Sexual Abuse Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Jeanne M Reina, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jeanne M Reina
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
I work with clients ages 18 and older from a variety of diverse backgrounds. I specialize in working with past trauma, emotional neglect, grief, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and everyday stressors, secondary trauma (especially for caregivers). In addition if you find that you have become stuck and need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I can assist you in overcoming these challenges and discovering your own untapped inner resilience, strength, and authenticity in a way that is deeply meaningful.
I work with clients ages 18 and older from a variety of diverse backgrounds. I specialize in working with past trauma, emotional neglect, grief, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and everyday stressors, secondary trauma (especially for caregivers). In addition if you find that you have become stuck and need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I can assist you in overcoming these challenges and discovering your own untapped inner resilience, strength, and authenticity in a way that is deeply meaningful.
(425) 903-3193 View (425) 903-3193
Photo of Charlotte Jarvis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Charlotte Jarvis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with dynamics of codependency, power, and control in your relationship? If you’re a survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, or complex/childhood abuse - I want to work with you. If you find yourself continuously impacted by the trauma you’ve lived through, I want to help you gain the skills to move through your past and get to the present moment. Ask me about my upcoming group therapy program “Mindful Survivorship: Boundaries for Survivors” launching May 2024.
Are you struggling with dynamics of codependency, power, and control in your relationship? If you’re a survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, or complex/childhood abuse - I want to work with you. If you find yourself continuously impacted by the trauma you’ve lived through, I want to help you gain the skills to move through your past and get to the present moment. Ask me about my upcoming group therapy program “Mindful Survivorship: Boundaries for Survivors” launching May 2024.
(206) 759-5250 View (206) 759-5250
Photo of Tracy C. Bryan, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Tracy C. Bryan
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
My practice is focused on helping individuals understand and heal from the profound wounds caused by emotional or physical violence/neglect in close personal relationships. This includes adults who've experienced childhood abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment, as well as sexual assault, violence, and betrayal trauma. By conceptualizing complex forms of trauma from a feminist perspective, I investigate issues of gender, power, and culture, and identify them as the center of oppression, distress, and dysfunction in a person's life. Relational trauma often creates isolation, and I believe it is only in relationship that we heal.
My practice is focused on helping individuals understand and heal from the profound wounds caused by emotional or physical violence/neglect in close personal relationships. This includes adults who've experienced childhood abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment, as well as sexual assault, violence, and betrayal trauma. By conceptualizing complex forms of trauma from a feminist perspective, I investigate issues of gender, power, and culture, and identify them as the center of oppression, distress, and dysfunction in a person's life. Relational trauma often creates isolation, and I believe it is only in relationship that we heal.
View
Photo of Alisa Horwitz, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Alisa Horwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98199  (Online Only)
I primarily provide individual therapy to adults (ages 18-45) who wish to address acute or long-term trauma, specifically childhood sexual abuse/sexual assault but other traumas as well. I approach each client through a developmental lens, understanding that concerns manifest differently depending on one's age and developmental stage at the time of the trauma as well as at the time of treatment. I also am available to work with parents, many who are navigating challenges associated with helping a child who has been traumatized, who wish to explore more positive discipline strategies.
I primarily provide individual therapy to adults (ages 18-45) who wish to address acute or long-term trauma, specifically childhood sexual abuse/sexual assault but other traumas as well. I approach each client through a developmental lens, understanding that concerns manifest differently depending on one's age and developmental stage at the time of the trauma as well as at the time of treatment. I also am available to work with parents, many who are navigating challenges associated with helping a child who has been traumatized, who wish to explore more positive discipline strategies.
View
Photo of Dan Woodard, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Dan Woodard
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
If you are browsing through this website then you're most likely trying to find help with something in your life that you've been struggling with for for years. Maybe it's depression or anxiety and you need help trying to manage it, someone to hold it with you. Perhaps you have a hard time staying in a relationship for any length of time? Or maybe you're holding onto the secret of sexual abuse as a child or teen and have never told anyone. Sometimes things shatter and we don't know why, but it does. Life shatters us. I would love the privilege of walking with you. We can do it together. You don't have to do it alone anymore.
