Photo of Giselle Montemayor Solis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
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 Yesica Rosas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Yesica Rosas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352
I have extensive training on victimization and trauma, focusing on sexual abuse and domestic violence.
I like to have a conversation. The idea of counseling and being “in therapy” can be overwhelming. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable in this way can seem like too great an undertaking. First is a conversation. We start here to learn which therapeutic approach works best for you. The treatment methods and techniques are varied depending on the client’s needs and goals. My goal is to help each client identify what is most impacting and affecting their well-being, and helping to find correlating themes in stressors that may initially seem unrelated but taxing.
I have extensive training on victimization and trauma, focusing on sexual abuse and domestic violence.
I like to have a conversation. The idea of counseling and being “in therapy” can be overwhelming. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable in this way can seem like too great an undertaking. First is a conversation. We start here to learn which therapeutic approach works best for you. The treatment methods and techniques are varied depending on the client’s needs and goals. My goal is to help each client identify what is most impacting and affecting their well-being, and helping to find correlating themes in stressors that may initially seem unrelated but taxing.
(509) 398-9404 View (509) 398-9404
Photo of Brito-Melo Counseling, PLLC , Counselor in Washington
Brito-Melo Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Waitlist for new clients
My passion for helping others developed while serving in my collateral role as a Victim Advocate for military sexual assault victims during the last five years of my career.
Hello, my name is Venette and I am a transplant from San Diego. My primary areas of focus are anxiety/panic disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, adjustment disorder, cultural and ethnic issues, spiritual and faith-based counseling, and working with the veteran/military connected population. As a 20-year Marine Corps veteran myself, I am both confident and comfortable serving this population that I have proudly identified with for the last three decades. I have witnessed through my own children, stepchildren, spouse, and fellow veterans, the psychological distress that comes from serving in the military.
My passion for helping others developed while serving in my collateral role as a Victim Advocate for military sexual assault victims during the last five years of my career.
Hello, my name is Venette and I am a transplant from San Diego. My primary areas of focus are anxiety/panic disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, adjustment disorder, cultural and ethnic issues, spiritual and faith-based counseling, and working with the veteran/military connected population. As a 20-year Marine Corps veteran myself, I am both confident and comfortable serving this population that I have proudly identified with for the last three decades. I have witnessed through my own children, stepchildren, spouse, and fellow veterans, the psychological distress that comes from serving in the military.
(509) 739-3546 View (509) 739-3546
Photo of Adriana Vargas, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington
Adriana Vargas
Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
I specialize in working with women and men who struggle with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family issues, sexual abuse, and PTSD.
Meaning of life is different for everyone and everyone has their own mission that permits one a great sense of fulfillment in their lives. We are unique when dealing with challenges in life, and at times might need support in finding a purpose that promotes inner growth and self-awareness. Finding solutions can become challenging at times but with an engaging therapeutic relationship, one's challenges become meaningful and solvable feats. . How can we make sense of obstacles that damp many of our dreams and plans for life? How do we confront difficulties with curiosity and self-awareness
I specialize in working with women and men who struggle with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family issues, sexual abuse, and PTSD.
Meaning of life is different for everyone and everyone has their own mission that permits one a great sense of fulfillment in their lives. We are unique when dealing with challenges in life, and at times might need support in finding a purpose that promotes inner growth and self-awareness. Finding solutions can become challenging at times but with an engaging therapeutic relationship, one's challenges become meaningful and solvable feats. . How can we make sense of obstacles that damp many of our dreams and plans for life? How do we confront difficulties with curiosity and self-awareness
(509) 383-8689 View (509) 383-8689
Photo of Claudia Correa, Counselor in Washington
Claudia Correa
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I have navigated with my clients through a range of issues including post-traumatic-stress-disorder, sexual assault and abuse, anxiety, gender identity, relationship concerns, mood disorders, and religious faith crises.
As your therapist, I will explore your concerns and assist you in uncovering deeper issues that might be hindering or influencing your relationships and your worldview. “Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” -- Dr. Viktor Frankl, Holocaust survivor, existentialist, and founder of Logotherapy (concept based on the premise that the primary motivational force of an individual is to find a meaning in life).
I have navigated with my clients through a range of issues including post-traumatic-stress-disorder, sexual assault and abuse, anxiety, gender identity, relationship concerns, mood disorders, and religious faith crises.
As your therapist, I will explore your concerns and assist you in uncovering deeper issues that might be hindering or influencing your relationships and your worldview. “Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” -- Dr. Viktor Frankl, Holocaust survivor, existentialist, and founder of Logotherapy (concept based on the premise that the primary motivational force of an individual is to find a meaning in life).
