Sexual Abuse Therapists in Union, SC

Photo of Stacey L Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Stacey L Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Union, SC 29379
True counseling creates a relationship between the client and the counselor; a relationship of mutual respect and trust. With the right counselor this relationship can be life-changing. My approach is unique. My office space is cozy and inviting, just like your very own living room. Also, I believe in being down to earth and straightforward with my clients, and in working with them to bring about true healing.
True counseling creates a relationship between the client and the counselor; a relationship of mutual respect and trust. With the right counselor this relationship can be life-changing. My approach is unique. My office space is cozy and inviting, just like your very own living room. Also, I believe in being down to earth and straightforward with my clients, and in working with them to bring about true healing.
(864) 938-7883 View (864) 938-7883
Photo of Perfect Peace Counseling - Marriage/Family/EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Perfect Peace Counseling - Marriage/Family/EMDR
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, SC 29379
As therapists, our aim is to provide effective and professional mental health services to people in need. We specialize in working with adults with anxiety, trauma and stressor-related issues, and behavioral challenges. We offer pre-marital, couples, and family counseling too. We are dedicated to providing ethical, competent, and culturally sensitive services. We value diversity and welcome clients of all races, genders, religious beliefs, and cultural backgrounds. As part of our professional commitment we adhere to the ethical codes and standards set forth by the American Counseling Association and other professional organizations.
As therapists, our aim is to provide effective and professional mental health services to people in need. We specialize in working with adults with anxiety, trauma and stressor-related issues, and behavioral challenges. We offer pre-marital, couples, and family counseling too. We are dedicated to providing ethical, competent, and culturally sensitive services. We value diversity and welcome clients of all races, genders, religious beliefs, and cultural backgrounds. As part of our professional commitment we adhere to the ethical codes and standards set forth by the American Counseling Association and other professional organizations.
(864) 920-1711 View (864) 920-1711

Online Therapists

Photo of Tanya T Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Tanya T Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
I offer weeknight and weekend appointments. I believe therapy is a safe space everyone can explore skills that are beneficial in life. I am confident I can assist you on your life journey. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, domestic violence, child abuse, child neglect, sexual abuse, personality disorders, family difficulties, and substance use. I am a CAMS-II provider for anger management counseling. If you have been court ordered to anger management, look no further.
I offer weeknight and weekend appointments. I believe therapy is a safe space everyone can explore skills that are beneficial in life. I am confident I can assist you on your life journey. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, domestic violence, child abuse, child neglect, sexual abuse, personality disorders, family difficulties, and substance use. I am a CAMS-II provider for anger management counseling. If you have been court ordered to anger management, look no further.
(864) 453-8983 View (864) 453-8983
Photo of Norah Grimball, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Norah Grimball
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, NCACI, LAC, ADC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
I specialize in addictions, trauma, PTSD, sexual assault, relationship issues, codependency, emotional manipulation & Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome, mood disorders, transitions, self-harm, self-esteem, & wellness.
Are you looking for a safe place to grow into your best self? As a Licensed & Certified Professional Therapist, I am here to help. I provide individualized treatment in a safe, non-judgmental & compassionate environment utilizing a holistic approach to wellness that allows for deeply personal healing of the mind, body, & spirit. In this way, you are able to explore & reconnect with yourself, overcome challenges, develop resiliency, & greatly improve your quality of life. Over the course of my career, I have provided psychotherapy & counseling services to diverse populations in a variety of settings & I welcome diversities in life.
I specialize in addictions, trauma, PTSD, sexual assault, relationship issues, codependency, emotional manipulation & Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome, mood disorders, transitions, self-harm, self-esteem, & wellness.
Are you looking for a safe place to grow into your best self? As a Licensed & Certified Professional Therapist, I am here to help. I provide individualized treatment in a safe, non-judgmental & compassionate environment utilizing a holistic approach to wellness that allows for deeply personal healing of the mind, body, & spirit. In this way, you are able to explore & reconnect with yourself, overcome challenges, develop resiliency, & greatly improve your quality of life. Over the course of my career, I have provided psychotherapy & counseling services to diverse populations in a variety of settings & I welcome diversities in life.
