Sexual Abuse Therapists in The Woodlands, TX

Photo of Julia's Counseling & Play Therapy Group, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Julia's Counseling & Play Therapy Group, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT, CTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77382
Our child and teen therapists have specialized training and interest in treating children who have been through trauma or sexual abuse, attachment concerns, anxiety, depression, gifted & sensitive personalities, behavior problems, ADHD assessments, and school problems.
If you are on the fence about starting therapy, we completely understand, and that is why we are committed to providing a positive and comfortable experience here. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, your child, or your family, coming in to start therapy can be a vulnerable experience. Therefore, therapy always goes at your pace, and we value interactive feedback while setting goals and coming up with a plan. Every single person, child, couple and family is unique; therefore, we design a custom treatment plan based on your unique needs and desires.
Our child and teen therapists have specialized training and interest in treating children who have been through trauma or sexual abuse, attachment concerns, anxiety, depression, gifted & sensitive personalities, behavior problems, ADHD assessments, and school problems.
If you are on the fence about starting therapy, we completely understand, and that is why we are committed to providing a positive and comfortable experience here. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, your child, or your family, coming in to start therapy can be a vulnerable experience. Therefore, therapy always goes at your pace, and we value interactive feedback while setting goals and coming up with a plan. Every single person, child, couple and family is unique; therefore, we design a custom treatment plan based on your unique needs and desires.
(832) 462-7475 View (832) 462-7475
Photo of Tameka G. Survillion, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Tameka G. Survillion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I have an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy and have specialized training in domestic violence, sexual abuse, mood disorders, and those with limited resources and cultural challenges.
Our journey through life presents us all with different challenges. There are times of great joy and victory and times of defeat, disruption, and loss. We are shaped by our experiences, family of origin, culture, temperament, available resources, and the people in our lives. Ultimately, our chief mission in this world is to create a high quality of life despite the hardships we face. I specialize in the healing of trauma, serious mental health symptoms, and unwanted residue from life transitions. I explore my client’s perspectives, challenge ideas that hinder progress, and help develop better responses to life struggles.
I have an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy and have specialized training in domestic violence, sexual abuse, mood disorders, and those with limited resources and cultural challenges.
Our journey through life presents us all with different challenges. There are times of great joy and victory and times of defeat, disruption, and loss. We are shaped by our experiences, family of origin, culture, temperament, available resources, and the people in our lives. Ultimately, our chief mission in this world is to create a high quality of life despite the hardships we face. I specialize in the healing of trauma, serious mental health symptoms, and unwanted residue from life transitions. I explore my client’s perspectives, challenge ideas that hinder progress, and help develop better responses to life struggles.
(346) 567-6902 View (346) 567-6902
Photo of Brandi Large, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Brandi Large
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77389
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Her diverse experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience with clients includes anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and survivors of sexual assault. She provides a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space for you to heal emotionally and learn coping skills.
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Her diverse experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience with clients includes anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and survivors of sexual assault. She provides a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space for you to heal emotionally and learn coping skills.
(281) 984-4924 View (281) 984-4924
Photo of Rebecca Strick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Rebecca Strick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77354
Expertise developed over the years includes: couples-in-crisis, depressive disorders (including bipolar and postpartum), anxiety disorders, sexual abuse survivors, addictions, domestic abuse, divorce, grief and loss, launching young adults into independence, ADHD, trauma, infertility and health challenges (including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and stroke).
As a solution-focused therapist, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in finding specific solutions to life challenges. Clients describe me as being warm, direct, sincere, open-minded, approachable, and intelligent. I offer fresh perspectives, practical insights, life skills and coaching with occasional doses of humor and toughness as needed. Together we will identify and use your strengths to enhance your relationships and improve your life. I have over thirty-seven years of experience and welcome all clients-from those desiring personal growth to those facing severe life challenges.
Expertise developed over the years includes: couples-in-crisis, depressive disorders (including bipolar and postpartum), anxiety disorders, sexual abuse survivors, addictions, domestic abuse, divorce, grief and loss, launching young adults into independence, ADHD, trauma, infertility and health challenges (including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and stroke).
