Sexual Abuse Therapists in Oklahoma

Photo of Stayce L. Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Stayce L. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owasso, OK 74055
I have also worked with families and children struggling with parenting, sexual abuse trauma, domestic violence and family conflict, and have managed groups focusing on marriage, parenting, stress management and anger management.
It takes tremendous strength to ask for help. Are you feeling like things are just not working out in some area's of your life? Does it make you feel helpless, like it doesn't help to talk about it because it doesn't feel like anything will work? With everything there is a process and I am here to aid in that process. You are not alone. With my therapeutic assistance and your working through the process; trusting the process, you can feel relief. Call me, I can help!
I have also worked with families and children struggling with parenting, sexual abuse trauma, domestic violence and family conflict, and have managed groups focusing on marriage, parenting, stress management and anger management.
It takes tremendous strength to ask for help. Are you feeling like things are just not working out in some area's of your life? Does it make you feel helpless, like it doesn't help to talk about it because it doesn't feel like anything will work? With everything there is a process and I am here to aid in that process. You are not alone. With my therapeutic assistance and your working through the process; trusting the process, you can feel relief. Call me, I can help!
(918) 992-3149 View (918) 992-3149
Photo of Jaime G Vogt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Jaime G Vogt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74119
My work with children has a primary focus in the area of child trauma, child sexual abuse, child interviewing.
I have worked with children and families for over twenty-five years and I never cease to be amazed at their resiliency. What I have learned is that children do cope with life struggles, but increasing the likelihood that they develop positive coping skills often depends on the support that surrounds them. Working with children and adults to recognize their own strengths and to learn new strategies for success remains a focus of my practice.
My work with children has a primary focus in the area of child trauma, child sexual abuse, child interviewing.
I have worked with children and families for over twenty-five years and I never cease to be amazed at their resiliency. What I have learned is that children do cope with life struggles, but increasing the likelihood that they develop positive coping skills often depends on the support that surrounds them. Working with children and adults to recognize their own strengths and to learn new strategies for success remains a focus of my practice.
(539) 233-4906 View (539) 233-4906
Photo of Miracle Obeta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma
Miracle Obeta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yukon, OK 73099
If you or your child have experienced trauma, dysfunction, sexual abuse or you've perpetrated on someone, I can help.
You're probably wondering how I can best meet your therapeutic needs. With so many options out there, I wouldn't blame you. The truth is that we'll both work together to identity what those needs are, starting exactly where you're comfortable, and working together to ignite clarity, bring about healing, and restore hope within you or your family, one therapeutic session at a time. With over seven years of experience working with patients in the medical field, children/families in child welfare and mental health institutions, you'll be attended to with the most up to date evidence based practice tools and methods.
If you or your child have experienced trauma, dysfunction, sexual abuse or you've perpetrated on someone, I can help.
You're probably wondering how I can best meet your therapeutic needs. With so many options out there, I wouldn't blame you. The truth is that we'll both work together to identity what those needs are, starting exactly where you're comfortable, and working together to ignite clarity, bring about healing, and restore hope within you or your family, one therapeutic session at a time. With over seven years of experience working with patients in the medical field, children/families in child welfare and mental health institutions, you'll be attended to with the most up to date evidence based practice tools and methods.
(405) 784-5248 View (405) 784-5248
Photo of Christy Phelps, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oklahoma
Christy Phelps
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Norman, OK 73072
Waitlist for new clients
Bereavement, childhood parental loss, sexual assault, and domestic violence are some areas in which I have worked with clients.
Hello, I am a MHR Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern practicing under the supervision of Jan Plavchak, LPC-S, at Empowerment Behavioral Health Counseling & Consulting, LLC. I work alongside individuals who are grieving, recovering from traumatic events/histories, or navigating transitions in their lives. Processing vicarious trauma is a strength of mine. I work with clients as they connect with themselves and others, moving forward to meet their desired goals.
Bereavement, childhood parental loss, sexual assault, and domestic violence are some areas in which I have worked with clients.
Hello, I am a MHR Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern practicing under the supervision of Jan Plavchak, LPC-S, at Empowerment Behavioral Health Counseling & Consulting, LLC. I work alongside individuals who are grieving, recovering from traumatic events/histories, or navigating transitions in their lives. Processing vicarious trauma is a strength of mine. I work with clients as they connect with themselves and others, moving forward to meet their desired goals.