(803) 274-5854 View (803) 274-5854
Photo of Tina C Outlaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union, SC
Tina C Outlaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LISW-CP, CP
Verified Verified
Lamar, SC 29069  (Online Only)
This helps clients work through issues with self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual abuse issues and confidence, overcome anxiety, learn healthy relationship dynamics, discipline and respect.
Looking for a different, more personal therapy experience, here it is ! I work collaboratively with you and your child/adolescent/family to develop a plan together on the second session, get a new skill each week, and see progress within 8 sessions. With 28 of years experience with children, adolescents and adults recovering from trauma,grief, emotional or behavioral challenges with educational or work-related issues in schools, group homes, rural health care clinics and military facilities. Sessions are online with a confidential platform to offer convience and accessibility to any location in South Carolina.
This helps clients work through issues with self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual abuse issues and confidence, overcome anxiety, learn healthy relationship dynamics, discipline and respect.
Looking for a different, more personal therapy experience, here it is ! I work collaboratively with you and your child/adolescent/family to develop a plan together on the second session, get a new skill each week, and see progress within 8 sessions. With 28 of years experience with children, adolescents and adults recovering from trauma,grief, emotional or behavioral challenges with educational or work-related issues in schools, group homes, rural health care clinics and military facilities. Sessions are online with a confidential platform to offer convience and accessibility to any location in South Carolina.
(843) 256-2277 View (843) 256-2277
Photo of Alice R. Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Alice R. Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
I have worked with individuals who have struggled with issues surrounding domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship topics, and identity issues in teens.
I enjoy working with individuals to help them uncover patterns of behavior or thinking that are interfering with their personal growth. By addressing the underlying issues that are creating problems, you will be able to create lasting change and transformation. I welcome clients working through life issues including; depression, anxiety, grief, relationship concerns, self-esteem, trauma, parenting, marital issues, and behavioral issues to name a few. In addition to individual therapy, I also offer couples and family therapy where we will work together to develop a functional system that will serve your individual needs.
I have worked with individuals who have struggled with issues surrounding domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship topics, and identity issues in teens.
I enjoy working with individuals to help them uncover patterns of behavior or thinking that are interfering with their personal growth. By addressing the underlying issues that are creating problems, you will be able to create lasting change and transformation. I welcome clients working through life issues including; depression, anxiety, grief, relationship concerns, self-esteem, trauma, parenting, marital issues, and behavioral issues to name a few. In addition to individual therapy, I also offer couples and family therapy where we will work together to develop a functional system that will serve your individual needs.
(839) 222-5572 View (839) 222-5572
Photo of Daniela Marie Hatter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Daniela Marie Hatter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma work specifically sexual abuse as well.
I enjoy working with those that are "misunderstood". This is generally those with ADHD and Autism or even teens who are in the LGBTQ+ community or going through a major life change (i.e turning 18, going to college). It could even be compounded by trauma. My main goal through therapy is to work towards exploring how life experiences may have contributed to your perception of self. The ultimate goal for my clients is acceptance. Whether that's accepting themselves, their past, or what they can/cannot control.
I specialize in trauma work specifically sexual abuse as well.
I enjoy working with those that are "misunderstood". This is generally those with ADHD and Autism or even teens who are in the LGBTQ+ community or going through a major life change (i.e turning 18, going to college). It could even be compounded by trauma. My main goal through therapy is to work towards exploring how life experiences may have contributed to your perception of self. The ultimate goal for my clients is acceptance. Whether that's accepting themselves, their past, or what they can/cannot control.
(864) 400-1225 View (864) 400-1225
Photo of Stephanie Z Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Stephanie Z Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
Waitlist for new clients
Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Licensed Addictions Counselor; She trained and served as a sexual assault crisis counselor for the state of Connecticut before relocating to South Carolina in 2015. She sees clients ranged from adolescent to geriatric age. Her areas of interest include trauma, anxiety, and addiction. Utilizing a multitude of therapies and interventions- she helps her clients become “unstuck” from their traumas and find joy and purpose in their lives.
Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Licensed Addictions Counselor; She trained and served as a sexual assault crisis counselor for the state of Connecticut before relocating to South Carolina in 2015. She sees clients ranged from adolescent to geriatric age. Her areas of interest include trauma, anxiety, and addiction. Utilizing a multitude of therapies and interventions- she helps her clients become “unstuck” from their traumas and find joy and purpose in their lives.
