Sexual Abuse Therapists in Lexington City County, VA

Photo of Hanna Foster, Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Hanna Foster
Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lexington, VA 24450
*Not Accepting New Clients* As a counselor, I provide a calm, nurturing, and safe environment to support clients as they make positive changes toward self-awareness and growth. My approach is person-centered, and I work in collaboration with my clients to develop treatment plans based on their areas of concern, as well as their strengths. My goal is for clients to feel empowered, understood, and respected when they are working with me.
*Not Accepting New Clients* As a counselor, I provide a calm, nurturing, and safe environment to support clients as they make positive changes toward self-awareness and growth. My approach is person-centered, and I work in collaboration with my clients to develop treatment plans based on their areas of concern, as well as their strengths. My goal is for clients to feel empowered, understood, and respected when they are working with me.
(540) 426-3305 View (540) 426-3305
Photo of Chad J Kelland, Psychologist in Lexington City County, VA
Chad J Kelland
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, VA 24450
It is important to provide a supportive, attuned presence to help my patients work through the struggles, problems, and difficulties that have brought them into treatment. I build a relationship of trust with my patients in order to help them feel the support and care I have for them. I believe that diligent exploration of a patient's negative emotions and problematic relationships leads to healing. Through the use of simple challenges, highlighting of interpersonal and emotional patterns, encouragement, and honest feedback, my objective is to help the patient feel the love and support needed to heal and change.
It is important to provide a supportive, attuned presence to help my patients work through the struggles, problems, and difficulties that have brought them into treatment. I build a relationship of trust with my patients in order to help them feel the support and care I have for them. I believe that diligent exploration of a patient's negative emotions and problematic relationships leads to healing. Through the use of simple challenges, highlighting of interpersonal and emotional patterns, encouragement, and honest feedback, my objective is to help the patient feel the love and support needed to heal and change.
(540) 307-2809 View (540) 307-2809
Photo of Dwight Dugan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington City County, VA
Dwight Dugan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, VA 24450
Do you want to feel more at home in your own skin? Do you wonder why you haven't already "figured things out"? Do behaviors and beliefs that once helped you survive now keep you from authentically relating with others? Does your gut tell you there is another way of being, but you just can't seem to get there? Whatever your aspiration or longing, being a person isn't easy and transformation can feel daunting. Having struggled with these questions myself, it would be my honor to accompany you on your path. My approach is informed by a therapy model called AEDP, which seeks to undo aloneness and draw upon your innate healing capacity.
Do you want to feel more at home in your own skin? Do you wonder why you haven't already "figured things out"? Do behaviors and beliefs that once helped you survive now keep you from authentically relating with others? Does your gut tell you there is another way of being, but you just can't seem to get there? Whatever your aspiration or longing, being a person isn't easy and transformation can feel daunting. Having struggled with these questions myself, it would be my honor to accompany you on your path. My approach is informed by a therapy model called AEDP, which seeks to undo aloneness and draw upon your innate healing capacity.
(512) 270-6224 View (512) 270-6224
Photo of Jennifer Keith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Jennifer Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, VA 24450
Waitlist for new clients
Currently only accepting clients for extended session/intensive trauma work. As a therapist, I believe everyone is capable of fulfilling their true authentic self and realizing their maximum potential. The therapeutic relationship can serve as a catalyst for this change and my role as a therapist is to partner with you on this journey and to offer support and guidance. My experience is in working with adults with complex trauma. I believe the core condition of being human is forming relationships and we experience dysfunction and unhappiness when we experience disconnection.
Currently only accepting clients for extended session/intensive trauma work. As a therapist, I believe everyone is capable of fulfilling their true authentic self and realizing their maximum potential. The therapeutic relationship can serve as a catalyst for this change and my role as a therapist is to partner with you on this journey and to offer support and guidance. My experience is in working with adults with complex trauma. I believe the core condition of being human is forming relationships and we experience dysfunction and unhappiness when we experience disconnection.
(540) 274-2969 View (540) 274-2969

Online Therapists

Photo of Terry L Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Terry L Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
He deals with a wide range of issues including bipolar disorder, OCD, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and faith.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** Terry L. Miller is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Community Counseling Center. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Bethel College in N. Newton KS, his Master’s in Community Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University.