(206) 350-2239 View (206) 350-2239
Photo of Dr. Amaris Espinosa, Psychologist in Washington
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 Northwest EMDR Therapy, Counselor in Washington
Northwest EMDR Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
If you feel blocked in traditional therapy, suffered a trauma such as an accident, physical or sexual abuse, child abuse, the death of a loved one, a pattern of unsuccessful relationships, if you suffer from anxiety, depression, brooding or worry, addiction, or a phobia then I believe that we can find you the power to heal through the use of EMDR and other therapeutic practices.
If you feel blocked in traditional therapy, suffered a trauma such as an accident, physical or sexual abuse, child abuse, the death of a loved one, a pattern of unsuccessful relationships, if you suffer from anxiety, depression, brooding or worry, addiction, or a phobia then I believe that we can find you the power to heal through the use of EMDR and other therapeutic practices.
(360) 233-8018 View (360) 233-8018
Photo of Leslie Vriesman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Leslie Vriesman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
I specialize in working with women and men who struggle with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family issues, sexual abuse, PTSD, body image and spirituality.
**CURRENTLY OFFERING TELETHERAPY SESSIONS in ARIZONA & WASHINGTON** Relationships can be challenging, particularly the ones that are most important to us. We want to feel known, connected and loved but often end up hurt and lonely, stuck in patterns which aren't working. Relational pain can show up as anxiety, fear, depression or grief among other things. I have extensive training in Psychodyamic Therapy. I have also learned directly from masters in the field of Couples Therapy: John & Julie Gottman and Phil Ringstrom to address these very issues.
I specialize in working with women and men who struggle with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family issues, sexual abuse, PTSD, body image and spirituality.
**CURRENTLY OFFERING TELETHERAPY SESSIONS in ARIZONA & WASHINGTON** Relationships can be challenging, particularly the ones that are most important to us. We want to feel known, connected and loved but often end up hurt and lonely, stuck in patterns which aren't working. Relational pain can show up as anxiety, fear, depression or grief among other things. I have extensive training in Psychodyamic Therapy. I have also learned directly from masters in the field of Couples Therapy: John & Julie Gottman and Phil Ringstrom to address these very issues.
(602) 560-2460 View (602) 560-2460
Photo of Jamie Katz, Counselor in Washington
Jamie Katz
Counselor, MSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
Welcome! For some, seeking help from a mental health professional can feel overwhelming, intimidating. Finding an understanding therapist who is best suited to your needs can be the first step towards a happier and more meaningful life. I work with adults and adolescents from a place of respect and compassion and believe that real transformation happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship. I value approaches that have been researched and proven to be effective, and tailor treatment to meet the needs of each individual. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, and gender dysphoria.
Welcome! For some, seeking help from a mental health professional can feel overwhelming, intimidating. Finding an understanding therapist who is best suited to your needs can be the first step towards a happier and more meaningful life. I work with adults and adolescents from a place of respect and compassion and believe that real transformation happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship. I value approaches that have been researched and proven to be effective, and tailor treatment to meet the needs of each individual. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, and gender dysphoria.
(206) 210-3557 View (206) 210-3557
Photo of Karolina Williams Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Karolina Williams Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98155
Some of my specialties include: trauma, sexual abuse/assault, pre-natal/post-partum issues, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, self-esteem, spirituality and parenting.
Finding a "good fit" is essential when looking for a therapist. You should feel safe to be your authentic self without feeling judgment. I believe the client/therapist relationship is primary for healing and effective work. Within that relationship, I consider you the expert on your own life. While thoughtfully listening, I will also offer insights, invitations to try something new, and help you in building new skills and finding solutions. People tend to find me warm, accepting, and engaging.
Some of my specialties include: trauma, sexual abuse/assault, pre-natal/post-partum issues, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, self-esteem, spirituality and parenting.
Finding a "good fit" is essential when looking for a therapist. You should feel safe to be your authentic self without feeling judgment. I believe the client/therapist relationship is primary for healing and effective work. Within that relationship, I consider you the expert on your own life. While thoughtfully listening, I will also offer insights, invitations to try something new, and help you in building new skills and finding solutions. People tend to find me warm, accepting, and engaging.
(206) 785-3653 View (206) 785-3653
Photo of Makayla Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Makayla Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98444
Waitlist for new clients
I am interested in supporting you through transitions, trauma, and life changes that can be difficult to navigate. I utilize a trauma-informed approach that is grounded in social justice, lived experience, and uplifting community. I have primarily worked with youth and also have experience working with LGBTQIA adults and survivors of assault through therapeutic groups and advocacy work. I am committed to supporting those who have been marginalized and believe that healing and justice is necessary for our communities.
I am interested in supporting you through transitions, trauma, and life changes that can be difficult to navigate. I utilize a trauma-informed approach that is grounded in social justice, lived experience, and uplifting community. I have primarily worked with youth and also have experience working with LGBTQIA adults and survivors of assault through therapeutic groups and advocacy work. I am committed to supporting those who have been marginalized and believe that healing and justice is necessary for our communities.
