Sexual Abuse Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I have worked for several years with adults, adolescents, and children who have experienced sexual abuse and with adolescents and children who have had sexual behavior problems, including adolescents on probation for sexual crimes.
PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.
I have worked for several years with adults, adolescents, and children who have experienced sexual abuse and with adolescents and children who have had sexual behavior problems, including adolescents on probation for sexual crimes.
PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.
(503) 897-1073 View (503) 897-1073
Photo of Lindsay Howson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lindsay Howson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
My expertise is in working with adult survivors of childhood and/or adult sexual abuse, family of origin trauma, and survivors of domestic abuse.
The fact that you are visiting this page implies that you have been through and are going through some very difficult, confusing, and painful life experiences. I understand how difficult it is to share these intimate experiences with someone you do not know and I am honored to be the person who is able to partner with you as you strive to heal. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, relationship problems, or suspect that past experiences may be impacting your life, it would be my honor to help you find insight, healing, and joy as you heal. I am fully telehealth and licensed in both Oregon and Colorado.
My expertise is in working with adult survivors of childhood and/or adult sexual abuse, family of origin trauma, and survivors of domestic abuse.
The fact that you are visiting this page implies that you have been through and are going through some very difficult, confusing, and painful life experiences. I understand how difficult it is to share these intimate experiences with someone you do not know and I am honored to be the person who is able to partner with you as you strive to heal. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, relationship problems, or suspect that past experiences may be impacting your life, it would be my honor to help you find insight, healing, and joy as you heal. I am fully telehealth and licensed in both Oregon and Colorado.
(503) 278-5685 View (503) 278-5685
Photo of Emma Lavetter-Keidan, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Emma Lavetter-Keidan
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have particular experience working as a therapist with sex workers, sexual abuse survivors, and those experiencing trauma.
Are you struggling with how life "should" look? Do you think things like, "I should be past this by now?" or "I should be more present in my relationships?" Let me help you find ways of moving through the world that feel right to you. Together we can work on identifying  your wants and needs, and find ways to support your identities whether you’re queer, kinky, poly, a sex worker, or just a person looking for ways to be in the world that feel authentic.
I have particular experience working as a therapist with sex workers, sexual abuse survivors, and those experiencing trauma.
Are you struggling with how life "should" look? Do you think things like, "I should be past this by now?" or "I should be more present in my relationships?" Let me help you find ways of moving through the world that feel right to you. Together we can work on identifying  your wants and needs, and find ways to support your identities whether you’re queer, kinky, poly, a sex worker, or just a person looking for ways to be in the world that feel authentic.
(503) 461-6627 View (503) 461-6627
Photo of Paul Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Paul Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
My areas of specialty include: Recovery from childhood sexual abuse.
I have been providing therapy to women and men and facilitating men's groups for over 30 years. I have extensive experience in helping people overcome depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and heal from childhood or domestic abuse. My approach is collaborative. I listen and understand my clients' perspective of the problem and potential solutions, while providing input based on my professional training and experience. I believe that the chances of making positive changes are enhanced by a combination of support, recognizing and utilizing one's strengths, and being challenged to try new approaches.
My areas of specialty include: Recovery from childhood sexual abuse.
I have been providing therapy to women and men and facilitating men's groups for over 30 years. I have extensive experience in helping people overcome depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and heal from childhood or domestic abuse. My approach is collaborative. I listen and understand my clients' perspective of the problem and potential solutions, while providing input based on my professional training and experience. I believe that the chances of making positive changes are enhanced by a combination of support, recognizing and utilizing one's strengths, and being challenged to try new approaches.
(503) 822-6596 View (503) 822-6596
Photo of Sarah Dunnings-Smith, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Sarah Dunnings-Smith
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals who’ve experienced physical discipline, sexual abuse and assault, as well as other forms of abuse and trauma in any stage of life.
Finding a therapist you can identify with can be difficult. I offer lived experience as a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identifying person, a parent, and serve a diverse, and often marginalized, population of beautifully resilient humans. Addressing holistic health is my passion. Whether you are working through identity, trauma, family of origin issues, LGBTQIA concerns, parenting, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or self care, come join me in this safe space as we use a variety of tools to help you live a more full and fulfilled life.