He deals with a wide range of issues including bipolar disorder, OCD, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and faith.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** Terry L. Miller is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Community Counseling Center. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Bethel College in N. Newton KS, his Master’s in Community Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University.
(540) 579-5445 View (540) 579-5445
Photo of Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; grief and loss; self-esteem; chronic pain and stress management.
Counseling and Clinical Supervision: Would you like to improve your overall life satisfaction? Counseling helps people to improve their overall life satisfaction by supporting them in making changes. These changes can improve mood, sleep, relationships, work productivity, physical health and more according to your individual goals. I work with people 18 years old and up to support them in effectively making positive changes in their lives. My focus is on developing a trust-based relationship with clients to support them in reaching their goals that improve their overall life satisfaction and wellbeing.
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; grief and loss; self-esteem; chronic pain and stress management.
Counseling and Clinical Supervision: Would you like to improve your overall life satisfaction? Counseling helps people to improve their overall life satisfaction by supporting them in making changes. These changes can improve mood, sleep, relationships, work productivity, physical health and more according to your individual goals. I work with people 18 years old and up to support them in effectively making positive changes in their lives. My focus is on developing a trust-based relationship with clients to support them in reaching their goals that improve their overall life satisfaction and wellbeing.
(540) 709-7530 View (540) 709-7530
Photo of Avis Augustine-Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Avis Augustine-Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
As a licensed therapist in both Virginia and Florida, with a background in suicide intervention, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment and PTSD work with victims of trauma, military personnel, law enforcement, and survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, I will work alongside you, towards healing and wellness.
The goal of every client who comes to treatment is to resolve the existing crisis or trauma, manage anxiety, reduce depressive and other symptoms, and return to a state of being that better reflects their optimal functioning. Clients who come to therapy are arguably the best suited to tell us what their needs are and where the gap exists between their needs and goals for their best life. Living with grief, loss, anxiety, PTSD, psych ache, relationship distress, trauma (including racial trauma), rejection, and mood disorders takes a toll, not only on everyday functioning but also on self-esteem, self-efficacy and self-care.
As a licensed therapist in both Virginia and Florida, with a background in suicide intervention, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment and PTSD work with victims of trauma, military personnel, law enforcement, and survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, I will work alongside you, towards healing and wellness.
The goal of every client who comes to treatment is to resolve the existing crisis or trauma, manage anxiety, reduce depressive and other symptoms, and return to a state of being that better reflects their optimal functioning. Clients who come to therapy are arguably the best suited to tell us what their needs are and where the gap exists between their needs and goals for their best life. Living with grief, loss, anxiety, PTSD, psych ache, relationship distress, trauma (including racial trauma), rejection, and mood disorders takes a toll, not only on everyday functioning but also on self-esteem, self-efficacy and self-care.
(434) 226-5480 View (434) 226-5480
Photo of Anita Wiles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington City County, VA
Anita Wiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greetings, I'm Anita Wiles, LCSW, with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I obtained my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a licensed clinical social worker since 1995. Throughout my career, I've specialized in supporting victims of domestic violence, survivors of child sexual abuse, and individuals coping with various forms of trauma across diverse settings. Additionally, I possess extensive experience working with individuals dealing with substance use and abuse issues.
Greetings, I'm Anita Wiles, LCSW, with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I obtained my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a licensed clinical social worker since 1995. Throughout my career, I've specialized in supporting victims of domestic violence, survivors of child sexual abuse, and individuals coping with various forms of trauma across diverse settings. Additionally, I possess extensive experience working with individuals dealing with substance use and abuse issues.
(434) 474-2341 View (434) 474-2341
Photo of Dawn Lanaville, Psychologist in Lexington City County, VA
Dawn Lanaville
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Licensed in North Carolina and Virginia, and located in the Roanoke, Virginia, area, I provide Parental Capacity Evaluations, Parent Coaching, Parent Coordination and Consultation, civil and criminal assessments in court cases such as psychological/psychosexual evaluations, mental status, insanity, competency, and trauma therapy/assessment. I specialize in forensic and clinical assessments, domestic violence cases, child physical/sexual abuse, trauma, and law enforcement/corrections pre-employment assessments. My therapy focuses on trauma, dissociative disorders, and domestic violence.
