Photo of Jennifer M Ditmyer, Counselor in Ohio
Jennifer M Ditmyer
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
I am passionate about helping those who are hurting & feel beaten down by life. I believe that beauty comes out of brokenness & that no tear is wasted. It is my desire to walk along side those who feel abandoned & alone & are holding onto the hope that healing is possible & change can happen. In my practice I aim to create a safe space for you to explore the hurts you have suffered that continue to hold you back from living the abundant life you desire. I use an integrative approach to help with concerns such as: depression, anxiety, grief, sexual abuse/trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, spirituality, & women's issues.
I am passionate about helping those who are hurting & feel beaten down by life. I believe that beauty comes out of brokenness & that no tear is wasted. It is my desire to walk along side those who feel abandoned & alone & are holding onto the hope that healing is possible & change can happen. In my practice I aim to create a safe space for you to explore the hurts you have suffered that continue to hold you back from living the abundant life you desire. I use an integrative approach to help with concerns such as: depression, anxiety, grief, sexual abuse/trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, spirituality, & women's issues.
(614) 389-9721 View (614) 389-9721
Photo of ClearView Counseling Services in Ohio
ClearView Counseling Services
MA, LPCC-S, LISW, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, OH 45014
At ClearView Counseling Services we provide programs to help with the following: ADHD, Financial Stress, Anxiety, Sexual Abuse & Trauma Issues, Behavioral Problems, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Grief & Bereavement, Life Transitions, Marital Conflict, School Problems, Stress Management.
ClearView provides individual, couple, family, and group counseling to children, adolescents and adults. We serve those struggling with addictions, depression, anxiety, loss and other life transitions, sexual and other trauma, relationship difficulties, school performance, school attendance, school behavior, and career uncertainty, among other occurrences and situations. ClearView has offices in Fairfield and Milford. To make an appointment, please call (513) 860-1100.
At ClearView Counseling Services we provide programs to help with the following: ADHD, Financial Stress, Anxiety, Sexual Abuse & Trauma Issues, Behavioral Problems, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Grief & Bereavement, Life Transitions, Marital Conflict, School Problems, Stress Management.
ClearView provides individual, couple, family, and group counseling to children, adolescents and adults. We serve those struggling with addictions, depression, anxiety, loss and other life transitions, sexual and other trauma, relationship difficulties, school performance, school attendance, school behavior, and career uncertainty, among other occurrences and situations. ClearView has offices in Fairfield and Milford. To make an appointment, please call (513) 860-1100.
(513) 806-2806 View (513) 806-2806
Photo of Connie Lawrence, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Connie Lawrence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, PAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
I've worked extensively with survivors of trauma, sexual assault, addiction, Adult children of alcoholics, and forms of abuse and neglect.
Hi, I'm Connie. For years I specialized in trauma treatment and I've come to believe that just healing trauma isn't enough...you deserve more. The approach I use is twofold: Together we will gently unwind the trauma that causes you pain, while also connecting with the intuition and intelligence of the body. As trauma heals, there is more room for aliveness, freedom, and a sense of purpose that naturally help you move to the life you long for.
I've worked extensively with survivors of trauma, sexual assault, addiction, Adult children of alcoholics, and forms of abuse and neglect.
Hi, I'm Connie. For years I specialized in trauma treatment and I've come to believe that just healing trauma isn't enough...you deserve more. The approach I use is twofold: Together we will gently unwind the trauma that causes you pain, while also connecting with the intuition and intelligence of the body. As trauma heals, there is more room for aliveness, freedom, and a sense of purpose that naturally help you move to the life you long for.
(440) 689-8559 View (440) 689-8559
Photo of Erin Pritchard: EMDR Intensives | Sex Therapy, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio
Erin Pritchard: EMDR Intensives | Sex Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
Intensive EMDR Therapy: Experience relief from low self esteem, sexual abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, OCD, trauma and PTSD - faster than possible with traditional weekly therapy.
You’re insightful, high-achieving, and place value on your health, relationships, & personal growth. Things are good, but you know they can be better. You've been in therapy before & come as far as you can "just talking about it." You’re ready to dig deeper & experience profound change. I work with clients to treat underlying causes of anxiety, low self esteem, trauma and PTSD, sexual dysfunction, & relationship concerns. I love facilitating this process with Intensive EMDR therapy. My clients are ready for change & don't want to spend years in therapy to get it. Most of my clients reach their goals in just 3-12 Intensive sessions.
