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!
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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 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 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 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 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 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 Julianna Waller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Julianna Waller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have had the pleasures of working in different areas of the mental health field including domestic violence, sexual assault, drug and alcohol, and LGBTQIA+. I have been drawn to work with teens and young adults who deal with symptoms of Chronic Illnesses, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Addiction, Anxiety, and Depression. I use Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This is an action-oriented where individuals learn to stop avoiding, denying, and struggling with their inner emotions. They accept that these deeper feelings are natural responses to certain situations that should not prevent them from moving.
I have had the pleasures of working in different areas of the mental health field including domestic violence, sexual assault, drug and alcohol, and LGBTQIA+. I have been drawn to work with teens and young adults who deal with symptoms of Chronic Illnesses, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Addiction, Anxiety, and Depression. I use Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This is an action-oriented where individuals learn to stop avoiding, denying, and struggling with their inner emotions. They accept that these deeper feelings are natural responses to certain situations that should not prevent them from moving.
(740) 267-4349 View (740) 267-4349
Photo of Carol E McClure, Counselor in Ohio
Carol E McClure
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
My clinical focus includes: * Adoption (Bonding and Transition) * Adults, Adolescents age 16up * Adults of Childhood Abuse and Subsequent Issues * Grief * LGBTQ * Life Transitions * Mood Disorders * Pregnancy Losses (miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion, selective termination) * Relationship Issues * Self-Esteem * Sexuality * Sexual Assault * Women's Issues.
I have extensive training and over 30 years of experience working with adult survivors of childhood abuse and pregnancy loss, including abortion. I hold an MA in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and have completed the Jungian Professional Psychotherapy program with the CG Jung Institute of Chicago. Additionally, I work with couples using the Gottman Method to strengthen relationships and deal with underlying issues. I also hold a certification for coaching with the Enneagram. Recently, my husband and I celebrated 44 years of marriage.
My clinical focus includes: * Adoption (Bonding and Transition) * Adults, Adolescents age 16up * Adults of Childhood Abuse and Subsequent Issues * Grief * LGBTQ * Life Transitions * Mood Disorders * Pregnancy Losses (miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion, selective termination) * Relationship Issues * Self-Esteem * Sexuality * Sexual Assault * Women's Issues.
I have extensive training and over 30 years of experience working with adult survivors of childhood abuse and pregnancy loss, including abortion. I hold an MA in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and have completed the Jungian Professional Psychotherapy program with the CG Jung Institute of Chicago. Additionally, I work with couples using the Gottman Method to strengthen relationships and deal with underlying issues. I also hold a certification for coaching with the Enneagram. Recently, my husband and I celebrated 44 years of marriage.
(614) 980-0093 View (614) 980-0093
Photo of Clermont Mental Health, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio
Clermont Mental Health
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, CCDVC, CCMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255
Our practice provides affordable mental health care aimed to help you live a happy and healthy life. We are down-to-earth, nonjudgmental professionals who specialize helping clients who are recovering. Our slogan is "Survivors Thrive Here" because our clients have endured and survived life's most difficult circumstances. We address childhood abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, spiritual abuse, chemical dependency, narcissistic abuse, medical trauma, intimate partner abuse and racial trauma. We offer recovery coaching, and the SNAP Educational Recovery program (Survivors of Narcissistic & Abusive Personalities).
Our practice provides affordable mental health care aimed to help you live a happy and healthy life. We are down-to-earth, nonjudgmental professionals who specialize helping clients who are recovering. Our slogan is "Survivors Thrive Here" because our clients have endured and survived life's most difficult circumstances. We address childhood abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, spiritual abuse, chemical dependency, narcissistic abuse, medical trauma, intimate partner abuse and racial trauma. We offer recovery coaching, and the SNAP Educational Recovery program (Survivors of Narcissistic & Abusive Personalities).
(513) 318-3634 View (513) 318-3634
Photo of Kimberly L Stokes-Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Kimberly L Stokes-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cornerstone Care Counseling Center LLC clients come for counseling for many reasons. If you have suffered the loss of loved ones, divorce, domestic violence, alcohol and substance abuse or dependency, codependency, sexual abuse, trauma, physical or emotional abuse or any other Mental Heath issue, then Cornerstone Care Counseling Center LLC is the place for you. Cornerstone Care also offers depression assessments for spinal stimulator implants and drug and alcohol assessments.
