Photo of Kristine Stanfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Kristine Stanfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
I have 8+ years experience specializing in grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, domestic and sexual abuse, relationship issues, and infertility/postpartum issues.
Do you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or numb? What about broken, trapped, or lost? We have times in life that can be exhausting and scary; where there seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel. Many times these experiences feel completely outside of our control. Maybe you’ve been experiencing this for a long time or just recently. You don't have to struggle alone! I’m passionate about working with people who are experiencing a difficult journey in life. I will walk with you, side by side, through the fire to help you get to the other side. Let me help you discover the phoenix within the ashes so you can feel whole again!
I have 8+ years experience specializing in grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, domestic and sexual abuse, relationship issues, and infertility/postpartum issues.
Do you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or numb? What about broken, trapped, or lost? We have times in life that can be exhausting and scary; where there seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel. Many times these experiences feel completely outside of our control. Maybe you’ve been experiencing this for a long time or just recently. You don't have to struggle alone! I’m passionate about working with people who are experiencing a difficult journey in life. I will walk with you, side by side, through the fire to help you get to the other side. Let me help you discover the phoenix within the ashes so you can feel whole again!
(615) 442-3486 View (615) 442-3486
Photo of Hannah Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Hannah Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
I consider it a great privilege to hear my clients’ stories and walk with them on their journey of hope and healing. I have experience working with individuals from preschool age through adulthood who have experienced trauma in the form of physical abuse, sexual abuse, grief and loss, attachment ruptures, bullying, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and immigration trauma, among others.
I consider it a great privilege to hear my clients’ stories and walk with them on their journey of hope and healing. I have experience working with individuals from preschool age through adulthood who have experienced trauma in the form of physical abuse, sexual abuse, grief and loss, attachment ruptures, bullying, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and immigration trauma, among others.
(615) 492-3565 View (615) 492-3565
Photo of David Drennon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
David Drennon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
My areas of special clinical interest include adolescents and adults across the life cycle, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, boundary issues, communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, academic issues, premarital/marital counseling, relationship conflict, family conflict, spirituality, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma.
The joy of therapy lies in tailoring my approach to fully leverage the unique strengths and skills of each individual client. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, and hope for those whom I have the opportunity to serve. I endeavor to invite clients into a therapeutic relationship that enhances their ability to develop insight that leads to action.
My areas of special clinical interest include adolescents and adults across the life cycle, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, boundary issues, communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, academic issues, premarital/marital counseling, relationship conflict, family conflict, spirituality, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma.
The joy of therapy lies in tailoring my approach to fully leverage the unique strengths and skills of each individual client. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, and hope for those whom I have the opportunity to serve. I endeavor to invite clients into a therapeutic relationship that enhances their ability to develop insight that leads to action.
(615) 285-5202 View (615) 285-5202
Photo of Hazel House, PLLC / Lindsay E. Vaughn, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Hazel House, PLLC / Lindsay E. Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
We treat a variety of concerns, especially trauma / PTSD (sexual assault / rape, military (veterans), and all forms of child abuse / neglect), family / relational attachment issues, depression, anxiety, chronic pain / illness, & substance use.
Many clients come to us after feeling stuck in talk therapy. Talking about your problems is helpful, but it has limited impact. If you are ready to take your healing to the next level, please reach out! We integrate somatic and experiential therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, IFS, psychodrama, nature therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, trauma-sensitive Yoga, Neurofeedback, and more, to go deeper, so you can truly heal from past experiences. There are no quick fixes - there is only the journey to truly know, love, and care for yourself, and our team of expert therapists is ready to take the journey with you.
We treat a variety of concerns, especially trauma / PTSD (sexual assault / rape, military (veterans), and all forms of child abuse / neglect), family / relational attachment issues, depression, anxiety, chronic pain / illness, & substance use.
Many clients come to us after feeling stuck in talk therapy. Talking about your problems is helpful, but it has limited impact. If you are ready to take your healing to the next level, please reach out! We integrate somatic and experiential therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, IFS, psychodrama, nature therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, trauma-sensitive Yoga, Neurofeedback, and more, to go deeper, so you can truly heal from past experiences. There are no quick fixes - there is only the journey to truly know, love, and care for yourself, and our team of expert therapists is ready to take the journey with you.