Intensive EMDR Therapy: Experience relief from low self esteem, sexual abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, OCD, trauma and PTSD - faster than possible with traditional weekly therapy.
You’re insightful, high-achieving, and place value on your health, relationships, & personal growth. Things are good, but you know they can be better. You've been in therapy before & come as far as you can "just talking about it." You’re ready to dig deeper & experience profound change. I work with clients to treat underlying causes of anxiety, low self esteem, trauma and PTSD, sexual dysfunction, & relationship concerns. I love facilitating this process with Intensive EMDR therapy. My clients are ready for change & don't want to spend years in therapy to get it. Most of my clients reach their goals in just 3-12 Intensive sessions.
(380) 212-3382 View (380) 212-3382
Photo of Shannon Braxton, Counselor in Ohio
Shannon Braxton
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Stow, OH 44224  (Online Only)
I provide EMDR therapy to help you get unstuck from the pain of sexual assault, toxic relationships, and childhood trauma.
You haven’t had it easy. The chaos you experienced from trauma and abuse is now over, but you can’t remember the last time you felt like yourself. You try to get over the past, but before you know it you're reminded of what happened all over again. Anxious and on edge, you do everything you can to help yourself feel okay, but nothing seems to last.
I provide EMDR therapy to help you get unstuck from the pain of sexual assault, toxic relationships, and childhood trauma.
You haven’t had it easy. The chaos you experienced from trauma and abuse is now over, but you can’t remember the last time you felt like yourself. You try to get over the past, but before you know it you're reminded of what happened all over again. Anxious and on edge, you do everything you can to help yourself feel okay, but nothing seems to last.
(234) 231-6307 View (234) 231-6307
Photo of Kristy S Dillon, Counselor in Ohio
Kristy S Dillon
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
I have significant experience working with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (both men and women), PTSD, depression, anxiety, gay and lesbian issues, or those questioning their sexual orientation, relationship issues, parenting, and HIV/AIDS.
If you are looking for a safe, compassionate, nonjudgemental person to talk to about the problems you are having, I can help. I have 20+ years of experience in the counseling field. I have worked in a variety of settings including a community mental health center, a private psychiatric office, a school setting, and an alcohol and drug treatment center. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, which might include helping you identify your strengths, improve your relationships, reduce negative symptoms, teach coping skills, enhance your self esteem, help you express your emotions, and provide support and guidance.
I have significant experience working with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (both men and women), PTSD, depression, anxiety, gay and lesbian issues, or those questioning their sexual orientation, relationship issues, parenting, and HIV/AIDS.
If you are looking for a safe, compassionate, nonjudgemental person to talk to about the problems you are having, I can help. I have 20+ years of experience in the counseling field. I have worked in a variety of settings including a community mental health center, a private psychiatric office, a school setting, and an alcohol and drug treatment center. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, which might include helping you identify your strengths, improve your relationships, reduce negative symptoms, teach coping skills, enhance your self esteem, help you express your emotions, and provide support and guidance.
(937) 817-4823 View (937) 817-4823
Photo of Sara Ann Trembath, Counselor in Ohio
Sara Ann Trembath
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
I work a lot with anxiety and depression but my special training is in dealing with trauma, particularly sexual abuse.
I enjoy helping clients build skills to succeed in life whether they are dealing with life stresses or serious mental health issues. I believe in using an integrated approach tailored to my client's needs. I work with adults, families, children aged 6 and up and teens. I also enjoy working with groups.
I work a lot with anxiety and depression but my special training is in dealing with trauma, particularly sexual abuse.
I enjoy helping clients build skills to succeed in life whether they are dealing with life stresses or serious mental health issues. I believe in using an integrated approach tailored to my client's needs. I work with adults, families, children aged 6 and up and teens. I also enjoy working with groups.
(440) 600-3759 View (440) 600-3759
Photo of Kristyn Rhynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Kristyn Rhynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amherst, OH 44001
Kristyn specializes in working with individuals and families healing from sexual assault, domestic violence, traumatic grief and loss, eating disorders, workplace trauma, women's issues, anxiety and depression.
Kristyn is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Ohio who earned her Master of Social Work from the University of North Dakota. Kristyn is trained as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Kristyn has also been trained in Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness-based Therapy and Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY), Kristyn has experience working with individuals, children/adolescents and families.