Cornerstone Care Counseling Center LLC clients come for counseling for many reasons. If you have suffered the loss of loved ones, divorce, domestic violence, alcohol and substance abuse or dependency, codependency, sexual abuse, trauma, physical or emotional abuse or any other Mental Heath issue, then Cornerstone Care Counseling Center LLC is the place for you. Cornerstone Care also offers depression assessments for spinal stimulator implants and drug and alcohol assessments.
(937) 669-7273 View (937) 669-7273
Photo of Stephanie Cerula, Counselor in Ohio
Stephanie Cerula
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mentor, OH 44060  (Online Only)
Are you feeling imbalance in your life due to stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma? I am focused on assisting you in achieving your best self and regaining your balance. I practice client centered therapy which creates a welcoming environment that is safe for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I utilize a strengths-based, collaborative approach to support you in overcoming life's challenges that prevent you from reaching your goals. I have extensive training and experience working with survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma, and PTSD.
Are you feeling imbalance in your life due to stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma? I am focused on assisting you in achieving your best self and regaining your balance. I practice client centered therapy which creates a welcoming environment that is safe for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I utilize a strengths-based, collaborative approach to support you in overcoming life's challenges that prevent you from reaching your goals. I have extensive training and experience working with survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma, and PTSD.
(440) 220-6746 x404 View (440) 220-6746 x404
Photo of MDCoakley Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Ohio
MDCoakley Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I specialize in treating adult men and women for depression, anxiety, past sexual abuse or other trauma, sex addiction, anger, life transitions, grief, and relationship issues.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental/emotional health issue I want you to know that there is hope. Mental Health counseling (psychotherapy) has been proven to help people recover strength, hope, wellbeing, and a sense of purpose/meaning in life for people suffering from mental and emotional struggles. My approach in helping you involves establishing a trust relationship and a safe therapy environment. While being supportive, insightful, and a good listener I will help you learn who you are, help you discover the source of your pain and help you learn to move beyond that pain.
I specialize in treating adult men and women for depression, anxiety, past sexual abuse or other trauma, sex addiction, anger, life transitions, grief, and relationship issues.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental/emotional health issue I want you to know that there is hope. Mental Health counseling (psychotherapy) has been proven to help people recover strength, hope, wellbeing, and a sense of purpose/meaning in life for people suffering from mental and emotional struggles. My approach in helping you involves establishing a trust relationship and a safe therapy environment. While being supportive, insightful, and a good listener I will help you learn who you are, help you discover the source of your pain and help you learn to move beyond that pain.
(740) 200-4713 View (740) 200-4713
Photo of Nicole M Hyland, Counselor in Ohio
Nicole M Hyland
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
This includes abuse history (emotional, physical, sexual abuse), human trafficking, abuse experienced during addiction, grief and loss, and suicide loss.
I am passionate about treating individuals in the Mahoning Valley who are experiencing distress due to changes in their lives or symptoms that have become unmanageable. I focus on a collaborative approach in identifying behaviors that no longer serve you and assist in replacing them with coping strategies and interventions suited to your needs. Each session is tailored to the individual and presenting problems in order to best address what you need and what fits into your lifestyle. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Sociology from The Ohio State University, and Master's degree in Counseling from Youngstown State.
This includes abuse history (emotional, physical, sexual abuse), human trafficking, abuse experienced during addiction, grief and loss, and suicide loss.
I am passionate about treating individuals in the Mahoning Valley who are experiencing distress due to changes in their lives or symptoms that have become unmanageable. I focus on a collaborative approach in identifying behaviors that no longer serve you and assist in replacing them with coping strategies and interventions suited to your needs. Each session is tailored to the individual and presenting problems in order to best address what you need and what fits into your lifestyle. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Sociology from The Ohio State University, and Master's degree in Counseling from Youngstown State.
(234) 414-2387 View (234) 414-2387
Photo of Evan S McBroom, Psychologist in Ohio
Evan S McBroom
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I bring much experience working with children and adolescents, as well as adults, addressing a variety of issues including anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, sexual abuse, anger, aggression, ADHD, and eating disorders as well as others. I earned my Masters of Arts in psychology and Doctorate of Philosophy in clinical psychology from the University of Toledo. I have a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and sociology from Bowling Green State University. While earning my doctorate, my research focused on video game violence and video game addiction.
