Sexual Abuse Therapists in Elizabethville, PA

Photo of Mountain View Counseling & Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elizabethville, PA
Mountain View Counseling & Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW
Verified Verified
Elizabethville, PA 17023
We can't always control situations that happen to us but we do have control to work through these things to create better coping skills and more effective communication. Therapy is not one size fits all. Maybe you are struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one, or feeling lost trying to navigate through previous trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed by your day to day life. You are already taking the first step in creating positive changes in your life by researching your options for therapy today.
We can't always control situations that happen to us but we do have control to work through these things to create better coping skills and more effective communication. Therapy is not one size fits all. Maybe you are struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one, or feeling lost trying to navigate through previous trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed by your day to day life. You are already taking the first step in creating positive changes in your life by researching your options for therapy today.
(717) 896-6615 View (717) 896-6615

Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle Hurtt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elizabethville, PA
Michelle Hurtt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Norristown, PA 19401
Hi! I'm Michelle Hurtt, a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania with over 16 years of experience in the mental health domain.I hold the title of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), continually advancing my understanding of trauma. My passion lies in supporting women who have endured trauma, particularly survivors of sexual trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and domestic violence. Additionally, I specialize in addressing various behavioral health concerns such as anxiety, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, grief, and PTSD.
Hi! I'm Michelle Hurtt, a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania with over 16 years of experience in the mental health domain.I hold the title of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), continually advancing my understanding of trauma. My passion lies in supporting women who have endured trauma, particularly survivors of sexual trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and domestic violence. Additionally, I specialize in addressing various behavioral health concerns such as anxiety, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, grief, and PTSD.
(215) 267-5719 View (215) 267-5719
Photo of Tyra A Wilson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Elizabethville, PA
Tyra A Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Erdenheim, PA 19038  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating participants suffering from severe trauma, PTSD, depression, grief, IPV, sexual abuse/physical abuse/emotional abuse and transgender/nonbinary and LGBQT communities.
In many communities and cultures therapy is frowned upon, perceived as a weakness labeling the individual as an outcast. This is very much not the case. Many people believe they are alone, and they suffer in silence because of the stigma that comes with therapy. You do not have to suffer any longer. You deserve peace.
I specialize in treating participants suffering from severe trauma, PTSD, depression, grief, IPV, sexual abuse/physical abuse/emotional abuse and transgender/nonbinary and LGBQT communities.
In many communities and cultures therapy is frowned upon, perceived as a weakness labeling the individual as an outcast. This is very much not the case. Many people believe they are alone, and they suffer in silence because of the stigma that comes with therapy. You do not have to suffer any longer. You deserve peace.
(215) 515-4532 View (215) 515-4532
Photo of Amy Alfred, Psychologist in Elizabethville, PA
Amy Alfred
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Narberth, PA 19072  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with all different kinds of people. I like to work on what gets in the way of optimum mental health. Much of my practice in the past almost thirty years has focused on relationships of all kinds, depression, self-esteem, conflict resolution, better communication, adult children of alcoholics, parenting, anxiety, chronic illness, addictions, and sexual abuse. I believe our work doesn't just happen in our therapy hour, but between sessions as well. I am committed to psychotherapy and helping people to change in a supportive atmosphere.
I am a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with all different kinds of people. I like to work on what gets in the way of optimum mental health. Much of my practice in the past almost thirty years has focused on relationships of all kinds, depression, self-esteem, conflict resolution, better communication, adult children of alcoholics, parenting, anxiety, chronic illness, addictions, and sexual abuse. I believe our work doesn't just happen in our therapy hour, but between sessions as well. I am committed to psychotherapy and helping people to change in a supportive atmosphere.
(484) 482-8116 View (484) 482-8116
Photo of Carin Lefkowitz, Psychologist in Elizabethville, PA
Carin Lefkowitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Horsham, PA 19044  (Online Only)
I have specific experience working with survivors of abuse/assault, servicemembers, & Veterans.