(864) 712-7497 View (864) 712-7497
Photo of Doris Stabp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union, SC
Doris Stabp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, lisw-cp
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
In working with persons involved in domestic violence and sexual assault, I work closely with the Department of Social Services, Probation/ Parole offices, and other mental health professionals.
I am South Carolina Licensed Independent Social Worker- Clinical Practice. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and my Masters Degree in Social Work. Since 1999, I have dedicated my entire professional career to working with the forensic population (victims; non-offending parents; sex offenders; violent offenders). This has been accomplished in private practice, correctional institutions, and the agency setting. I conduct individual and group therapy sessions. I specialize in seeing teens and aduts.
In working with persons involved in domestic violence and sexual assault, I work closely with the Department of Social Services, Probation/ Parole offices, and other mental health professionals.
I am South Carolina Licensed Independent Social Worker- Clinical Practice. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and my Masters Degree in Social Work. Since 1999, I have dedicated my entire professional career to working with the forensic population (victims; non-offending parents; sex offenders; violent offenders). This has been accomplished in private practice, correctional institutions, and the agency setting. I conduct individual and group therapy sessions. I specialize in seeing teens and aduts.
(864) 946-9164 View (864) 946-9164
Photo of Chinetta Neal in Union, SC
Chinetta Neal
PhD, LCCP
Verified Verified
Indian Land, SC 29707
Trauma; Sexual Abuse; Grief; Anxiety.
Every one has come face to face with the fear of failure, or defeat. The fear that says we aren't good enough. We have been trained either we win or we lose, there are no other options. I challenge you to see the line between and give yourself permission to stand there, learn there, grow there. You only lose when you don't give yourself permission to take in the whole experience and receive from it.
Trauma; Sexual Abuse; Grief; Anxiety.
Every one has come face to face with the fear of failure, or defeat. The fear that says we aren't good enough. We have been trained either we win or we lose, there are no other options. I challenge you to see the line between and give yourself permission to stand there, learn there, grow there. You only lose when you don't give yourself permission to take in the whole experience and receive from it.
(772) 758-8990 View (772) 758-8990
Photo of Jacqui Woolbright, Marriage & Family Therapist in Union, SC
Jacqui Woolbright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT, AADC, CS
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615  (Online Only)
Tired, frustrated, defeated, or lifeless? I am here to help you and your family return to or become your best self. Our work together will not only makes your physical days better will also eliminate the somatic symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, restlessness, and fatigue. Together we will take steps to achieve your goals. I have best helped those who have a history of physical or sexual abuse, overall anxiety and depression, and difficulty with addiction (primarily alcohol & nicotine). Individuals need additional ways to cope with change, stress, and trauma so they can better focus and be present in their daily life.
Tired, frustrated, defeated, or lifeless? I am here to help you and your family return to or become your best self. Our work together will not only makes your physical days better will also eliminate the somatic symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, restlessness, and fatigue. Together we will take steps to achieve your goals. I have best helped those who have a history of physical or sexual abuse, overall anxiety and depression, and difficulty with addiction (primarily alcohol & nicotine). Individuals need additional ways to cope with change, stress, and trauma so they can better focus and be present in their daily life.
(864) 660-3616 View (864) 660-3616
Photo of Rebecca Toulson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Rebecca Toulson
Licensed Professional Counselor, CEO, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651
Waitlist for new clients
Rebecca has worked with Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Families, Geriatrics, Trauma/PTSD, Sexual Assault/Trafficking Survivors, Crisis Management, Intimacy Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Bereavement, Psychotic Disorders, Mood Disorders, and more.
Rebecca has worked with Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Families, Geriatrics, Trauma/PTSD, Sexual Assault/Trafficking Survivors, Crisis Management, Intimacy Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Bereavement, Psychotic Disorders, Mood Disorders, and more.