(405) 592-8019 View (405) 592-8019
Photo of Be Still Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Be Still Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74145
Whether it is through traditional talk therapy or Cognitive Processing Therapy, or EMDR, I work with adults who have a history of trauma associated with sexual assault, domestic violence, and childhood emotional neglect or physical abuse.
I believe in the value of the therapeutic relationship and respect the courage it takes for you to enter into counseling. My approach in the therapeutic relationship is simple: to meet my client where they are and my therapeutic style is an extension of myself: genuine and accepting. I strive to create an atmosphere that will allow you the freedom to explore and process your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Whether it is through traditional talk therapy or Cognitive Processing Therapy, or EMDR, I work with adults who have a history of trauma associated with sexual assault, domestic violence, and childhood emotional neglect or physical abuse.
I believe in the value of the therapeutic relationship and respect the courage it takes for you to enter into counseling. My approach in the therapeutic relationship is simple: to meet my client where they are and my therapeutic style is an extension of myself: genuine and accepting. I strive to create an atmosphere that will allow you the freedom to explore and process your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(539) 210-3851 View (539) 210-3851
Photo of Kristina Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Kristina Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CCATP, CSTIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yukon, OK 73099
My passion is working with both domestic violence and sexual assault survivors.
I provide a safe and confidential counseling environment where we can work through life experiences together. I treat each person as a unique individual and we will work together to navigate through emotional experiences in your life as well as any deep emotional wounds or worries about the future. I see a variety of clients with many different issues and confidentiality is always upheld and is a priority. It is my goal to create a non-judgmental, honest, and compassionate therapeutic atmosphere which helps to move you forward.
My passion is working with both domestic violence and sexual assault survivors.
I provide a safe and confidential counseling environment where we can work through life experiences together. I treat each person as a unique individual and we will work together to navigate through emotional experiences in your life as well as any deep emotional wounds or worries about the future. I see a variety of clients with many different issues and confidentiality is always upheld and is a priority. It is my goal to create a non-judgmental, honest, and compassionate therapeutic atmosphere which helps to move you forward.
(405) 646-6747 View (405) 646-6747
Photo of Vance H. Durham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oklahoma
Vance H. Durham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lawton, OK 73501
Over 20 years experience helping to heal hearts and minds. My counseling experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Extensive training in PTSD; Sexual Abuse; Anxiety; Depression; Couples and Family Therapy.
Over 20 years experience helping to heal hearts and minds. My counseling experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Extensive training in PTSD; Sexual Abuse; Anxiety; Depression; Couples and Family Therapy.
(580) 303-4700 View (580) 303-4700
Photo of Alina Garbuz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Alina Garbuz
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, EMDR, CCTP, CPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74136
She is passionate about issues in complex relational trauma from childhood abuse, sexual abuse, disaster trauma, performance/life enhancement and professional coaching.
Are you unmotivated, hopeless, depressed, anxious, stuck, disconnected? Have you experienced trauma or emotional distress through an experience that does not make sense? I provide effective therapy as a Certified EMDR Therapist, specializing in PTSD, Complex Trauma, and Brain Health Coaching. Working through trauma and distressful emotional accounts enhances performance, mental vitality and stability, relational attunement and connection, and increases effectiveness in areas of life, including personal, spiritual, social, and professional. Sign up for a free consultation at alinagarbuz.com. Services are virtual.
She is passionate about issues in complex relational trauma from childhood abuse, sexual abuse, disaster trauma, performance/life enhancement and professional coaching.
Are you unmotivated, hopeless, depressed, anxious, stuck, disconnected? Have you experienced trauma or emotional distress through an experience that does not make sense? I provide effective therapy as a Certified EMDR Therapist, specializing in PTSD, Complex Trauma, and Brain Health Coaching. Working through trauma and distressful emotional accounts enhances performance, mental vitality and stability, relational attunement and connection, and increases effectiveness in areas of life, including personal, spiritual, social, and professional. Sign up for a free consultation at alinagarbuz.com. Services are virtual.