Do you have trouble sleeping? Do you find yourself thinking about things you wish you could leave in the past? Are you struggling with anxiety, worry, or feeling disconnected? Are nightmares keeping you awake? My practice focuses on trauma recovery and sleep problems. Some of my clients deal with both of these issues, while some are only affected by one. But both have a major impact on all areas of life, including mood, relationships, school/work, and physical health. Many of my clients feel helpless because other treatments did not work. I practice evidence-based therapy that can help even if other treatments have failed.
I have specific experience working with survivors of abuse/assault, servicemembers, & Veterans.
Do you have trouble sleeping? Do you find yourself thinking about things you wish you could leave in the past? Are you struggling with anxiety, worry, or feeling disconnected? Are nightmares keeping you awake? My practice focuses on trauma recovery and sleep problems. Some of my clients deal with both of these issues, while some are only affected by one. But both have a major impact on all areas of life, including mood, relationships, school/work, and physical health. Many of my clients feel helpless because other treatments did not work. I practice evidence-based therapy that can help even if other treatments have failed.
(215) 935-4017 View (215) 935-4017
Photo of Bridgette Nicole Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elizabethville, PA
Bridgette Nicole Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, MSNPM, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Newtown Square, PA 19073  (Online Only)
I work with survivors of sexual abuse as well as juvenile/adults with sexual acting out behaviors.
Whatever your reason for seeking counseling services, I am here and committed to helping you resolve your interpersonal issues. I often share that no one is exempt from experiencing life's problems. At some point in life, we all will face some challenges. I have learned that not everyone has proper coping skills to deal with their problems, but by speaking with a therapist, you are on the right track to identifying ways to deal with your problems. Positive change can be difficult. However, positive change is possible with persistence, commitment, and hard work.
I work with survivors of sexual abuse as well as juvenile/adults with sexual acting out behaviors.
Whatever your reason for seeking counseling services, I am here and committed to helping you resolve your interpersonal issues. I often share that no one is exempt from experiencing life's problems. At some point in life, we all will face some challenges. I have learned that not everyone has proper coping skills to deal with their problems, but by speaking with a therapist, you are on the right track to identifying ways to deal with your problems. Positive change can be difficult. However, positive change is possible with persistence, commitment, and hard work.
(267) 436-0127 View (267) 436-0127
Photo of Nicole Cash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elizabethville, PA
Nicole Cash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Narberth, PA 19072
I have a post-graduate certificate in the treatment of child sexual abuse from Widener University and Family Support Line.
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and family relationships. EMDR is one of many tools that I use to help people to heal from past experiences and deal with overwhelming emotions. I am a licensed clinical social worker who provides individual and family therapy. I have experience with all ages, from young children to older adults. In addition to therapy, I provide supervision to therapists who are seeking licensure or to those who are licensed but seeking additional support.
I have a post-graduate certificate in the treatment of child sexual abuse from Widener University and Family Support Line.
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and family relationships. EMDR is one of many tools that I use to help people to heal from past experiences and deal with overwhelming emotions. I am a licensed clinical social worker who provides individual and family therapy. I have experience with all ages, from young children to older adults. In addition to therapy, I provide supervision to therapists who are seeking licensure or to those who are licensed but seeking additional support.