As a solution-focused therapist, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in finding specific solutions to life challenges. Clients describe me as being warm, direct, sincere, open-minded, approachable, and intelligent. I offer fresh perspectives, practical insights, life skills and coaching with occasional doses of humor and toughness as needed. Together we will identify and use your strengths to enhance your relationships and improve your life. I have over thirty-seven years of experience and welcome all clients-from those desiring personal growth to those facing severe life challenges.
(936) 307-0807 View (936) 307-0807
Photo of Jeanne Stalder, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Jeanne Stalder
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I have experience dealing with domestic and sexual abuse, marital issues, anxiety, depression, infidelity, end of life issues, bereavement therapy, clients with suicidal thoughts, and terminal illnesses.
If you are struggling with something in your life that is very painful and fear things are just going to keep getting worse I would love to help you gain new skills, new hope and a new vision for working through your problems. I have a passion for counseling people of all ages who are ready to begin the process of healing. I approach therapy from a biological, psychological, social and spiritual viewpoint. When change is desired, new goals can be achieved to enrich ones understanding of self and others to be better equipped to face the difficulties of life.
I have experience dealing with domestic and sexual abuse, marital issues, anxiety, depression, infidelity, end of life issues, bereavement therapy, clients with suicidal thoughts, and terminal illnesses.
If you are struggling with something in your life that is very painful and fear things are just going to keep getting worse I would love to help you gain new skills, new hope and a new vision for working through your problems. I have a passion for counseling people of all ages who are ready to begin the process of healing. I approach therapy from a biological, psychological, social and spiritual viewpoint. When change is desired, new goals can be achieved to enrich ones understanding of self and others to be better equipped to face the difficulties of life.
(281) 884-3705 View (281) 884-3705
Photo of Erin L Hendricks Hughes in The Woodlands, TX
Erin L Hendricks Hughes
MA
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Hi. I've been working in the field of psychology since 1981. Clients with many different problems have asked for my help and we have had great successes. Like most people, I'd like to help everyone. It begins with you. My expertise is working with people who have been abused, neglected, or in any way traumatized and survivors of sexual abuse. I also work with Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunction. Call me and let's see what we can do together.
Hi. I've been working in the field of psychology since 1981. Clients with many different problems have asked for my help and we have had great successes. Like most people, I'd like to help everyone. It begins with you. My expertise is working with people who have been abused, neglected, or in any way traumatized and survivors of sexual abuse. I also work with Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunction. Call me and let's see what we can do together.
(936) 703-2220 View (936) 703-2220
Photo of Rebecca Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Rebecca Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I specialize in stress, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD - including complex trauma / CPTSD, and sexual abuse.
Experience fear of rejection or abandonment? Has a pattern of bad relationships left you feeling like you just can’t get it right? 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.
Experience fear of rejection or abandonment? Has a pattern of bad relationships left you feeling like you just can’t get it right? 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 Luz Alanis, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Luz Alanis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77354
With great training in domestic violence & sexual abuse I have found ways to capacitate clients to alleviate/conquer: anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual issues, infidelity, oppositional defiant, low self-esteem, grief, divorce prevention, post- traumatic stress disorder, parenting & addictions.
I am prepared to utilize my skills and passion to empower my clients to reach their maximum potential and to remove obstacles in order to get to a state of joy and peace in their lives. The road to success starts with you, the client, making the decision to seek assistance during a time in your life when you may feel overwhelmed with an issue that at some point grew out of control and now you find that you need someone's unconditional regard/acceptance for a while until you manage to find the road to regain control and find your inner peace, joy, harmony, freedom, independence and self-love. I am ready to help you find that path
With great training in domestic violence & sexual abuse I have found ways to capacitate clients to alleviate/conquer: anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual issues, infidelity, oppositional defiant, low self-esteem, grief, divorce prevention, post- traumatic stress disorder, parenting & addictions.