(918) 558-2465 View (918) 558-2465
Photo of Victoria James, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Victoria James
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmond, OK 73013
I have specific training in sex therapy, domestic violence, and sexual assault counseling.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I work with people who come from all sorts of beliefs systems about sex. Some see sex as something just reserved for marriage while others have a more casual, open approach to their sexual relationships. No matter the values you have, it is possible for sex to become something that causes us pain. This pain might be physical-or it might be emotional, leading us to feel sad, anxious, or disconnected from our own body or relationships. Sometimes it is simply harder than it "should" be. The good news is, I have experience in helping people like you find healing in their relationships with sex.
I have specific training in sex therapy, domestic violence, and sexual assault counseling.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I work with people who come from all sorts of beliefs systems about sex. Some see sex as something just reserved for marriage while others have a more casual, open approach to their sexual relationships. No matter the values you have, it is possible for sex to become something that causes us pain. This pain might be physical-or it might be emotional, leading us to feel sad, anxious, or disconnected from our own body or relationships. Sometimes it is simply harder than it "should" be. The good news is, I have experience in helping people like you find healing in their relationships with sex.
(405) 353-6441 View (405) 353-6441
Photo of Paula S MacIan, Psychologist in Oklahoma
Paula S MacIan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Norman, OK 73069
I've treated children and families who experienced child sexual abuse, have lived through tornadoes, parents who have lost a child in young adulthood, teens with significant depression or anxiety, first responders diagnosed with PTSD, children whose parents are going through or have had a divorce, and older adults who are dealing with the aging process.
HAVE A WAIT LIST AT THIS TIME i enjoy working with people who are motivated to do the work necessary in order to achieve the changes that they want to make in their lives. I've worked treating children and adults (ages 3 and up); I see the therapeutic process as a joint venture as we tackle the most salient issues folks struggle with. I look forward to hearing from those individuals who are eager to work toward bettering their lives.
I've treated children and families who experienced child sexual abuse, have lived through tornadoes, parents who have lost a child in young adulthood, teens with significant depression or anxiety, first responders diagnosed with PTSD, children whose parents are going through or have had a divorce, and older adults who are dealing with the aging process.
HAVE A WAIT LIST AT THIS TIME i enjoy working with people who are motivated to do the work necessary in order to achieve the changes that they want to make in their lives. I've worked treating children and adults (ages 3 and up); I see the therapeutic process as a joint venture as we tackle the most salient issues folks struggle with. I look forward to hearing from those individuals who are eager to work toward bettering their lives.
(530) 248-6959 x5 View (530) 248-6959 x5
Photo of Tammi Young Therapy LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oklahoma
Tammi Young Therapy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
My ideal client Is someone who is dealing with the issues of childhood sexual abuse or Domestic violence. I work with these clients by assisting them in reclaiming their voice and their lives. I love watching God transform broken lives into lives of wholeness and peace. I love walking through this journey because I get to celebrate your progress with you! I have written two short e books that discuss my own personal struggles with domestic abuse/ childhood sexual abuse. These books also highlight God's grace and love. They are entitled I Remember! !! and God Cares located Amazon.com.
My ideal client Is someone who is dealing with the issues of childhood sexual abuse or Domestic violence. I work with these clients by assisting them in reclaiming their voice and their lives. I love watching God transform broken lives into lives of wholeness and peace. I love walking through this journey because I get to celebrate your progress with you! I have written two short e books that discuss my own personal struggles with domestic abuse/ childhood sexual abuse. These books also highlight God's grace and love. They are entitled I Remember! !! and God Cares located Amazon.com.
(405) 463-4240 View (405) 463-4240
Photo of Darby Knox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Darby Knox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical experience has largely centered on the treatment of PTSD, OCD, trauma related to physical and sexual abuse, and dissociative disorders, including DID.
My goal in therapy is to walk with and support you as you seek hope, healing, and change. I believe the more aware and accepting we are of ourselves, the better able we are to discover balance and fulfillment in our lives. I aim to create a safe environment where you can explore the inherent challenges of the human experience, ease emotional pain, find self-compassion, and restore hope.
My clinical experience has largely centered on the treatment of PTSD, OCD, trauma related to physical and sexual abuse, and dissociative disorders, including DID.
