Photo of Dr. Marilyn Caylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Dr. Marilyn Caylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78260
Accepting new clients. I specialize in combat or sexual assault related PTSD, childhood physical/sexual abuse, sexual identity, depression, anxiety, blended families and phase of life issues. I assist U.S. Veterans and First Responders with concerns related to service/deployment. I also have experience working with LGBTQIA2S+ concerns. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, supportive, safe environment that protects and respects your privacy.
Accepting new clients. I specialize in combat or sexual assault related PTSD, childhood physical/sexual abuse, sexual identity, depression, anxiety, blended families and phase of life issues. I assist U.S. Veterans and First Responders with concerns related to service/deployment. I also have experience working with LGBTQIA2S+ concerns. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, supportive, safe environment that protects and respects your privacy.
(210) 741-8127 View (210) 741-8127
Photo of Kelly A Counts, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Kelly A Counts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78257
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. I specialize in treating complex trauma, sexual trauma and the full spectrum of anxiety and stress disorders with EMDR. I am passionate about working with clients whom have been diagnosed with personality disorders, children or spouses of individuals whom have been diagnosed with personality disorders, victims of sexual abuse and survivors of incest abuse. Growth and healing is not just possible but attainable together. I approach every client as a whole and healthy being capable of unlimited growth regardless of a diagnosis or a severe history of trauma and pain.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. I specialize in treating complex trauma, sexual trauma and the full spectrum of anxiety and stress disorders with EMDR. I am passionate about working with clients whom have been diagnosed with personality disorders, children or spouses of individuals whom have been diagnosed with personality disorders, victims of sexual abuse and survivors of incest abuse. Growth and healing is not just possible but attainable together. I approach every client as a whole and healthy being capable of unlimited growth regardless of a diagnosis or a severe history of trauma and pain.
(210) 879-7691 View (210) 879-7691
Photo of Shannon Lollar, Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Shannon Lollar
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC(TX), LCPC-MT, CCPT-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78259
While I work with a wide variety of clients, I specialize in folks with a history of trauma, those who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual assault, or struggled with addictions.
Prioritizing yourself, and your wellness can be difficult, especially in our turbulent world. I would be honored to help you create a safe space where you can completely be yourself, and accepted for who that is. I am always amazed at the resilience and potential each of my clients have, and I would love to help you tap into that. I believe that an authentic relationship between the counselor and client is really important for change. I know I am not always the right fit for all clients, so if I'm not your cup of tea, I will help you find the counselor that is!
While I work with a wide variety of clients, I specialize in folks with a history of trauma, those who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual assault, or struggled with addictions.
Prioritizing yourself, and your wellness can be difficult, especially in our turbulent world. I would be honored to help you create a safe space where you can completely be yourself, and accepted for who that is. I am always amazed at the resilience and potential each of my clients have, and I would love to help you tap into that. I believe that an authentic relationship between the counselor and client is really important for change. I know I am not always the right fit for all clients, so if I'm not your cup of tea, I will help you find the counselor that is!
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Photo of Christine Elizabeth Chandler, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Christine Elizabeth Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with trauma (abuse, assault, childhood, military), social anxiety, depression, and other issues.
I understand that clients are experts in their own lives, but sometimes they need help with unwanted thoughts, symptoms, or behaviors. Reaching out for help can be difficult for all kinds of reasons. I want to reassure you with words from Brené Brown “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to." I want to help you work on becoming the best version of yourself. Loneliness, social anxiety, and just dealing with a constantly changing world can sometimes make anyone feel out of control. I want to help give you back that feeling of being in control of your life.
I specialize in helping people with trauma (abuse, assault, childhood, military), social anxiety, depression, and other issues.
I understand that clients are experts in their own lives, but sometimes they need help with unwanted thoughts, symptoms, or behaviors. Reaching out for help can be difficult for all kinds of reasons. I want to reassure you with words from Brené Brown “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to." I want to help you work on becoming the best version of yourself. Loneliness, social anxiety, and just dealing with a constantly changing world can sometimes make anyone feel out of control. I want to help give you back that feeling of being in control of your life.