(615) 751-8303 View (615) 751-8303
Photo of Helen Tarleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Helen Tarleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, Ed, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I help my clients with issues such as life transitions; anxiety; depression; grief; trauma; phobias; chronic illness; sexual assault and adoption.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
I help my clients with issues such as life transitions; anxiety; depression; grief; trauma; phobias; chronic illness; sexual assault and adoption.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
(615) 784-5788 View (615) 784-5788
Photo of Jessica Davidson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Jessica Davidson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
I have also been specially trained to work with children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse, behavioral issues and problems controlling anger.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
I have also been specially trained to work with children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse, behavioral issues and problems controlling anger.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
(615) 434-4227 View (615) 434-4227
Photo of Shantell Johnson-Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Shantell Johnson-Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I specialize in sexual assault/abuse, trauma from alcoholic/dysfunctional childhoods, LGBTQ identity, and pre-parental counseling.
I specialize in working with the emotional internalizers of the world. Do you self-isolate? Not return text messages or calls when life gets hard? Stuffing down your feelings and wants? Avoiding conflict? Self-sabotaging? Maybe intimacy is hard for you, especially if you're a survivor of sexual trauma. You want desperately to change but aren’t sure how. Trauma (especially from dysfunctional childhoods) convinces us that we’re an anomaly, not worth loving. It feels like everyone has it “together” except you. I get it, I’ve been there. The truth is, you’re not alone. Let's help YOU get what YOU what from life, relationships, and work.
I specialize in sexual assault/abuse, trauma from alcoholic/dysfunctional childhoods, LGBTQ identity, and pre-parental counseling.
I specialize in working with the emotional internalizers of the world. Do you self-isolate? Not return text messages or calls when life gets hard? Stuffing down your feelings and wants? Avoiding conflict? Self-sabotaging? Maybe intimacy is hard for you, especially if you're a survivor of sexual trauma. You want desperately to change but aren’t sure how. Trauma (especially from dysfunctional childhoods) convinces us that we’re an anomaly, not worth loving. It feels like everyone has it “together” except you. I get it, I’ve been there. The truth is, you’re not alone. Let's help YOU get what YOU what from life, relationships, and work.
(615) 205-4736 View (615) 205-4736
Photo of The Refuge Center for Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
The Refuge Center for Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
We can help with the following: Addiction, Anxiety, Attachment, Behavioral issues, Body image / eating disorder issues, Child abuse, Depression, Divorce adjustment, Domestic violence, Family therapy, Grief and loss, Marital crisis, Parenting, Pre-marital counseling, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Relationship issues, Sexual abuse, and more.
The Refuge Center exists to offer excellent, accessible, and affordable mental and emotional healthcare services in support of a transformational impact on communities. With over 70 Staff Therapists, Contract Therapists, and Interns, we can provide a wide variety of services and specialized techniques including, EMDR, Music Therapy, and Neurofeedback.
We can help with the following: Addiction, Anxiety, Attachment, Behavioral issues, Body image / eating disorder issues, Child abuse, Depression, Divorce adjustment, Domestic violence, Family therapy, Grief and loss, Marital crisis, Parenting, Pre-marital counseling, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Relationship issues, Sexual abuse, and more.
The Refuge Center exists to offer excellent, accessible, and affordable mental and emotional healthcare services in support of a transformational impact on communities. With over 70 Staff Therapists, Contract Therapists, and Interns, we can provide a wide variety of services and specialized techniques including, EMDR, Music Therapy, and Neurofeedback.
(615) 632-6102 View (615) 632-6102
Photo of Barbie Hessel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Barbie Hessel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW, SEP, RSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Waitlist for new clients
It is natural to experience a range of emotions; some flooding us thoroughly, and others frozen at our core. Sometimes we all feel challenged by life itself. This is why it can be helpful to seek out a therapist. My counseling practice is focused on helping adults and teens who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. The foundation of my practice is layered. In order to effectively work together, I believe that it is important to understand your past, as it informs your present. Much of our resilience stems from our interactions with attachment figures—It is necessary to consider the context of our life.
It is natural to experience a range of emotions; some flooding us thoroughly, and others frozen at our core. Sometimes we all feel challenged by life itself. This is why it can be helpful to seek out a therapist. My counseling practice is focused on helping adults and teens who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. The foundation of my practice is layered. In order to effectively work together, I believe that it is important to understand your past, as it informs your present. Much of our resilience stems from our interactions with attachment figures—It is necessary to consider the context of our life.
