Sexual Abuse Therapists in Oregon

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 Amber M. Ornelas Senger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Amber M. Ornelas Senger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (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 Toni Richmond, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Toni Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
I have been working with children, teens, families and couples for almost 33 years. I provide a safe environment, creating a space for you to feel heard, work on issues brought to the session and manage whatever life lessons need to be learned. I work with clients who have experienced physical & sexual abuse ,grief, loss, separation & divorce, reunification, parenting issues, anger, PTSD, self injurious behaviors, ADHD, domestic violence, depression, critical incidence response, suicide and veterans issues.
I have been working with children, teens, families and couples for almost 33 years. I provide a safe environment, creating a space for you to feel heard, work on issues brought to the session and manage whatever life lessons need to be learned. I work with clients who have experienced physical & sexual abuse ,grief, loss, separation & divorce, reunification, parenting issues, anger, PTSD, self injurious behaviors, ADHD, domestic violence, depression, critical incidence response, suicide and veterans issues.
(541) 663-4860 View (541) 663-4860
Photo of Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
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 Xiomara Raquel Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Xiomara Raquel Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
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 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 Janice Marie Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Janice Marie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
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 Lindsay Howson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
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 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
Kristen M Hosie
MS, CCSOT, BCBA
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
I have experience serving adolescents and developmentally disabled adults with developmental disabilities. I have worked in the area of sexual abuse victims, abuse reactive and sexual offenders for these populations. I also work extensively with Autism Spectrum Disorder and severe behaviors. I really enjoy working with families and caregivers to help them in their work as well. I am a Christian and am very comfortable dealing with faith related to treatment.
I have experience serving adolescents and developmentally disabled adults with developmental disabilities. I have worked in the area of sexual abuse victims, abuse reactive and sexual offenders for these populations. I also work extensively with Autism Spectrum Disorder and severe behaviors. I really enjoy working with families and caregivers to help them in their work as well. I am a Christian and am very comfortable dealing with faith related to treatment.
(503) 782-8456 View (503) 782-8456
Photo of Liz Behrens, Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon
Liz Behrens
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MCOUN
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping people walk through the ups and downs of life. I provide support for children, adolescents, adults, and couples with anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, sexual assault healing, infidelity, grief and loss, and autism spectrum disorder. I use a trauma-focused approach that blends Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, art therapy, and concepts from Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I have a passion for helping people walk through the ups and downs of life. I provide support for children, adolescents, adults, and couples with anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, sexual assault healing, infidelity, grief and loss, and autism spectrum disorder. I use a trauma-focused approach that blends Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, art therapy, and concepts from Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(458) 236-3379 View (458) 236-3379
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 Julie Lynn Collinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Julie Lynn Collinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Canby, OR 97013  (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 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 Krystal Ying, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
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 Lee M. Faver, Psychologist in Oregon
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 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 Annelise Heitman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Annelise Heitman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
While I work with all kinds of concerns, I specialize in helping individuals and their partners, who are having difficulty with intimacy due to a history of sexual abuse.
Now accepting new clients! I provide a holistic, strengths based, and non-pathologizing approach to wellness. I am a compassionate listener and active participant in helping people realize self-compassion and acceptance so they can heal past wounds and make changes in their lives that allow them to fully realize who they are at their core. Through use of sensorimotor/somatic therapy, EMDR and IFS (you can read more about these on my website), I help people learn to listen to their bodies and their internal wisdom so they can make choices that are in line with their values and hold themselves with more confidence and ease.
While I work with all kinds of concerns, I specialize in helping individuals and their partners, who are having difficulty with intimacy due to a history of sexual abuse.
Now accepting new clients! I provide a holistic, strengths based, and non-pathologizing approach to wellness. I am a compassionate listener and active participant in helping people realize self-compassion and acceptance so they can heal past wounds and make changes in their lives that allow them to fully realize who they are at their core. Through use of sensorimotor/somatic therapy, EMDR and IFS (you can read more about these on my website), I help people learn to listen to their bodies and their internal wisdom so they can make choices that are in line with their values and hold themselves with more confidence and ease.
(541) 647-2489 View (541) 647-2489
Photo of Shayna MacLean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Shayna MacLean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Shayna and it's nice to meet you. I currently have openings for new clients. I am passionate about serving marginalized communities who have previously experienced harm within the mental health system as a result of institutionalized biases. Additionally, I specialize in working with folx transitioning into adulthood, individuals exploring their various identities including gender and sexuality identities, and survivors of trauma related to domestic violence and sexual assault. I have passion in serving the LGBTQ+ community and identify as part of the community. Trauma informed therapy is the basis for my work.
Hello my name is Shayna and it's nice to meet you. I currently have openings for new clients. I am passionate about serving marginalized communities who have previously experienced harm within the mental health system as a result of institutionalized biases. Additionally, I specialize in working with folx transitioning into adulthood, individuals exploring their various identities including gender and sexuality identities, and survivors of trauma related to domestic violence and sexual assault. I have passion in serving the LGBTQ+ community and identify as part of the community. Trauma informed therapy is the basis for my work.
(503) 212-6681 View (503) 212-6681
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.