(864) 947-4366 View (864) 947-4366
Photo of Angela Ramsey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Angela Ramsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29730  (Online Only)
Angela Ramsey is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida (LPC, LMHC). She has nearly 10 years of experience working with severe eating disorders, sexual trauma (assault, abuse, incest, rape), and human trafficking survivors. She is passionate about her field of work and the populations she works with. Angela has a heart for older adolescents and young adults who struggle to know their worth and value outside of diet culture and external pressures.
Angela Ramsey is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida (LPC, LMHC). She has nearly 10 years of experience working with severe eating disorders, sexual trauma (assault, abuse, incest, rape), and human trafficking survivors. She is passionate about her field of work and the populations she works with. Angela has a heart for older adolescents and young adults who struggle to know their worth and value outside of diet culture and external pressures.
(803) 882-3783 View (803) 882-3783
Photo of Terronda L. Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Terronda L. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCS/C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201  (Online Only)
Are you ready to discover your truth? Are you ready to shed light on what has been holding you back? Do you struggle with direction and decision-making? I am a culturally sensitive and highly effective psychotherapist who is focused on helping you discover and maintain a healthy life balance. With the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Faith-Based Counseling, I will work with you to address issues of Trauma, Abandonment, Emotional/Phyhsical/Sexual Abuse, Rejection, Grief, Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustments, Unforgiveness, and Hurt from past relationships and difficulties.
Are you ready to discover your truth? Are you ready to shed light on what has been holding you back? Do you struggle with direction and decision-making? I am a culturally sensitive and highly effective psychotherapist who is focused on helping you discover and maintain a healthy life balance. With the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Faith-Based Counseling, I will work with you to address issues of Trauma, Abandonment, Emotional/Phyhsical/Sexual Abuse, Rejection, Grief, Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustments, Unforgiveness, and Hurt from past relationships and difficulties.
(803) 590-1199 View (803) 590-1199
Photo of Malik Mooney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Malik Mooney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29229
Waitlist for new clients
I have done trauma focused clinical work with survivors of sexual assault & have worked in intensive outpatient settings treating substance use & affective disorders.
We have all had moments that we felt overwhelmed, and uncertain about our next best step. Maybe you are coping with difficulties that are related to depression, anxiety, career, family, grief, phase of life changes, or relational concerns. With a non-judgmental, client-centered approach I can assist you with developing effective coping skills & new perspectives to live your most fulfilling life.
I have done trauma focused clinical work with survivors of sexual assault & have worked in intensive outpatient settings treating substance use & affective disorders.
We have all had moments that we felt overwhelmed, and uncertain about our next best step. Maybe you are coping with difficulties that are related to depression, anxiety, career, family, grief, phase of life changes, or relational concerns. With a non-judgmental, client-centered approach I can assist you with developing effective coping skills & new perspectives to live your most fulfilling life.
View
Photo of Jessica Lowery, Counselor in Union, SC
Jessica Lowery
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC-A, LPC-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29732
I specialize in the treatment of women’s issues, child sexual abuse, and chronic stress management, as well as anxiety and depression.
Hey there, I'm Jess. I support and empower individuals as they grow through healing. When was the last time that you truly felt like yourself? Have you been feeling trapped, stuck, or stagnant? If so, it may be time to think about talking to a counselor. Life is complex, complicated, and sometimes overwhelming. Oftentimes we get into the unhelpful habit of putting our needs on the back-burner so that we can focus on the fast-paced present. Counseling is an opportunity to expand your mind, self-reflect, practice gratitude, heal, slow down, rest, and recharge. It’s an opportunity to end harmful cycles, habits, beliefs, and behaviors.
I specialize in the treatment of women’s issues, child sexual abuse, and chronic stress management, as well as anxiety and depression.
Hey there, I'm Jess. I support and empower individuals as they grow through healing. When was the last time that you truly felt like yourself? Have you been feeling trapped, stuck, or stagnant? If so, it may be time to think about talking to a counselor. Life is complex, complicated, and sometimes overwhelming. Oftentimes we get into the unhelpful habit of putting our needs on the back-burner so that we can focus on the fast-paced present. Counseling is an opportunity to expand your mind, self-reflect, practice gratitude, heal, slow down, rest, and recharge. It’s an opportunity to end harmful cycles, habits, beliefs, and behaviors.