Kristyn specializes in working with individuals and families healing from sexual assault, domestic violence, traumatic grief and loss, eating disorders, workplace trauma, women's issues, anxiety and depression.
Kristyn is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Ohio who earned her Master of Social Work from the University of North Dakota. Kristyn is trained as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Kristyn has also been trained in Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness-based Therapy and Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY), Kristyn has experience working with individuals, children/adolescents and families.
(440) 336-8492 View (440) 336-8492
Photo of Dine Integrative Teletherapy, Psychologist in Ohio
Dine Integrative Teletherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training for PTSD for trauma, anxiety, obesity, sexual abuse and psychedelic integration.
Virtual practice only! APIT licensed to provide teletherapy in: AL, AZ, AR, CO, DE, DC, GA, ID, IN, IL, KY, ME, MD, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WV, SC, ND, RI, MA. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who is well trained to work with a variety of problems in a holistic way. My goal with clients is integrated healing for authentic living. I have over 25 years of experience helping adults overcome difficulties such as trauma/PTSD, obesity/food addiction, sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, women's issues and grief. 200+ hr Certificate in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy and KAP. Private pay only/OON
I have specialized training for PTSD for trauma, anxiety, obesity, sexual abuse and psychedelic integration.
Virtual practice only! APIT licensed to provide teletherapy in: AL, AZ, AR, CO, DE, DC, GA, ID, IN, IL, KY, ME, MD, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WV, SC, ND, RI, MA. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who is well trained to work with a variety of problems in a holistic way. My goal with clients is integrated healing for authentic living. I have over 25 years of experience helping adults overcome difficulties such as trauma/PTSD, obesity/food addiction, sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, women's issues and grief. 200+ hr Certificate in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy and KAP. Private pay only/OON
(502) 565-2266 View (502) 565-2266
Photo of Melissa Counts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Melissa Counts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, OH 44001
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is an opportunity to promote healing and personal growth in a supportive and judgement free zone. I have worked in the mental health field as a social worker since 2014. I take a relational approach to counseling as trust and connection are very important to the therapeutic relationship. I work with each client to be trauma-informed and culturally sensitive. I am a trained therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment and Flash technique. I enjoy working to build awareness with how our bodies respond under stress and practicing mindfulness techniques.
Therapy is an opportunity to promote healing and personal growth in a supportive and judgement free zone. I have worked in the mental health field as a social worker since 2014. I take a relational approach to counseling as trust and connection are very important to the therapeutic relationship. I work with each client to be trauma-informed and culturally sensitive. I am a trained therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment and Flash technique. I enjoy working to build awareness with how our bodies respond under stress and practicing mindfulness techniques.
View
Photo of Jeff Goad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Jeff Goad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Rocky River, OH 44116
Waitlist for new clients
I am a sex-positive and trauma-informed therapist who helps people navigate a wide range of complex issues. I believe that everyone deserves a safe and non-judgmental space to talk about the things that matter to them. Some issues I commonly work with are trauma, sex and sexuality, sexual shame, stigmatized sexual identities, fetishes and kinks, relationship communication, healing from infidelity, consensual non-monogamy, gender expression and identity, body image issues, self-esteem, and coping with anger, anxiety, and depression.
I am a sex-positive and trauma-informed therapist who helps people navigate a wide range of complex issues. I believe that everyone deserves a safe and non-judgmental space to talk about the things that matter to them. Some issues I commonly work with are trauma, sex and sexuality, sexual shame, stigmatized sexual identities, fetishes and kinks, relationship communication, healing from infidelity, consensual non-monogamy, gender expression and identity, body image issues, self-esteem, and coping with anger, anxiety, and depression.
(440) 271-8882 View (440) 271-8882
Photo of Kristin Dolph, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio
Kristin Dolph
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, NCC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Troy, OH 45373
Hello! My name is Kristin Dolph. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a specialization in mental health, trauma and wellness. I provide therapuetic services to a wide variety of emotional and mental health needs for adults, adolescents, children and couples. My passion is to help my clients in becoming the best version of themselves. I strive to help all of my clients by providing a safe and therapeutic environment filled with compassion and acceptance for optimal growth.
