Sexual Abuse Therapists in Austin, TX

Photo of Ashley Hubbard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Ashley Hubbard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
I love helping adults who have experienced childhood trauma or sexual assault heal from early traumatic experiences.
Some days are harder than others. Let’s face it.. some days are a LOT harder than others. Have you ever experienced feeling completely alone when you have been around people all day? Have you experienced childhood abuse or sexual assault, and as a result have a huge hole in your heart that has left you feeling broken and emotionally raw? Have you experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic abuse, struggles with self-esteem, or other sexual struggles? If you have a desire to work on your personal growth and make changes for your emotional wellness, you are in the right place! I provide virtual counseling only.
I love helping adults who have experienced childhood trauma or sexual assault heal from early traumatic experiences.
Some days are harder than others. Let’s face it.. some days are a LOT harder than others. Have you ever experienced feeling completely alone when you have been around people all day? Have you experienced childhood abuse or sexual assault, and as a result have a huge hole in your heart that has left you feeling broken and emotionally raw? Have you experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic abuse, struggles with self-esteem, or other sexual struggles? If you have a desire to work on your personal growth and make changes for your emotional wellness, you are in the right place! I provide virtual counseling only.
(940) 220-3502 View (940) 220-3502
Photo of Jennifer Scardino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Jennifer Scardino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745
For the past 10+ years, I have been working with people to heal personal trauma BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, sexual abuse survivors and chronic illnesses.
We all have an inner wisdom to heal. A reed, much like the story of the lotus flower, begins within murky environments and grows toward the sun through strength and flexibility to weather the storms. My intention within sessions is to build a safe, supported space to attune to any needs you have in your current journey. I welcome children, adolescents, adults, elders and couples. I am passionate about cultivating a collaborative, trauma informed and safe therapeutic space that is culturally responsive and attuned to your needs in this current journey.
For the past 10+ years, I have been working with people to heal personal trauma BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, sexual abuse survivors and chronic illnesses.
We all have an inner wisdom to heal. A reed, much like the story of the lotus flower, begins within murky environments and grows toward the sun through strength and flexibility to weather the storms. My intention within sessions is to build a safe, supported space to attune to any needs you have in your current journey. I welcome children, adolescents, adults, elders and couples. I am passionate about cultivating a collaborative, trauma informed and safe therapeutic space that is culturally responsive and attuned to your needs in this current journey.
(726) 224-4588 View (726) 224-4588
Photo of Katey Wagner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Katey Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to therapy, I am honored to join you on this journey. I believe healing happens in the context of connection and support. And I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe sharing your story and exploring areas for growth and change. I specialize in partnering with survivors of sexual abuse on their path to healing.
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to therapy, I am honored to join you on this journey. I believe healing happens in the context of connection and support. And I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe sharing your story and exploring areas for growth and change. I specialize in partnering with survivors of sexual abuse on their path to healing.
(512) 866-7438 View (512) 866-7438
Photo of Open Heart Counseling of Austin PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Open Heart Counseling of Austin PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
This includes: trauma, sexual abuse, grief & loss, fertility treatments, TFMR, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, body image, family of origin, adoption/fostering, parenting, anxiety, depression, transgender & non-binary support for all ages.
Accepting New Clients! Open Heart Counseling of Austin PLLC (OHC) is a group practice founded by Lacey Castilleja Fisher. Lacey wanted to create a practice that is all inclusive so the community can have a safe space to come and share their stories as they find healing after they have experienced trauma. Survivors of trauma often feel worried that they cannot share their experiences with others because it is too difficult to hear. Our therapists are able to sit with you to hear your story as many times as you need to tell it. When you are ready, we are here to hold hope for you as you begin your healing journey, with an Open Heart.
This includes: trauma, sexual abuse, grief & loss, fertility treatments, TFMR, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, body image, family of origin, adoption/fostering, parenting, anxiety, depression, transgender & non-binary support for all ages.