My goal in therapy is to walk with and support you as you seek hope, healing, and change. I believe the more aware and accepting we are of ourselves, the better able we are to discover balance and fulfillment in our lives. I aim to create a safe environment where you can explore the inherent challenges of the human experience, ease emotional pain, find self-compassion, and restore hope.
(903) 282-3167 View (903) 282-3167
Photo of Priscilla E Corson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma
Priscilla E Corson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moore, OK 73160  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with those that have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, or domestic violence, as well as targeting teen specific issues and unique situations related to military families.
Do you feel stuck in life and can’t figure out why? Are there days that pretending to be “okay” feels like too much? Maybe you've felt depressed or anxious for a long time and nothing seems to work or feel after years of being hurt your unable to trust someone to help you. Are you a parent that is worried about your kid and don’t know how to help them? The clients I’ve seen have faced these very same dilemmas and more. I work with people who are ready for something to change to be able to feel actually okay again. I offer a safe space to process some of the hardest moments to be able to have some of the happiest outside of it.
I specialize in working with those that have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, or domestic violence, as well as targeting teen specific issues and unique situations related to military families.
Do you feel stuck in life and can’t figure out why? Are there days that pretending to be “okay” feels like too much? Maybe you've felt depressed or anxious for a long time and nothing seems to work or feel after years of being hurt your unable to trust someone to help you. Are you a parent that is worried about your kid and don’t know how to help them? The clients I’ve seen have faced these very same dilemmas and more. I work with people who are ready for something to change to be able to feel actually okay again. I offer a safe space to process some of the hardest moments to be able to have some of the happiest outside of it.
(405) 349-5280 View (405) 349-5280
Photo of Isabel Deffit Counseling, PLLC , Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Isabel Deffit Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74114
Accepting new clients. Healthy relationships with others and even with ourselves do not just happen, they are built. Through uncomfortable conversations, vulnerability and willingness to understand and work through our traumas. Starting therapy can be intimidating, I am here to help. I have worked in the field of trauma since 2015. I have worked with children, teens, adults and families addressing trauma, abuse-especially in sexual abuse and domestic violence. I also have experience in working with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and perinatal mental health.
Accepting new clients. Healthy relationships with others and even with ourselves do not just happen, they are built. Through uncomfortable conversations, vulnerability and willingness to understand and work through our traumas. Starting therapy can be intimidating, I am here to help. I have worked in the field of trauma since 2015. I have worked with children, teens, adults and families addressing trauma, abuse-especially in sexual abuse and domestic violence. I also have experience in working with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and perinatal mental health.
(918) 612-7353 View (918) 612-7353
Photo of La Vida Sin Miedo - Cecilia Herrera-Leggett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma
La Vida Sin Miedo - Cecilia Herrera-Leggett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
13 years ago I started helping people who are going through vulnerable moments such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, loss, sexual abuse, trauma, etc.
Hello! I am Cecilia Herrera-Leggett. As a professional counselor, I know that life is not easy, and sometimes it may seem impossible. I have empathy for the one to whom life has given difficult and painful experiences. For this reason, I am passionate about helping those who are already ready to take control of their lives, using their unlimited power, and thus achieve what they want most. Each of us knows that we can, but sometimes fear and lack of support and help stagnate us. Let me help you. I know that you can! Cheer up and call me now!
13 years ago I started helping people who are going through vulnerable moments such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, loss, sexual abuse, trauma, etc.
Hello! I am Cecilia Herrera-Leggett. As a professional counselor, I know that life is not easy, and sometimes it may seem impossible. I have empathy for the one to whom life has given difficult and painful experiences. For this reason, I am passionate about helping those who are already ready to take control of their lives, using their unlimited power, and thus achieve what they want most. Each of us knows that we can, but sometimes fear and lack of support and help stagnate us. Let me help you. I know that you can! Cheer up and call me now!
(405) 810-5200 View (405) 810-5200
Photo of Dustie Lynn Morgan-Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Dustie Lynn Morgan-Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Muskogee, OK 74403  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, PTSD, domestic violence, emotional and sexual abuse.
