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 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 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 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 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 Sabira Ahmed, LPC Associate in Austin, TX
Sabira Ahmed
LPC Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
child abuse, sexual assault, intimate partner violence).
As a therapist, I am dedicated to building a therapeutic environment that encourages authenticity, transparency, and compassion. I take a client-oriented approach that centers around my belief that people can take charge of their journey to healing and recovery. I trust that the client is the expert of their own lives, and my role is to consistently empower them to develop toolkits to be able to navigate daily struggles and lived experiences.
child abuse, sexual assault, intimate partner violence).
As a therapist, I am dedicated to building a therapeutic environment that encourages authenticity, transparency, and compassion. I take a client-oriented approach that centers around my belief that people can take charge of their journey to healing and recovery. I trust that the client is the expert of their own lives, and my role is to consistently empower them to develop toolkits to be able to navigate daily struggles and lived experiences.
(512) 862-1654 View (512) 862-1654
Photo of Shelby Solomon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Shelby Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
I am trained in EMDR and a Board Approved Supervisor for LMSW's. If you are experiencing depression or anxiety, regaining control over your life can seem over-whelming and impossible, but you are not alone, I can help. I see adults dealing with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, attachment issues, disruptive life transitions, have a history of sexual abuse and/or sexual assault, and unhappy childhood experiences. Together we can stabilize your mental well-being, increase your self-regulation and ability to cope, and help you reestablish a sense of safety in the world.
I am trained in EMDR and a Board Approved Supervisor for LMSW's. If you are experiencing depression or anxiety, regaining control over your life can seem over-whelming and impossible, but you are not alone, I can help. I see adults dealing with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, attachment issues, disruptive life transitions, have a history of sexual abuse and/or sexual assault, and unhappy childhood experiences. Together we can stabilize your mental well-being, increase your self-regulation and ability to cope, and help you reestablish a sense of safety in the world.
(512) 337-4433 View (512) 337-4433
Photo of Ashley Harmon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Ashley Harmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
I have a specialty in working with trauma (including domestic violence & sexual assault), anxiety, depression, eating disorders & working with elite athletes.
Progress > Perfection! Life can be overwhelming for people who have experienced a trauma, lost hope in finding happiness from within, or are having difficulties coping with the stressors of everyday life. I believe in strengthening clients to restore healthy lives through self-determination & meeting the client where they are at. My calming & supportive presence allows a safe environment for clients to freely express their thoughts & feelings. Once a therapeutic relationship is established, I believe in teaching clients how to help themselves by listening to their narratives & guiding them in the direction of their individual goals.
I have a specialty in working with trauma (including domestic violence & sexual assault), anxiety, depression, eating disorders & working with elite athletes.
Progress > Perfection! Life can be overwhelming for people who have experienced a trauma, lost hope in finding happiness from within, or are having difficulties coping with the stressors of everyday life. I believe in strengthening clients to restore healthy lives through self-determination & meeting the client where they are at. My calming & supportive presence allows a safe environment for clients to freely express their thoughts & feelings. Once a therapeutic relationship is established, I believe in teaching clients how to help themselves by listening to their narratives & guiding them in the direction of their individual goals.
(512) 881-9337 View (512) 881-9337
Photo of Kate Coffield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Kate Coffield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78747
I have experience working with clients around a number of issues, including: anxiety and depression, childhood trauma such as sexual abuse, grief and loss, unhealthy and abusive relationships, core shame, body shame, and adoption related trauma.
I often work with clients who struggle to accept and feel compassion for their whole self. Sometimes that can look like trying to shut out painful experiences, worrying that something is "wrong" with you, or struggling to connect with your true desires and feelings. I offer clients a warm space to process the injuries they carry from the broader world and from the intimate world of family, friends, and other relationships. I invite clients to bring the complete selves, even the parts that are hard to be with. I strive to provide the tools and support to help clients connect to a fuller sense of aliveness and groundedness.
I have experience working with clients around a number of issues, including: anxiety and depression, childhood trauma such as sexual abuse, grief and loss, unhealthy and abusive relationships, core shame, body shame, and adoption related trauma.
