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 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 Your child may seem angry or withdrawn.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 Catherine Lucas, Licensed Master Social Worker in Nashville, TN
Catherine Lucas
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37228
I have experience working in court advocacy with those impacted by domestic and intimate partner violence and sexual assault, as well as experience working in the psychiatric hospital setting (inpatient and intensive outpatient) with a wide range of issues and severity of illnesses.
I'm looking forward to supporting you. I enjoy helping others work to live more authentically while being able to enjoy life amid everyday challenges. I use a strengths-based and collaborative approach to treatment as each client is the expert in their life. I use therapeutic modalities including compassion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), expressive art, mindful movement, and yoga.
I have experience working in court advocacy with those impacted by domestic and intimate partner violence and sexual assault, as well as experience working in the psychiatric hospital setting (inpatient and intensive outpatient) with a wide range of issues and severity of illnesses.
I'm looking forward to supporting you. I enjoy helping others work to live more authentically while being able to enjoy life amid everyday challenges. I use a strengths-based and collaborative approach to treatment as each client is the expert in their life. I use therapeutic modalities including compassion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), expressive art, mindful movement, and yoga.
(615) 909-4298 View (615) 909-4298
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 Melissa Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Melissa Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215  (Online Only)
Melissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience in the field of social work. She has worked in a number of specialty areas, including addiction recovery, child and family welfare, community mental health, domestic violence, sexual assault, medical/inpatient, law enforcement, military, and Veterans. Melissa has extensive experience in working with PTSD and complex trauma. She is trained in Biofeedback, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), CPT (cognitive processing therapy), PE (prolonged exposure), and EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing).
Melissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience in the field of social work. She has worked in a number of specialty areas, including addiction recovery, child and family welfare, community mental health, domestic violence, sexual assault, medical/inpatient, law enforcement, military, and Veterans. Melissa has extensive experience in working with PTSD and complex trauma. She is trained in Biofeedback, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), CPT (cognitive processing therapy), PE (prolonged exposure), and EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing).
(615) 471-6713 View (615) 471-6713
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 Beth Tucker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Beth Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211
My passion is working with those that are looking for a safe place to explore the challenges that life brings. My focus is to create an environment for my clients to embrace hope and reach their goals. I have worked with victims of domestic abuse, trafficking, and sexual abuse since 2016. I also work with clients that are struggling with anxiety and depression. I believe that my client is the expert in their life and that together we can get them back to leading their lives effectively.
My passion is working with those that are looking for a safe place to explore the challenges that life brings. My focus is to create an environment for my clients to embrace hope and reach their goals. I have worked with victims of domestic abuse, trafficking, and sexual abuse since 2016. I also work with clients that are struggling with anxiety and depression. I believe that my client is the expert in their life and that together we can get them back to leading their lives effectively.
(615) 206-4102 View (615) 206-4102
Photo of Brock Searcy, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Brock Searcy
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
My background includes advanced training in Sexual Disorders, Depression, Anxiety and Trauma. I'm a Licensed Psychotherapist & Certified Sex Therapist in private practice located in Brentwood. I would love to hear your story and be available to help. No two peoples' experiences are ever the same and whether your issue is emotional, behavioral or just life circumstances I'm ready to walk down that path with you (Couples and Individuals). Areas of focus include victims of sexual abuse. I am EMDR trained (Level 1 & Level 2), Gottman Level 1 trained and TF-CBT Certified.
My background includes advanced training in Sexual Disorders, Depression, Anxiety and Trauma. I'm a Licensed Psychotherapist & Certified Sex Therapist in private practice located in Brentwood. I would love to hear your story and be available to help. No two peoples' experiences are ever the same and whether your issue is emotional, behavioral or just life circumstances I'm ready to walk down that path with you (Couples and Individuals). Areas of focus include victims of sexual abuse. I am EMDR trained (Level 1 & Level 2), Gottman Level 1 trained and TF-CBT Certified.