I specialize in working with individuals who’ve experienced physical discipline, sexual abuse and assault, as well as other forms of abuse and trauma in any stage of life.
Finding a therapist you can identify with can be difficult. I offer lived experience as a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identifying person, a parent, and serve a diverse, and often marginalized, population of beautifully resilient humans. Addressing holistic health is my passion. Whether you are working through identity, trauma, family of origin issues, LGBTQIA concerns, parenting, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or self care, come join me in this safe space as we use a variety of tools to help you live a more full and fulfilled life.
(971) 260-3472 View (971) 260-3472
Photo of Krystal Ying, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Krystal Ying
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Krystal specializes in and is dedicated to helping trauma survivors, particularly of sexual abuse/assault.
It is within your reach to live a life that is calmer, more grounded and satisfying - where you're not overwhelmed or completely detached - no matter how you are feeling right now or what happened before. You feel on guard, emotionally and physically flooded, disempowered, alone, and hijacked by triggers. Maybe you feel like you cannot trust yourself or others, and your self-confidence is suffering. Whether you're here because of a traumatic event or you have experienced multiple hardships in life, it is possible to get through this, reclaim your spirit and self, and help your mind/body be here in the present moment.
Krystal specializes in and is dedicated to helping trauma survivors, particularly of sexual abuse/assault.
It is within your reach to live a life that is calmer, more grounded and satisfying - where you're not overwhelmed or completely detached - no matter how you are feeling right now or what happened before. You feel on guard, emotionally and physically flooded, disempowered, alone, and hijacked by triggers. Maybe you feel like you cannot trust yourself or others, and your self-confidence is suffering. Whether you're here because of a traumatic event or you have experienced multiple hardships in life, it is possible to get through this, reclaim your spirit and self, and help your mind/body be here in the present moment.
(707) 309-0699 View (707) 309-0699
Photo of Xiomara Raquel Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Xiomara Raquel Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Waitlist for new clients
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural licensed clinical social worker in Tigard, Oregon. I have many years of experience working with children and families. My areas of expertise include: sexual abuse cases, early childhood mental health, working with children and families exposed to traumatic events and family therapy. I like to facilitate groups for trauma survivors and also to work with adult survivors of sexual abuse. I particularly enjoy working with Latino families. I am very interested in reunification cases particularly working with children and families involved in the child welfare system.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural licensed clinical social worker in Tigard, Oregon. I have many years of experience working with children and families. My areas of expertise include: sexual abuse cases, early childhood mental health, working with children and families exposed to traumatic events and family therapy. I like to facilitate groups for trauma survivors and also to work with adult survivors of sexual abuse. I particularly enjoy working with Latino families. I am very interested in reunification cases particularly working with children and families involved in the child welfare system.
(786) 766-7310 View (786) 766-7310
Photo of Lee M. Faver, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Lee M. Faver
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
My practice and expertise emphasize relationships-intimacy, sexual relations, affairs, divorce; trauma-childhood, domestic or sexual abuse; chronic illness and health-related change; sexuality, orientation/gender; loss.
Compassionate, down-to-earth, practical help. I'm a licensed, board-certified psychologist. More than 30 years of professional experience working with individuals, couples and groups have taught me that we grow and make effective changes when we understand what is happening, appreciate our experiences, develop a plan to improve things. We'll work together on your goals- to enrich and repair your relationships, change long-standing patterns, develop self-acceptance and personal effectiveness, resolving difficult situations, reduce psychological distress, improve health, or enjoy more emotionally closeness and satisfying intimacy.
My practice and expertise emphasize relationships-intimacy, sexual relations, affairs, divorce; trauma-childhood, domestic or sexual abuse; chronic illness and health-related change; sexuality, orientation/gender; loss.
Compassionate, down-to-earth, practical help. I'm a licensed, board-certified psychologist. More than 30 years of professional experience working with individuals, couples and groups have taught me that we grow and make effective changes when we understand what is happening, appreciate our experiences, develop a plan to improve things. We'll work together on your goals- to enrich and repair your relationships, change long-standing patterns, develop self-acceptance and personal effectiveness, resolving difficult situations, reduce psychological distress, improve health, or enjoy more emotionally closeness and satisfying intimacy.