Accepting New Clients! Open Heart Counseling of Austin PLLC (OHC) is a group practice founded by Lacey Castilleja Fisher. Lacey wanted to create a practice that is all inclusive so the community can have a safe space to come and share their stories as they find healing after they have experienced trauma. Survivors of trauma often feel worried that they cannot share their experiences with others because it is too difficult to hear. Our therapists are able to sit with you to hear your story as many times as you need to tell it. When you are ready, we are here to hold hope for you as you begin your healing journey, with an Open Heart.
(512) 399-4584 View (512) 399-4584
Photo of Stacy Stewart, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Stacy Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Many people begin seeing a therapist when they are feeling "stuck in a rut", overwhelmed with stress, have lost meaning in their lives, or are feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I am a licensed psychologist, specializing in helping people who are struggling with many different issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life stress, and healing from physical or sexual abuse. As a psychologist, my goal is to assist my clients gain a deeper understanding of the problems and issues that brought them into therapy and help them heal and grow in a meaningful way.
Many people begin seeing a therapist when they are feeling "stuck in a rut", overwhelmed with stress, have lost meaning in their lives, or are feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I am a licensed psychologist, specializing in helping people who are struggling with many different issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life stress, and healing from physical or sexual abuse. As a psychologist, my goal is to assist my clients gain a deeper understanding of the problems and issues that brought them into therapy and help them heal and grow in a meaningful way.
(512) 814-9520 View (512) 814-9520
Photo of Roxana Ortega-Hart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Roxana Ortega-Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
I have focused on the areas of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Finding the right therapist in itself can be overwhelming. I provide free consultations so that you can get an idea if we are a good fit. It's been my passion the last 13 years to help people after experiencing traumatic events. I am trained in EMDR which is also known as "no talk therapy". You can share as much or as little as you like making it a preferable type of therapy for those struggling with trauma but not comfortable talking about it. I have also worked closely with first responders for the last 10 years making me familiar with the culture.
I have focused on the areas of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Finding the right therapist in itself can be overwhelming. I provide free consultations so that you can get an idea if we are a good fit. It's been my passion the last 13 years to help people after experiencing traumatic events. I am trained in EMDR which is also known as "no talk therapy". You can share as much or as little as you like making it a preferable type of therapy for those struggling with trauma but not comfortable talking about it. I have also worked closely with first responders for the last 10 years making me familiar with the culture.
(737) 300-9232 View (737) 300-9232
Photo of Kathryn (Katie) Barksdale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Kathryn (Katie) Barksdale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I've worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for ten years as an advocate.
You're here because you're hurting. Maybe it's from a past abusive relationship -- romantic or otherwise. Perhaps you had a neglectful, dismissive, or intrusive parents. Maybe you experienced sexual abuse. Whatever the reason, you find yourself anxious, numb, or just plain overwhelmed by your feelings. Sometimes you find it hard to enjoy life, the past keeps coming up. You find yourself wishing you didn't feel the things you do. You're afraid that there's something wrong with you because you can't get over it. I'm here to tell you that there's hope. Therapy can help with these issues and you don't have to do it alone.
I've worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for ten years as an advocate.
You're here because you're hurting. Maybe it's from a past abusive relationship -- romantic or otherwise. Perhaps you had a neglectful, dismissive, or intrusive parents. Maybe you experienced sexual abuse. Whatever the reason, you find yourself anxious, numb, or just plain overwhelmed by your feelings. Sometimes you find it hard to enjoy life, the past keeps coming up. You find yourself wishing you didn't feel the things you do. You're afraid that there's something wrong with you because you can't get over it. I'm here to tell you that there's hope. Therapy can help with these issues and you don't have to do it alone.