If you are browsing through this website then you're most likely trying to find help with something in your life that you've been struggling with for for years. Maybe it's depression or anxiety and you need help trying to manage it, someone to hold it with you. Perhaps you have a hard time staying in a relationship for any length of time? Or maybe you're holding onto the secret of sexual abuse as a child or teen and have never told anyone. Sometimes things shatter and we don't know why, but it does. Life shatters us. I would love the privilege of walking with you. We can do it together. You don't have to do it alone anymore.
(206) 557-3989 View (206) 557-3989
Photo of Gretchen Phillips, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Gretchen Phillips
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to show up in the present? Do you ever feel 'haunted' by past experiences that foreclose your way toward the future you want? I have met such roadblocks myself and believe that building a healthy interpersonal relationship in therapy paves the road to unlocking your goals & desires. I have specialties working with queer women & femmes in addressing anxiety, t/Trauma processing & recovery, sexual assault, and identity exploration.
Are you struggling to show up in the present? Do you ever feel 'haunted' by past experiences that foreclose your way toward the future you want? I have met such roadblocks myself and believe that building a healthy interpersonal relationship in therapy paves the road to unlocking your goals & desires. I have specialties working with queer women & femmes in addressing anxiety, t/Trauma processing & recovery, sexual assault, and identity exploration.
(206) 752-4298 View (206) 752-4298
Photo of Giselle Montemayor Solis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Giselle Montemayor Solis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98146  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual therapist offering services in English and Spanish. I am Latinx therapist that enjoys working with people from different backgrounds through lifes challenges. I have a collaborative and empathic approach to therapy while gently challenging clients. I seek to honor the stories and goals of each of my clients. Together, we can explore narratives surrounding sex and sexuality, navigate through experiences of depression, anxiety, guilt, sexual assault, shame, and discuss matters related to gender expression. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients and provide a safe space where they can feel seen and heard.
I am a bilingual therapist offering services in English and Spanish. I am Latinx therapist that enjoys working with people from different backgrounds through lifes challenges. I have a collaborative and empathic approach to therapy while gently challenging clients. I seek to honor the stories and goals of each of my clients. Together, we can explore narratives surrounding sex and sexuality, navigate through experiences of depression, anxiety, guilt, sexual assault, shame, and discuss matters related to gender expression. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients and provide a safe space where they can feel seen and heard.
(206) 800-6644 View (206) 800-6644
Photo of Brook Avidon, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Brook Avidon
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I work with people in the arts, in high stress jobs, and from diverse backgrounds, who want help with depression, childhood sexual abuse, relationships, parenting, sexuality, life-transitions, DV, and spirituality.
Are you creative? In transition? Depressed? Different? Parenting? Re-discovering YOU? Are you wanting to make changes in your life or to heal from old wounds? Do you want to develop self-compassion? Do you want to learn how to be present for your life, to learn mindfulness to help you through the tough times? If so, let’s see if we can create a compassionate, interactive and authentic therapeutic relationship to work collaboratively towards healing. In therapy, I can help you identify your goals, look at what is and isn't working for you, explore your stories, emotions, and experiences (past and present), develop new skills, and embrace your learning styles and talents. I also provide consultation and supervision to therapists.
I work with people in the arts, in high stress jobs, and from diverse backgrounds, who want help with depression, childhood sexual abuse, relationships, parenting, sexuality, life-transitions, DV, and spirituality.
Are you creative? In transition? Depressed? Different? Parenting? Re-discovering YOU? Are you wanting to make changes in your life or to heal from old wounds? Do you want to develop self-compassion? Do you want to learn how to be present for your life, to learn mindfulness to help you through the tough times? If so, let’s see if we can create a compassionate, interactive and authentic therapeutic relationship to work collaboratively towards healing. In therapy, I can help you identify your goals, look at what is and isn't working for you, explore your stories, emotions, and experiences (past and present), develop new skills, and embrace your learning styles and talents. I also provide consultation and supervision to therapists.
(206) 823-0431 View (206) 823-0431
Photo of Naomi Huffman, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Naomi Huffman
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Additionally, I provide support to clients grappling with grief, loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sexual abuse.
With several years of counseling experience in mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, and K-12 schools, I've supported individuals of all ages, from kindergartners to elderly. I believe in accompanying individuals on their healing journey, whether they're adjusting to a new school or navigating challenges later in life. Let's embark on this journey together.
Additionally, I provide support to clients grappling with grief, loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sexual abuse.
