Photo of Tami G Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Tami G Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
Areas of special concentration include sexual abuse, child management and assisting middle school, high school and college athletes cope with sports injuries.
Take care of yourself.... All too often we neglect our emotional health. Increased stress, worry and conflicts can all take their toll. The emotional impact of traumatic events affects the mind body and soul. I have 17 years experience in private practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to use to your benefit. You may just need a guide to help define what needs to be different in your life. I'll help you develop the skills you need to make changes for a satisfying life. I welcome the opportunity to help you resolve more deeply painful events with respect and my best skills possible.
Areas of special concentration include sexual abuse, child management and assisting middle school, high school and college athletes cope with sports injuries.
Take care of yourself.... All too often we neglect our emotional health. Increased stress, worry and conflicts can all take their toll. The emotional impact of traumatic events affects the mind body and soul. I have 17 years experience in private practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to use to your benefit. You may just need a guide to help define what needs to be different in your life. I'll help you develop the skills you need to make changes for a satisfying life. I welcome the opportunity to help you resolve more deeply painful events with respect and my best skills possible.
(724) 471-4679 View (724) 471-4679
Photo of Arohi Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
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 Debra Belack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Debra Belack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Camp Hill, PA 17011
sexual abuse, domestic violence, car accident, etc).
I believe that maintaining and focusing on our mental health should be as normal as attending to our physical health, and just as important. Therapy is a way to work through the challenges of life, understand ourselves more fully, and work towards a place of wellness unique to each person. Therefore, I use multiple evidence-based modalities, coupled with a therapeutic style that is impartial, non-judgmental, and encouraging, specific to each person’s needs. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults of all stages of life. I am passionate about working with women's issues & also enjoy working through spiritual/faith issues.
sexual abuse, domestic violence, car accident, etc).
I believe that maintaining and focusing on our mental health should be as normal as attending to our physical health, and just as important. Therapy is a way to work through the challenges of life, understand ourselves more fully, and work towards a place of wellness unique to each person. Therefore, I use multiple evidence-based modalities, coupled with a therapeutic style that is impartial, non-judgmental, and encouraging, specific to each person’s needs. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults of all stages of life. I am passionate about working with women's issues & also enjoy working through spiritual/faith issues.
(717) 883-1136 View (717) 883-1136
Photo of Emily E Everhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Emily E Everhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
I work with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, physical, mental, sexual abuse, spiritual issues, substance abuse, suicidality, and relational conflicts.
I believe everyone has inherent value, has purpose, and belongs in this world. A person can be greatly impacted by stress, life changes, trauma, and pain/hurt which can lead people to believe they do not have value or feel no longer worthwhile. People can heal from these things and can learn new skills to better regulate emotions. Sometimes people just need someone to show up and help guide the healing process. We can heal the hurt and find ways to move forward in life. I work to provide a calm, safe, open, non-judgmental space to allow this process to begin.
I work with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, physical, mental, sexual abuse, spiritual issues, substance abuse, suicidality, and relational conflicts.
I believe everyone has inherent value, has purpose, and belongs in this world. A person can be greatly impacted by stress, life changes, trauma, and pain/hurt which can lead people to believe they do not have value or feel no longer worthwhile. People can heal from these things and can learn new skills to better regulate emotions. Sometimes people just need someone to show up and help guide the healing process. We can heal the hurt and find ways to move forward in life. I work to provide a calm, safe, open, non-judgmental space to allow this process to begin.
(717) 937-2203 x308 View (717) 937-2203 x308
Photo of Ron Agostoni, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Ron Agostoni
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngwood, PA 15697
I specialize in marriage counseling, sex addiction, personality disorders, anger management and healing from sexual abuse.
I want my clients to feel connected. To know I can understand and see them. Sitting in my office with me, or meeting online, should be a place where a client feels they can be honest and open without judgement or repercussion. Nobody is perfect and we all have some type of past. We have all made bad choices or have had bad things happen. Some of had horrible and unthinkable things occur to them while others may not have experienced such things. Regardless, this is place to unpack whatever you have been carrying around. Find freedom from the baggage, trauma, stress, anxiety and whatever else may exist. You're worth it to try.
I specialize in marriage counseling, sex addiction, personality disorders, anger management and healing from sexual abuse.
I want my clients to feel connected. To know I can understand and see them. Sitting in my office with me, or meeting online, should be a place where a client feels they can be honest and open without judgement or repercussion. Nobody is perfect and we all have some type of past. We have all made bad choices or have had bad things happen. Some of had horrible and unthinkable things occur to them while others may not have experienced such things. Regardless, this is place to unpack whatever you have been carrying around. Find freedom from the baggage, trauma, stress, anxiety and whatever else may exist. You're worth it to try.