I am a licensed professional counselor and supervisor in Oklahoma with 7 years of experience working as a counselor. I also have over 15 years of experience in the field of social service, providing support to individuals and children with severe trauma. My therapy style is warm, yet forward. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion. I see my clients as the experts of their own lives and do not rely on labels or diagnoses to provide the best treatment possible. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution-focused therapy.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, PTSD, domestic violence, emotional and sexual abuse.
I am a licensed professional counselor and supervisor in Oklahoma with 7 years of experience working as a counselor. I also have over 15 years of experience in the field of social service, providing support to individuals and children with severe trauma. My therapy style is warm, yet forward. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion. I see my clients as the experts of their own lives and do not rely on labels or diagnoses to provide the best treatment possible. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution-focused therapy.
(918) 553-5956 View (918) 553-5956
Photo of K Renee Marlow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma
K Renee Marlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74105
Recovery from issues of childhood sexual abuse for children and adults is a specific focus.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years and have always had a broad gIeneral practice, which I prefer due to my abiliy to shift gears, when appropriate, to work with individuals, couples, families, or groups. It also fits my varied interests professionally in many diverse aspects of practice and treatment.
Recovery from issues of childhood sexual abuse for children and adults is a specific focus.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years and have always had a broad gIeneral practice, which I prefer due to my abiliy to shift gears, when appropriate, to work with individuals, couples, families, or groups. It also fits my varied interests professionally in many diverse aspects of practice and treatment.
(918) 550-5484 View (918) 550-5484
Photo of Dr. Glen Carver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Dr. Glen Carver
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Broken Arrow, OK 74012
I have walked with others on their journeys for over 25 years working with those who have been the victims of sexual abuse, trauma, mental illness, and grief and loss.
Do you feel like life is overwhelming you? Are you battling depression or anxiety? Our journey in life can be difficult and at times filled with pain, loss, grief, struggle and full of questions. My passion is to journey alongside you, helping you make sense of what is happening and continue moving on your path finding respite, hope and support along the way. Whether it be due to trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce or marital issues I will be glad to listen to who you are and what makes your journey unique and help you find the path toward wholeness and healing.
I have walked with others on their journeys for over 25 years working with those who have been the victims of sexual abuse, trauma, mental illness, and grief and loss.
Do you feel like life is overwhelming you? Are you battling depression or anxiety? Our journey in life can be difficult and at times filled with pain, loss, grief, struggle and full of questions. My passion is to journey alongside you, helping you make sense of what is happening and continue moving on your path finding respite, hope and support along the way. Whether it be due to trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce or marital issues I will be glad to listen to who you are and what makes your journey unique and help you find the path toward wholeness and healing.
(918) 818-3699 View (918) 818-3699
Photo of Jenifer L Nold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma
Jenifer L Nold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Owasso, OK 74055
I have experience in working with children and adults who have experienced life altering events such as, bullying, domestic and sexual abuse, divorce, significant loss, and more.
I believe the deepest human longing is to be known and loved. It is through connection we find fulfillment and satisfaction in life. Often, our adverse life experiences cause fear, anxiety, anger, shame, and confusion, which rob us of authentic relationships. It is my passion and life's commitment to support and assist others in finding their path of freedom so that they may live a rich and deeply connected life with those they love. Together we will explore and process what obstacles may be keeping the client from reaching goals, feeling stuck, and fully living.
I have experience in working with children and adults who have experienced life altering events such as, bullying, domestic and sexual abuse, divorce, significant loss, and more.
I believe the deepest human longing is to be known and loved. It is through connection we find fulfillment and satisfaction in life. Often, our adverse life experiences cause fear, anxiety, anger, shame, and confusion, which rob us of authentic relationships. It is my passion and life's commitment to support and assist others in finding their path of freedom so that they may live a rich and deeply connected life with those they love. Together we will explore and process what obstacles may be keeping the client from reaching goals, feeling stuck, and fully living.
(539) 210-3847 View (539) 210-3847
Photo of Lynett Mitten, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Oklahoma
Lynett Mitten
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC/MH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warr Acres, OK 73132
I am passionate about working with trauma and sexual assault survivors, adults and adolescents, veterans, or service members.
I am passionate about working with trauma and sexual assault survivors, adults and adolescents, veterans, or service members.
(405) 544-5440 View (405) 544-5440
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.