(615) 810-0865 View (615) 810-0865
Photo of Michael Zuch, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Michael Zuch
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
You’re tired of being haunted by past experiences. No matter what you do, you feel like you stay stuck in the same cycles as before. Maybe you experienced overt trauma, such as abuse or an accident. Or maybe you have a hard time identifying why you react the way you do. Often, you have thoughts like “I’m too sensitive” or “I’m not good enough.” Even when you want to enjoy the good things in life, you feel unable to be present. The good news is that you don't have to be alone in this. My job as your therapist is to develop a trusting relationship where you can show up authentically, in all of life’s messiness.
You’re tired of being haunted by past experiences. No matter what you do, you feel like you stay stuck in the same cycles as before. Maybe you experienced overt trauma, such as abuse or an accident. Or maybe you have a hard time identifying why you react the way you do. Often, you have thoughts like “I’m too sensitive” or “I’m not good enough.” Even when you want to enjoy the good things in life, you feel unable to be present. The good news is that you don't have to be alone in this. My job as your therapist is to develop a trusting relationship where you can show up authentically, in all of life’s messiness.
(615) 590-3425 x116 View (615) 590-3425 x116
Photo of Tony Rankin, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Tony Rankin
Counselor, MA, LSPE
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
There is a time in all our lives when it feels that nobody understands, somebody fails to listen, and we feel we have to figure it out by ourselves and that doesn't work either. Finding yourself in that desperate place is an appropriate time to tell your story to a therapist who desires to listen and help you understand where you've been and come along side you to assist you in knowing where you want to go. Courageously step toward the therapy process and embrace the hope that reminds you that you don't have to stay stuck or remain in the dark.
There is a time in all our lives when it feels that nobody understands, somebody fails to listen, and we feel we have to figure it out by ourselves and that doesn't work either. Finding yourself in that desperate place is an appropriate time to tell your story to a therapist who desires to listen and help you understand where you've been and come along side you to assist you in knowing where you want to go. Courageously step toward the therapy process and embrace the hope that reminds you that you don't have to stay stuck or remain in the dark.
(615) 219-1327 View (615) 219-1327
Photo of Loving Counseling and Consultation LLC, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Loving Counseling and Consultation LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201
At Loving Counseling, our ideal client is one who's motivated to change their lives in a positive way and who just need some assistance to get there. All of our counselors want to support and help you nourish the skills necessary to be successful no matter what challenges you're facing. We see individuals of all ages, couples, and families in our offices. We will work with any issue that comes through our door if our clients think we can be a good fit for them and build a solid relationship to help them heal.
At Loving Counseling, our ideal client is one who's motivated to change their lives in a positive way and who just need some assistance to get there. All of our counselors want to support and help you nourish the skills necessary to be successful no matter what challenges you're facing. We see individuals of all ages, couples, and families in our offices. We will work with any issue that comes through our door if our clients think we can be a good fit for them and build a solid relationship to help them heal.
(423) 250-1898 View (423) 250-1898
Photo of Carrie Wilkerson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Carrie Wilkerson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
(615) 492-2208 View (615) 492-2208
Photo of Sarah K Wieck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Sarah K Wieck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
My overall objective is to provide a safe, supportive environment for clients where they can gain insight and when needed create change to move towards living a more authentic life. I work with clients on a wide range of issues including but not limited to mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss and life transitions. I have experience working with adolescents and their families, individuals managing a diagnosis of a mood disorder or anxiety disorder, domestic violence survivors, seniors and their adult children and postpartum women.
My overall objective is to provide a safe, supportive environment for clients where they can gain insight and when needed create change to move towards living a more authentic life. I work with clients on a wide range of issues including but not limited to mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss and life transitions. I have experience working with adolescents and their families, individuals managing a diagnosis of a mood disorder or anxiety disorder, domestic violence survivors, seniors and their adult children and postpartum women.
(615) 281-5023 View (615) 281-5023
Photo of Benjamin Holmes Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Benjamin Holmes Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
You are too valuable to ignore. The issues you're facing are too solvable to avoid. The quality of your experience in this life is too important to neglect. Showing up for yourself can mean a lot of different things. Connecting with one of our therapists can be the first step in a series of meaningful steps toward a life full of success, satisfaction and serenity. We help our clients set intentions for their lives and walk with them on their journey toward mental, emotional and relational health.
You are too valuable to ignore. The issues you're facing are too solvable to avoid. The quality of your experience in this life is too important to neglect. Showing up for yourself can mean a lot of different things. Connecting with one of our therapists can be the first step in a series of meaningful steps toward a life full of success, satisfaction and serenity. We help our clients set intentions for their lives and walk with them on their journey toward mental, emotional and relational health.