With several years of counseling experience in mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, and K-12 schools, I've supported individuals of all ages, from kindergartners to elderly. I believe in accompanying individuals on their healing journey, whether they're adjusting to a new school or navigating challenges later in life. Let's embark on this journey together.
(206) 687-1496 View (206) 687-1496
Photo of Rosalynn Recine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Rosalynn Recine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136
I use a holistic approach to healing that includes mind, body and spirit. I have a particular focus on women's health issues, sexual abuse, and PTSD. Every pain, trauma, and obstacle we experience in life has information to share with us. The most difficult times we face can be truly transformative if we know how to listen to them. Sometimes we can get lost down these turbulent roads and my job is to help you navigate the path that you are already on.
I use a holistic approach to healing that includes mind, body and spirit. I have a particular focus on women's health issues, sexual abuse, and PTSD. Every pain, trauma, and obstacle we experience in life has information to share with us. The most difficult times we face can be truly transformative if we know how to listen to them. Sometimes we can get lost down these turbulent roads and my job is to help you navigate the path that you are already on.
(844) 237-9391 View (844) 237-9391
Photo of Wendell Moss MA Counseling, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Wendell Moss MA Counseling
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
My specialty is around areas of sexual abuse/trauma, sexual addiction, and cultural issues.
I am a Christian therapist trained in the interpersonal/relational psychoanalytic theory. I've also engaged both object relational and cognitive behavioral theories through varied clinical experiences. I've mostly trained under Dan Allender. I am trained well to serve clients that desire to face issues of sexual abuse/trauma, narrative, and relational dynamics within relationships. I'm also able to help clients think through potential cultural issues that can also have impact on ones dealing with issues of abuse, story, and relationship.
My specialty is around areas of sexual abuse/trauma, sexual addiction, and cultural issues.
I am a Christian therapist trained in the interpersonal/relational psychoanalytic theory. I've also engaged both object relational and cognitive behavioral theories through varied clinical experiences. I've mostly trained under Dan Allender. I am trained well to serve clients that desire to face issues of sexual abuse/trauma, narrative, and relational dynamics within relationships. I'm also able to help clients think through potential cultural issues that can also have impact on ones dealing with issues of abuse, story, and relationship.
(855) 844-7381 View (855) 844-7381
Photo of Ilana Skarling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Ilana Skarling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I'm a trans woman and licensed independent clinical social worker in the states of Washington and Minnesota, with over six years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health care.
You are not too much. Nor is what you have been through too much. If you struggle with gender or sexual identity, sexual or domestic violence, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you need to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
I'm a trans woman and licensed independent clinical social worker in the states of Washington and Minnesota, with over six years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health care.
You are not too much. Nor is what you have been through too much. If you struggle with gender or sexual identity, sexual or domestic violence, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you need to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
(206) 752-5508 View (206) 752-5508
Photo of Ben Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Ben Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117
My training and experience has primarily been with teens and adults experiencing a wide array of topics including sexual abuse, complicated grief, religious trauma, anxiety, family conflict, depression, loss, and identify exploration.
The greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, you and I can work collaboratively to further develop these qualities and foster your innate resilience. My goal is for you to feel safe, challenged, and empowered during our time together. The sheer fact that you are seeking support demonstrates an immense strength and courage. As a psychotherapist, I aim to create a non-judgmental, open-minded, and secure environment for clients to explore their feelings candidly and honestly. I utilize a variety of techniques and tailor treatment to the unique needs of the client.
My training and experience has primarily been with teens and adults experiencing a wide array of topics including sexual abuse, complicated grief, religious trauma, anxiety, family conflict, depression, loss, and identify exploration.
The greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, you and I can work collaboratively to further develop these qualities and foster your innate resilience. My goal is for you to feel safe, challenged, and empowered during our time together. The sheer fact that you are seeking support demonstrates an immense strength and courage. As a psychotherapist, I aim to create a non-judgmental, open-minded, and secure environment for clients to explore their feelings candidly and honestly. I utilize a variety of techniques and tailor treatment to the unique needs of the client.
(425) 287-6156 View (425) 287-6156
Photo of Seven Dunsmore, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Seven Dunsmore
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Consciousness is evolving. This is a wonderful time to be alive, but if there is something preventing you from achieving your potential -- I can help. I have over 20 years' experience working in community mental health and in private practice, and my specialties include working through the painful memories of trauma, childhood sexual abuse, family conflict/abuse, and other deprivations which create low self-esteem and cause depression and anxiety. I am also interested in how capitalist culture undermines our ability to express ourselves creatively, and how the pressure of modern life can thwart vitality and hope.