(484) 416-8166 View (484) 416-8166
Photo of Allena M Moncrief, Marriage & Family Therapist in Elizabethville, PA
Allena M Moncrief
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
I am a trauma- informed therapist with specialization in the areas of: self-esteem, relational conflict, sexual abuse, transgenerational trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Greetings, my name is Dr. Allena M. Moncrief and I have been providing therapeutic services to clients in Pennsylvania since 2010. I obtained my PhD from Drexel University in the field of Couple and Family Therapy in 2017. As a psychotherapist, I understand the decision to enter psychotherapy can be extremely challenging for some individuals. Thus, I strive to meet individuals where they are in the therapeutic process. This process involves helping individuals explore the root of their difficulties/roadblocks and assisting them with creating a roadmap that will lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
I am a trauma- informed therapist with specialization in the areas of: self-esteem, relational conflict, sexual abuse, transgenerational trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Greetings, my name is Dr. Allena M. Moncrief and I have been providing therapeutic services to clients in Pennsylvania since 2010. I obtained my PhD from Drexel University in the field of Couple and Family Therapy in 2017. As a psychotherapist, I understand the decision to enter psychotherapy can be extremely challenging for some individuals. Thus, I strive to meet individuals where they are in the therapeutic process. This process involves helping individuals explore the root of their difficulties/roadblocks and assisting them with creating a roadmap that will lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
(267) 314-6694 View (267) 314-6694
Photo of Jean Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elizabethville, PA
Jean Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have worked with people who have difficulty with anger management, struggle with their Spirituality, have a history of PTSD and Trauma, childhood sexual abuse, addiction/substance abuse, domestic violence, and with sleep issues.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
I have worked with people who have difficulty with anger management, struggle with their Spirituality, have a history of PTSD and Trauma, childhood sexual abuse, addiction/substance abuse, domestic violence, and with sleep issues.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
(610) 609-2958 View (610) 609-2958
Photo of Gentle Growth Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elizabethville, PA
Gentle Growth Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exton, PA 19341
I help survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, incarceration, and those who suffer from OCD, panic, dissociation, depression, and relationship anxiety.
If you struggle with distressing emotions, find yourself repeating unwanted behaviors, or feel just plain stuck: welcome. You're not alone and you're certainly not without help. I guide individuals seeking confidence, clarity, and a resolute sense of self. In our work together, you can discover that you have the innate qualities of a leader to navigate anything in life.
I help survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, incarceration, and those who suffer from OCD, panic, dissociation, depression, and relationship anxiety.
If you struggle with distressing emotions, find yourself repeating unwanted behaviors, or feel just plain stuck: welcome. You're not alone and you're certainly not without help. I guide individuals seeking confidence, clarity, and a resolute sense of self. In our work together, you can discover that you have the innate qualities of a leader to navigate anything in life.
(484) 759-9204 View (484) 759-9204
Photo of Shephard Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elizabethville, PA
Shephard Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boalsburg, PA 16827  (Online Only)
I have been passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping individuals reach their goals for my entire life. I spent much of my professional career as a gymnastics coach. Since retiring from coaching in 2010, I went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with people dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, child sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, and more. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Bowen Family Systems therapy. I want to help you reach your best self and live your best life.
I have been passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping individuals reach their goals for my entire life. I spent much of my professional career as a gymnastics coach. Since retiring from coaching in 2010, I went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with people dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, child sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, and more. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Bowen Family Systems therapy. I want to help you reach your best self and live your best life.
(814) 501-4377 View (814) 501-4377
Photo of Shawna L McKean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elizabethville, PA
Shawna L McKean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellefonte, PA 16823
My focus is on childhood sexual abuse, PTSD, women's issues, and trauma as well as other issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and bipolar disorder.
I employ a holistic approach enabling the client to heal in their own time within a safe, understanding and caring environment. In relationship therapy, I assist couples in doing the work needed to heal their relationship and move forward, with healthier communication and expectations. Healing from sexual abuse is a painful journey. I have experience in working with both victims and perpetrators, which gives me a unique perspective and understanding to assist you in your healing journey.
My focus is on childhood sexual abuse, PTSD, women's issues, and trauma as well as other issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and bipolar disorder.
I employ a holistic approach enabling the client to heal in their own time within a safe, understanding and caring environment. In relationship therapy, I assist couples in doing the work needed to heal their relationship and move forward, with healthier communication and expectations. Healing from sexual abuse is a painful journey. I have experience in working with both victims and perpetrators, which gives me a unique perspective and understanding to assist you in your healing journey.
(814) 359-7244 View (814) 359-7244
Photo of Dawn Robin Miller in Elizabethville, PA
Dawn Robin Miller
MSEd
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Dawn received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Temple University and her graduate degree and post-graduate training from the University of Pennsylvania. In her over 30 years of practice Dawn has developed several areas of expertise. They include marital/family therapy, eating disorders, issues specific to adolescence, anxiety disorders, sexual abuse, co-parent and reconciliation counseling.