(512) 710-1354 View (512) 710-1354
Photo of Evelyn Jagpat, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Evelyn Jagpat
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP, CDMHRS, CCARS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I'm a Christian Psychologist and Author with over 25 years of experience. I believe that healing from deep wounds is possible and your negative emotions, life experiences & behaviors don't have to define who you are. You can gain mastery over your thoughts & build a life narrative & healthier experiences & relationships based on your beliefs. I'm committed to providing compassionate & supportive care in an accepting space. Specialties: trauma, sexual abuse, couples therapy, grief/loss. Thrive, let go of fear, fulfill your purpose, walk in wisdom, love freely & be the You-you were created to be. Feel safe to be open, honest & explore
I'm a Christian Psychologist and Author with over 25 years of experience. I believe that healing from deep wounds is possible and your negative emotions, life experiences & behaviors don't have to define who you are. You can gain mastery over your thoughts & build a life narrative & healthier experiences & relationships based on your beliefs. I'm committed to providing compassionate & supportive care in an accepting space. Specialties: trauma, sexual abuse, couples therapy, grief/loss. Thrive, let go of fear, fulfill your purpose, walk in wisdom, love freely & be the You-you were created to be. Feel safe to be open, honest & explore
(512) 549-2704 View (512) 549-2704
Photo of Taralynn Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Taralynn Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78732  (Online Only)
It’s my fault. I should have known better. I could have stopped it. If you are here you may have experienced sexual abuse as a child or someone has forced, tricked, or pressured you into something sexual. Your mind screamed no, but your voice remained silent. Fear paralyzed you. Memories are foggy, but haunting. You feel dirty, used and ashamed. You hate your body. Anxiety and sadness consume you. It feels like you have been torn to pieces and your power taken. Every decision and feeling is followed by confusion and doubt. Can I ever trust my instincts again? All you want is to forget it happened and move on with your life.
It’s my fault. I should have known better. I could have stopped it. If you are here you may have experienced sexual abuse as a child or someone has forced, tricked, or pressured you into something sexual. Your mind screamed no, but your voice remained silent. Fear paralyzed you. Memories are foggy, but haunting. You feel dirty, used and ashamed. You hate your body. Anxiety and sadness consume you. It feels like you have been torn to pieces and your power taken. Every decision and feeling is followed by confusion and doubt. Can I ever trust my instincts again? All you want is to forget it happened and move on with your life.
(737) 204-5990 View (737) 204-5990
Photo of Lorena Mendoza Gibson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Lorena Mendoza Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78744
Hi, I am Lorena Mendoza Gibson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with over 17 years of experience. My focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults in areas such as trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, LGBTQIA+, and women's issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Eclectic, Client-Centered, and Reality Therapy.
Hi, I am Lorena Mendoza Gibson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with over 17 years of experience. My focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults in areas such as trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, LGBTQIA+, and women's issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Eclectic, Client-Centered, and Reality Therapy.
(512) 866-9696 View (512) 866-9696
Photo of Christina Marie Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Christina Marie Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I have experience in providing counseling to individuals who suffer from the effects of trauma, such as sexual assault, domestic violence, neglect and emotional abuse.
Plagued with constant negative thoughts? Feel like you're in a fog or find yourself on autopilot? If these questions seem all too familiar, don't panic there is hope... I have a passion for working with individuals who have lost their drive, that fire and sense of hope that makes life exciting and worthwhile. I would like to help you move forward to find that spark deep inside. I will tailor the counseling experience to meet your specific needs and unique personality. I will work in collaboration with you to identify problematic areas and help you achieve your personal goals.
I have experience in providing counseling to individuals who suffer from the effects of trauma, such as sexual assault, domestic violence, neglect and emotional abuse.
Plagued with constant negative thoughts? Feel like you're in a fog or find yourself on autopilot? If these questions seem all too familiar, don't panic there is hope... I have a passion for working with individuals who have lost their drive, that fire and sense of hope that makes life exciting and worthwhile. I would like to help you move forward to find that spark deep inside. I will tailor the counseling experience to meet your specific needs and unique personality. I will work in collaboration with you to identify problematic areas and help you achieve your personal goals.