(360) 529-4210 View (360) 529-4210
Photo of Janet Pinneau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Janet Pinneau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220
Accidents, assault, abuse, even bullying, all definitively alter your existence in the world.
Trauma and anxiety do not have to stay with you forever. You are off balance, and it is a struggle to get back into your life's routine. Daily affirmations are not enough. Give voice to your story in a safe and comfortable setting and take steps to eliminate your anxiety, rage and heartache. Utilizing a whole-body approach to treatment we will minimize disruptive blocks & triggers and develop internal and external strategies to help you find freedom from fear and regain your self trust. I don't accept insurance, but check with your insurance and see it they will reimburse you from a Superbly that I can provide to you.
Accidents, assault, abuse, even bullying, all definitively alter your existence in the world.
Trauma and anxiety do not have to stay with you forever. You are off balance, and it is a struggle to get back into your life's routine. Daily affirmations are not enough. Give voice to your story in a safe and comfortable setting and take steps to eliminate your anxiety, rage and heartache. Utilizing a whole-body approach to treatment we will minimize disruptive blocks & triggers and develop internal and external strategies to help you find freedom from fear and regain your self trust. I don't accept insurance, but check with your insurance and see it they will reimburse you from a Superbly that I can provide to you.
(818) 946-0646 View (818) 946-0646
Photo of Janice Marie Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Janice Marie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I specialize in adoption, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
Everybody at some point can benefit from therapy! Whether its just needing to talk over some relational issues or something more serious like depression, anxiety, sexual abuse or other traumas, therapy can make the difference. When people feel stuck in thought patterns or can't seem to get any peace or find joy in life, it is very discouraging. I find that my clients come in and want some tools to get out of their rut and find relief from their difficult life issues.
I specialize in adoption, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
Everybody at some point can benefit from therapy! Whether its just needing to talk over some relational issues or something more serious like depression, anxiety, sexual abuse or other traumas, therapy can make the difference. When people feel stuck in thought patterns or can't seem to get any peace or find joy in life, it is very discouraging. I find that my clients come in and want some tools to get out of their rut and find relief from their difficult life issues.
(971) 803-3190 View (971) 803-3190
Photo of Amber M. Ornelas Senger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Amber M. Ornelas Senger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and have a special interest in working with with teens and adults who have experienced trauma including male survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
How we feel is central to how we live our lives. Whether you are struggling within a relationship, looking to overcome childhood trauma or navigating stressors in your life, I can help you to identify patterns and empower the change within yourself to alter your path. Give me a call or send me an email to see if we are a good match. Having a strong therapeutic alliance is key to promoting change. I am also a Hispanic identified therapist and have a strong understanding of the cultural influences of Hispanic culture.
I am trained in EMDR and have a special interest in working with with teens and adults who have experienced trauma including male survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
How we feel is central to how we live our lives. Whether you are struggling within a relationship, looking to overcome childhood trauma or navigating stressors in your life, I can help you to identify patterns and empower the change within yourself to alter your path. Give me a call or send me an email to see if we are a good match. Having a strong therapeutic alliance is key to promoting change. I am also a Hispanic identified therapist and have a strong understanding of the cultural influences of Hispanic culture.
(971) 267-3704 View (971) 267-3704
Photo of Julie Lynn Collinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Julie Lynn Collinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I provide a safe, supported and healing therapeutic setting for adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, addictions or are challenged by their life experiences and have found themselves ready to begin the process of gaining insight, understanding, and skills to safely navigate those experiences. These experiences can lead to a variety of issues that can have profound affects on our mind and body. It also may impact our daily functioning, our relationships, and our professional experiences. The journey through change begins from within, and together we can navigate that journey safely and compassionately.
I provide a safe, supported and healing therapeutic setting for adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, addictions or are challenged by their life experiences and have found themselves ready to begin the process of gaining insight, understanding, and skills to safely navigate those experiences. These experiences can lead to a variety of issues that can have profound affects on our mind and body. It also may impact our daily functioning, our relationships, and our professional experiences. The journey through change begins from within, and together we can navigate that journey safely and compassionately.