Consciousness is evolving. This is a wonderful time to be alive, but if there is something preventing you from achieving your potential -- I can help. I have over 20 years' experience working in community mental health and in private practice, and my specialties include working through the painful memories of trauma, childhood sexual abuse, family conflict/abuse, and other deprivations which create low self-esteem and cause depression and anxiety. I am also interested in how capitalist culture undermines our ability to express ourselves creatively, and how the pressure of modern life can thwart vitality and hope.
(206) 237-7718 View (206) 237-7718
Photo of Evelyn Jagpat, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Evelyn Jagpat
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP, CDMHRS, CCARS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98113  (Online Only)
I'm a Christian Psychologist and Author with over 25 years of experience. I believe that healing from deep wounds is possible and your negative emotions, life experiences & behaviors don't have to define who you are. You can gain mastery over your thoughts & build a life narrative & healthier experiences & relationships based on your beliefs. I'm committed to providing compassionate & supportive care in an accepting space. Specialties: trauma, sexual abuse, couples therapy, grief/loss. Thrive, let go of fear, fulfill your purpose, walk in wisdom, love freely & be the You-you were created to be. Feel safe to be open, honest & explore
I'm a Christian Psychologist and Author with over 25 years of experience. I believe that healing from deep wounds is possible and your negative emotions, life experiences & behaviors don't have to define who you are. You can gain mastery over your thoughts & build a life narrative & healthier experiences & relationships based on your beliefs. I'm committed to providing compassionate & supportive care in an accepting space. Specialties: trauma, sexual abuse, couples therapy, grief/loss. Thrive, let go of fear, fulfill your purpose, walk in wisdom, love freely & be the You-you were created to be. Feel safe to be open, honest & explore
(512) 549-2704 View (512) 549-2704
Photo of Emily Nayar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Emily Nayar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
For the last 12 years I’ve been working with survivors of sexual assault, childhood abuse and neglect, domestic violence, refugees, and people in recovery.
Do you ever feel that you’re living in the past? The thoughts, memories, and dreams keep coming back? You always feel like something bad is going to happen? These are some of the affects of trauma. Others can include panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Unfortunately we can't talk (or logic) our way out of our body and brain's response to trauma, and often we leave talk therapy feeling like we're spinning our wheels. There is good news: we can help your brain and body heal from trauma so that the past can STAY in the past. Healing is possible, and I’m excited to work with you
For the last 12 years I’ve been working with survivors of sexual assault, childhood abuse and neglect, domestic violence, refugees, and people in recovery.
Do you ever feel that you’re living in the past? The thoughts, memories, and dreams keep coming back? You always feel like something bad is going to happen? These are some of the affects of trauma. Others can include panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Unfortunately we can't talk (or logic) our way out of our body and brain's response to trauma, and often we leave talk therapy feeling like we're spinning our wheels. There is good news: we can help your brain and body heal from trauma so that the past can STAY in the past. Healing is possible, and I’m excited to work with you
(509) 652-2406 View (509) 652-2406
Photo of Kourtney DeBoer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Kourtney DeBoer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSTS, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
It specializes in working with victims and survivors of sexual and relational violence, such as rape and sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and incest, and domestic violence.
If you're grappling with the aftermath of sexual or domestic violence, facing challenges in processing a traumatic childhood, or finding it hard to cope with daily life because of PTSD, know that you're not alone. Moving forward as a survivor can feel daunting, overwhelming, confusing, and immobilizing. But it can and does get better. With a background of nearly 20 years advocating and providing clinical support to victims of sexual violence and other violent crimes, Kourtney DeBoer, LMFT, is committed to walking with you every step of the way on your path to healing and reclaiming your voice, mind, body, and spirit.
It specializes in working with victims and survivors of sexual and relational violence, such as rape and sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and incest, and domestic violence.