I bring much experience working with children and adolescents, as well as adults, addressing a variety of issues including anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, sexual abuse, anger, aggression, ADHD, and eating disorders as well as others. I earned my Masters of Arts in psychology and Doctorate of Philosophy in clinical psychology from the University of Toledo. I have a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and sociology from Bowling Green State University. While earning my doctorate, my research focused on video game violence and video game addiction.
(440) 907-1141 View (440) 907-1141
Photo of Cathy L VanHorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Cathy L VanHorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, OH 45150
Loss is a universal experience whether associated with moves, jobs, health, disability, developmental stage, divorce, addiction, neglect, physical/sexual abuse, or death. And, yet, most of us weren't given the tools to navigate and transform loss. Well meaning people may negate our experience with platitudes such as "God never gives you more than you can handle." As a licensed clinical social worker for over thirty years and a mother who has grieved and recovered from the death of her youngest son, I have a particular passion for and expertise in working with those who are grieving.
Loss is a universal experience whether associated with moves, jobs, health, disability, developmental stage, divorce, addiction, neglect, physical/sexual abuse, or death. And, yet, most of us weren't given the tools to navigate and transform loss. Well meaning people may negate our experience with platitudes such as "God never gives you more than you can handle." As a licensed clinical social worker for over thirty years and a mother who has grieved and recovered from the death of her youngest son, I have a particular passion for and expertise in working with those who are grieving.
(833) 932-0933 View (833) 932-0933
Photo of Waybridge Counseling, Counselor in Ohio
Waybridge Counseling
Counselor, PCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255
Teams include: Couples Therapy Team, Family Therapy Team, Gender Team, Sex-Addiction Team, Sex Assault/Domestic Violence Team, Trauma Team.
Waybridge Counseling is a group practice of specialists who provide treatment for a variety of concerns. Our specialists work in teams and this is a critical element of our success. Each team meets regularly for ongoing training and consultation in the team's specialty. We believe that this significantly increases the quality of counseling we offer.
Teams include: Couples Therapy Team, Family Therapy Team, Gender Team, Sex-Addiction Team, Sex Assault/Domestic Violence Team, Trauma Team.
Waybridge Counseling is a group practice of specialists who provide treatment for a variety of concerns. Our specialists work in teams and this is a critical element of our success. Each team meets regularly for ongoing training and consultation in the team's specialty. We believe that this significantly increases the quality of counseling we offer.
(513) 457-4673 View (513) 457-4673
Photo of Angela T. Horton, Counselor in Ohio
Angela T. Horton
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC-S, NCC, CCMHC, CDCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Waitlist for new clients
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
(614) 389-9452 View (614) 389-9452
Photo of Counseling, Ltd., Counselor in Ohio
Counseling, Ltd.
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43228
We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
(614) 932-2425 View (614) 932-2425
Photo of Relationship + Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapist, Counselor in Ohio
Relationship + Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapist
Counselor, MA, LPCC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45206
Reasons to see a sex therapist include, but are not limited to: Sex life after transition (having children, menopause, injury, infidelity), Sexual Shame, Low/ no desire, Pain during sex, Sex education, Desire discrepancies, Infertility, History of sexual abuse, Trauma, Lack of orgasm, Erectile dysfunction, Sexual identity issues, Sexual orientation issues.
As a sex therapist I often have clients tell me that being intimate with their partner has become another one of the responsibilities to check off the "To-Do" list; describing sex as a chore, or even a burden. Having sexual issues can have devastating effects on individuals and couples. There are many reasons why sex becomes an issue in relationships: sexual shame from their upbringing, pain during sex, trying to understand their sexuality and preferences or processing past trauma. Working with a professional in a safe & professional space to communicate their feelings & thoughts can have a huge impact.
Reasons to see a sex therapist include, but are not limited to: Sex life after transition (having children, menopause, injury, infidelity), Sexual Shame, Low/ no desire, Pain during sex, Sex education, Desire discrepancies, Infertility, History of sexual abuse, Trauma, Lack of orgasm, Erectile dysfunction, Sexual identity issues, Sexual orientation issues.
As a sex therapist I often have clients tell me that being intimate with their partner has become another one of the responsibilities to check off the "To-Do" list; describing sex as a chore, or even a burden. Having sexual issues can have devastating effects on individuals and couples. There are many reasons why sex becomes an issue in relationships: sexual shame from their upbringing, pain during sex, trying to understand their sexuality and preferences or processing past trauma. Working with a professional in a safe & professional space to communicate their feelings & thoughts can have a huge impact.
(513) 718-4789 View (513) 718-4789
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.