(254) 237-4683 View (254) 237-4683
Photo of Teresa Bethany, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Teresa Bethany
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209  (Online Only)
For the past 10 years, I have worked with at-risk populations from addiction/substance recovery to family violence and sexual assault survivors ranging in ages from adolescents to adults.
Your present circumstances do not determine where you go...they merely determine where you start. — Nido Qubein. Hello! I'm glad you are here. I believe in meeting my clients where they are, providing a safe space to process and learn, and helping them overcome obstacles preventing personal growth. Working through a cognitive-behavioral lens, we will work towards identifying patterns of thoughts and behaviors that do not align with goals for yourself and your relationships.
For the past 10 years, I have worked with at-risk populations from addiction/substance recovery to family violence and sexual assault survivors ranging in ages from adolescents to adults.
Your present circumstances do not determine where you go...they merely determine where you start. — Nido Qubein. Hello! I'm glad you are here. I believe in meeting my clients where they are, providing a safe space to process and learn, and helping them overcome obstacles preventing personal growth. Working through a cognitive-behavioral lens, we will work towards identifying patterns of thoughts and behaviors that do not align with goals for yourself and your relationships.
(210) 972-5852 View (210) 972-5852
Photo of Thomas Efird, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Thomas Efird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR-AC, Veteran
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Waitlist for new clients
I've worked in the mental health field for over 23 years, serving in both the military and civilian settings. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issues include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime/theft, car accidents, grief/loss, combat, first responders/medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed.
I've worked in the mental health field for over 23 years, serving in both the military and civilian settings. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issues include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime/theft, car accidents, grief/loss, combat, first responders/medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed.
(210) 806-7819 View (210) 806-7819
Photo of Valerie J Vineyard, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Valerie J Vineyard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
Specialties include relational issues; men and women suffering with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive behaviors, sexual dysfunctions, relational problems, sexual abuse, parenting difficulties, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use problems.
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, confused, powerless, helpless to control life issues, a healthy first step toward realizing positive change in your life, is to invest in therapy. By discovering your strengths, gifts, and unique perception, we can begin utilizing these attributes toward effective thoughtful problem solving and decision making behaviors.
Specialties include relational issues; men and women suffering with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive behaviors, sexual dysfunctions, relational problems, sexual abuse, parenting difficulties, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use problems.
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, confused, powerless, helpless to control life issues, a healthy first step toward realizing positive change in your life, is to invest in therapy. By discovering your strengths, gifts, and unique perception, we can begin utilizing these attributes toward effective thoughtful problem solving and decision making behaviors.
(210) 879-6713 View (210) 879-6713
Photo of Sandra Simmons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Sandra Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
I treat a broad array of conditions, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emotional & sexual abuse, and sexual identity.
Choosing a therapist you feel you can work well with is critical to successful treatment. I offer a safe, collaborative, empathic & trusting relational space in which you can explore your issues and concerns without fear of judgment. We will work together to help you develop greater self-understanding, foster close, connected relationships, uncover thought & behavioral patterns that interfere with happiness, master coping skills and achieve the emotional vitality necessary to a healthy, productive and satisfying life.
I treat a broad array of conditions, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emotional & sexual abuse, and sexual identity.
Choosing a therapist you feel you can work well with is critical to successful treatment. I offer a safe, collaborative, empathic & trusting relational space in which you can explore your issues and concerns without fear of judgment. We will work together to help you develop greater self-understanding, foster close, connected relationships, uncover thought & behavioral patterns that interfere with happiness, master coping skills and achieve the emotional vitality necessary to a healthy, productive and satisfying life.
