Sexual Abuse Therapists in Wartburg, TN

There are no results for therapists in Wartburg

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Tennessee below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Jocelyn Ivy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Jocelyn Ivy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating personality disorders, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, trauma/PTSD, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
I have always been interested in understanding the world from other people's points of view. I view my job as a therapist is to understand your story and how your worldview informs the way you react to life stressors. My goal is to help you utilize your own strengths and insight to feel calm, centered, and content in a world that often isn't. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and the LGBTQ/alternative lifestyle community.
I specialize in treating personality disorders, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, trauma/PTSD, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
I have always been interested in understanding the world from other people's points of view. I view my job as a therapist is to understand your story and how your worldview informs the way you react to life stressors. My goal is to help you utilize your own strengths and insight to feel calm, centered, and content in a world that often isn't. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and the LGBTQ/alternative lifestyle community.
(865) 344-2326 View (865) 344-2326
Photo of Cheryl Marye Allen-Freeman, Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Cheryl Marye Allen-Freeman
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
VIRTUAL VISITS-Telehealth. We specialize in sessions via the internet on high encrypted, Hipaa Compliant systems (similar to FaceTime, Skype, etc.) It allows for same day sessions for clients who are not able to make it into one of our physical locations. Clients can use their phones, tablets, laptops, and PC's. We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family Counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
VIRTUAL VISITS-Telehealth. We specialize in sessions via the internet on high encrypted, Hipaa Compliant systems (similar to FaceTime, Skype, etc.) It allows for same day sessions for clients who are not able to make it into one of our physical locations. Clients can use their phones, tablets, laptops, and PC's. We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family Counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
(865) 205-6190 View (865) 205-6190
Photo of Melanie DeWerff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Melanie DeWerff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LPCC, CPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hixson, TN 37343
My experience covers trauma, sexual abuse victims, depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic abuse victims, anger management, dysfunctional family systems, suicide, and negative core beliefs.
Eclectic, spiritually bent, and sacredly genuine. I utilize creativity and work from an embodied healing approach. I will lovingly challenge you; while lovingly supporting you. I want to help you connect to, and operate from, your True Self. Out of the box thinker; life does not fit in a box; therefore, therapy does not fit in a box. Connect to what a fulfilled life looks like for you; and, then how to live that life. Shedding of old patterns and transition into your genuine self. Also, offer energy work.
My experience covers trauma, sexual abuse victims, depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic abuse victims, anger management, dysfunctional family systems, suicide, and negative core beliefs.
Eclectic, spiritually bent, and sacredly genuine. I utilize creativity and work from an embodied healing approach. I will lovingly challenge you; while lovingly supporting you. I want to help you connect to, and operate from, your True Self. Out of the box thinker; life does not fit in a box; therefore, therapy does not fit in a box. Connect to what a fulfilled life looks like for you; and, then how to live that life. Shedding of old patterns and transition into your genuine self. Also, offer energy work.
(865) 346-2935 View (865) 346-2935
Photo of Christopher Canclini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wartburg, TN
Christopher Canclini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogersville, TN 37857  (Online Only)
Areas of Specialization include Children, Teens, Families, Relationships & Marriage - Parenting with Love & Logic - Teens and Adults struggling with Depression - Anxiety - Stress - Physical/ Sexual Abuse - Drug and Alcohol Abuse / Addiction - Aspergers (Using DBT) and Mood Disorders.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, relationships or family can feel broken or full of tension and fighting. Sometimes in life we can feel disconnected and struggle to find joy, peace, calm and serenity. Sometimes struggles, problems or relationship issues begin to disrupt our thoughts and daily life and damage relationships. If you are looking for hope in your life, family, and/or relationships... If you are tired of the anxiety, depression, fighting and tension with your partner, family or teens... if you feel like you've lost control it's time to seek help and therapy. I offer Tele Health in CA and TN.
Areas of Specialization include Children, Teens, Families, Relationships & Marriage - Parenting with Love & Logic - Teens and Adults struggling with Depression - Anxiety - Stress - Physical/ Sexual Abuse - Drug and Alcohol Abuse / Addiction - Aspergers (Using DBT) and Mood Disorders.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, relationships or family can feel broken or full of tension and fighting. Sometimes in life we can feel disconnected and struggle to find joy, peace, calm and serenity. Sometimes struggles, problems or relationship issues begin to disrupt our thoughts and daily life and damage relationships. If you are looking for hope in your life, family, and/or relationships... If you are tired of the anxiety, depression, fighting and tension with your partner, family or teens... if you feel like you've lost control it's time to seek help and therapy. I offer Tele Health in CA and TN.
(805) 395-4375 View (805) 395-4375
Photo of Amy L Dilworth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Amy L Dilworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921
I have been in several traumatic situations in my life including domestic violence and sexual assault.