If you're grappling with the aftermath of sexual or domestic violence, facing challenges in processing a traumatic childhood, or finding it hard to cope with daily life because of PTSD, know that you're not alone. Moving forward as a survivor can feel daunting, overwhelming, confusing, and immobilizing. But it can and does get better. With a background of nearly 20 years advocating and providing clinical support to victims of sexual violence and other violent crimes, Kourtney DeBoer, LMFT, is committed to walking with you every step of the way on your path to healing and reclaiming your voice, mind, body, and spirit.
(202) 902-8326 View (202) 902-8326
Photo of Ashley Hubbard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Seattle, WA
Ashley Hubbard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
I love helping adults who have experienced childhood trauma or sexual assault heal from early traumatic experiences.
Some days are harder than others. Let’s face it.. some days are a LOT harder than others. Have you ever experienced feeling completely alone when you have been around people all day? Have you experienced childhood abuse or sexual assault, and as a result have a huge hole in your heart that has left you feeling broken and emotionally raw? Have you experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic abuse, struggles with self-esteem, or other sexual struggles? If you have a desire to work on your personal growth and make changes for your emotional wellness, you are in the right place! I provide virtual counseling only.
I love helping adults who have experienced childhood trauma or sexual assault heal from early traumatic experiences.
Some days are harder than others. Let’s face it.. some days are a LOT harder than others. Have you ever experienced feeling completely alone when you have been around people all day? Have you experienced childhood abuse or sexual assault, and as a result have a huge hole in your heart that has left you feeling broken and emotionally raw? Have you experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic abuse, struggles with self-esteem, or other sexual struggles? If you have a desire to work on your personal growth and make changes for your emotional wellness, you are in the right place! I provide virtual counseling only.
(940) 220-3502 View (940) 220-3502
Photo of Dr. Amaris Espinosa, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Amaris Espinosa
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 12 years of experience treating people with PTSD, eating disorders, sexual abuse, interpersonal conflict, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and codependency issues.
I encourage new clients to utilize a free 15-20 minute consultation with me to assure that we are a good match to embark on a therapeutic relationship together. Taking the first steps towards help is difficult and takes a great deal of courage. I work with great care and compassion through multiple modalities to provide my clients the most effective therapy for what is overwhelming them. Feeling more peace and understanding, with a clear pathway to a healthier relationship with yourself and others are the results I provide. Services offered are strength-based, evidenced-based, social justice oriented, and support mind-body-spirit.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 12 years of experience treating people with PTSD, eating disorders, sexual abuse, interpersonal conflict, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and codependency issues.
I encourage new clients to utilize a free 15-20 minute consultation with me to assure that we are a good match to embark on a therapeutic relationship together. Taking the first steps towards help is difficult and takes a great deal of courage. I work with great care and compassion through multiple modalities to provide my clients the most effective therapy for what is overwhelming them. Feeling more peace and understanding, with a clear pathway to a healthier relationship with yourself and others are the results I provide. Services offered are strength-based, evidenced-based, social justice oriented, and support mind-body-spirit.
(970) 458-7287 View (970) 458-7287
Photo of Christy Forrester, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Christy Forrester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I specialize in couples and individuals with concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, PTSD, grief, loss, miscarriage, food/body issues, anger, self-harm, mood disorders, life transitions, relationship issues, sex life, teen issues, parenting, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault.
Are you wishing for better relationships? Feeling anxious, down, lost, or wondering about the meaning of life? Would you like to feel more confident? Hoping to heal after trauma? Going through loss or life transition? We need lots of self-compassion so we can heal and find a better approach to our lives and relationships. I offer a non-judgmental space to be open about your struggles and explore what it means to live in your values. It is through our common humanity that I relate to my clients. I believe the struggles we face also occur in the systems of race, class, gender, sexuality, age, ability, religion, and national identity.
I specialize in couples and individuals with concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, PTSD, grief, loss, miscarriage, food/body issues, anger, self-harm, mood disorders, life transitions, relationship issues, sex life, teen issues, parenting, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault.
Are you wishing for better relationships? Feeling anxious, down, lost, or wondering about the meaning of life? Would you like to feel more confident? Hoping to heal after trauma? Going through loss or life transition? We need lots of self-compassion so we can heal and find a better approach to our lives and relationships. I offer a non-judgmental space to be open about your struggles and explore what it means to live in your values. It is through our common humanity that I relate to my clients. I believe the struggles we face also occur in the systems of race, class, gender, sexuality, age, ability, religion, and national identity.
(206) 207-6684 View (206) 207-6684
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.