Dawn received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Temple University and her graduate degree and post-graduate training from the University of Pennsylvania. In her over 30 years of practice Dawn has developed several areas of expertise. They include marital/family therapy, eating disorders, issues specific to adolescence, anxiety disorders, sexual abuse, co-parent and reconciliation counseling.
(215) 584-4320 View (215) 584-4320
Photo of Emily Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elizabethville, PA
Emily Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I have extensive experience with survivors of sexual & interpersonal violence and childhood sexual abuse as an LPC, Certified Yoga Teacher, Certified PE Therapist, and Certified Trauma Process Yoga Group Practitioner.
Looking to make change in your life, but not sure if it is possible? Do you feel terrified of the world, or struggle to trust yourself or other people? I work with people to make measurable and meaningful change in their lives. I am passionate about helping people feel comfortable with themselves, other people, and the world. I value building safety and trust using humor, empathy, and authenticity.
I have extensive experience with survivors of sexual & interpersonal violence and childhood sexual abuse as an LPC, Certified Yoga Teacher, Certified PE Therapist, and Certified Trauma Process Yoga Group Practitioner.
Looking to make change in your life, but not sure if it is possible? Do you feel terrified of the world, or struggle to trust yourself or other people? I work with people to make measurable and meaningful change in their lives. I am passionate about helping people feel comfortable with themselves, other people, and the world. I value building safety and trust using humor, empathy, and authenticity.
(215) 709-8713 View (215) 709-8713
Photo of Sarah Jefferson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elizabethville, PA
Sarah Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in trauma treatment. I have ten years of experience working with adolescents and adults as they work to heal from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship violence, and family environments impacted by addiction and mental illness. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of traumatic memory. I use a blend of mindfulness and structural dissociation theory to heal aspects of the self that were impacted by trauma. This method supports you to deeply and fully heal painful life experiences.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in trauma treatment. I have ten years of experience working with adolescents and adults as they work to heal from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship violence, and family environments impacted by addiction and mental illness. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of traumatic memory. I use a blend of mindfulness and structural dissociation theory to heal aspects of the self that were impacted by trauma. This method supports you to deeply and fully heal painful life experiences.
(814) 619-0627 View (814) 619-0627
Photo of Timothy Mendoza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elizabethville, PA
Timothy Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, PA 19015  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping your child, adolescent and family cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, and behavior concerns. I have over 12 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced various traumatic events, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, community violence, domestic violence and divorce. I have also worked with victims of trafficking, violence, and undocumented immigrants. My recent practice has focused on improving parent-child relationships by using parent coaching sessions to decrease behavior problems and increase social skills and cooperation.
I specialize in helping your child, adolescent and family cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, and behavior concerns. I have over 12 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced various traumatic events, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, community violence, domestic violence and divorce. I have also worked with victims of trafficking, violence, and undocumented immigrants. My recent practice has focused on improving parent-child relationships by using parent coaching sessions to decrease behavior problems and increase social skills and cooperation.
(610) 890-6920 View (610) 890-6920
Photo of Psychotherapy for Sexually Abused Men, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elizabethville, PA
Psychotherapy for Sexually Abused Men
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Currently, I'm only accepting male clients who have been sexually abused and/or assaulted. I work with men of all ages, including older men who have never talked about being sexually abused. While there are many female therapists who work well with male sexual abuse survivors, I believe being a straight male therapist with a wife and family helps. I also specialize in helping adult men with depression, anxiety, and other histories of trauma, such as physical and emotional abuse. I am certified in Interactional Guided Imagery, a trained EMDR therapist, facilitated over 100 psychodramas, and am effective and successful in my work.
Currently, I'm only accepting male clients who have been sexually abused and/or assaulted. I work with men of all ages, including older men who have never talked about being sexually abused. While there are many female therapists who work well with male sexual abuse survivors, I believe being a straight male therapist with a wife and family helps. I also specialize in helping adult men with depression, anxiety, and other histories of trauma, such as physical and emotional abuse. I am certified in Interactional Guided Imagery, a trained EMDR therapist, facilitated over 100 psychodramas, and am effective and successful in my work.