(615) 209-9034 View (615) 209-9034
Photo of Simply Being Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Simply Being Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
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—anxious about change, lonely with ourselves, feeling captive by our past, and running from our fears. This is why it can be helpful to seek out a therapist. Our counseling practice is focused on helping adults and teens who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. As clinical therapists and trauma specialists, we can help you to better recognize and resolve challenges, so you can feel better oriented to your present and prepared to create a balanced future.
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—anxious about change, lonely with ourselves, feeling captive by our past, and running from our fears. This is why it can be helpful to seek out a therapist. Our counseling practice is focused on helping adults and teens who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. As clinical therapists and trauma specialists, we can help you to better recognize and resolve challenges, so you can feel better oriented to your present and prepared to create a balanced future.
(629) 205-9656 View (629) 205-9656
Photo of Dr. Alissa Beuerlein, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Dr. Alissa Beuerlein
Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I have had the privilege of helping many different people through a range of different issues. I am well versed with complex trauma, anxiety, PTSD, depression, donor conceived people, adoptees, and other issues.
I have had the privilege of helping many different people through a range of different issues. I am well versed with complex trauma, anxiety, PTSD, depression, donor conceived people, adoptees, and other issues.
(615) 965-4203 View (615) 965-4203
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 Kiersten Twitchell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Kiersten Twitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I believe that all of us can benefit from additional support in different seasons of our lives. It takes bravery to reach out and meet with someone, and I’m passionate about building a relationship with my clients where they are able to engage with their own resilience and innate ability to heal. Many of us develop patterns that help us move through and cope with what we have experienced, and often, we realize these strategies are no longer serving us, and are keeping us from experiencing the full life we desire. I walk alongside my clients in helping them become reconnected to their true selves, and reach their goals.
I believe that all of us can benefit from additional support in different seasons of our lives. It takes bravery to reach out and meet with someone, and I’m passionate about building a relationship with my clients where they are able to engage with their own resilience and innate ability to heal. Many of us develop patterns that help us move through and cope with what we have experienced, and often, we realize these strategies are no longer serving us, and are keeping us from experiencing the full life we desire. I walk alongside my clients in helping them become reconnected to their true selves, and reach their goals.
(615) 751-5763 View (615) 751-5763
Photo of Sunni Mullenix, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Sunni Mullenix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I truly believe that each client is the absolute expert on themselves and strive always to create space for clients to feel, be, and show up as their authentic selves. My approach is relational, casual, sex positive, and gender affirming. I take a systems approach to appreciating all the different factors that make up you and your unique experiences in the world. I specialize in complex trauma, and love to work with folks within the LGBTQIA2S+ community, folks struggling to navigate overwhelming emotions, folks struggling with boundary setting, and folks looking to explore and truly find love and compassion for themselves.
I truly believe that each client is the absolute expert on themselves and strive always to create space for clients to feel, be, and show up as their authentic selves. My approach is relational, casual, sex positive, and gender affirming. I take a systems approach to appreciating all the different factors that make up you and your unique experiences in the world. I specialize in complex trauma, and love to work with folks within the LGBTQIA2S+ community, folks struggling to navigate overwhelming emotions, folks struggling with boundary setting, and folks looking to explore and truly find love and compassion for themselves.
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Photo of Lighthouse Counseling and Mental Health, LLC, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Lighthouse Counseling and Mental Health, LLC
Counselor, MC, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
Percy Ford, MC, LPC-MHSP, NCC established Lighthouse Correctional Counseling and Mental Health Services in 2012 to provide Individual Psychotherapy, Family Counseling, Group Therapy and Couples Counseling to offenders and their families. Mr. Ford earned a BS in Social Work from Tuskegee University in 1997 and graduated from Argosy University School of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences in 2007 with a MA in Professional Counseling.
Percy Ford, MC, LPC-MHSP, NCC established Lighthouse Correctional Counseling and Mental Health Services in 2012 to provide Individual Psychotherapy, Family Counseling, Group Therapy and Couples Counseling to offenders and their families. Mr. Ford earned a BS in Social Work from Tuskegee University in 1997 and graduated from Argosy University School of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences in 2007 with a MA in Professional Counseling.