I am prepared to utilize my skills and passion to empower my clients to reach their maximum potential and to remove obstacles in order to get to a state of joy and peace in their lives. The road to success starts with you, the client, making the decision to seek assistance during a time in your life when you may feel overwhelmed with an issue that at some point grew out of control and now you find that you need someone's unconditional regard/acceptance for a while until you manage to find the road to regain control and find your inner peace, joy, harmony, freedom, independence and self-love. I am ready to help you find that path
(832) 402-1778 View (832) 402-1778
Photo of Debbie Keeney, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Debbie Keeney, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
We all hit bumps in the road that we feel unequipped to handle. If you are reading this, you are probably experiencing one of those now. I work with my clients to help them to navigate thorough life's challenges. I do not have a handy manual to offer simplistic answers for your life. What I do offer is to listen to you without judgment, to help you identify the obstacles that keep you from moving forward, to help you find internal resources, and to work with you to help you discover the answers that work for you. I can teach you to be more compassionate with yourself since being human is to struggle.
We all hit bumps in the road that we feel unequipped to handle. If you are reading this, you are probably experiencing one of those now. I work with my clients to help them to navigate thorough life's challenges. I do not have a handy manual to offer simplistic answers for your life. What I do offer is to listen to you without judgment, to help you identify the obstacles that keep you from moving forward, to help you find internal resources, and to work with you to help you discover the answers that work for you. I can teach you to be more compassionate with yourself since being human is to struggle.
(346) 230-5210 View (346) 230-5210
Photo of Amber Barker, LPC Intern in The Woodlands, TX
Amber Barker
LPC Intern, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Are you ready to get out of survival mode and back into a life you love? Is it hard to imagine that's possible because of trauma you’ve experienced? Life throws challenges our way and although we never asked for something traumatic to happen, it falls on us to figure out how to pick up the pieces and move forward. What you endured may have left you feeling anxious or depressed, with lower self-esteem, a negative body image, or a loss of identity. You may be ignoring these issues and look like you have it together despite feeling triggered and struggling with your thoughts and emotions. Your life doesn't have to continue this way.
Are you ready to get out of survival mode and back into a life you love? Is it hard to imagine that's possible because of trauma you’ve experienced? Life throws challenges our way and although we never asked for something traumatic to happen, it falls on us to figure out how to pick up the pieces and move forward. What you endured may have left you feeling anxious or depressed, with lower self-esteem, a negative body image, or a loss of identity. You may be ignoring these issues and look like you have it together despite feeling triggered and struggling with your thoughts and emotions. Your life doesn't have to continue this way.
(432) 741-3158 View (432) 741-3158
Photo of Rebecca Burnett-Khan, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Rebecca Burnett-Khan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I’m not your typical therapist. I would be best described as patient and direct. I use these strengths to help my clients because I firmly believe each person has the ability to heal and to be their own personal badass. I love nothing more than to advocate for you to be the best version of you. I will push you and support you through whatever life throws at you. I do this because eating disorders and trauma get in the way of you getting to be you- freely, authentically YOU. I am here to help you find and fully embrace this version of you because no matter what life has taught you, you deserve good things.
I’m not your typical therapist. I would be best described as patient and direct. I use these strengths to help my clients because I firmly believe each person has the ability to heal and to be their own personal badass. I love nothing more than to advocate for you to be the best version of you. I will push you and support you through whatever life throws at you. I do this because eating disorders and trauma get in the way of you getting to be you- freely, authentically YOU. I am here to help you find and fully embrace this version of you because no matter what life has taught you, you deserve good things.
(936) 245-8689 View (936) 245-8689
Photo of Joanne L Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Joanne L Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Change is possible! Making the decision to seek therapy can be a difficult one and often comes from a place of frustration, anger, sadness, or just feeling "stuck". Therapy can be a way to help you feel "unstuck" and to help you find balance so that you're in a better position to reach your goals. I'm a firm believer that change can happen when we create a safe space for conversation. By building a therapeutic relationship and a safe environment, we can discuss ways to improve the relationships in your life and I can offer support to help you implement the positive changes you're hoping for. Hope can lead to change.
