Photo of Sabina Mauro, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Sabina Mauro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
At some point in our life we all experience a traumatic event. For some, these traumatic events (such as sexual abuse, a break-up, domestic violence, death of a loved one) are manageable and symptoms typically subside without disrupting any other areas of life. However, for others, such traumatic events take control over some or all areas of their life and lead to negative long-term consequences. As painful as the trauma is, you can still heal and grow after a traumatic event.
At some point in our life we all experience a traumatic event. For some, these traumatic events (such as sexual abuse, a break-up, domestic violence, death of a loved one) are manageable and symptoms typically subside without disrupting any other areas of life. However, for others, such traumatic events take control over some or all areas of their life and lead to negative long-term consequences. As painful as the trauma is, you can still heal and grow after a traumatic event.
(267) 799-2701 View (267) 799-2701
Photo of Mindful Matters Counseling Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Mindful Matters Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am an LPC experienced working with survivors of sexual violence (rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse) grief/loss, other interpersonal traumas, anxiety, depression, gambling issues and relationship issues.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
I am an LPC experienced working with survivors of sexual violence (rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse) grief/loss, other interpersonal traumas, anxiety, depression, gambling issues and relationship issues.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
(412) 357-4035 View (412) 357-4035
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 Timothy Mendoza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
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 Shawna L McKean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
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 Nicole Kaufman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Nicole Kaufman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarks Summit, PA 18411
Hello! I believe the therapeutic relationship can be healing in itself and that empathy and compassion can go a long way in helping a person achieve overall wellness. I have experience working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, sexual assault/abuse, self-esteem, relationships, parenthood, and transitional issues. Each person's situation is unique and I promise to treat it as such with my counseling education and experience in mind.
Hello! I believe the therapeutic relationship can be healing in itself and that empathy and compassion can go a long way in helping a person achieve overall wellness. I have experience working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, sexual assault/abuse, self-esteem, relationships, parenthood, and transitional issues. Each person's situation is unique and I promise to treat it as such with my counseling education and experience in mind.
(272) 203-8650 View (272) 203-8650
Photo of Kelly Ace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Kelly Ace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have worked with children, teens, and adults from diverse backgrounds as they follow a path of healing after sexual abuse.
Hello! I get that life is complicated and traumatic experiences make it more so. I have experience helping clients heal and grow as they navigate challenges related to sexual trauma, disability, and mental health.
Throughout my career, I have worked with children, teens, and adults from diverse backgrounds as they follow a path of healing after sexual abuse.
Hello! I get that life is complicated and traumatic experiences make it more so. I have experience helping clients heal and grow as they navigate challenges related to sexual trauma, disability, and mental health.
(484) 613-2923 View (484) 613-2923
Photo of Dr. Brian J. Ferraccio, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Dr. Brian J. Ferraccio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I’m here to help you find yours, embrace them, & use them! My practice has a special focus on treating survivors of sexual abuse/assault & traumas.
*Please Assist Dr. F. in Most Efficiently Managing High Demand by Enrolling for Your Consult Directly @ “Pittsburgh-Therapist.com”* I know there are real reasons that led you here, together we can find real solutions. I will listen to your story & together we will work to resolve your unique challenges, step by step, at your pace. Recent events have been disruptive, unsettling, & traumatic. As a result, you may be facing new/intensified problems. I excel in aiding adults & teens who are exhausted, down, overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, survivors of trauma/abuse, and/or have problems relating to others. I look forward to meeting you.
I’m here to help you find yours, embrace them, & use them! My practice has a special focus on treating survivors of sexual abuse/assault & traumas.
*Please Assist Dr. F. in Most Efficiently Managing High Demand by Enrolling for Your Consult Directly @ “Pittsburgh-Therapist.com”* I know there are real reasons that led you here, together we can find real solutions. I will listen to your story & together we will work to resolve your unique challenges, step by step, at your pace. Recent events have been disruptive, unsettling, & traumatic. As a result, you may be facing new/intensified problems. I excel in aiding adults & teens who are exhausted, down, overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, survivors of trauma/abuse, and/or have problems relating to others. I look forward to meeting you.
(878) 216-7126 View (878) 216-7126
Photo of Andrea Venesky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Andrea Venesky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Susquehanna, PA 18847
Childhood trauma, sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, domestic violence, witness to domestic violence, LGBTQ ally
Childhood trauma, sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, domestic violence, witness to domestic violence, LGBTQ ally
(570) 559-8543 View (570) 559-8543
Photo of Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to individuals across the lifespan, specializing in Trauma. Sarah has spent years working with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assaults, sexual abuse, and child abuse and neglect. Sarah is also dedicated to supporting LGBT+ individuals and parents of LGBT+ children in growing their understanding of how to lovingly support their child.
Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to individuals across the lifespan, specializing in Trauma. Sarah has spent years working with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assaults, sexual abuse, and child abuse and neglect. Sarah is also dedicated to supporting LGBT+ individuals and parents of LGBT+ children in growing their understanding of how to lovingly support their child.
(412) 900-5241 View (412) 900-5241
Photo of A Space For Us Counseling, INC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
A Space For Us Counseling, INC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Greetings! I am Keana Fairfax, LCSW, a doctoral candidate (2024). My Ideal clients may face challenges such as healing from trauma, including childhood sexual abuse or racial exclusion. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD may also exist. They require a safe space for healing, culturally competent support, and empowerment. Their goals may include processing repressed trauma, building confidence, developing coping and distraction strategies, improving emotional communication and trust, and relationship building. Tailoring care to these complex needs can pave the way toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
Greetings! I am Keana Fairfax, LCSW, a doctoral candidate (2024). My Ideal clients may face challenges such as healing from trauma, including childhood sexual abuse or racial exclusion. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD may also exist. They require a safe space for healing, culturally competent support, and empowerment. Their goals may include processing repressed trauma, building confidence, developing coping and distraction strategies, improving emotional communication and trust, and relationship building. Tailoring care to these complex needs can pave the way toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
(856) 386-7108 View (856) 386-7108
Photo of Carmella Bond Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Carmella Bond Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MBA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
I am an addiction and trauma specialist with 15+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families travel the road to recovery. I've worked as a sexual abuse case manager, drug and alcohol counselor, trauma group facilitator and military family consultant. I use an integrative approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to assist in the development of new, applicable coping skills, constructive processing and identification of concrete ways of managing after the therapeutic experience has ended. I hope that you'll allow me to help you and those most important to you journey towards wellness.
I am an addiction and trauma specialist with 15+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families travel the road to recovery. I've worked as a sexual abuse case manager, drug and alcohol counselor, trauma group facilitator and military family consultant. I use an integrative approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to assist in the development of new, applicable coping skills, constructive processing and identification of concrete ways of managing after the therapeutic experience has ended. I hope that you'll allow me to help you and those most important to you journey towards wellness.
(267) 433-4503 View (267) 433-4503
Photo of Angela Failor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Angela Failor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, EEM-CLP
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Angela. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Clinical Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, Owner of Shine Your Light! LLC, and Board Member of OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit. I have a passion for helping people heal from the chronic effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit. I have a therapeutic background in domestic violence, sexual assault, and drug and alcohol counseling. I have a clinical certificate in an energy healing modality called The Eden Method. In my energy healing business, I specialize in soul and somatic healing for trauma survivors.
Hello! My name is Angela. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Clinical Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, Owner of Shine Your Light! LLC, and Board Member of OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit. I have a passion for helping people heal from the chronic effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit. I have a therapeutic background in domestic violence, sexual assault, and drug and alcohol counseling. I have a clinical certificate in an energy healing modality called The Eden Method. In my energy healing business, I specialize in soul and somatic healing for trauma survivors.
(412) 538-6128 View (412) 538-6128
Photo of Joseph H Altman, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Joseph H Altman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I provide a positive, supportive, environment where clients have an opportunity to be heard, and to be healed of their emotional pain and fears. My approach is to meet people where they are and to encourage a shift in thinking from negative and fearful, to positive and hopeful. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD associated with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, losses and addictions. The goal is to help neutralize the anxiety, depression, guilt, shame and fears that are the symptoms of the trauma or addiction. The goal is to: "Learn to love, accept and forgive yourself because you are doing the best you can."
I provide a positive, supportive, environment where clients have an opportunity to be heard, and to be healed of their emotional pain and fears. My approach is to meet people where they are and to encourage a shift in thinking from negative and fearful, to positive and hopeful. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD associated with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, losses and addictions. The goal is to help neutralize the anxiety, depression, guilt, shame and fears that are the symptoms of the trauma or addiction. The goal is to: "Learn to love, accept and forgive yourself because you are doing the best you can."
