Sexual Abuse Therapists in Pulaski, VA

Photo of Kelsey Blankenship - Blue Mountain Counseling, LPC, QDDP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blue Mountain Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, QDDP
Verified Verified
Pulaski, VA 24301
Not accepting new clients
The hardest mountain to climb is the one within, what does your mountain look like? Each person's healing journey to the top of their mountain, no matter how small or fraught with twists and turns, is important and deserves a safe, authentic space to be heard. Healing is not a linear process. It takes commitment, honesty, motivation, and oftentimes tough work to face one's reality versus where they want to be. Healing also takes a supportive and empathetic shoulder to help carry the burden as you reach your goals. I would be honored to help you discover your confidence, values, truths, and ultimately, summit your mountain.
The hardest mountain to climb is the one within, what does your mountain look like? Each person's healing journey to the top of their mountain, no matter how small or fraught with twists and turns, is important and deserves a safe, authentic space to be heard. Healing is not a linear process. It takes commitment, honesty, motivation, and oftentimes tough work to face one's reality versus where they want to be. Healing also takes a supportive and empathetic shoulder to help carry the burden as you reach your goals. I would be honored to help you discover your confidence, values, truths, and ultimately, summit your mountain.
(540) 501-6468 View (540) 501-6468

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Erin Shaffer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Shaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, VA 24084
I am so glad you are taking the steps to find support and take care of yourself! It can be difficult to reach out and ask for support and it is important to find a safe and compassionate space to be able to process trauma, grief, or general stress. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I enjoy helping individuals build on their strengths to find healing. I will work with you to develop treatment goals and offer support as you work towards those goals. I offer both in person and telehealth appointments.
I am so glad you are taking the steps to find support and take care of yourself! It can be difficult to reach out and ask for support and it is important to find a safe and compassionate space to be able to process trauma, grief, or general stress. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I enjoy helping individuals build on their strengths to find healing. I will work with you to develop treatment goals and offer support as you work towards those goals. I offer both in person and telehealth appointments.
(540) 306-4218 View (540) 306-4218