(512) 843-7068 View (512) 843-7068
Photo of Erika Esquivel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Erika Esquivel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
I support people of diverse backgrounds seeking to manage stress, depression/anxiety and heal from experiences of trauma, sexual abuse, and/or domestic violence.
Counseling is a space where you don’t have to pretend everything is okay or hide what you’re going through. You do that enough in other areas of your life. You do not have to repeat those patterns here. In counseling, all parts of you are welcome and all the things you have gone through can be talked about. My goal is to work together to reclaim your life through talk and connection by affirming your needs, identity and beliefs while urging you to make informed decisions about therapy.
I support people of diverse backgrounds seeking to manage stress, depression/anxiety and heal from experiences of trauma, sexual abuse, and/or domestic violence.
Counseling is a space where you don’t have to pretend everything is okay or hide what you’re going through. You do that enough in other areas of your life. You do not have to repeat those patterns here. In counseling, all parts of you are welcome and all the things you have gone through can be talked about. My goal is to work together to reclaim your life through talk and connection by affirming your needs, identity and beliefs while urging you to make informed decisions about therapy.
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Photo of Linda Reichert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Linda Reichert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Texas with over 28 years of professional work experience, primarily for the military, and now with vets, most especially in helping clients with stress and anxiety & trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I've worked for each of the branches of the military over the years and I also have many years of experience working in the field of domestic violence and sexual assault. All of my experience, for the most part, is with adults.
I am licensed in Texas with over 28 years of professional work experience, primarily for the military, and now with vets, most especially in helping clients with stress and anxiety & trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I've worked for each of the branches of the military over the years and I also have many years of experience working in the field of domestic violence and sexual assault. All of my experience, for the most part, is with adults.
(832) 402-6428 View (832) 402-6428
Photo of Andrea Redman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Andrea Redman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78728  (Online Only)
I believe that every person has the ability to heal and that power comes from within. I work with adults and mature teens to help build resiliency through trauma informed interventions. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced traumatic life events such as childhood abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault. I am skilled in treating folks with trauma related disorders including dissociative identity disorder. A philosophy that I use to guide my approach is this: in life pain is inevitable, suffering, however, is not. If you are suffering know that help exists in the form of compassionate and caring counseling.
I believe that every person has the ability to heal and that power comes from within. I work with adults and mature teens to help build resiliency through trauma informed interventions. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced traumatic life events such as childhood abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault. I am skilled in treating folks with trauma related disorders including dissociative identity disorder. A philosophy that I use to guide my approach is this: in life pain is inevitable, suffering, however, is not. If you are suffering know that help exists in the form of compassionate and caring counseling.
(512) 559-8903 View (512) 559-8903
Photo of Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
At Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists, we are skilled to work with many different populations and needs! Our greatest areas of experience include trauma, crisis, sexual abuse/assault, EMDR, grief and loss, LGBTQ+, gender identity, Military, First Responders, and most general counseling needs as well. If you are looking to heal, grow and/or make a change, counseling is a great way to do that; to find or restore balance, peace, calm, well-being, and overall happiness. We believe in the power of a healthy therapeutic relationship and are dedicated to helping you reach your counseling goals. We are here when you are ready!
At Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists, we are skilled to work with many different populations and needs! Our greatest areas of experience include trauma, crisis, sexual abuse/assault, EMDR, grief and loss, LGBTQ+, gender identity, Military, First Responders, and most general counseling needs as well. If you are looking to heal, grow and/or make a change, counseling is a great way to do that; to find or restore balance, peace, calm, well-being, and overall happiness. We believe in the power of a healthy therapeutic relationship and are dedicated to helping you reach your counseling goals. We are here when you are ready!