(210) 880-9104 View (210) 880-9104
Photo of Candiss Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Candiss Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260  (Online Only)
Children talk about the loss of a family member, past physical or sexual abuse, or abandonment through Art Therapy.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
Children talk about the loss of a family member, past physical or sexual abuse, or abandonment through Art Therapy.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
(210) 405-2891 View (210) 405-2891
Photo of Margaret Bean, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Margaret Bean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
(210) 941-4997 View (210) 941-4997
Photo of Shawna Corley, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Shawna Corley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
Want to start your journey to healing? I would love to come along side you and help facilitate your growth. I love working with kids, teens, and adults and I am skilled to handle the hard issues of trauma. My work with clients covers a wide range of topics, but I specialize in sibling/parent conflict, relationships, trauma, abuse, sexual identity, sexual assault, and grief. I will ensure you are provided an individual plan and help challenge you to reach you optimum version of you. I am available to perform Child Custody Evaluations and Adoptions Studies though the Bexar County DRO. I am also available for forensic cases.
Want to start your journey to healing? I would love to come along side you and help facilitate your growth. I love working with kids, teens, and adults and I am skilled to handle the hard issues of trauma. My work with clients covers a wide range of topics, but I specialize in sibling/parent conflict, relationships, trauma, abuse, sexual identity, sexual assault, and grief. I will ensure you are provided an individual plan and help challenge you to reach you optimum version of you. I am available to perform Child Custody Evaluations and Adoptions Studies though the Bexar County DRO. I am also available for forensic cases.
(210) 853-2618 View (210) 853-2618
Photo of Turning Point Therapeutic Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Turning Point Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LSOTP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
I also hold a second license and certifications specialized in sexual abuse-both victim and offender, as well as sex addiction.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, helpless or is your life out of control in some way? Have you experienced depression, anxiety, addictions, or traumas that affect your ability to sustain relationships? Do you seek a safe, supportive place in which to explore your feelings, thoughts in order to turn your life in a new direction? For 23 years, I have helped people understand and change their behavior and motivations using primarily a cognitive (thinking based) behavior therapy approach which examines harmful thinking that supports negative feelings, and behavior patterns, so that you become equipped to change and grow.
I also hold a second license and certifications specialized in sexual abuse-both victim and offender, as well as sex addiction.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, helpless or is your life out of control in some way? Have you experienced depression, anxiety, addictions, or traumas that affect your ability to sustain relationships? Do you seek a safe, supportive place in which to explore your feelings, thoughts in order to turn your life in a new direction? For 23 years, I have helped people understand and change their behavior and motivations using primarily a cognitive (thinking based) behavior therapy approach which examines harmful thinking that supports negative feelings, and behavior patterns, so that you become equipped to change and grow.
(210) 943-9470 View (210) 943-9470
Photo of Victoria Shackelford, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Victoria Shackelford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC, NCC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
(210) 602-3002 View (210) 602-3002
Photo of Paula Mokry With Genesis Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Paula Mokry With Genesis Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78255
I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of stressors including anxiety, divorce, relationship difficulties, child behavioral problems, grief and loss, depression and survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
I provide confidential therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to my clients when everyday problems become too overwhelming to handle on their own. I create a warm relaxing environment so clients feel comfortable exploring their situation and together we can find solutions. I am open to seeing either just the individual or incorporating members of the family to help achieve the best outcome through therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy techniques including art therapy to help children express their feelings through play.
I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of stressors including anxiety, divorce, relationship difficulties, child behavioral problems, grief and loss, depression and survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
I provide confidential therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to my clients when everyday problems become too overwhelming to handle on their own. I create a warm relaxing environment so clients feel comfortable exploring their situation and together we can find solutions. I am open to seeing either just the individual or incorporating members of the family to help achieve the best outcome through therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy techniques including art therapy to help children express their feelings through play.
(210) 899-0584 View (210) 899-0584
Photo of Denise M. Filer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Denise M. Filer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78202
If you have come to the realization you are emotionally and mentally blocked; then it is time for a change. If those behavior patterns and thoughts have gotten in the way of you experiencing the deeper meaning of life and enjoyment let me facilitate your growth so that you can transform your life and live to the fullest. I Specialize in: • Depression • Grief • Addiction • Sexual Abuse • LGBTQ •PTSD • Personality Disorders •Co-occurring diseases •and Trauma .