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa C Westmoreland - Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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 Lavender Williams, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lavender Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24504  (Online Only)
I have helped many clients overcome childhood traumas including assault, neglect and abuse as well as relationship traumas and community violence.
Hi there! I am so excited to take this journey with you towards enjoying life again. I am a counselor from Southern Virginia with experience and specialized training in trauma, mood disorders and life adjustments. Stop putting off therapy because you’re ‘used to’ the way things have been. Making Peace Counseling & Consulting helps young adults who feel trapped replaying old traumas and pains to feel grounded in the present moment. Stop blaming and shaming yourself and identify lessons and life meanings to find emotional and physical safety moving forward..
I have helped many clients overcome childhood traumas including assault, neglect and abuse as well as relationship traumas and community violence.
Hi there! I am so excited to take this journey with you towards enjoying life again. I am a counselor from Southern Virginia with experience and specialized training in trauma, mood disorders and life adjustments. Stop putting off therapy because you’re ‘used to’ the way things have been. Making Peace Counseling & Consulting helps young adults who feel trapped replaying old traumas and pains to feel grounded in the present moment. Stop blaming and shaming yourself and identify lessons and life meanings to find emotional and physical safety moving forward..
(434) 830-5943 View (434) 830-5943
Photo of Dawn Lanaville, PhD, Psychologist
Dawn Lanaville
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I specialize in Intimate Partner Violence/Coercive Control cases, child physical/ sexual abuse, trauma, testimony, and assessments. I have lived and survived some of your experiences and understand your fear and your needs to protect you and your children from your perpetrator. I know the many obstacles you face. Your case needs early intervention with knowledge, real-life statistics, and current serious issues in family courts. You make decisions every hour of every day. My testimony informs courts on Intimate Partner Violence/Coercive Control, ACEs for children and victims. We will shift the spotlight from you to your perpetrator.
I specialize in Intimate Partner Violence/Coercive Control cases, child physical/ sexual abuse, trauma, testimony, and assessments. I have lived and survived some of your experiences and understand your fear and your needs to protect you and your children from your perpetrator. I know the many obstacles you face. Your case needs early intervention with knowledge, real-life statistics, and current serious issues in family courts. You make decisions every hour of every day. My testimony informs courts on Intimate Partner Violence/Coercive Control, ACEs for children and victims. We will shift the spotlight from you to your perpetrator.
(540) 730-1921 x1 View (540) 730-1921 x1
Photo of Teree M Pennington, MA, QMHP-A, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Teree M Pennington
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP-A, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VA 24201
I am an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, sexual abuse victims, and suicide awareness.
My name is Teree (Tee-Ree OR Tea-Ree) and I am a counseling intern working under the supervision of a LPC. Life is hard and trying, but there is so much beauty in it. However, it can often be hard to see through the darkness to find the beauty. If you are ready to find the beauty within, I am here to help you work your way out of the darkness. If you need someone to help you process traumas and emotions, I am here to be of assistance. I am currently accepting new clients from all walks of life and all ages. We can work together to get you to where you want to be within your mental health journey.
I am an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, sexual abuse victims, and suicide awareness.
My name is Teree (Tee-Ree OR Tea-Ree) and I am a counseling intern working under the supervision of a LPC. Life is hard and trying, but there is so much beauty in it. However, it can often be hard to see through the darkness to find the beauty. If you are ready to find the beauty within, I am here to help you work your way out of the darkness. If you need someone to help you process traumas and emotions, I am here to be of assistance. I am currently accepting new clients from all walks of life and all ages. We can work together to get you to where you want to be within your mental health journey.
(276) 262-3807 View (276) 262-3807
Photo of Robert Anderson - Anderson Counseling Services , LPC, LPC-R, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
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, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Selina Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
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 Megan White, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
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 Sunday Rae Towles, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
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 Avis Augustine-Miller, LPC, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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 Lauren Bray, MA, QMHP-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Bray
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP-A
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of focus are attachment issues, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships/marriage, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you’re here. You’ve taken the first step, and it’s a big one! There are times where life can feel overwhelming and unmanageable. No matter what you are bringing into counseling with you, I desire to provide you with a safe place where you can confidently feel as though you are being seen, heard, and known. Whether it's personal growth, relationship difficulties, complex trauma, life transitions, depression, anxiety, or other stressors, I am committed to providing tools and strategies to help you feel empowered and supported in these pursuits.
My areas of focus are attachment issues, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships/marriage, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you’re here. You’ve taken the first step, and it’s a big one! There are times where life can feel overwhelming and unmanageable. No matter what you are bringing into counseling with you, I desire to provide you with a safe place where you can confidently feel as though you are being seen, heard, and known. Whether it's personal growth, relationship difficulties, complex trauma, life transitions, depression, anxiety, or other stressors, I am committed to providing tools and strategies to help you feel empowered and supported in these pursuits.
(540) 329-2541 View (540) 329-2541
Photo of Tia Poissant, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tia Poissant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24503
Waitlist for new clients
I truly believe, as my clients have shown me again and again, that we all hold an innate ability to heal. This beautiful process gets hindered by obstacles, such as how we are impacted by our families, systems, and life events. We learn to adapt to these obstacles, and my hope for you in therapy is to learn how to see them and face them. I see my role as your counselor to be a guide in re-finding yourself and your own path toward greater mental health and wellness. Often, this begins with learning a new way of relating to ourselves and our struggles and suffering.
I truly believe, as my clients have shown me again and again, that we all hold an innate ability to heal. This beautiful process gets hindered by obstacles, such as how we are impacted by our families, systems, and life events. We learn to adapt to these obstacles, and my hope for you in therapy is to learn how to see them and face them. I see my role as your counselor to be a guide in re-finding yourself and your own path toward greater mental health and wellness. Often, this begins with learning a new way of relating to ourselves and our struggles and suffering.
(434) 201-7589 View (434) 201-7589
Photo of Dr. Jessica Reno Burkholder, PhD, LPC, ACS, CTRT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jessica Reno Burkholder