(615) 909-2802 View (615) 909-2802
Photo of Dr. Douglas Ribeiro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Dr. Douglas Ribeiro
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Seeking help is one of the most courageous things a human being can do. For this reason, I'm fully committed to the healing of those who entrust me with their most sensitive difficulties and problems.
Seeking help is one of the most courageous things a human being can do. For this reason, I'm fully committed to the healing of those who entrust me with their most sensitive difficulties and problems.
(629) 205-0581 View (629) 205-0581
Photo of Jim Schettler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Jim Schettler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I am passionate about helping people overcome, heal, and succeed. With 20+ years of experience I have helped many clients to uncover their true self, overcome significant obstacles, and live a meaningful life consistent with their values and goals. I tailor my therapy by using the most effective approach to fit the individual/circumstances. I can help you develop tools for handling situations, emotions, and relationships effectively. I believe in helping people live a balanced life where they create balance mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. The result? Greater clarity, serenity, joy, purpose, and a better relationship with self and others.
I am passionate about helping people overcome, heal, and succeed. With 20+ years of experience I have helped many clients to uncover their true self, overcome significant obstacles, and live a meaningful life consistent with their values and goals. I tailor my therapy by using the most effective approach to fit the individual/circumstances. I can help you develop tools for handling situations, emotions, and relationships effectively. I believe in helping people live a balanced life where they create balance mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. The result? Greater clarity, serenity, joy, purpose, and a better relationship with self and others.
(615) 763-4671 View (615) 763-4671
Photo of Carolyn Kutsko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Carolyn Kutsko
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
I am a Holistic Therapist meaning I treat mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. I offer experiences treating depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders and other mental health issues aiming to bring clients into their bodies and out of the mode of traditional talk therapy. These include psychodrama, sand tray, art, and yoga therapy. Wounding happens through living, relational, body-felt experiences and require similar experiences to heal. I create a safe container and relationship for the natural process of healing to occur. Expect to move, breath, and feel... we will not just sit and talk.
I am a Holistic Therapist meaning I treat mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. I offer experiences treating depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders and other mental health issues aiming to bring clients into their bodies and out of the mode of traditional talk therapy. These include psychodrama, sand tray, art, and yoga therapy. Wounding happens through living, relational, body-felt experiences and require similar experiences to heal. I create a safe container and relationship for the natural process of healing to occur. Expect to move, breath, and feel... we will not just sit and talk.
(615) 800-7078 View (615) 800-7078
Photo of Ascend Counseling, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Ascend Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LPC, CTT, CMAT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** At Ascend Counseling, PLLC we believe that all people deserve a place to come as they are. As seasoned therapists, we provide a safe, collaborative experience for our clients combining empathy with professional excellence to guide the therapeutic process. Many therapeutic practices simply help you manage your symptoms and/or survive the next crisis. But at Ascend Counseling, PLLC, we believe that therapists should offer more. We will work with you to identify and address the root issues that perpetuate interpersonal problems. With us, you'll get to the bottom of things so that you can move forward!
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** At Ascend Counseling, PLLC we believe that all people deserve a place to come as they are. As seasoned therapists, we provide a safe, collaborative experience for our clients combining empathy with professional excellence to guide the therapeutic process. Many therapeutic practices simply help you manage your symptoms and/or survive the next crisis. But at Ascend Counseling, PLLC, we believe that therapists should offer more. We will work with you to identify and address the root issues that perpetuate interpersonal problems. With us, you'll get to the bottom of things so that you can move forward!
(615) 913-5958 View (615) 913-5958
Photo of Tassel Faith Shanebrook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Tassel Faith Shanebrook
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37209
I help individuals who may feel disconnected from their true selves, showing up as depression, anxiety, or a feeling of being unfulfilled. I help clients come back home to themselves, to their own dreams for their lives, to their own values, to their own feelings, and to their most aligned path for their relationships, careers, physical health, and joy. Clients usually experience very quick transformations with this work and express a feeling of internal wholeness and peace, as well as clarity about their way forward. One of the most common words clients use with this work is "life-changing"!
I help individuals who may feel disconnected from their true selves, showing up as depression, anxiety, or a feeling of being unfulfilled. I help clients come back home to themselves, to their own dreams for their lives, to their own values, to their own feelings, and to their most aligned path for their relationships, careers, physical health, and joy. Clients usually experience very quick transformations with this work and express a feeling of internal wholeness and peace, as well as clarity about their way forward. One of the most common words clients use with this work is "life-changing"!
(615) 249-1353 View (615) 249-1353
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.