I serve individuals who have encountered trauma in their lives. They typically struggle with getting easily triggered and being in fight, flight or freeze mode a lot of the time. It often feels like anxiety so many of my clients come in saying they suffer with anxiety. Many of my clients also struggle with making decisions.
I have been in several traumatic situations in my life including domestic violence and sexual assault.
I serve individuals who have encountered trauma in their lives. They typically struggle with getting easily triggered and being in fight, flight or freeze mode a lot of the time. It often feels like anxiety so many of my clients come in saying they suffer with anxiety. Many of my clients also struggle with making decisions.
(865) 346-6015 View (865) 346-6015
Photo of Brandi Santiwan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Wartburg, TN
Brandi Santiwan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hixson, TN 37343
I have walked with clients through experiences including sexual abuse, family disruptions, childhood trauma, and more.
Sometimes your own mind can be the hardest place to exist. I believe that every individual deserves access to the tools necessary to feel comfortable and safe within themselves. I have history working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced life-altering traumas and navigating a path forward. There are so many things in our worlds outside of our control. My passion is helping individuals gain, or take back, their sense of control over their own lives.
I have walked with clients through experiences including sexual abuse, family disruptions, childhood trauma, and more.
Sometimes your own mind can be the hardest place to exist. I believe that every individual deserves access to the tools necessary to feel comfortable and safe within themselves. I have history working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced life-altering traumas and navigating a path forward. There are so many things in our worlds outside of our control. My passion is helping individuals gain, or take back, their sense of control over their own lives.
(423) 401-6474 View (423) 401-6474
Photo of Alena Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37902  (Online Only)
I have presented at conferences on Sex After Sexual Abuse, Normalizing BDSM, and on LGBTQ+ clients.
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you been avoiding talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Some people need a safe place to explore their sexual or gender identity. If you have been waiting for someone to be able to help you understand sexual thoughts, behaviors, and preferences then email me today
I have presented at conferences on Sex After Sexual Abuse, Normalizing BDSM, and on LGBTQ+ clients.
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you been avoiding talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Some people need a safe place to explore their sexual or gender identity. If you have been waiting for someone to be able to help you understand sexual thoughts, behaviors, and preferences then email me today
(865) 672-0819 View (865) 672-0819
Photo of Kirstee Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wartburg, TN
Kirstee Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
Waitlist for new clients
Hope, healing and a future are possible. As a couples relationship expert, I specialize in the complex issues of sexual wellness and trauma resolution. I treat a wide range of sexual health concerns from performance anxiety, to infertility, painful sex and affair recovery. I also specialize in complex trauma resolution utilizing EMDR. In particular weight management issues that stem from childhood sexual abuse. Each situation is unique and together we will create a treatment plan that works for you.
Hope, healing and a future are possible. As a couples relationship expert, I specialize in the complex issues of sexual wellness and trauma resolution. I treat a wide range of sexual health concerns from performance anxiety, to infertility, painful sex and affair recovery. I also specialize in complex trauma resolution utilizing EMDR. In particular weight management issues that stem from childhood sexual abuse. Each situation is unique and together we will create a treatment plan that works for you.
(423) 393-2591 View (423) 393-2591
Photo of Marci M Breedlove, Psychologist in Wartburg, TN
Marci M Breedlove
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I've worked with college students, survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, adults with ADHD, couples, and individuals living with severe and persistent mental illness.
Everyone wants to be themselves, to be “seen,” and to be valued for their uniqueness. We’re wired to need safe and affirming relationships and connection with others. When we’re struggling, it’s usually because something has gotten in the way of these things - not because we’re somehow "defective" or "flawed." I value authenticity, and strive to help clients feel and honor emotions that may seem “wrong" or unacceptable.
I've worked with college students, survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, adults with ADHD, couples, and individuals living with severe and persistent mental illness.
Everyone wants to be themselves, to be “seen,” and to be valued for their uniqueness. We’re wired to need safe and affirming relationships and connection with others. When we’re struggling, it’s usually because something has gotten in the way of these things - not because we’re somehow "defective" or "flawed." I value authenticity, and strive to help clients feel and honor emotions that may seem “wrong" or unacceptable.
(865) 217-0296 View (865) 217-0296
Photo of Counseling, Ltd., Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Counseling, Ltd.
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
(614) 932-2425 View (614) 932-2425
Photo of Sue M. Bushrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wartburg, TN
Sue M. Bushrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37402  (Online Only)
Working with individuals whom have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, grief and loss, helping to process the pain, in their own time frame and begin healing.
Is life hard and your heart hurting ? Are you struggling ? Do you need relief? Has your family suffered from trauma, loss, change, or heartache? Are you a Veteran struggling? Is your marriage hard? Is your teenager struggling? Are you in professional ministry with no safe place to express the difficulties of ministry. Do you feel depressed after a major life event? I would love to help you or your family!