Hello! My name is Kristin Dolph. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a specialization in mental health, trauma and wellness. I provide therapuetic services to a wide variety of emotional and mental health needs for adults, adolescents, children and couples. My passion is to help my clients in becoming the best version of themselves. I strive to help all of my clients by providing a safe and therapeutic environment filled with compassion and acceptance for optimal growth.
(937) 731-3125 View (937) 731-3125
Photo of Casey Frazee Katz, Counselor in Ohio
Casey Frazee Katz
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45220
My key therapeutic values are trust, empathy, honesty, non-judgmental environment, inherent strengths, and humor. I am a person-centered and empowerment-based counselor. I value your experiences and I approach the therapeutic relationship with the belief that you are an expert in your life's experiences. In sessions, we collaborate to enhance strengths and identify a way forward toward what you are seeking. I enjoy helping people achieve what they are striving for - relief, security, change, freedom, progress. Session time is YOUR time and I want to make sure you get out of each session what you need!
My key therapeutic values are trust, empathy, honesty, non-judgmental environment, inherent strengths, and humor. I am a person-centered and empowerment-based counselor. I value your experiences and I approach the therapeutic relationship with the belief that you are an expert in your life's experiences. In sessions, we collaborate to enhance strengths and identify a way forward toward what you are seeking. I enjoy helping people achieve what they are striving for - relief, security, change, freedom, progress. Session time is YOUR time and I want to make sure you get out of each session what you need!
(513) 392-4984 View (513) 392-4984
Photo of Carly Sekerak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Carly Sekerak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LSW
Verified Verified
Mentor, OH 44060
There are times where our struggles and emotions can make us feel out of control and become difficult to manage on our own. We have so many experiences throughout our life that, at times, can be difficult to heal from. Navigating adulthood can be overwhelming and can often leave us feeling lost and uncertain. Our bodies and minds go through many seasons of life - accepting ourselves throughout that journey can be hard. I hope to help create a safe, nonjudgmental space to allow you to manage your emotions, develop a sense of purpose, and build upon your internal resiliency.
There are times where our struggles and emotions can make us feel out of control and become difficult to manage on our own. We have so many experiences throughout our life that, at times, can be difficult to heal from. Navigating adulthood can be overwhelming and can often leave us feeling lost and uncertain. Our bodies and minds go through many seasons of life - accepting ourselves throughout that journey can be hard. I hope to help create a safe, nonjudgmental space to allow you to manage your emotions, develop a sense of purpose, and build upon your internal resiliency.
(440) 760-0160 View (440) 760-0160
Photo of Emily Bennings, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio
Emily Bennings
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45223
Hi. You have tried so hard! You've gone to therapy, maybe even for years, but nothing has really worked. You’ve tried workbooks, followed instagram accounts, all of it. I’m at my best as a therapist when working with clients who have found traditional talk therapy helpful at first, but eventually, ineffective. Therapists are not magic, but you have the medicine inside you to heal yourself, from trauma, broken relationships, all of it. I love working with helpers, including fellow therapists, and folks who are ready to be their own healers.
Hi. You have tried so hard! You've gone to therapy, maybe even for years, but nothing has really worked. You’ve tried workbooks, followed instagram accounts, all of it. I’m at my best as a therapist when working with clients who have found traditional talk therapy helpful at first, but eventually, ineffective. Therapists are not magic, but you have the medicine inside you to heal yourself, from trauma, broken relationships, all of it. I love working with helpers, including fellow therapists, and folks who are ready to be their own healers.
(513) 855-6434 View (513) 855-6434
Photo of Edward T Novak, LPCC, Counselor in Ohio
Edward T Novak, LPCC
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44313
I am a certified psychoanalyst and I work exclusively with individuals wanting long-term treatment to address lifelong suffering usually due to abuse or trauma. I offer both contemporary psychoanalysis and embodied psychotherapy, as appropriate, to address mind, body, and emotional issues that continue impact your current life and relationships. This approach is designed to expand treatment beyond short-lived symptom relief into transforming the actual origins of your issues, symptoms, and daily suffering. You can learn more about me and the ways I practice by visiting my website: www.edwardnovak.com
I am a certified psychoanalyst and I work exclusively with individuals wanting long-term treatment to address lifelong suffering usually due to abuse or trauma. I offer both contemporary psychoanalysis and embodied psychotherapy, as appropriate, to address mind, body, and emotional issues that continue impact your current life and relationships. This approach is designed to expand treatment beyond short-lived symptom relief into transforming the actual origins of your issues, symptoms, and daily suffering. You can learn more about me and the ways I practice by visiting my website: www.edwardnovak.com
(330) 685-9391 View (330) 685-9391
Photo of Amanda Degler in Ohio
Amanda Degler
LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Ready to move forward, but feel like your past is holding you back? Past trauma/abuse can leave you with a negative view of yourself and leave you struggling to connect to others. Along with this, current stress can trigger past hurts, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to move forward. Whether you are leaving a spiritually abusive environment, wanting to heal from childhood abuse/neglect, or leaving a bad relationship, I would love to come alongside you. We can work to retrain your nervous system, release negative beliefs that have been keeping you stuck, and help you find your self and your spirituality again.