I often work with clients who struggle to accept and feel compassion for their whole self. Sometimes that can look like trying to shut out painful experiences, worrying that something is "wrong" with you, or struggling to connect with your true desires and feelings. I offer clients a warm space to process the injuries they carry from the broader world and from the intimate world of family, friends, and other relationships. I invite clients to bring the complete selves, even the parts that are hard to be with. I strive to provide the tools and support to help clients connect to a fuller sense of aliveness and groundedness.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Lorin Williams East, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Lorin Williams East
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753
I am Lorin Williams East, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of clinical experience. I have had the honor of working alongside survivors of abuse and assault, which has given me a deep understanding of how people can live with traumas they have experienced. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Feminist, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe we all deserve compassion and a space to be authentic while growing and learning to function in each individual life.
I am Lorin Williams East, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of clinical experience. I have had the honor of working alongside survivors of abuse and assault, which has given me a deep understanding of how people can live with traumas they have experienced. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Feminist, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe we all deserve compassion and a space to be authentic while growing and learning to function in each individual life.
(512) 883-9006 View (512) 883-9006
Photo of Savannah Parnell Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Savannah Parnell Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78756  (Online Only)
My ideal client is itching for a change, even if they are unsure a change is possible. They may find themselves experiencing recurrent uncomfortable emotions (grief, depression, shame, anxiety), painful relationship dynamics, or a deep longing to heal a past trauma (sexual abuse or family violence). I cary the belief that change is possible and healing is feasible even when it may feel far off. My work is rooted in attachment theory- which means I hold authenticity, compassion, connection, and unrelenting hope at the center of every session.
My ideal client is itching for a change, even if they are unsure a change is possible. They may find themselves experiencing recurrent uncomfortable emotions (grief, depression, shame, anxiety), painful relationship dynamics, or a deep longing to heal a past trauma (sexual abuse or family violence). I cary the belief that change is possible and healing is feasible even when it may feel far off. My work is rooted in attachment theory- which means I hold authenticity, compassion, connection, and unrelenting hope at the center of every session.
(737) 345-4128 View (737) 345-4128
Photo of Lydia Valdés, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Lydia Valdés
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAT, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of expertise: Adjustment Issues, Adolescents, Anxiety, Bereavement, Couples, Crisis Intervention, Education, Foster Care, Gender Identity, Grief, Life Transitions, LGBTQ, Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, and Trauma.
We travel various paths throughout our lives, weaving experiences together writing the story of who we are. Experiences may cause us to question the path, and suddenly our story no longer reflects the life we intended to live. At these times of questioning, we must explore how to proceed. If you find yourself looking for someone to talk with, to think through where life has led you, allow me to walk with you for a while on your journey. What meridian lines do you need to guide you to your destination? Let’s work together to find how your story shifted from your intended path, and let’s find how your journey continues.
Areas of expertise: Adjustment Issues, Adolescents, Anxiety, Bereavement, Couples, Crisis Intervention, Education, Foster Care, Gender Identity, Grief, Life Transitions, LGBTQ, Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, and Trauma.
We travel various paths throughout our lives, weaving experiences together writing the story of who we are. Experiences may cause us to question the path, and suddenly our story no longer reflects the life we intended to live. At these times of questioning, we must explore how to proceed. If you find yourself looking for someone to talk with, to think through where life has led you, allow me to walk with you for a while on your journey. What meridian lines do you need to guide you to your destination? Let’s work together to find how your story shifted from your intended path, and let’s find how your journey continues.
(512) 394-4282 View (512) 394-4282
Photo of Rosario Olguin-Aguirre, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Austin, TX
Rosario Olguin-Aguirre
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual therapist, and provide therapy in both Spanish and English. It is a privilege to be able to provide therapeutic services in a language that is more comfortable to you. I have experience working with teens and adults, some of who have endured complex trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, and more.
I am a bilingual therapist, and provide therapy in both Spanish and English. It is a privilege to be able to provide therapeutic services in a language that is more comfortable to you. I have experience working with teens and adults, some of who have endured complex trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, and more.