(503) 451-6473 View (503) 451-6473
Photo of Ariel L LANDRUM, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Ariel L LANDRUM
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, military members and their families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with your life? Do you feel you have little support? Perhaps you feel on edge and don’t know how to relax? Do you feel there isn’t enough time in the day? Or your world runs on chronic stress? Maybe you’ve noticed these feelings and have even tried ways to challenge them. Jumped into yoga, didn’t work. Read a self-help book, didn’t work. Sought advice from friends. They didn’t understand. Googled your symptoms. Yeah, that was a bad idea. If you find yourself saying yes, then you're looking at the right profile. Let me be your guide to balance and mental wellness.
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, military members and their families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with your life? Do you feel you have little support? Perhaps you feel on edge and don’t know how to relax? Do you feel there isn’t enough time in the day? Or your world runs on chronic stress? Maybe you’ve noticed these feelings and have even tried ways to challenge them. Jumped into yoga, didn’t work. Read a self-help book, didn’t work. Sought advice from friends. They didn’t understand. Googled your symptoms. Yeah, that was a bad idea. If you find yourself saying yes, then you're looking at the right profile. Let me be your guide to balance and mental wellness.
(323) 792-2573 View (323) 792-2573
Photo of Olivia Raccuglia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Olivia Raccuglia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I have additional training in issues such as intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! Sometimes life's challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable. I offer a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking help with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, loss, relationship issues, and/or those looking to deepen their own self understanding. We'll delve into your unique experiences, emotions, and relationships, gaining insight into the root causes of your struggles, and the ways in which your past may be impacting the present. Together, we’ll find connections, build skills, and give you the support that you need to move you towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I have additional training in issues such as intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! Sometimes life's challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable. I offer a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking help with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, loss, relationship issues, and/or those looking to deepen their own self understanding. We'll delve into your unique experiences, emotions, and relationships, gaining insight into the root causes of your struggles, and the ways in which your past may be impacting the present. Together, we’ll find connections, build skills, and give you the support that you need to move you towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(503) 461-7204 View (503) 461-7204
Photo of Dr. Marisol G Westberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Dr. Marisol G Westberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am a board certified sexologist and a licensed couples therapist. I maintain a private practice with a focus on sex therapy in Portland, Oregon. I have been a therapist for 10 years. I am sex-positive and specialize in sex therapy that is inclusive of alternative relationships and erotic minorities. My areas of expertise are intimate relationships, pleasure, infidelity, sexual desire discrepancies, lack of desire, difficulties with orgasm, difficulties with erections and orgasm, pain and discomfort in sex, alternative sexualities and lifestyles, sexual abuse and violence. My approach in therapy is one that is positive, validating, and nurturing.
I am a board certified sexologist and a licensed couples therapist. I maintain a private practice with a focus on sex therapy in Portland, Oregon. I have been a therapist for 10 years. I am sex-positive and specialize in sex therapy that is inclusive of alternative relationships and erotic minorities. My areas of expertise are intimate relationships, pleasure, infidelity, sexual desire discrepancies, lack of desire, difficulties with orgasm, difficulties with erections and orgasm, pain and discomfort in sex, alternative sexualities and lifestyles, sexual abuse and violence. My approach in therapy is one that is positive, validating, and nurturing.
(971) 232-3136 View (971) 232-3136
Photo of Natalie Rhodes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Natalie Rhodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I consider myself to be a body inclusive therapist who specializes in helping clients recover from disordered eating behaviors, weight stigma, body image concerns and impacts from diet culture. I also serve clients experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, family issues (such as divorce & addiction), adjustment issues, impacts from COVID-19 and trauma (such as intimate partner violence & sexual assault). I currently offer individual therapy for teens and adults. I am LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC affirming and knowledgeable.
I consider myself to be a body inclusive therapist who specializes in helping clients recover from disordered eating behaviors, weight stigma, body image concerns and impacts from diet culture. I also serve clients experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, family issues (such as divorce & addiction), adjustment issues, impacts from COVID-19 and trauma (such as intimate partner violence & sexual assault). I currently offer individual therapy for teens and adults. I am LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC affirming and knowledgeable.