(724) 542-2330 View (724) 542-2330
Photo of Brandie Woodward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Brandie Woodward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ligonier, PA 15658
Art Therapy, Psychotherapy-specialize in PTSD treatment stemming from sexual abuse and/or domestic violence-depression-anxiety-grief and loss treatment
Art Therapy, Psychotherapy-specialize in PTSD treatment stemming from sexual abuse and/or domestic violence-depression-anxiety-grief and loss treatment
(724) 677-3500 View (724) 677-3500
Photo of Bridgette Nicole Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
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 Shephard Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
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 Eunice E. Curry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Eunice E. Curry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAMS-II, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pottstown, PA 19464  (Online Only)
Specializing in: trauma therapy, recovery from sexual abuse, child abuse, and emotional abuse.
I am here to offer supportive/empathic counseling services in collaboration with people who've experienced a series of adverse life events. My belief is that people do the best they can to heal from life's challenges. It is important to me that I understand things from your perspective. What happened? My goal is to offer a safe space for you to freely express who you are, share your life experiences and to support you as you own your truth. Something happened, life became complicated and hard to deal with alone. You've been trying to manage on your own but it’s been difficult. I'm here to support you.
Specializing in: trauma therapy, recovery from sexual abuse, child abuse, and emotional abuse.
I am here to offer supportive/empathic counseling services in collaboration with people who've experienced a series of adverse life events. My belief is that people do the best they can to heal from life's challenges. It is important to me that I understand things from your perspective. What happened? My goal is to offer a safe space for you to freely express who you are, share your life experiences and to support you as you own your truth. Something happened, life became complicated and hard to deal with alone. You've been trying to manage on your own but it’s been difficult. I'm here to support you.
(484) 380-9182 View (484) 380-9182
Melissa Galiotto EMDR Cert.
LPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspinwall, PA 15215
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
(412) 888-0452 View (412) 888-0452
Photo of Danielle N Nesmith, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennsylvania
Danielle N Nesmith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melrose Park, PA 19027  (Online Only)
Danielle Nesmith is a Resident-in-Counseling (RIC) with 15 years of experience assisting children, teens, adults, and seniors who are faced with the negative effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, poor coping skills, grief, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, sexual abuse, women’s issues, and more. Danielle's career began working with delinquent adolescents, providing individual/group counseling. In 2015, she transitioned to social work, where she offered service to clients of all ages, providing resources and therapeutic services when needed to ensure their safety and emotional stability.
Danielle Nesmith is a Resident-in-Counseling (RIC) with 15 years of experience assisting children, teens, adults, and seniors who are faced with the negative effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, poor coping skills, grief, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, sexual abuse, women’s issues, and more. Danielle's career began working with delinquent adolescents, providing individual/group counseling. In 2015, she transitioned to social work, where she offered service to clients of all ages, providing resources and therapeutic services when needed to ensure their safety and emotional stability.
(215) 999-4668 View (215) 999-4668
Photo of Kimberly A Woodling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Kimberly A Woodling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017
She has experience working with victims of physical / sexual abuse, and with persons in unhealthy or toxic relationships.
Kimberly Woodling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who utilizes insight and emotion-oriented approaches to assist patients experiencing various psychological and social challenges. Kim believes that breakthroughs and enhancements to overall relational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning will occur as a person increases their self-awareness, and acquaints themselves with their full range emotions, contradictory feelings, interpersonal patterns, and defenses. She helps her patients scratch beneath their surface to explore unmet expectations, and unproductive patterns of behavior that keep them stuck and unsatisfied. Kim views the therapeutic process as a personal "journey" and places a strong emphasis on developing a trusting relationship with her patients, which she deems as vital to growth and symptom reduction. Kim believes in every person’s ability to live successful, fulfilling lives. Her sessions are laid back, relaxed, and she can assist patients in finding the humor or silver lining in difficult situations. She is passionate about empowering individuals, and helping them recognize their own strengths and abilities to cope with stress and challenges.
She has experience working with victims of physical / sexual abuse, and with persons in unhealthy or toxic relationships.
Kimberly Woodling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who utilizes insight and emotion-oriented approaches to assist patients experiencing various psychological and social challenges. Kim believes that breakthroughs and enhancements to overall relational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning will occur as a person increases their self-awareness, and acquaints themselves with their full range emotions, contradictory feelings, interpersonal patterns, and defenses. She helps her patients scratch beneath their surface to explore unmet expectations, and unproductive patterns of behavior that keep them stuck and unsatisfied. Kim views the therapeutic process as a personal "journey" and places a strong emphasis on developing a trusting relationship with her patients, which she deems as vital to growth and symptom reduction. Kim believes in every person’s ability to live successful, fulfilling lives. Her sessions are laid back, relaxed, and she can assist patients in finding the humor or silver lining in difficult situations. She is passionate about empowering individuals, and helping them recognize their own strengths and abilities to cope with stress and challenges.