Change is possible! Making the decision to seek therapy can be a difficult one and often comes from a place of frustration, anger, sadness, or just feeling "stuck". Therapy can be a way to help you feel "unstuck" and to help you find balance so that you're in a better position to reach your goals. I'm a firm believer that change can happen when we create a safe space for conversation. By building a therapeutic relationship and a safe environment, we can discuss ways to improve the relationships in your life and I can offer support to help you implement the positive changes you're hoping for. Hope can lead to change.
(281) 612-7134 View (281) 612-7134
Photo of Camille Berg, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Camille Berg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77382  (Online Only)
After experiencing a trauma, whether recent or past, it can feel as if you are stuck, not fully able to move on from that moment. The trauma can affect various parts of your life, parts which can play a role in how you view yourself and interact with the world around you. We are complex beings made up of so many intersecting parts and trauma can feel like it has taken over it all. Even if you do not have a history of trauma, if you practice kink and/or consensual non-monogamy it can be anxiety inducing to seek help. It can feel like you have to hide that part of yourself which is not beneficial to your healing journey.
After experiencing a trauma, whether recent or past, it can feel as if you are stuck, not fully able to move on from that moment. The trauma can affect various parts of your life, parts which can play a role in how you view yourself and interact with the world around you. We are complex beings made up of so many intersecting parts and trauma can feel like it has taken over it all. Even if you do not have a history of trauma, if you practice kink and/or consensual non-monogamy it can be anxiety inducing to seek help. It can feel like you have to hide that part of yourself which is not beneficial to your healing journey.
(281) 462-5137 View (281) 462-5137
Photo of Ashley Burks Supervised by Kara Grant, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Ashley Burks Supervised by Kara Grant, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Can you imagine a life where every day does not feel like such a battle? A life where you can live moment to moment - not stuck in a chronic state of survival, exhausting yourself just to get through the day, but rather one where you know that whatever circumstances come along you can approach it with curiosity and openness. As a counselor and a human being, I want to validate that this journey is hard and was never intended to be taken alone. My role as your therapist is to walk alongside you with compassion to help you find healing from the traumas of the past, so you can experience life fully and peacefully in the present moment.
Can you imagine a life where every day does not feel like such a battle? A life where you can live moment to moment - not stuck in a chronic state of survival, exhausting yourself just to get through the day, but rather one where you know that whatever circumstances come along you can approach it with curiosity and openness. As a counselor and a human being, I want to validate that this journey is hard and was never intended to be taken alone. My role as your therapist is to walk alongside you with compassion to help you find healing from the traumas of the past, so you can experience life fully and peacefully in the present moment.
(832) 793-9823 View (832) 793-9823
Photo of Trish D. Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Trish D. Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I consider being a counselor my highest calling and simply love what I do. My passion is to help people reach their goals in a meaningful way, and I aim to create a safe and inviting environment for my clients to open up and share their worlds. The bravery and courage of my clients continue to inspire me as they work to mend broken pieces. I work to guide couples and individuals of all ages toward healing, clarity, and greater life meaning. With a holistic perspective, I approach counseling with an amalgam of cognitive behavioral therapy, schema therapy, and EMDR.
I consider being a counselor my highest calling and simply love what I do. My passion is to help people reach their goals in a meaningful way, and I aim to create a safe and inviting environment for my clients to open up and share their worlds. The bravery and courage of my clients continue to inspire me as they work to mend broken pieces. I work to guide couples and individuals of all ages toward healing, clarity, and greater life meaning. With a holistic perspective, I approach counseling with an amalgam of cognitive behavioral therapy, schema therapy, and EMDR.
(936) 226-3087 View (936) 226-3087
Cynthia Ann Traylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CART
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380  (Online Only)
Have you ever seen a turtle trying to cross a busy street, with Its head bobbing in-and-out of its shell as the cars whiz by? Well, I'm that someone who will stop their car, get out, and help that turtle cross the street without injuring itself. If you feel like that turtle, and are having a difficult time navigating your way through life, then you have come to the right place.