(817) 591-2428 View (817) 591-2428
Photo of Trisha Cupero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Trisha Cupero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
Waitlist for new clients
I have expertise in domestic violence, sexual abuse, adult survivors of child abuse, grief and loss, survivors of traumatic events, and the helpers themselves (first responders).
Let's take this one breath at a time. I'm Trish and I want to help you get to a place where you feel okay, maybe for the first time. Have you been through a really awful experience that no one seems to understand? Do you feel like you'll never be yourself again? Do your family and friends expect you to get over it, but you just can't? Everyone needs a little extra help sometimes and it's okay if you're stuck. A lot of us have symptoms that linger for years. I want to help you find a new normal and move on with your life. Through trauma-informed therapy including EMDR and ACT, we can work together to find you some relief.
I have expertise in domestic violence, sexual abuse, adult survivors of child abuse, grief and loss, survivors of traumatic events, and the helpers themselves (first responders).
Let's take this one breath at a time. I'm Trish and I want to help you get to a place where you feel okay, maybe for the first time. Have you been through a really awful experience that no one seems to understand? Do you feel like you'll never be yourself again? Do your family and friends expect you to get over it, but you just can't? Everyone needs a little extra help sometimes and it's okay if you're stuck. A lot of us have symptoms that linger for years. I want to help you find a new normal and move on with your life. Through trauma-informed therapy including EMDR and ACT, we can work together to find you some relief.
(737) 201-3639 View (737) 201-3639
Photo of Rebecca Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Rebecca Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I specialize in stress, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD - including complex trauma / CPTSD, and sexual abuse.
Has a pattern of bad relationships left you feeling like you just can’t get it right?Experience fear of rejection or abandonment? Do you lay in bed at night with racing thoughts? Feel like you can’t control worry? If you have anxiety or complex trauma, you may feel like you’re not enough, yet somehow, too much for others. You fear something is wrong with you. But you're not broken, and you don’t have to live this way. Let's work to improve your relationship with yourself and with others. I help others find clarity of thought, peace of mind, and a sense of calm and liberation from internal and external conflict. Now it's your turn.
I specialize in stress, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD - including complex trauma / CPTSD, and sexual abuse.
Has a pattern of bad relationships left you feeling like you just can’t get it right?Experience fear of rejection or abandonment? Do you lay in bed at night with racing thoughts? Feel like you can’t control worry? If you have anxiety or complex trauma, you may feel like you’re not enough, yet somehow, too much for others. You fear something is wrong with you. But you're not broken, and you don’t have to live this way. Let's work to improve your relationship with yourself and with others. I help others find clarity of thought, peace of mind, and a sense of calm and liberation from internal and external conflict. Now it's your turn.
(972) 382-5258 View (972) 382-5258
Photo of Erica Arras, Pre-Licensed Professional in Austin, TX
Erica Arras
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with a loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or feeling dysregulated? If you are looking for support with women’s issues, attachment wounds, dissociation, relationship concerns, abuse, assault, navigating unhealthy relationships, life transitions, or would like to learn coping skills to manage symptoms of anxiety and/or depression you’re in the right place. I specialize in working with individuals through these challenges and their many accompanying symptoms. I embrace a laid-back, calm, and accepting atmosphere to support clients in being their most authentic selves while gaining tools and working toward healing.
Are you grappling with a loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or feeling dysregulated? If you are looking for support with women’s issues, attachment wounds, dissociation, relationship concerns, abuse, assault, navigating unhealthy relationships, life transitions, or would like to learn coping skills to manage symptoms of anxiety and/or depression you’re in the right place. I specialize in working with individuals through these challenges and their many accompanying symptoms. I embrace a laid-back, calm, and accepting atmosphere to support clients in being their most authentic selves while gaining tools and working toward healing.
(469) 273-1923 View (469) 273-1923
Photo of Sophia Aguirre, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Sophia Aguirre
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, FAGPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
Professional Expertise: Trauma recovery (childhood abuse, sexual assault, and relationship violence), Relational Concerns (trust, intimacy, closeness), Cultural/Ethnic Identity concerns, and Gender Identity concerns.