(512) 237-7975 View (512) 237-7975
Photo of Aubrey Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Austin, TX
Aubrey Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MAT, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
In my therapeutic practice, I am committed to providing compassionate and inclusive support to individuals with diverse needs. I have extensive experience working with clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including but not limited to eating disorders, trauma, mood disorders, intellectual disabilities, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding that each person's journey is unique. My clients value the opportunity to process utilizing both Art Therapy and Talk Therapy.
In my therapeutic practice, I am committed to providing compassionate and inclusive support to individuals with diverse needs. I have extensive experience working with clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including but not limited to eating disorders, trauma, mood disorders, intellectual disabilities, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding that each person's journey is unique. My clients value the opportunity to process utilizing both Art Therapy and Talk Therapy.
(430) 758-5305 View (430) 758-5305
Photo of Nicole Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Nicole Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
I specialize as a trauma therapist, specifically working with clients with domestic violence, sexual assault and other trauma history.
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
I specialize as a trauma therapist, specifically working with clients with domestic violence, sexual assault and other trauma history.
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
(737) 215-3881 View (737) 215-3881
Photo of Carrie J Visger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Carrie J Visger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78721
I have extensive experience working with families that have experienced domestic violence and survivors of sexual assault.
Life can be so challenging. Even when "good" things happen to us, it can bring stress and grief. Deciding to work with a counselor is a bold and brave step toward coping with whatever life is giving you. Having a person to help you process issues is liberating. By learning about your strengths and by learning how to use them effectively, you can begin to heal and transform into the person you were meant to be. I have worked with many different presenting issues including anxiety, depression, lgbtqia+ issues, family and parenting issues, school related issues/microaggressions, and many more.
I have extensive experience working with families that have experienced domestic violence and survivors of sexual assault.
Life can be so challenging. Even when "good" things happen to us, it can bring stress and grief. Deciding to work with a counselor is a bold and brave step toward coping with whatever life is giving you. Having a person to help you process issues is liberating. By learning about your strengths and by learning how to use them effectively, you can begin to heal and transform into the person you were meant to be. I have worked with many different presenting issues including anxiety, depression, lgbtqia+ issues, family and parenting issues, school related issues/microaggressions, and many more.
(210) 879-1342 View (210) 879-1342
Photo of Carly Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Carly Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Beginning therapy is a brave act of self-care, and working with an effective clinician can be the support you deserve in bringing about powerful changes in your world. Clients come to me with a variety of symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and anger, as well as attachment wounds that impact the quality of their relationships. I work with people seeking to center psychological wellness in their lives, people navigating life's transitions, and people courageously healing from complex trauma. I have extensive experience working with adult survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
Beginning therapy is a brave act of self-care, and working with an effective clinician can be the support you deserve in bringing about powerful changes in your world. Clients come to me with a variety of symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and anger, as well as attachment wounds that impact the quality of their relationships. I work with people seeking to center psychological wellness in their lives, people navigating life's transitions, and people courageously healing from complex trauma. I have extensive experience working with adult survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
(504) 608-6974 View (504) 608-6974
Photo of Robert Gallegos, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Robert Gallegos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of experience focus on working with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, men's issues, family conflict, family of origin issues, severe abuse/neglect, sexual abuse and PTSD.
Hi. My name is Robert and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S). I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Texas A&M International University in 1999 and a Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Texas State University in 2013. Since 1999, I have been working with many different populations and all ages in the mental health field, honing my skills as a clinician. It can be difficult to ask for support sometimes. I get that and strive to limit barriers to accessing therapy. Call me and let's chat.
My areas of experience focus on working with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, men's issues, family conflict, family of origin issues, severe abuse/neglect, sexual abuse and PTSD.
Hi. My name is Robert and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S). I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Texas A&M International University in 1999 and a Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Texas State University in 2013. Since 1999, I have been working with many different populations and all ages in the mental health field, honing my skills as a clinician. It can be difficult to ask for support sometimes. I get that and strive to limit barriers to accessing therapy. Call me and let's chat.
(512) 686-4494 View (512) 686-4494
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.