Working with individuals whom have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, grief and loss, helping to process the pain, in their own time frame and begin healing.
Is life hard and your heart hurting ? Are you struggling ? Do you need relief? Has your family suffered from trauma, loss, change, or heartache? Are you a Veteran struggling? Is your marriage hard? Is your teenager struggling? Are you in professional ministry with no safe place to express the difficulties of ministry. Do you feel depressed after a major life event? I would love to help you or your family!
(951) 305-4150 View (951) 305-4150
Photo of Shirley Robinson Koors, Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Shirley Robinson Koors
Counselor, MMFT, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Athens, TN 37303
I also work with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse.
Are you feeling miss understood, alone, depressed, anxious, scared, like life no longer has any meaning, and no one cares? I can help you overcome obstacles that are holding you back from the being the healthy, happy person you want to be. Have you been abused emotionally, mentally, or sexually? I can help you on the journey of healing. Do you have a child, or teenager struggling in school, or having trouble making and getting along with friends? I have a special place in my heart for young people and years of experience helping them. I am here to help you on your journey.
I also work with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse.
Are you feeling miss understood, alone, depressed, anxious, scared, like life no longer has any meaning, and no one cares? I can help you overcome obstacles that are holding you back from the being the healthy, happy person you want to be. Have you been abused emotionally, mentally, or sexually? I can help you on the journey of healing. Do you have a child, or teenager struggling in school, or having trouble making and getting along with friends? I have a special place in my heart for young people and years of experience helping them. I am here to help you on your journey.
(423) 436-7719 View (423) 436-7719
Photo of Sharon Ratchford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wartburg, TN
Sharon Ratchford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I especially enjoy working with those who have experienced anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship stressors, work and school stress, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and emotional and physical abuse.
Life can bring overwhelming challenges. I understand the struggle and mixed emotions. Choosing a therapist during this time can also be difficult but, together, we can work to make this time manageable as we gain understanding of daily conflicts and concerns. I begin each therapeutic relationship based on empathy, compassion and trust while providing a comfortable, safe environment to establish goals, build healthier relationships and achieve life changes. I use resources from cognitive behavior along with other integrative approaches to meet individual needs and help find productive solutions to daily struggles.
I especially enjoy working with those who have experienced anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship stressors, work and school stress, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and emotional and physical abuse.
Life can bring overwhelming challenges. I understand the struggle and mixed emotions. Choosing a therapist during this time can also be difficult but, together, we can work to make this time manageable as we gain understanding of daily conflicts and concerns. I begin each therapeutic relationship based on empathy, compassion and trust while providing a comfortable, safe environment to establish goals, build healthier relationships and achieve life changes. I use resources from cognitive behavior along with other integrative approaches to meet individual needs and help find productive solutions to daily struggles.
(423) 455-5959 View (423) 455-5959
Photo of Melanie S Norton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wartburg, TN
Melanie S Norton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I began my career working in inpatient substance abuse facilities attached to hospitals. I am well-versed in groups for addiction and prefer individual counseling for issues in later recovery or dual diagnosis. I see adults and motivated adolescents in my practice. Both men and women are welcome as are couples and families. Other specialty areas are sexual abuse and mood disorders.
I began my career working in inpatient substance abuse facilities attached to hospitals. I am well-versed in groups for addiction and prefer individual counseling for issues in later recovery or dual diagnosis. I see adults and motivated adolescents in my practice. Both men and women are welcome as are couples and families. Other specialty areas are sexual abuse and mood disorders.
(865) 409-0837 View (865) 409-0837
Photo of Holly Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wartburg, TN
Holly Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932
Through working with people from all walks of life, I have seen trauma's life-altering impact. Maybe you have experienced an accident, loss, or assault, or maybe you witnessed a horrendous crime or suffered from verbal or emotional abuse. Whatever your experience with trauma has been, and however this may be affecting you now, there is help and hope available for you.
Through working with people from all walks of life, I have seen trauma's life-altering impact. Maybe you have experienced an accident, loss, or assault, or maybe you witnessed a horrendous crime or suffered from verbal or emotional abuse. Whatever your experience with trauma has been, and however this may be affecting you now, there is help and hope available for you.
(865) 551-6926 View (865) 551-6926
Photo of Nathan Chase, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Nathan Chase
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-IL, LPCMHSP, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37412
Specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, physical & sexual abuse, healing from racial discrimination, chemical dependency and sexual addictions, young adults, first responders, helping professions, compassion fatigue, at-risk youth, attachment disorders, depression/bi-polar, grief & loss, life transitions, and spiritual development.