Have you ever seen a turtle trying to cross a busy street, with Its head bobbing in-and-out of its shell as the cars whiz by? Well, I'm that someone who will stop their car, get out, and help that turtle cross the street without injuring itself. If you feel like that turtle, and are having a difficult time navigating your way through life, then you have come to the right place.
(281) 942-4104 View (281) 942-4104
Photo of Tracy Wilshusen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Tracy Wilshusen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
Hi! Thank you for being here and taking the first step in your healing journey. Healing isn't always linear, but I am here to cheer you on along the way. Whether it's feeling stuck, struggling with a life transition, wanting to strengthen your family system, learning how to set boundaries, or increase your self-esteem, I will be there to listen and support you.
Hi! Thank you for being here and taking the first step in your healing journey. Healing isn't always linear, but I am here to cheer you on along the way. Whether it's feeling stuck, struggling with a life transition, wanting to strengthen your family system, learning how to set boundaries, or increase your self-esteem, I will be there to listen and support you.
(346) 637-3958 View (346) 637-3958
Photo of Ariel Batton, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Ariel Batton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
Are you struggling with a traumatic experience or feeling the long-term effects of childhood abuse? Are you recovering from or currently in an unhealthy relationship? You are not alone. Choosing to seek therapy can be difficult, but it’s also a brave and empowering choice. I offer a range of effective therapy options and will create a plan tailored to you. From Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, mindfulness techniques, and trauma-informed care, I am committed to providing my clients with the tools and resources they need to improve their mental health and well-being.
Are you struggling with a traumatic experience or feeling the long-term effects of childhood abuse? Are you recovering from or currently in an unhealthy relationship? You are not alone. Choosing to seek therapy can be difficult, but it’s also a brave and empowering choice. I offer a range of effective therapy options and will create a plan tailored to you. From Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, mindfulness techniques, and trauma-informed care, I am committed to providing my clients with the tools and resources they need to improve their mental health and well-being.
(832) 281-5258 View (832) 281-5258
Photo of Darya Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Darya Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Congratulations on taking a big step towards a more fulfilling life. Are you unmotivated, hopeless, depressed, anxious, stuck, or feel disconnected? Have you experienced trauma or emotional distress through a life experience? My goal is to provide you with knowledge and individualized appropriate treatment. Most importantly, I will commit to supporting you as you walk the path towards experiencing a better quality of life. Together, we will work through challenging events, while rebuilding your confidence and empowerment.
Congratulations on taking a big step towards a more fulfilling life. Are you unmotivated, hopeless, depressed, anxious, stuck, or feel disconnected? Have you experienced trauma or emotional distress through a life experience? My goal is to provide you with knowledge and individualized appropriate treatment. Most importantly, I will commit to supporting you as you walk the path towards experiencing a better quality of life. Together, we will work through challenging events, while rebuilding your confidence and empowerment.
(281) 801-1347 View (281) 801-1347
Photo of Carla Litzsey, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Carla Litzsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC CI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Life can feel challenging, overwhelming and perplexing! Do you just want the fog in your mind to clear? Was the previous year more than you can handle? If you find yourself lost in transition, existing but not living, seeking clarity, direction, or purpose, and just feel like breaking while trying to hold it all together? You’re in the right place. Change can be difficult, painful and messy but there is a beautiful story that you get to write if you go through the process. Allow me to journey with you as we work to un-complicate things. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to un-pack what's been weighing you down.
Life can feel challenging, overwhelming and perplexing! Do you just want the fog in your mind to clear? Was the previous year more than you can handle? If you find yourself lost in transition, existing but not living, seeking clarity, direction, or purpose, and just feel like breaking while trying to hold it all together? You’re in the right place. Change can be difficult, painful and messy but there is a beautiful story that you get to write if you go through the process. Allow me to journey with you as we work to un-complicate things. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to un-pack what's been weighing you down.
(281) 336-9651 View (281) 336-9651

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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.