(803) 859-4394 View (803) 859-4394
Photo of Natalie Rhodes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Natalie Rhodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Clemson, SC 29631  (Online Only)
I consider myself to be a body inclusive therapist who specializes in helping clients recover from disordered eating behaviors, weight stigma, body image concerns and impacts from diet culture. I also serve clients experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, family issues (such as divorce & addiction), adjustment issues, impacts from COVID-19 and trauma (such as intimate partner violence & sexual assault). I currently offer individual therapy for teens and adults. I am LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC affirming and knowledgeable.
I consider myself to be a body inclusive therapist who specializes in helping clients recover from disordered eating behaviors, weight stigma, body image concerns and impacts from diet culture. I also serve clients experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, family issues (such as divorce & addiction), adjustment issues, impacts from COVID-19 and trauma (such as intimate partner violence & sexual assault). I currently offer individual therapy for teens and adults. I am LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC affirming and knowledgeable.
(503) 433-8831 View (503) 433-8831
Photo of Dr. Denise K Crockett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Dr. Denise K Crockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CTTS, LPC, CCTP I, CCTP II
Verified Verified
Taylors, SC 29687
Are you sick of being tired & stuck? Dr. Crockett specializes in assessing Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), and PTSD. She works with clients that have been victims of assault and battery, gaslighting, abandonment issues from childhood, sexual abuse, human trafficking, accidents that cause TBI and PTSD, etc. Dr. Crockett also has been certified from SEAK as an expert witness and is certified to use EMDR. Dr. Crockett's passion is helping people with critical and sensitive issues by assessing their current symptoms providing them with a treatment plan that can help facilitate the beginning steps to their recovery.
Are you sick of being tired & stuck? Dr. Crockett specializes in assessing Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), and PTSD. She works with clients that have been victims of assault and battery, gaslighting, abandonment issues from childhood, sexual abuse, human trafficking, accidents that cause TBI and PTSD, etc. Dr. Crockett also has been certified from SEAK as an expert witness and is certified to use EMDR. Dr. Crockett's passion is helping people with critical and sensitive issues by assessing their current symptoms providing them with a treatment plan that can help facilitate the beginning steps to their recovery.
(864) 501-5938 View (864) 501-5938
Photo of Denise Sue Heberlein, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Union, SC
Denise Sue Heberlein
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC/A
Verified Verified
Lexington, SC 29072
As human beings, we have inherent value, and we all have different needs and issues. Working collaboratively, our work will be tailored to fit your lifestyle and goals, making it individualized. This belief aids in cultivating positive and effective change in your life. My diverse background experiences in life, work, and education enable me to utilize various therapeutic interventions in all walks of life. We were not meant to live in isolation but to be in community together. When we walk together through life, this is when we are at our best, offering hope to those who may feel hopeless.
As human beings, we have inherent value, and we all have different needs and issues. Working collaboratively, our work will be tailored to fit your lifestyle and goals, making it individualized. This belief aids in cultivating positive and effective change in your life. My diverse background experiences in life, work, and education enable me to utilize various therapeutic interventions in all walks of life. We were not meant to live in isolation but to be in community together. When we walk together through life, this is when we are at our best, offering hope to those who may feel hopeless.
(803) 676-1278 View (803) 676-1278
Photo of Emily McClung Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union, SC
Emily McClung Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, MAC, AADC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29609
Trauma comes from a variety of different places and a variety of different experiences. People who have faced trauma may find it difficult to connect with themselves or focus on their hopes, dreams, and goals. I have been working with adolescents and adults facing difficult life challenges for over 10 years. My passion is helping individuals to reconnect with themselves, find acceptance of their journey, and allow growth and empowerment to occur from this self-acceptance. My therapeutic style balances acceptance with change approaches which move clients closer to their identified goals.
Trauma comes from a variety of different places and a variety of different experiences. People who have faced trauma may find it difficult to connect with themselves or focus on their hopes, dreams, and goals. I have been working with adolescents and adults facing difficult life challenges for over 10 years. My passion is helping individuals to reconnect with themselves, find acceptance of their journey, and allow growth and empowerment to occur from this self-acceptance. My therapeutic style balances acceptance with change approaches which move clients closer to their identified goals.
(864) 400-2818 View (864) 400-2818

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.