Nathan has a pursued a career of inviting others into safety, healing, and growth through counseling, chaplaincy, and mentoring. He is licensed in both Illinois (Telehealth) and Tennessee (in-person and telehealth). Experienced in working with multiple varieties of trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.
Specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, physical & sexual abuse, healing from racial discrimination, chemical dependency and sexual addictions, young adults, first responders, helping professions, compassion fatigue, at-risk youth, attachment disorders, depression/bi-polar, grief & loss, life transitions, and spiritual development.
Nathan has a pursued a career of inviting others into safety, healing, and growth through counseling, chaplaincy, and mentoring. He is licensed in both Illinois (Telehealth) and Tennessee (in-person and telehealth). Experienced in working with multiple varieties of trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.
(423) 556-4742 x114 View (423) 556-4742 x114
Photo of Joshua Coy Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Joshua Coy Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I know that seeking help can be overwhelming and there are many qualified individuals who could help you, but you need a therapist who is a good fit for you. Consider if I am this "good fit". I believe I have the unique ability to connect with my clients, and they with me. This can be done through empathy. Empathy is the experience of understanding another persons thoughts, feelings, and conditions from their point of view. I work hard at doing this with every individual and their unique experiences. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychologist, suggested, therapy is mostly a process of removing obstacle
I know that seeking help can be overwhelming and there are many qualified individuals who could help you, but you need a therapist who is a good fit for you. Consider if I am this "good fit". I believe I have the unique ability to connect with my clients, and they with me. This can be done through empathy. Empathy is the experience of understanding another persons thoughts, feelings, and conditions from their point of view. I work hard at doing this with every individual and their unique experiences. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychologist, suggested, therapy is mostly a process of removing obstacle
(865) 351-6121 View (865) 351-6121
Photo of Jamie Marshall, Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Jamie Marshall
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP-t
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Life is a natural ebb and flow. However, when we get stuck in the ebb we can begin to develop patterns of being that do not serve our physical and emotional wellbeing; this can be a difficult place from which to emerge. The decision to seek guidance during these times is a bold act of self-compassion. We have incredible internal resources and an inherent capacity for healing. My role is to help guide clients back to connection with their authentic selves and others through the process of curious exploration, loving-kindness, and present moment awareness.
Life is a natural ebb and flow. However, when we get stuck in the ebb we can begin to develop patterns of being that do not serve our physical and emotional wellbeing; this can be a difficult place from which to emerge. The decision to seek guidance during these times is a bold act of self-compassion. We have incredible internal resources and an inherent capacity for healing. My role is to help guide clients back to connection with their authentic selves and others through the process of curious exploration, loving-kindness, and present moment awareness.
(865) 213-9156 View (865) 213-9156
Photo of Amanda Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wartburg, TN
Amanda Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-, MHSP, CEDS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37404
As a counselor, I believe that no person is beyond helping, regardless of prior therapy experience, life history, or their current situation. I provide a safe and welcoming environment in which people are able to talk without fear of judgment, and can feel heard and validated. I believe in treating the roots of the issues, rather than providing Band-Aids for symptoms, and am passionate about empowering individuals to recognize their own strengths and abilities. I provide therapy from an interpersonal perspective, in which I believe relationship is the catalyst for healing.
As a counselor, I believe that no person is beyond helping, regardless of prior therapy experience, life history, or their current situation. I provide a safe and welcoming environment in which people are able to talk without fear of judgment, and can feel heard and validated. I believe in treating the roots of the issues, rather than providing Band-Aids for symptoms, and am passionate about empowering individuals to recognize their own strengths and abilities. I provide therapy from an interpersonal perspective, in which I believe relationship is the catalyst for healing.
(423) 250-1707 View (423) 250-1707
Photo of Nicolette Tomaszewski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wartburg, TN
Nicolette Tomaszewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Lookout Mountain, TN 37350  (Online Only)
As a perfectionist, overachieving woman, you have worked hard to get to where you are today. Hyper-independence is your middle name. But even with all your achievements, you still worry it's not enough. You constantly push yourself to be better and achieve more, rarely stopping to celebrate your wins. You struggle with feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, and overwhelm, and find it difficult to turn off your thoughts and relax. You feel like you are constantly on the brink of burn out. You may have unresolved childhood trauma that continues to impact you. You know something needs to change, you just aren't sure of what or how.
As a perfectionist, overachieving woman, you have worked hard to get to where you are today. Hyper-independence is your middle name. But even with all your achievements, you still worry it's not enough. You constantly push yourself to be better and achieve more, rarely stopping to celebrate your wins. You struggle with feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, and overwhelm, and find it difficult to turn off your thoughts and relax. You feel like you are constantly on the brink of burn out. You may have unresolved childhood trauma that continues to impact you. You know something needs to change, you just aren't sure of what or how.
View

See more therapy options for Wartburg

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.