Photo of Sarah Dunnings-Smith, Clinical Social Work Associate in Oregon
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 Janet Pinneau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Janet Pinneau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grants Pass, OR 97527
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 Melinda Arnold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Melinda Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
(503) 406-8848 View (503) 406-8848
Photo of Sarah Cowan, Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon
Sarah Cowan
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, PCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97078  (Online Only)
I have been honored to work with clients to help shift the impact trauma holds in their life. I work with adults with various forms other trauma, including childhood trauma, sexual assault, violence, grief and more. I work with clients with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), and other dissociative disorders, anxiety, depression, and more. The trauma healing process can take time, but is meaningful. I am here to walk alongside you throughout the process and create a space that your feel comfortable taking this journey in.
I have been honored to work with clients to help shift the impact trauma holds in their life. I work with adults with various forms other trauma, including childhood trauma, sexual assault, violence, grief and more. I work with clients with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), and other dissociative disorders, anxiety, depression, and more. The trauma healing process can take time, but is meaningful. I am here to walk alongside you throughout the process and create a space that your feel comfortable taking this journey in.
(971) 450-0495 View (971) 450-0495
Photo of Emma Lavetter-Keidan, Clinical Social Work Associate in Oregon
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 Ariel L LANDRUM, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
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 Amanda Silvey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Amanda Silvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
Life can be full of challenges and unexpected events. I can help assist you in processing the things you can't control, while simultaneously taking charge of the things you can control. Whether you are suffering from PTSD, sexual abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, chronic illness, cancer, work issues, addiction, depression, or anxiety, you do not need to navigate those challenges alone. Every day life (and a pandemic!) can also be reason enough to want additional support. Together, we can explore and identify the patterns in your life that are no longer helpful so you can become your best self!
Life can be full of challenges and unexpected events. I can help assist you in processing the things you can't control, while simultaneously taking charge of the things you can control. Whether you are suffering from PTSD, sexual abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, chronic illness, cancer, work issues, addiction, depression, or anxiety, you do not need to navigate those challenges alone. Every day life (and a pandemic!) can also be reason enough to want additional support. Together, we can explore and identify the patterns in your life that are no longer helpful so you can become your best self!
(805) 424-5270 View (805) 424-5270
Photo of Cameron Beard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oregon
Cameron Beard
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA, MEd, EdS
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with people who have experienced any sort of trauma in their life, including but not limited to domestic violence, sexual abuse, emotional manipulation, neglect, and grief. I will teach you to process and respond to your emotions in healthy ways, improve communication skills, and shift the way you see yourself and the world around you. I will help you create more balance and flexibility in the things you do and the way you live your life. I also help clients with issues including intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, responding to anger, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
I specialize in working with people who have experienced any sort of trauma in their life, including but not limited to domestic violence, sexual abuse, emotional manipulation, neglect, and grief. I will teach you to process and respond to your emotions in healthy ways, improve communication skills, and shift the way you see yourself and the world around you. I will help you create more balance and flexibility in the things you do and the way you live your life. I also help clients with issues including intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, responding to anger, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
(971) 306-5153 View (971) 306-5153
Photo of Rebecca Cook, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oregon
Rebecca Cook
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
She specializes in working with people who are experiencing the effects of trauma, as well as depression/anxiety, sexual assault, child abuse, life transitions, life stressors, and relationship issues.
Rebecca believes that all people experience times of challenge in their lives making them feel stuck, overwhelmed, or in need of additional support. Rebecca believes that the key to unlocking personal growth and healing from past traumas lies within safe relationships. She believes that trust is sacred and works to build an alliance between herself and her client. It is through the connection that is made that individuals are able to tap into their personal strength building new skills and tools to overcome challenges, hurts, and traumas they have had in their lives.
She specializes in working with people who are experiencing the effects of trauma, as well as depression/anxiety, sexual assault, child abuse, life transitions, life stressors, and relationship issues.
Rebecca believes that all people experience times of challenge in their lives making them feel stuck, overwhelmed, or in need of additional support. Rebecca believes that the key to unlocking personal growth and healing from past traumas lies within safe relationships. She believes that trust is sacred and works to build an alliance between herself and her client. It is through the connection that is made that individuals are able to tap into their personal strength building new skills and tools to overcome challenges, hurts, and traumas they have had in their lives.
(971) 293-2950 View (971) 293-2950
Photo of Heather Wheeler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Heather Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701  (Online Only)
My name is Heather Wheeler and I provide counseling for clients ages 12 to 100! I work with clients who have experienced or are experiencing trauma, such as sexual abuse or family violence; anxiety; depression; self-harm; low self-esteem; grief; and many others. I often use expressive arts and sandtray therapy to assist clients in further exploring difficult topics. I currently have a small bit of availability and also have a waitlist if my availability does not meet your needs.