(215) 515-4654 x773936 View (215) 515-4654 x773936
Photo of Jeremy Atkins, Psychologist in Elizabethville, PA
Jeremy Atkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I have significant experience working with: anxiety, stress, life-transitions, depression, self-harm, grief, loss, gender dysphoria, victims of abuse (including sexual abuse and complex trauma), bullying, impaired social skills, adolescents with problematic sexual behaviors, and families with communication difficulties and relationship conflicts.
Since starting in the field about 20 years ago, I have had the privilege of working therapeutically with diverse populations in various clinics, hospitals, and schools. Over the past several years I have focused on treating clinical and forensic clients through my private practice. I am currently accepting new clients to be seen either virtually or in person at my office in Phoenixville, PA.
I have significant experience working with: anxiety, stress, life-transitions, depression, self-harm, grief, loss, gender dysphoria, victims of abuse (including sexual abuse and complex trauma), bullying, impaired social skills, adolescents with problematic sexual behaviors, and families with communication difficulties and relationship conflicts.
Since starting in the field about 20 years ago, I have had the privilege of working therapeutically with diverse populations in various clinics, hospitals, and schools. Over the past several years I have focused on treating clinical and forensic clients through my private practice. I am currently accepting new clients to be seen either virtually or in person at my office in Phoenixville, PA.
(610) 697-9818 View (610) 697-9818
Photo of Arohi Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elizabethville, PA
Arohi Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CCS, CAADC, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063  (Online Only)
We effectively work with individuals with addiction & mental health issues which include depression, anxiety, stress, anger, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, impulsivity, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorder, schizophrenia, codependency, & relationship issues. They want us to assist them in recognizing their true potential & achieving their goals. They want us to guide, support, encourage, empower, & help them to recognize the error in their thinking. We partner with them to prioritize & assist them in resolving their issues. They want to learn coping skills, how to make better choices, and lead a healthy life.
We effectively work with individuals with addiction & mental health issues which include depression, anxiety, stress, anger, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, impulsivity, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorder, schizophrenia, codependency, & relationship issues. They want us to assist them in recognizing their true potential & achieving their goals. They want us to guide, support, encourage, empower, & help them to recognize the error in their thinking. We partner with them to prioritize & assist them in resolving their issues. They want to learn coping skills, how to make better choices, and lead a healthy life.
(484) 214-2506 View (484) 214-2506
Photo of Mark R Carlson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Elizabethville, PA
Mark R Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I also work with individuals & families, and am experienced with depression; child sexual abuse; troubled families; grief/loss; spiritual crises; self-esteem; multiple personalities; alternative relationships; EMDR trauma recovery, and a host of other challenging life situations.
I am by nature compassionate, intuitive and accepting, and 40 years of experience with an enormous range of client issues have honed my deep understanding of the messy emotional processes most of us have to go through. Do you feel stuck, ashamed, confused, needy, depressed, overwhelmed? Want to improve your relationships, deal with your past, heal from trauma, feel more connected, empowered or grounded? With respect and mutual exploration I will be able to help you uncover the clues and solutions you're looking for. I meet you wherever you are, in an atmosphere of trust and honesty.
I also work with individuals & families, and am experienced with depression; child sexual abuse; troubled families; grief/loss; spiritual crises; self-esteem; multiple personalities; alternative relationships; EMDR trauma recovery, and a host of other challenging life situations.
I am by nature compassionate, intuitive and accepting, and 40 years of experience with an enormous range of client issues have honed my deep understanding of the messy emotional processes most of us have to go through. Do you feel stuck, ashamed, confused, needy, depressed, overwhelmed? Want to improve your relationships, deal with your past, heal from trauma, feel more connected, empowered or grounded? With respect and mutual exploration I will be able to help you uncover the clues and solutions you're looking for. I meet you wherever you are, in an atmosphere of trust and honesty.
(215) 764-5309 View (215) 764-5309
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.