Licensed in North Carolina and Virginia, and located in the Roanoke, Virginia, area, I provide Parental Capacity Evaluations, Parent Coaching, Parent Coordination and Consultation, civil and criminal assessments in court cases such as psychological/psychosexual evaluations, mental status, insanity, competency, and trauma therapy/assessment. I specialize in forensic and clinical assessments, domestic violence cases, child physical/sexual abuse, trauma, and law enforcement/corrections pre-employment assessments. My therapy focuses on trauma, dissociative disorders, and domestic violence.
(540) 730-1921 x1 View (540) 730-1921 x1
Photo of Allied Transformations LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Allied Transformations LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980
This is a safe, judgment free, environment. We offer counseling to those ready to take the next step in self discovery and fulfillment. We look at therapy as guidance to those that are or have struggled with life’s journey. This could be due to a difficult childhood, abuse, assault, grief, extreme disappointment, or just too many responsibilities. We are ready to meet you where you are on life’s journey, as you are. That includes in person or telehealth therapy. If you are ready to walk with us, schedule an appointment today!
This is a safe, judgment free, environment. We offer counseling to those ready to take the next step in self discovery and fulfillment. We look at therapy as guidance to those that are or have struggled with life’s journey. This could be due to a difficult childhood, abuse, assault, grief, extreme disappointment, or just too many responsibilities. We are ready to meet you where you are on life’s journey, as you are. That includes in person or telehealth therapy. If you are ready to walk with us, schedule an appointment today!
(540) 609-2570 View (540) 609-2570
Photo of Anita Wiles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington City County, VA
Anita Wiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greetings, I'm Anita Wiles, LCSW, with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I obtained my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a licensed clinical social worker since 1995. Throughout my career, I've specialized in supporting victims of domestic violence, survivors of child sexual abuse, and individuals coping with various forms of trauma across diverse settings. Additionally, I possess extensive experience working with individuals dealing with substance use and abuse issues.
Greetings, I'm Anita Wiles, LCSW, with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I obtained my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a licensed clinical social worker since 1995. Throughout my career, I've specialized in supporting victims of domestic violence, survivors of child sexual abuse, and individuals coping with various forms of trauma across diverse settings. Additionally, I possess extensive experience working with individuals dealing with substance use and abuse issues.
(703) 940-1245 View (703) 940-1245
Photo of Chantal Racheau-Bryant; Life In Focus Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Chantal Racheau-Bryant; Life In Focus Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Locust Grove, VA 22508
Chantal specializes in trauma therapy and she has extensive experience in domestic, emotional, and sexual abuse/violence trauma.
Sometimes we become overwhelmed by life and need to reach out to another for help, this takes bravery, and it’s important that you feel the person you reach out to is unbiased, safe with your privacy, is knowledgeable, and truly hears where you are. Over the last 10 years Chantal Racheau-Bryant, LPC has worked extensively with adults in crisis helping to guide them through darker moments of their lives until they are able to see the road ahead more clearly. Each person has their own unique journey and Chantal works to find a holistic approach to therapy that best fits your style and helps you on your journey.
Chantal specializes in trauma therapy and she has extensive experience in domestic, emotional, and sexual abuse/violence trauma.
Sometimes we become overwhelmed by life and need to reach out to another for help, this takes bravery, and it’s important that you feel the person you reach out to is unbiased, safe with your privacy, is knowledgeable, and truly hears where you are. Over the last 10 years Chantal Racheau-Bryant, LPC has worked extensively with adults in crisis helping to guide them through darker moments of their lives until they are able to see the road ahead more clearly. Each person has their own unique journey and Chantal works to find a holistic approach to therapy that best fits your style and helps you on your journey.