(503) 433-8831 View (503) 433-8831
Photo of Emily Schwartz-Dale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Emily Schwartz-Dale
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97216
I have experience working with trauma, children with emotional and behavioral struggles, caregiver burnout, developmentally delayed youth, families seeking increased positive interaction, mental health crisis, domestic violence, and sexual abuse treatment.
My personal style in therapy is optimistic and playful. My approach is eclectic, with a combination of focus towards theory based interventions balanced with intuition and spontaneity. I deeply value the power of human connection in the healing process and therapy as a collaborative process. I strive for inclusiveness and cultural competency in my work and am deeply committed to social justice. I help my clients explore meaning, past trauma, stressful life events, transitions, and identifying resources to help them feel empowered and hopeful. I have practiced therapy with children, families, couples and adults since 2009.
I have experience working with trauma, children with emotional and behavioral struggles, caregiver burnout, developmentally delayed youth, families seeking increased positive interaction, mental health crisis, domestic violence, and sexual abuse treatment.
My personal style in therapy is optimistic and playful. My approach is eclectic, with a combination of focus towards theory based interventions balanced with intuition and spontaneity. I deeply value the power of human connection in the healing process and therapy as a collaborative process. I strive for inclusiveness and cultural competency in my work and am deeply committed to social justice. I help my clients explore meaning, past trauma, stressful life events, transitions, and identifying resources to help them feel empowered and hopeful. I have practiced therapy with children, families, couples and adults since 2009.
(503) 694-3462 View (503) 694-3462
Photo of Britt Deely, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Britt Deely
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical interests include working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, sexual abuse survivors, cult survivors, and grief work.
Do you have an interest in targeting anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues? The desire to heal from distressing experiences or trauma that have had an impact on your relationships, employment, health, and wellness? We will work together utilizing a variety of treatment modalities to move beyond your past so you can start living each day with a renewed sense of purpose and harmony.
My clinical interests include working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, sexual abuse survivors, cult survivors, and grief work.
Do you have an interest in targeting anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues? The desire to heal from distressing experiences or trauma that have had an impact on your relationships, employment, health, and wellness? We will work together utilizing a variety of treatment modalities to move beyond your past so you can start living each day with a renewed sense of purpose and harmony.
(971) 306-5131 View (971) 306-5131
Photo of Barbara Dawne Feil, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Barbara Dawne Feil
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
I provide therapy for men and women around life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, marriage and relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovering from physical or sexual abuse, sexuality, identity and self image, spiritual development, spiritual abuse, church and ministry. 35 years of pastoral ministry has given me great exposure to issues across an adult life span including singleness, finding life direction, finding a life partner, empty-nest, mid-life crisis, retirement and finding fulfillment when life and health is diminished by age.
I provide therapy for men and women around life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, marriage and relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovering from physical or sexual abuse, sexuality, identity and self image, spiritual development, spiritual abuse, church and ministry. 35 years of pastoral ministry has given me great exposure to issues across an adult life span including singleness, finding life direction, finding a life partner, empty-nest, mid-life crisis, retirement and finding fulfillment when life and health is diminished by age.
(855) 683-7311 View (855) 683-7311
Photo of Kellie Supriano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kellie Supriano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I have experience working with survivors of domestic violence for and with survivors of sexual abuse.
I believe that life is a journey and although it is so often wondrous and joyful, it can also present unique challenges for us as human beings. These challenges can leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, scared and alone at times. Counseling can be supportive in helping to restore emotional balance and deepen our sense of aliveness and well being. In my work with clients, I draw on strategies that assist people in exploring ways that they can move towards self-compassion and a more integrated sense of self.
I have experience working with survivors of domestic violence for and with survivors of sexual abuse.
I believe that life is a journey and although it is so often wondrous and joyful, it can also present unique challenges for us as human beings. These challenges can leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, scared and alone at times. Counseling can be supportive in helping to restore emotional balance and deepen our sense of aliveness and well being. In my work with clients, I draw on strategies that assist people in exploring ways that they can move towards self-compassion and a more integrated sense of self.
(503) 966-9759 View (503) 966-9759
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.