My name is Heather Wheeler and I provide counseling for clients ages 12 to 100! I work with clients who have experienced or are experiencing trauma, such as sexual abuse or family violence; anxiety; depression; self-harm; low self-esteem; grief; and many others. I often use expressive arts and sandtray therapy to assist clients in further exploring difficult topics. I currently have a small bit of availability and also have a waitlist if my availability does not meet your needs.
(541) 248-6113 View (541) 248-6113
Photo of Leah K Henigson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Leah K Henigson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
I help people with grief, depression, eating disorders, relationship issues, sexual abuse and PTSD.
Thinking about writing this profile, I wanted to make it simple........I'm an old-fashioned therapist with great boundaries and carefully-monitored ethics. Then I thought you might want to know more about me and my style of therapy! I bring warmth, sometimes humor, to our work together. I'm a good listener......I won't fall asleep or interrupt to discuss my own agenda. I won't tell you to divorce your spouse or to stop compulsively overeating. I will help you find your own solutions and offer support as you take, sometimes very challenging, steps towards healing.
I help people with grief, depression, eating disorders, relationship issues, sexual abuse and PTSD.
Thinking about writing this profile, I wanted to make it simple........I'm an old-fashioned therapist with great boundaries and carefully-monitored ethics. Then I thought you might want to know more about me and my style of therapy! I bring warmth, sometimes humor, to our work together. I'm a good listener......I won't fall asleep or interrupt to discuss my own agenda. I won't tell you to divorce your spouse or to stop compulsively overeating. I will help you find your own solutions and offer support as you take, sometimes very challenging, steps towards healing.
(541) 488-8936 View (541) 488-8936
Photo of Julia McGowen-Bienkowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Julia McGowen-Bienkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakridge, OR 97463  (Online Only)
I specialize in dual diagnosis care and PTSD and work with military veterans/first responders, rape/assault survivors, families affected by climate change/natural disasters, school shooting/mass shootings and terrorism.
Traditional talk therapy and medications not helping? My integrative approach draws from evidence based interventions to treat addiction, process trauma/loss and improve overall mental health and wellness. Get back into the driver's seat of your own brain so that you can thrive instead of just survive!
I specialize in dual diagnosis care and PTSD and work with military veterans/first responders, rape/assault survivors, families affected by climate change/natural disasters, school shooting/mass shootings and terrorism.
Traditional talk therapy and medications not helping? My integrative approach draws from evidence based interventions to treat addiction, process trauma/loss and improve overall mental health and wellness. Get back into the driver's seat of your own brain so that you can thrive instead of just survive!
(541) 262-0226 View (541) 262-0226
Photo of Brett Maffett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Brett Maffett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128  (Online Only)
I provide a comprehensive array of therapy services including: abuse and PTSD counseling, cognitive and behavioral therapy, therapy for trauma and sexual abuse, treatment for anxiety and depression and marriage counseling.
You can take control of your life. You don't have to live a life suffering from trauma or addiction. You don't have to feel isolated or scared anymore. Finding the right therapist to start your journey isn't easy. I have a wide range of treatment options awaiting anyone willing to take the first steps towards a new start.
I provide a comprehensive array of therapy services including: abuse and PTSD counseling, cognitive and behavioral therapy, therapy for trauma and sexual abuse, treatment for anxiety and depression and marriage counseling.
You can take control of your life. You don't have to live a life suffering from trauma or addiction. You don't have to feel isolated or scared anymore. Finding the right therapist to start your journey isn't easy. I have a wide range of treatment options awaiting anyone willing to take the first steps towards a new start.
(503) 755-9502 View (503) 755-9502
Photo of Jodi Laing, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Jodi Laing
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCoun, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with complex trauma, specifically trauma stemming from intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and childhood abuse.
I believe that counseling should focus on holistic wellness which incorporates physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, and environmental wellness. Counseling isn't about fixing, but growing. My goal is to create an environment that radiates warmth, comfort, and safety with the intention of facilitating growth and healing through support and empowerment. I am here to walk down the path toward healing with you as you explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences in a judgement-free environment.
I specialize in working with complex trauma, specifically trauma stemming from intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and childhood abuse.
I believe that counseling should focus on holistic wellness which incorporates physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, and environmental wellness. Counseling isn't about fixing, but growing. My goal is to create an environment that radiates warmth, comfort, and safety with the intention of facilitating growth and healing through support and empowerment. I am here to walk down the path toward healing with you as you explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences in a judgement-free environment.
(458) 236-5294 View (458) 236-5294
Photo of Heidi Van Schoonhoven, Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon
Heidi Van Schoonhoven
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
La Grande, OR 97850
I specialize in working with people who experience trauma, grief, anxiety, chronic illness, and sexual abuse.