(724) 505-4016 View (724) 505-4016
Photo of Brittany Momah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Brittany Momah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a diverse set of populations, including those who have struggled with anxiety, depression, intimate partner/domestic violence, sexual abuse, and trauma. I work with individuals struggling with unhealthy relationship patterns, relational violence, trauma, mood disruptions, and work dissatisfaction/burnout. I also work with couples on communication, trust, intimacy, and learning how to "fight fair." I am passionate about advocating for and working with BIPOC individuals, the LGBTQIA+ community, and survivors of relational and/or sexual abuse.
I have experience working with a diverse set of populations, including those who have struggled with anxiety, depression, intimate partner/domestic violence, sexual abuse, and trauma. I work with individuals struggling with unhealthy relationship patterns, relational violence, trauma, mood disruptions, and work dissatisfaction/burnout. I also work with couples on communication, trust, intimacy, and learning how to "fight fair." I am passionate about advocating for and working with BIPOC individuals, the LGBTQIA+ community, and survivors of relational and/or sexual abuse.
(484) 309-9296 View (484) 309-9296
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 Linda Grace Gardepe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Linda Grace Gardepe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hawley, PA 18428
I have taken many additional pieces of training in Trauma-informed counseling, DBT, CBT, EMDR, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and of course crafts/painting.
Hi all, I am Linda, and I have a deep passion for helping folks grow to the heights they want to achieve. I have been a counselor for many years, and have spent a great deal of time helping those who have experienced trauma. I love working with people and have a special place in my heart for the Arts and Music. For many years I owned a woodcraft and ceramic business and continue to keep crafts close. I was a non-traditional student and received my bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology in 1996 from East Stroudsburg University and completed my Master's Degree in Social Work in 2020. and am currently licensed as an LCSW in PA.
I have taken many additional pieces of training in Trauma-informed counseling, DBT, CBT, EMDR, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and of course crafts/painting.
Hi all, I am Linda, and I have a deep passion for helping folks grow to the heights they want to achieve. I have been a counselor for many years, and have spent a great deal of time helping those who have experienced trauma. I love working with people and have a special place in my heart for the Arts and Music. For many years I owned a woodcraft and ceramic business and continue to keep crafts close. I was a non-traditional student and received my bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology in 1996 from East Stroudsburg University and completed my Master's Degree in Social Work in 2020. and am currently licensed as an LCSW in PA.
(272) 282-6821 View (272) 282-6821
Photo of Vanessa Alimario Meredith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Vanessa Alimario Meredith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMurray, PA 15317
I have 30 years experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, couple/marital problems, addictions, codependency, sexual assault and other emotional problems. I utilize a strength-based, eclectic approach which tailors the course of treatment around the individual's needs. For example, when working with individuals relating problems with anxiety or depression, cognitive behavioral principles may be introduced which examine thinking patterns. Couples experiencing discord may need to work on improving communication skills, rebuilding trust, and enhancing emotional and sexual intimacy.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, couple/marital problems, addictions, codependency, sexual assault and other emotional problems. I utilize a strength-based, eclectic approach which tailors the course of treatment around the individual's needs. For example, when working with individuals relating problems with anxiety or depression, cognitive behavioral principles may be introduced which examine thinking patterns. Couples experiencing discord may need to work on improving communication skills, rebuilding trust, and enhancing emotional and sexual intimacy.
(724) 398-4433 View (724) 398-4433
Photo of Kathryn Graham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Kathryn Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Warrington, PA 18976
I will use my experience as a Certified Sexual Assault Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and practitioner of EMDR to help guide your trauma experiences, including racial and generational trauma.
I specialize in working with adults, 18+, who have experienced trauma as a child and/or adult. I also focus on treating women struggling with Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Narcissistic Abuse, and Complex Life Issues. I am gender affirming, and work with people of color from different ethnic/cultural and religious backgrounds. I believe that treatment should be personalized to each person’s unique needs and situation, therefore I use a variety of treatment modalities, including Mindfulness and EMDR.
I will use my experience as a Certified Sexual Assault Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and practitioner of EMDR to help guide your trauma experiences, including racial and generational trauma.
I specialize in working with adults, 18+, who have experienced trauma as a child and/or adult. I also focus on treating women struggling with Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Narcissistic Abuse, and Complex Life Issues. I am gender affirming, and work with people of color from different ethnic/cultural and religious backgrounds. I believe that treatment should be personalized to each person’s unique needs and situation, therefore I use a variety of treatment modalities, including Mindfulness and EMDR.
(267) 641-9658 View (267) 641-9658
Photo of Michelle Hurtt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Michelle Hurtt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124
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

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.