(425) 215-0285 View (425) 215-0285
Photo of Dr. Maria D Reyes, Counselor in Washington
Dr. Maria D Reyes
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, NCC, BCPCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370  (Online Only)
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma including PTSD or sexual abuse, abandonment, or other difficult circumstances, it would be my honor to help you learn practical tools to move toward complete healing and wholeness. I have extensive clinical experience working with patients with a variety of backgrounds and mental health conditions. If you feel stuck in a rut and you’ve been tempted to give up, I will come alongside you to lift you out of the darkness and into the light. I understand the courage it takes to step out of your abyss and ask for help. You are not alone; help is available.
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma including PTSD or sexual abuse, abandonment, or other difficult circumstances, it would be my honor to help you learn practical tools to move toward complete healing and wholeness. I have extensive clinical experience working with patients with a variety of backgrounds and mental health conditions. If you feel stuck in a rut and you’ve been tempted to give up, I will come alongside you to lift you out of the darkness and into the light. I understand the courage it takes to step out of your abyss and ask for help. You are not alone; help is available.
(206) 825-6515 View (206) 825-6515
Photo of Brandy Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Washington
Brandy Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In the past, I've worked at the Sexual Assault Response Center, Lutheran Community Services, and interned at Benton/Franklin Juvenile Justice.
It is of my personal belief that within most of us lies the resources to live a happy life. Unfortunately, things such as trauma, environmental stressors, or a lack of skills can get in the way of our ability to access these resources. Think of the last time you felt an overwhelming sense of peace, whether that be while soaking in a beautiful scenery, or watching children play. This "peace," or what I call "True Self," is within all of us.
In the past, I've worked at the Sexual Assault Response Center, Lutheran Community Services, and interned at Benton/Franklin Juvenile Justice.
It is of my personal belief that within most of us lies the resources to live a happy life. Unfortunately, things such as trauma, environmental stressors, or a lack of skills can get in the way of our ability to access these resources. Think of the last time you felt an overwhelming sense of peace, whether that be while soaking in a beautiful scenery, or watching children play. This "peace," or what I call "True Self," is within all of us.
(509) 492-1108 View (509) 492-1108
Photo of Tracey Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Tracey Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98422
Tracey offers supportive, caring, solution- focused methods and has a special gift to heal those who have suffered from emotional, physical, sexual abuse, and trauma issues.
Tracey's calling is to comfort the hurting, to heal the broken hearted, and help people find peace........ Therapy is a powerful experience of growth and change. I work with individuals, couples, families, and teenagers to successfully reduce stress, anxiety, and depression; strengthen relationships; resolve grief, past traumas, and internal conflict. Together we will work on modifying negative thinking and self destructive behaviors, build self esteem and better thoughts; enhance intimacy, foster self discovery; and help to improve one's overall quality of life experiences.
Tracey offers supportive, caring, solution- focused methods and has a special gift to heal those who have suffered from emotional, physical, sexual abuse, and trauma issues.
Tracey's calling is to comfort the hurting, to heal the broken hearted, and help people find peace........ Therapy is a powerful experience of growth and change. I work with individuals, couples, families, and teenagers to successfully reduce stress, anxiety, and depression; strengthen relationships; resolve grief, past traumas, and internal conflict. Together we will work on modifying negative thinking and self destructive behaviors, build self esteem and better thoughts; enhance intimacy, foster self discovery; and help to improve one's overall quality of life experiences.
(253) 292-6201 View (253) 292-6201
Photo of Randy Marinez, Counselor in Washington
Randy Marinez
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
Working with sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQ community means that I am adept at helping clients work-through attachment issues.
I have been counseling since 1981 and opened my private practice in 1988. I have expertise in working with individuals around their history of sexual victimization, people healing from trauma and LGBTQ life issues. I also specialize in working with couples whether poly, open, heterosexual and/or gay. Included within my expertise is the breadth of issues surrounding sexuality and attachment. I also specialize in helping people become aware of and channel their emotions in a healthy way. Moreover, people who are grappling with existential issues, developmental transitions or life changes find meaning in working with me as well.
Working with sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQ community means that I am adept at helping clients work-through attachment issues.
I have been counseling since 1981 and opened my private practice in 1988. I have expertise in working with individuals around their history of sexual victimization, people healing from trauma and LGBTQ life issues. I also specialize in working with couples whether poly, open, heterosexual and/or gay. Included within my expertise is the breadth of issues surrounding sexuality and attachment. I also specialize in helping people become aware of and channel their emotions in a healthy way. Moreover, people who are grappling with existential issues, developmental transitions or life changes find meaning in working with me as well.
(206) 745-5831 View (206) 745-5831
Photo of Yolanda Villegas, Counselor in Washington
Yolanda Villegas
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Another interest is working with people suffering from PTSD (Traumatic Stress Disorders), having been exposed to a traumatic event such as; assault, domestic violence, or other accident.