(540) 253-1473 View (540) 253-1473
Photo of Hannah Pocock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington City County, VA
Hannah Pocock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, and specialize in working with women and teens dealing with the impact of sexual assault, childhood abuse, or other trauma. Other areas of clinical interest include relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, and identity questions. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that allows us to be deeply seen and heard, and to see ourselves in new and transformative ways. It can build self-esteem and strengthen our sense of who we are and how we fit into the world. As we understand ourselves more fully, relationships with others become richer and more fulfilling. Therapy can strengthen our ability to adapt and adjust to the changing circumstances of our lives, freeing us up to respond more flexibly to the world around us and to experience a more enlivened way of being. For trauma survivors who experience overwhelming waves of shame and fear, a lurking sense of unease, or confusing physical sensations, therapy can help calm the mind and the nervous system, allowing you to move from reliving the past to feeling grounded, present, and whole in mind and body.
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, and specialize in working with women and teens dealing with the impact of sexual assault, childhood abuse, or other trauma. Other areas of clinical interest include relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, and identity questions. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that allows us to be deeply seen and heard, and to see ourselves in new and transformative ways. It can build self-esteem and strengthen our sense of who we are and how we fit into the world. As we understand ourselves more fully, relationships with others become richer and more fulfilling. Therapy can strengthen our ability to adapt and adjust to the changing circumstances of our lives, freeing us up to respond more flexibly to the world around us and to experience a more enlivened way of being. For trauma survivors who experience overwhelming waves of shame and fear, a lurking sense of unease, or confusing physical sensations, therapy can help calm the mind and the nervous system, allowing you to move from reliving the past to feeling grounded, present, and whole in mind and body.
(434) 248-3836 View (434) 248-3836
Photo of Andrea Dilley-Frame, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Andrea Dilley-Frame
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Andrea Dilley-Frame is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SSAC-C) and a former Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (RC-C). She has over 17 years of experience working with adult clients who are dealing with the effects of grief, Life transitional issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, family conflict, and more. Andrea obtained a Master’s of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, VA.
Andrea Dilley-Frame is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SSAC-C) and a former Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (RC-C). She has over 17 years of experience working with adult clients who are dealing with the effects of grief, Life transitional issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, family conflict, and more. Andrea obtained a Master’s of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, VA.
(434) 597-3757 View (434) 597-3757
Photo of Megan White, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lexington City County, VA
Megan White
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Life can deal out a variety of circumstances that we have to learn how to navigate, but you don’t have to do that alone. We can walk through those complex situations together in a way where you feel comfortable and supported. I am passionate about racial, cultural, and sexual orientation diversity as well as church/religion related trauma. Your counseling journey with me will be LBGTQ+ affirming. I have experience working with individuals concerning depression, anxiety, stress management, work life balance, sexual abuse, and coping with life transition.
Life can deal out a variety of circumstances that we have to learn how to navigate, but you don’t have to do that alone. We can walk through those complex situations together in a way where you feel comfortable and supported. I am passionate about racial, cultural, and sexual orientation diversity as well as church/religion related trauma. Your counseling journey with me will be LBGTQ+ affirming. I have experience working with individuals concerning depression, anxiety, stress management, work life balance, sexual abuse, and coping with life transition.
(540) 516-4542 View (540) 516-4542
Photo of Sarah Kate E Valatka, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Sarah Kate E Valatka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
My focus is late adolescents, college aged individuals, & adults who experience issues with relationships, gender based violence (ie:sexual assault, relationship violence), body image & disordered eating.
I'm glad you are here. Life is hard enough with out beating yourself up and telling yourself you suck as a person, friend, partner, parent, child, employee, and on, and on. It's important to find space to give your mind a break from the negative chatter you use to push yourself forward but only holds you back. You have worth. All those to do lists can wait. Start finding moments of peace and connection to others. Take some time to be in the moment and enjoy the right now.
My focus is late adolescents, college aged individuals, & adults who experience issues with relationships, gender based violence (ie:sexual assault, relationship violence), body image & disordered eating.
I'm glad you are here. Life is hard enough with out beating yourself up and telling yourself you suck as a person, friend, partner, parent, child, employee, and on, and on. It's important to find space to give your mind a break from the negative chatter you use to push yourself forward but only holds you back. You have worth. All those to do lists can wait. Start finding moments of peace and connection to others. Take some time to be in the moment and enjoy the right now.
(540) 253-1670 View (540) 253-1670
Photo of Anderson Counseling Services , Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Anderson Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-R, QMHP
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Treatment focuses include: Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Parenting Concerns, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Struggles, Racial Trauma, Stress Management, Struggles with Emotional Regulation, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Life Coaching, Divorce, Life Transitions, LGBTQ Concerns, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Trauma.
