDCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45246
We specialize in faith issues, substance abuse, grief & loss, sexual abuse, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Are you suffering in silence with sexual trauma, marital issues, depression, or substance abuse? Let Stay Free Ministries, LLC help you! We're a faith-based agency where you can learn how to maintain a life of freedom. I am pleased that you have selected me as your Pastoral Counselor. I'll use my skills to mobilize you in the right direction to succeed as we walk through your journey together. Stay Free Ministries is a confidential multi-discipline program, designed to help bring inner healing and peace to the hurting. The program offers Christian counseling, life coaching, support groups, seminars, and prayer.
We specialize in faith issues, substance abuse, grief & loss, sexual abuse, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Are you suffering in silence with sexual trauma, marital issues, depression, or substance abuse? Let Stay Free Ministries, LLC help you! We're a faith-based agency where you can learn how to maintain a life of freedom. I am pleased that you have selected me as your Pastoral Counselor. I'll use my skills to mobilize you in the right direction to succeed as we walk through your journey together. Stay Free Ministries is a confidential multi-discipline program, designed to help bring inner healing and peace to the hurting. The program offers Christian counseling, life coaching, support groups, seminars, and prayer.
(513) 434-6866 View (513) 434-6866
Photo of Erin Curry-Zeigler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio
Erin Curry-Zeigler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255
I specialize in treating adults with sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
Welcome! As a Licensed Professional Counselor working with Waybridge Counseling, my goal is to provide individuals and couples with a safe, welcoming environment through individual and partner therapy. I work with clients who are struggling with mental health issues, grief, trauma, depression and anxiety. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I specialize in treating adults with sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
Welcome! As a Licensed Professional Counselor working with Waybridge Counseling, my goal is to provide individuals and couples with a safe, welcoming environment through individual and partner therapy. I work with clients who are struggling with mental health issues, grief, trauma, depression and anxiety. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(513) 434-6152 View (513) 434-6152
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.