My desire is to help you resolve issues that are having a negative effect on your life. These can be issues related to relationships, family, work, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and parenting. As a Latina, I am aware of cultural barriers, and I would like to help you overcome those barriers.
Another interest is working with people suffering from PTSD (Traumatic Stress Disorders), having been exposed to a traumatic event such as; assault, domestic violence, or other accident.
My desire is to help you resolve issues that are having a negative effect on your life. These can be issues related to relationships, family, work, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and parenting. As a Latina, I am aware of cultural barriers, and I would like to help you overcome those barriers.
(253) 617-7759 View (253) 617-7759
Photo of Liz Rivelin, Counselor in Washington
Liz Rivelin
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral health, PTSD, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.
I am a warm, empathic, and gently challenging counselor. I draw from a range of therapeutic treatment modalities to tailor therapy to you as a unique individual. I welcome enquiries from adults, children and teenagers experiencing a wide range of difficulties. I am dedicated to understanding the internal and external strengths that are inherent in each of us. My clients come to me because they enjoy the deep sense of trust, safety and mutual respect that I create. I look forward to meeting you and beginning the exciting and challenging journey towards positive and enduring change.
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral health, PTSD, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.
I am a warm, empathic, and gently challenging counselor. I draw from a range of therapeutic treatment modalities to tailor therapy to you as a unique individual. I welcome enquiries from adults, children and teenagers experiencing a wide range of difficulties. I am dedicated to understanding the internal and external strengths that are inherent in each of us. My clients come to me because they enjoy the deep sense of trust, safety and mutual respect that I create. I look forward to meeting you and beginning the exciting and challenging journey towards positive and enduring change.
(425) 470-6362 View (425) 470-6362
Photo of Audie D Whitaker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Audie D Whitaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
I work with many people experiencing traumatic stress from abuse, assault, dysphoria, medical trauma, grief, and life changes.
If you’ve been struggling to find a therapist experienced in working with your situation I encourage you to email me. I’m currently taking in-person appointments in Indiana and online in Washington. I specialize in treating trauma, sexual and gender issues and personality disorders. I have 10 years clinical experience serving Greater Lafayette and 15 years total working with individuals and couples of all ages. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and trained in multiple approaches to treating PTSD. I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the best way that we can work together to help you overcome your stress.
I work with many people experiencing traumatic stress from abuse, assault, dysphoria, medical trauma, grief, and life changes.
If you’ve been struggling to find a therapist experienced in working with your situation I encourage you to email me. I’m currently taking in-person appointments in Indiana and online in Washington. I specialize in treating trauma, sexual and gender issues and personality disorders. I have 10 years clinical experience serving Greater Lafayette and 15 years total working with individuals and couples of all ages. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and trained in multiple approaches to treating PTSD. I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the best way that we can work together to help you overcome your stress.
(765) 345-4137 View (765) 345-4137
Photo of Cristina Neuenschwander, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington
Cristina Neuenschwander
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
As a trauma-informed therapist, I am passionate about walking along side others on their journey toward wholeness and healing. I work primarily with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing a wide range of emotional or behavioral issues. All of us have experienced suffering or relational brokenness within our stories that can feel confusing or hard to address. While we are most often harmed in relationship, it is also in relationship that we heal. It is my hope that in our sessions, you will experience the relief of engaging the hard moments of your story in the presence of a supportive witness as you move toward healing.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I am passionate about walking along side others on their journey toward wholeness and healing. I work primarily with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing a wide range of emotional or behavioral issues. All of us have experienced suffering or relational brokenness within our stories that can feel confusing or hard to address. While we are most often harmed in relationship, it is also in relationship that we heal. It is my hope that in our sessions, you will experience the relief of engaging the hard moments of your story in the presence of a supportive witness as you move toward healing.
(425) 600-9103 View (425) 600-9103
Photo of Hanan Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Hanan Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336
I tailor my particular focus and therapeutic approach to your needs. I believe that every individual possesses strength and potential to navigate through the challenges in their life. I aim to be by your side throughout your healing journey and assist you discover your potential right where you are through guidance, understanding, and processing your emotions, feelings, and memories tied to your life experiences. With the intent of developing healthier and more adaptive meaning of those experiences. Ultimately, enhancing your emotional and overall wellbeing.
I tailor my particular focus and therapeutic approach to your needs. I believe that every individual possesses strength and potential to navigate through the challenges in their life. I aim to be by your side throughout your healing journey and assist you discover your potential right where you are through guidance, understanding, and processing your emotions, feelings, and memories tied to your life experiences. With the intent of developing healthier and more adaptive meaning of those experiences. Ultimately, enhancing your emotional and overall wellbeing.
(509) 797-7739 View (509) 797-7739
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.