Anderson Counseling is committed to providing high quality community mental health support and therapy. Our strength-based clinical approach helps individuals and families achieve their full potential by using interventions that address trauma, promote resilience, worth, and dignity, in a safe and caring environment. We adhere to the professional values of the American Counseling Association which strives to honor diversity, embrace a multicultural approach, and support the uniqueness of all people within their social and cultural context. We also provide community based mental health to individuals & families with Medicaid.
Treatment focuses include: Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Parenting Concerns, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Struggles, Racial Trauma, Stress Management, Struggles with Emotional Regulation, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Life Coaching, Divorce, Life Transitions, LGBTQ Concerns, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Trauma.
Anderson Counseling is committed to providing high quality community mental health support and therapy. Our strength-based clinical approach helps individuals and families achieve their full potential by using interventions that address trauma, promote resilience, worth, and dignity, in a safe and caring environment. We adhere to the professional values of the American Counseling Association which strives to honor diversity, embrace a multicultural approach, and support the uniqueness of all people within their social and cultural context. We also provide community based mental health to individuals & families with Medicaid.
(434) 201-3922 View (434) 201-3922
Photo of Selina Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington City County, VA
Selina Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
It is designed to reduce negative emotional and behavioral responses following child sexual abuse, domestic violence, traumatic loss, and other traumatic events.
My therapeutic approach is strengths based and tailored for each client, situation, and goal to find what works best for that individual. I believe you are the expert in your life and embrace a person-centered philosophy to best meet my client's needs. I have experience providing therapy in outpatient, school based, and in-home settings working with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, personality disorders, dual diagnosis, anger management, substance use and abuse, parenting issues, and more. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and further certified to provide Trauma Focused CBT in the state of VA.
It is designed to reduce negative emotional and behavioral responses following child sexual abuse, domestic violence, traumatic loss, and other traumatic events.
My therapeutic approach is strengths based and tailored for each client, situation, and goal to find what works best for that individual. I believe you are the expert in your life and embrace a person-centered philosophy to best meet my client's needs. I have experience providing therapy in outpatient, school based, and in-home settings working with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, personality disorders, dual diagnosis, anger management, substance use and abuse, parenting issues, and more. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and further certified to provide Trauma Focused CBT in the state of VA.
(540) 779-8826 View (540) 779-8826
Photo of Sunday Rae Towles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington City County, VA
Sunday Rae Towles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, S
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Waitlist for new clients
I volunteered with SARP (Sexual Assault Response Program), trained in direct care for trauma victims through Livingwell Spring Institute in Atlanta.
My experiences ranges from working with married couples, single adults, and adolescents. My particular training has focused on women who have experienced sexual trauma, with adjacent issues of depression, body image, self worth, and healthy relationships.
I volunteered with SARP (Sexual Assault Response Program), trained in direct care for trauma victims through Livingwell Spring Institute in Atlanta.
My experiences ranges from working with married couples, single adults, and adolescents. My particular training has focused on women who have experienced sexual trauma, with adjacent issues of depression, body image, self worth, and healthy relationships.
(434) 595-3752 View (434) 595-3752
Photo of Lisa Columbo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington City County, VA
Lisa Columbo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staunton, VA 24401  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of working with foster, adoption, kinship, and birth families, I have special knowledge about child development, effects of trauma, separation and loss, sexual abuse, and more.
Things seem to have gone a bit haywire these last few years. Most of us who had been getting along well enough may find ourselves or our children struggling more lately. We don't have to wait for the world to change in order to feel better or to help our children. Let's work together toward managing your mind, body, soul, and relationships harmoniously.
With over 30 years of working with foster, adoption, kinship, and birth families, I have special knowledge about child development, effects of trauma, separation and loss, sexual abuse, and more.
Things seem to have gone a bit haywire these last few years. Most of us who had been getting along well enough may find ourselves or our children struggling more lately. We don't have to wait for the world to change in order to feel better or to help our children. Let's work together toward managing your mind, body, soul, and relationships harmoniously.
(540) 405-8877 View (540) 405-8877

See more therapy options for Lexington City County

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.