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS, CTRT
Verified Verified
Abingdon, VA 24211  (Online Only)
Traumatic life experiences can cause us to feel stuck and unsure how to live the life we long for. We may have tried so many ways to change and grow, but feel unable to move forward. I consider it a privilege to be a counselor and walk through those times with you. I recognize the intricate relationship between the mind/body and the value of emotional experiences in our well-being. I consider the client/counselor relationship to be incredibly important, but I also want to support the important relationships in your life. I look forward to meeting you.
Traumatic life experiences can cause us to feel stuck and unsure how to live the life we long for. We may have tried so many ways to change and grow, but feel unable to move forward. I consider it a privilege to be a counselor and walk through those times with you. I recognize the intricate relationship between the mind/body and the value of emotional experiences in our well-being. I consider the client/counselor relationship to be incredibly important, but I also want to support the important relationships in your life. I look forward to meeting you.
(276) 730-1634 View (276) 730-1634
Photo of Cherie Taylor - TAYCounselingLLC, MS, NCC, LPC-S, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
TAYCounselingLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Congratulations on making a commitment to invest in your growth and positive life changes! Therapy isn't always easy, but if you are willing to do the work, I can provide the tools needed to help you be your best self. I have dedicated my professional career to helping people help themselves through life's biggest challenges.
Congratulations on making a commitment to invest in your growth and positive life changes! Therapy isn't always easy, but if you are willing to do the work, I can provide the tools needed to help you be your best self. I have dedicated my professional career to helping people help themselves through life's biggest challenges.
(540) 269-5569 View (540) 269-5569
Photo of Lindsay Caldwell, MS
Lindsay Caldwell
Resident in Counseling, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I believe that people change because they want to. Through trust and collaboration in the client-counselor relationship, it is possible for anyone to reach their full potential and become the person they want to be. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders and I specialize in helping clients with suicidal and self-harm issues. I’m an advocate for positive social change and identify myself as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. I facilitate positive change by providing a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment.
I believe that people change because they want to. Through trust and collaboration in the client-counselor relationship, it is possible for anyone to reach their full potential and become the person they want to be. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders and I specialize in helping clients with suicidal and self-harm issues. I’m an advocate for positive social change and identify myself as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. I facilitate positive change by providing a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment.
(540) 340-9578 View (540) 340-9578
Photo of Christy Vaughn - Tinker Creek Creative Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tinker Creek Creative Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24019
I work with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment, stress, anger management, attention deficit, and relationship issues. Symptoms related to these issues can include feelings of hopelessness, lack of interest in activities that used to bring pleasure, change in appetite, significant weight gain or loss, difficulty sleeping, excessive worry, irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Sometimes these symptoms can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches based on treatment goals and how an individual processes thoughts and emotions.
I work with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment, stress, anger management, attention deficit, and relationship issues. Symptoms related to these issues can include feelings of hopelessness, lack of interest in activities that used to bring pleasure, change in appetite, significant weight gain or loss, difficulty sleeping, excessive worry, irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Sometimes these symptoms can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches based on treatment goals and how an individual processes thoughts and emotions.
(540) 469-4621 View (540) 469-4621
Photo of Alan Willard, PhD, DMin, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alan Willard
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, DMin
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
When life hurts, I can help. Are you struggling with difficulties that have you feeling depressed, angry, worried, or guilty? Are your relationships at home or work in trouble or conflict? I help individuals and couples who are facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, pornography, coping w/chronic illness, sexual problems, PTSD, OCD and much more. I started out my professional career as a church pastor, and in my 40's transitioned into becoming a counselor/therapist. I guide people to get over problems and to be their deeper, higher, and more loving, compassionate self.
When life hurts, I can help. Are you struggling with difficulties that have you feeling depressed, angry, worried, or guilty? Are your relationships at home or work in trouble or conflict? I help individuals and couples who are facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, pornography, coping w/chronic illness, sexual problems, PTSD, OCD and much more. I started out my professional career as a church pastor, and in my 40's transitioned into becoming a counselor/therapist. I guide people to get over problems and to be their deeper, higher, and more loving, compassionate self.
(540) 361-6887 View (540) 361-6887
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Patrick Behler, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jonathan Patrick Behler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501  (Online Only)
In life, you seek out the ability to have peace, harmony, a fulfilling career, and a happy family. However, sometimes these things do not happen, or things go astray. Life happens, tragedy comes about, or situations arise to make you feel unhinged Sometimes, you just need someone with whom you can unload. Someone who will walk you through solutions to the problems at hand. I would like to be that person for you.
In life, you seek out the ability to have peace, harmony, a fulfilling career, and a happy family. However, sometimes these things do not happen, or things go astray. Life happens, tragedy comes about, or situations arise to make you feel unhinged Sometimes, you just need someone with whom you can unload. Someone who will walk you through solutions to the problems at hand. I would like to be that person for you.
(571) 462-2141 View (571) 462-2141
Photo of Katie Halsey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Halsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Abingdon, VA 24210
Katie Halsey holds a license as a LPC in the state of VA and TN. She received her M.Ed. in Human Development & Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College in 2014. Since 2015, Katie has worked with youth in a residential trauma setting with a wide variety of diagnosis. Katie enjoys working with clients of all ages and has a special interest for military, law enforcement, and first responder members. Katie has experience with working with clients in both the individual and family setting.
Katie Halsey holds a license as a LPC in the state of VA and TN. She received her M.Ed. in Human Development & Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College in 2014. Since 2015, Katie has worked with youth in a residential trauma setting with a wide variety of diagnosis. Katie enjoys working with clients of all ages and has a special interest for military, law enforcement, and first responder members. Katie has experience with working with clients in both the individual and family setting.
(276) 945-7386 View (276) 945-7386

See more therapy options for Pulaski

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.