(615) 442-7106 View (615) 442-7106
Photo of Jonathan Dwight Seay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Jonathan Dwight Seay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMT-P
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with adults who have survived difficult situations or past experiences. I have experience working as a first responder and spent many years in the military. I use this knowledge and experience to mold the treatments I use to best serve anyone who has faced difficult or insurmountable situations in the past. I work with those who have concerns with traumatic history, anxiety, depression, or just looking to understand themselves better. If you are looking for someone to be a support and guide you to becoming the best version of yourself, please contact me today. I look forward to working with you.
I have a passion for working with adults who have survived difficult situations or past experiences. I have experience working as a first responder and spent many years in the military. I use this knowledge and experience to mold the treatments I use to best serve anyone who has faced difficult or insurmountable situations in the past. I work with those who have concerns with traumatic history, anxiety, depression, or just looking to understand themselves better. If you are looking for someone to be a support and guide you to becoming the best version of yourself, please contact me today. I look forward to working with you.
(423) 528-8928 View (423) 528-8928
Photo of Liza Varlan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Liza Varlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
Waitlist for new clients
I understand reaching out for help takes courage and bravery. In my practice, I hope to create a safe and empathetic space for all struggling with life’s challenges. I am passionate about helping clients reach balance in life after difficult events. I have 7 years experience providing therapy to adults and children who have experienced traumatic experiences.
I understand reaching out for help takes courage and bravery. In my practice, I hope to create a safe and empathetic space for all struggling with life’s challenges. I am passionate about helping clients reach balance in life after difficult events. I have 7 years experience providing therapy to adults and children who have experienced traumatic experiences.
(865) 217-2745 View (865) 217-2745
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 Sharon Davern, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Sharon Davern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
I am open to clients who are ready to work to change their difficulties. Being open and honest to seek ways to enhance their lives. I am very direct and interactive with people and love to help people get to the root of their issues and resolve them. It is brave and hard work for people but I will walk that road with you.
I am open to clients who are ready to work to change their difficulties. Being open and honest to seek ways to enhance their lives. I am very direct and interactive with people and love to help people get to the root of their issues and resolve them. It is brave and hard work for people but I will walk that road with you.
(865) 419-7957 View (865) 419-7957
Photo of Kimberly Lux, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Kimberly Lux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
My clients are trans, non-binary, and queer people who have experienced trauma, survived gender-based harm, or not felt accepted in a vital relationship, often with a caregiver or partner. Sometimes they are healing from a relationship that was clearly traumatic: an abusive partner or violent parent. Other times, childhood just felt confusing, lonely, or hard. Some clients have started to wonder if the relationship they're in is a little bit toxic. And some simply hold an identity that others feel entitled to invalidate, deny, or oppress. But almost always, the relationship that hurt is also one that promised love and security.
My clients are trans, non-binary, and queer people who have experienced trauma, survived gender-based harm, or not felt accepted in a vital relationship, often with a caregiver or partner. Sometimes they are healing from a relationship that was clearly traumatic: an abusive partner or violent parent. Other times, childhood just felt confusing, lonely, or hard. Some clients have started to wonder if the relationship they're in is a little bit toxic. And some simply hold an identity that others feel entitled to invalidate, deny, or oppress. But almost always, the relationship that hurt is also one that promised love and security.
(615) 709-0969 View (615) 709-0969
Photo of Counseling Professionals, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Counseling Professionals
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37217
"When I started Counseling Professionals in 2001, my vision was to provide a place of refuge from the storms of life and to equip our clients and their families with the tools they need to live a happy and successful life. I am proud to say that we have made this vision a reality for our clients since the beginning. I'm so honored for the opportunity to help so many individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents restore hope, peace, and harmony over the past 17 years."
"When I started Counseling Professionals in 2001, my vision was to provide a place of refuge from the storms of life and to equip our clients and their families with the tools they need to live a happy and successful life. I am proud to say that we have made this vision a reality for our clients since the beginning. I'm so honored for the opportunity to help so many individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents restore hope, peace, and harmony over the past 17 years."
(615) 307-4269 View (615) 307-4269

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.