Ready to move forward, but feel like your past is holding you back? Past trauma/abuse can leave you with a negative view of yourself and leave you struggling to connect to others. Along with this, current stress can trigger past hurts, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to move forward. Whether you are leaving a spiritually abusive environment, wanting to heal from childhood abuse/neglect, or leaving a bad relationship, I would love to come alongside you. We can work to retrain your nervous system, release negative beliefs that have been keeping you stuck, and help you find your self and your spirituality again.
(216) 284-7521 View (216) 284-7521
Photo of Julie Harris Blitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Julie Harris Blitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44108  (Online Only)
My practice is based less on types of presenting issues and more on some fundamental assumptions about humanity. 1) Any client I work with is doing the best they can in the moment I meet them, 2) all people respond to compassion and understanding, and all people are injured by shaming and 3) two opposing things can be true at the same time, and much of our suffering is an inability to sit with that belief. Whoever you are and whatever your reason for seeking treatment, I will meet you exactly where you are the moment you walk in my virtual door. I consider myself your partner in your journey to find and be your most authentic self.
My practice is based less on types of presenting issues and more on some fundamental assumptions about humanity. 1) Any client I work with is doing the best they can in the moment I meet them, 2) all people respond to compassion and understanding, and all people are injured by shaming and 3) two opposing things can be true at the same time, and much of our suffering is an inability to sit with that belief. Whoever you are and whatever your reason for seeking treatment, I will meet you exactly where you are the moment you walk in my virtual door. I consider myself your partner in your journey to find and be your most authentic self.
(216) 304-3710 View (216) 304-3710
Photo of Lanelle Jackson, Counselor in Ohio
Lanelle Jackson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Lanelle. Are you ready to embrace your healing journey and find meaning in the story of your life? Have you experienced trauma in your life and grasping for hope to fully overcome it? If so, I am ready to assist you! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio and have been practicing for 15 years. I enjoy helping women learn to tell their stories no matter how traumatic or painful they may be while also helping them to fully embrace who they are and who they're meant to be as women.
Hello, I am Lanelle. Are you ready to embrace your healing journey and find meaning in the story of your life? Have you experienced trauma in your life and grasping for hope to fully overcome it? If so, I am ready to assist you! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio and have been practicing for 15 years. I enjoy helping women learn to tell their stories no matter how traumatic or painful they may be while also helping them to fully embrace who they are and who they're meant to be as women.
(513) 540-1324 View (513) 540-1324
Photo of Jamie Sitko, Counselor in Ohio
Jamie Sitko
Counselor, M, Ed, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hiram, OH 44234
For counseling to be successful, the client-counselor relationship must be safe, supportive, respectful, compassionate, trusting, and confidential. Our relationship must be a safe haven in order to discuss concerns and to explore ways to realize growth, healing, and a whole and healthy way of being. Our work together is based upon my deep respect for your innate strengths, building upon what is already successful for you. My approach to therapy, and its length, will depend on your particular needs and goals. Together we can identify the problems and potential solutions in a straightforward and understandable manner.
For counseling to be successful, the client-counselor relationship must be safe, supportive, respectful, compassionate, trusting, and confidential. Our relationship must be a safe haven in order to discuss concerns and to explore ways to realize growth, healing, and a whole and healthy way of being. Our work together is based upon my deep respect for your innate strengths, building upon what is already successful for you. My approach to therapy, and its length, will depend on your particular needs and goals. Together we can identify the problems and potential solutions in a straightforward and understandable manner.
(330) 536-7020 View (330) 536-7020
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.