The first time I sought out a therapist I was feeling overwhelmed and confused. I was afraid to trust a stranger with my most vulnerable feelings. I found a caring, empathetic therapist who earned my trust and helped me in my struggles. As a therapist, I aim to hold a compassionate, caring space and give you safety to explore the hard things in your life, with wise guidance to find new ways to handle the stressors in your past and present. I want you to find resolution, a sense of hopefulness, improved self-confidence, and healthy, productive relationships.
I specialize in working with people who experience trauma, grief, anxiety, chronic illness, and sexual abuse.
The first time I sought out a therapist I was feeling overwhelmed and confused. I was afraid to trust a stranger with my most vulnerable feelings. I found a caring, empathetic therapist who earned my trust and helped me in my struggles. As a therapist, I aim to hold a compassionate, caring space and give you safety to explore the hard things in your life, with wise guidance to find new ways to handle the stressors in your past and present. I want you to find resolution, a sense of hopefulness, improved self-confidence, and healthy, productive relationships.
(541) 805-2878 View (541) 805-2878
Photo of Grace Thornton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Grace Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD for sexual assault, childhood/developmental abuse, domestic violence and divorce recovery, as well as the related grief work.
I became a therapist to help people recover from the traumas they have suffered in a world riddled with abuse. I want to share hope, like someone once did for me and lead others to a more full life when it seems impossible. If you're looking at this now, chances are you're in a really difficult space and looking for answers. I hope that we can meet and figure out your unique answers together, rewrite the story of you so that you can build the life you want.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD for sexual assault, childhood/developmental abuse, domestic violence and divorce recovery, as well as the related grief work.
I became a therapist to help people recover from the traumas they have suffered in a world riddled with abuse. I want to share hope, like someone once did for me and lead others to a more full life when it seems impossible. If you're looking at this now, chances are you're in a really difficult space and looking for answers. I hope that we can meet and figure out your unique answers together, rewrite the story of you so that you can build the life you want.
(971) 286-5125 View (971) 286-5125
Photo of Kelsey McVeigh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Kelsey McVeigh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
In my opinion, we all need a little therapy now and again! Just like our bodies need regular care and upkeep, and some extra support from a medical professional sometimes, our minds and internal selves need regular attention and support, as well. Therapy has a place for the proactive mental health seekers and those who have pain and vulnerabilities. I enjoy working with people who need support with depression, anxiety, stressful life circumstances and relationship issues, severe mental illness, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and chronic pain. These are all areas where I've been able to help clients move forward in their lives.
In my opinion, we all need a little therapy now and again! Just like our bodies need regular care and upkeep, and some extra support from a medical professional sometimes, our minds and internal selves need regular attention and support, as well. Therapy has a place for the proactive mental health seekers and those who have pain and vulnerabilities. I enjoy working with people who need support with depression, anxiety, stressful life circumstances and relationship issues, severe mental illness, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and chronic pain. These are all areas where I've been able to help clients move forward in their lives.
View
Photo of Deborah Lynn Harrison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Deborah Lynn Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
I provide therapy for men and women around life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovering from physical or sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD, identity and self image, spiritual development and spiritual abuse. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges. The art of counseling is in the sensitivity, presence, attunement and humility that a counselor demonstrates when building a relationship with a client.
I provide therapy for men and women around life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovering from physical or sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD, identity and self image, spiritual development and spiritual abuse. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges. The art of counseling is in the sensitivity, presence, attunement and humility that a counselor demonstrates when building a relationship with a client.
(971) 247-1299 View (971) 247-1299
Photo of Sam H.W. Sappington, PhD, Psychologist in Oregon
Sam H.W. Sappington, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97333
I can identify chapters in my practice of seeing distinct groups of clients, including adoptees, survivors of child/sexual abuse, persons living with HIV/AIDS, LGBT clients, ACOA's, disabled veterans, and grief & loss struggles.
Over the years I see that I am very well-suited to work with clients who are experiencing a major life transition. These include changes in relationship status, employment, health, sexual/ gender identity, as well as retirement/aging concerns. While transitions can bring new opportunities, such changes also come with an array of losses, endings and goodbyes. Transitions can generate challenging symptoms, including a sense of grieving, starting over and/or confronting the unknown. Life can lead one to a place where it pushes you to explore your personality and life choices, and make new sense of your life experiences.
I can identify chapters in my practice of seeing distinct groups of clients, including adoptees, survivors of child/sexual abuse, persons living with HIV/AIDS, LGBT clients, ACOA's, disabled veterans, and grief & loss struggles.
Over the years I see that I am very well-suited to work with clients who are experiencing a major life transition. These include changes in relationship status, employment, health, sexual/ gender identity, as well as retirement/aging concerns. While transitions can bring new opportunities, such changes also come with an array of losses, endings and goodbyes. Transitions can generate challenging symptoms, including a sense of grieving, starting over and/or confronting the unknown. Life can lead one to a place where it pushes you to explore your personality and life choices, and make new sense of your life experiences.
(541) 507-0203 View (541) 507-0203
Photo of Emily Schwartz-Dale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
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
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.