If you have come to the realization you are emotionally and mentally blocked; then it is time for a change. If those behavior patterns and thoughts have gotten in the way of you experiencing the deeper meaning of life and enjoyment let me facilitate your growth so that you can transform your life and live to the fullest. I Specialize in: • Depression • Grief • Addiction • Sexual Abuse • LGBTQ •PTSD • Personality Disorders •Co-occurring diseases •and Trauma .
(830) 254-5603 View (830) 254-5603
Photo of Taylor Moyer | Taking Time Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Taylor Moyer | Taking Time Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSBS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201  (Online Only)
I find fulfillment in meeting clients exactly where they are in their journey. My passion lies in guiding individuals to unlock their full potential and cultivate self-compassion and grace. I often attract individuals who are confronting trauma rooted in various experiences, including childhood abuse, sexual abuse, and religious trauma. Moreover, I have vast experience providing therapy to other therapists, aiding them in managing both professional and personal hurdles with empathy and understanding.
I find fulfillment in meeting clients exactly where they are in their journey. My passion lies in guiding individuals to unlock their full potential and cultivate self-compassion and grace. I often attract individuals who are confronting trauma rooted in various experiences, including childhood abuse, sexual abuse, and religious trauma. Moreover, I have vast experience providing therapy to other therapists, aiding them in managing both professional and personal hurdles with empathy and understanding.
(682) 253-6282 View (682) 253-6282
Photo of Rosario Olguin-Aguirre, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in San Antonio, TX
Rosario Olguin-Aguirre
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78202  (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 Back Porch Therapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Back Porch Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201  (Online Only)
Topics can include healing from prior sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, and grief recovery.
You have many choices when it comes to picking a counselor/therapist, but what is the most important thing to consider when choosing? Does the person appear to be kind? Do they have the qualifications to serve you? Does he/she make you feel comfortable and ease the anxiety you might be feeling regarding sharing such personal information so quickly? How does the office environment feel (telehealth or in the office)? More importantly, how quickly do you feel your exact problem is being addressed?
Topics can include healing from prior sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, and grief recovery.
You have many choices when it comes to picking a counselor/therapist, but what is the most important thing to consider when choosing? Does the person appear to be kind? Do they have the qualifications to serve you? Does he/she make you feel comfortable and ease the anxiety you might be feeling regarding sharing such personal information so quickly? How does the office environment feel (telehealth or in the office)? More importantly, how quickly do you feel your exact problem is being addressed?
(903) 730-6198 View (903) 730-6198
Photo of Benjamin Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Benjamin Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78259
Trauma, abuse, self esteem issues, substance use, part of a military family, tired of fighting anxiety or burned our from trauma. I have lived through all of that. They want relief from fighting internal battles, they want to be able to feel without hurting, they want to feel like themselves but may not even know their own identity outside of the chaos.
Trauma, abuse, self esteem issues, substance use, part of a military family, tired of fighting anxiety or burned our from trauma. I have lived through all of that. They want relief from fighting internal battles, they want to be able to feel without hurting, they want to feel like themselves but may not even know their own identity outside of the chaos.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Our Generation Counseling, PLLC, LPC Associate in San Antonio, TX
Our Generation Counseling, PLLC
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling hopeless or withdrawn in your day to day life? Have simple things like showering or brushing your teeth become an obstacle for you? Give me a call or text today so that we can get you the relief you deserve. My name is Valarie Golombeski and I am the proud owner of Our Generation Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Dr. Gina Gagen, Ed.D., LPC-S, LMHC, LMHC-S, CCHP, CCE. I specialize in helping clients with symptoms associated with anxiety, depression and trauma.
Are you tired of feeling hopeless or withdrawn in your day to day life? Have simple things like showering or brushing your teeth become an obstacle for you? Give me a call or text today so that we can get you the relief you deserve. My name is Valarie Golombeski and I am the proud owner of Our Generation Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Dr. Gina Gagen, Ed.D., LPC-S, LMHC, LMHC-S, CCHP, CCE. I specialize in helping clients with symptoms associated with anxiety, depression and trauma.
(210) 871-9356 View (210) 871-9356

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.