(484) 866-8099 View (484) 866-8099
Photo of Kathryn M. Enoch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Kathryn M. Enoch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
I am a Pennsylvania licensed psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of adults with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, anxiety and depression, trauma associated with sexual abuse, PTSD, couple's counseling, and LGBT issues. Facilitation of therapeutic sessions with a holistic approach to treatment which addresses a wide-range of client needs. Clinical framework is combined psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies designed to help the client understand how the past impacts the present, to aid healing from traumatic events, and experience a fulfilling life.
I am a Pennsylvania licensed psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of adults with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, anxiety and depression, trauma associated with sexual abuse, PTSD, couple's counseling, and LGBT issues. Facilitation of therapeutic sessions with a holistic approach to treatment which addresses a wide-range of client needs. Clinical framework is combined psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies designed to help the client understand how the past impacts the present, to aid healing from traumatic events, and experience a fulfilling life.
(610) 665-3923 View (610) 665-3923
Photo of Jean Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
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 Neo Papaneophytou, Counselor in Pennsylvania
Neo Papaneophytou
Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19111  (Online Only)
People experiencing anxiety, emotional, mood, relational, psychological, developmental, and behavioral issues deserve to have an ally. In a supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized/ telehealth treatment to people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, grief, and relationship issues. My work includes individual/ couples, LGBTQU+, relational issues, children/ families. Sexual abuse (victims/offenders), paraphilia, interpersonal/ relational issues. Licensed (LMHC/LPC) in CT, FL, GA, PA, NJ, NY, MA, TX. We all deserve to enjoy an enhanced quality of life; a better today. Contact me today to enable a better tomorrow!
People experiencing anxiety, emotional, mood, relational, psychological, developmental, and behavioral issues deserve to have an ally. In a supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized/ telehealth treatment to people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, grief, and relationship issues. My work includes individual/ couples, LGBTQU+, relational issues, children/ families. Sexual abuse (victims/offenders), paraphilia, interpersonal/ relational issues. Licensed (LMHC/LPC) in CT, FL, GA, PA, NJ, NY, MA, TX. We all deserve to enjoy an enhanced quality of life; a better today. Contact me today to enable a better tomorrow!
(646) 863-7969 View (646) 863-7969
Photo of Georgette Ventura, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Georgette Ventura
Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
Lebanon, PA 17042
I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 34 years in the mental health field. I have been in private practice for 29 years. I have worked with clients of all ages and socioeconomic groups. I provide Individual, Couples/Marital and Family Therapy.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 34 years in the mental health field. I have been in private practice for 29 years. I have worked with clients of all ages and socioeconomic groups. I provide Individual, Couples/Marital and Family Therapy.
(717) 303-5759 View (717) 303-5759
Photo of Katelyn A Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Katelyn A Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of clinical experience working with children (as young as 4 years old), adolescents, and adults. Since starting my career I have had the opportunity to work with clients individually, as well as with their families to assist them in coping with their conflicts and struggles. I try to provide positive guidance, open communication, strength building, and honest advice to best assist individuals, families, and couples in reaching their goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of clinical experience working with children (as young as 4 years old), adolescents, and adults. Since starting my career I have had the opportunity to work with clients individually, as well as with their families to assist them in coping with their conflicts and struggles. I try to provide positive guidance, open communication, strength building, and honest advice to best assist individuals, families, and couples in reaching their goals.
(267) 463-4754 View (267) 463-4754
Photo of Dorothy A Dean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Dorothy A Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18505
Entering therapy for the first time can initially feel stressful or overwhelming until the process unfolds and you realize that you made the right choice; to take care of yourself. Something doesn't feel quite right; maybe your relationships lack fulfillment, you have no goals, you dread your future, or maybe you stopped looking forward to waking up and facing the day. Therapy is a step by step process that requires time and hard work. Together we will explore the mystery that surrounds you as you accept the challenge that is necessary to develop a new sense of health and well-being.
Entering therapy for the first time can initially feel stressful or overwhelming until the process unfolds and you realize that you made the right choice; to take care of yourself. Something doesn't feel quite right; maybe your relationships lack fulfillment, you have no goals, you dread your future, or maybe you stopped looking forward to waking up and facing the day. Therapy is a step by step process that requires time and hard work. Together we will explore the mystery that surrounds you as you accept the challenge that is necessary to develop a new sense of health and well-being.
(570) 279-4886 View (570) 279-4886
Photo of Maggie Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Maggie Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
With a belief that our inner obstacles create our outer obstacles, the goal of my practice is to help you to understand and remove those obstacles from your life. I will be there to support you as we work together to understand the relationship that you have with yourself as well as the relationship patterns that you have with other people. It is my hope that I can help you with self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-love.
With a belief that our inner obstacles create our outer obstacles, the goal of my practice is to help you to understand and remove those obstacles from your life. I will be there to support you as we work together to understand the relationship that you have with yourself as well as the relationship patterns that you have with other people. It is my hope that I can help you with self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-love.
(484) 218-5322 View (484) 218-5322
Photo of Grace Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Grace Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Belle Vernon, PA 15012
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
(724) 414-1549 View (724) 414-1549

See more therapy options for Pennsylvania


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.