I have a passion for helping individuals establish more satisfying, authentic relationships with others and with themselves. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, therapeutic environment that fosters well-being, healing, and growth. I strive to establish a collaborative, empowering atmosphere that strikes the balance between support and challenge. My style is generally warm, direct, and transparent. I am an empathetic listener and actively participate in sessions by sharing my observations, fostering insight, and sharing practical feedback to help my clients find relief and to effectively address the challenges of life.
Professional Expertise: Trauma recovery (childhood abuse, sexual assault, and relationship violence), Relational Concerns (trust, intimacy, closeness), Cultural/Ethnic Identity concerns, and Gender Identity concerns.
I have a passion for helping individuals establish more satisfying, authentic relationships with others and with themselves. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, therapeutic environment that fosters well-being, healing, and growth. I strive to establish a collaborative, empowering atmosphere that strikes the balance between support and challenge. My style is generally warm, direct, and transparent. I am an empathetic listener and actively participate in sessions by sharing my observations, fostering insight, and sharing practical feedback to help my clients find relief and to effectively address the challenges of life.
(404) 565-4385 View (404) 565-4385
Photo of Sarah Camburn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Sarah Camburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Now taking insurance! Welcome! My name is Sarah, and I'm a therapist who provides welcoming, inclusive therapy to children (ages 12+), teens, adults, and families looking to address a variety of issues. I use a supportive approach to clients' healing, and provide a listening ear to process anything life brings. Our work together will guide you towards appreciating and enriching your existing coping behaviors while also accepting yourself and your struggles in a space that is warm and inviting. Clients are encouraged to be their authentic selves as we navigate the therapeutic journey together.
Now taking insurance! Welcome! My name is Sarah, and I'm a therapist who provides welcoming, inclusive therapy to children (ages 12+), teens, adults, and families looking to address a variety of issues. I use a supportive approach to clients' healing, and provide a listening ear to process anything life brings. Our work together will guide you towards appreciating and enriching your existing coping behaviors while also accepting yourself and your struggles in a space that is warm and inviting. Clients are encouraged to be their authentic selves as we navigate the therapeutic journey together.
(512) 361-5568 View (512) 361-5568
Photo of Stephanie Garza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Stephanie Garza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
Although beautiful, life can bring chaos and moments of pain sometimes creating mental, emotional and spiritual wounds. Therapy can be a space to tend to those wounds finding strength in our adversity. I support clients by exploring their experiences integrating relational healing, spirituality, and grief work with the goal of overcoming hardships making space for more joy, wellness, and love.
Although beautiful, life can bring chaos and moments of pain sometimes creating mental, emotional and spiritual wounds. Therapy can be a space to tend to those wounds finding strength in our adversity. I support clients by exploring their experiences integrating relational healing, spirituality, and grief work with the goal of overcoming hardships making space for more joy, wellness, and love.
(512) 817-2454 View (512) 817-2454
Photo of Sara Galindo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Sara Galindo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78702  (Online Only)
The journey toward healing and overall mental health can be difficult, and often, the most challenging part is knowing where to begin. You may feel stuck or even overwhelmed. My role is to eliminate that complexity, so you can concentrate on the path to recovery, and ultimately free yourself to focus on what matters to you most – your family, your career, your relationships. With specializations in research-based modalities - including EMDR, I empower my clients with the knowledge and understanding to face their challenges, stressors, or symptoms head-on. And in that process, free yourself from the mental barriers and fog weighing you down.
The journey toward healing and overall mental health can be difficult, and often, the most challenging part is knowing where to begin. You may feel stuck or even overwhelmed. My role is to eliminate that complexity, so you can concentrate on the path to recovery, and ultimately free yourself to focus on what matters to you most – your family, your career, your relationships. With specializations in research-based modalities - including EMDR, I empower my clients with the knowledge and understanding to face their challenges, stressors, or symptoms head-on. And in that process, free yourself from the mental barriers and fog weighing you down.
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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.