Sexual Abuse Therapists in Austin, TX

Photo of Eleny Guerrero Pena, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, trained, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleny Guerrero Pena
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, trained
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78752
Do anxiety, generation trauma ("what happens at home stays home" and never resolved), sexual abuse, addiction and insecurities run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As challenging as those experiences were for the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings.
Do anxiety, generation trauma ("what happens at home stays home" and never resolved), sexual abuse, addiction and insecurities run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As challenging as those experiences were for the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings.
(512) 890-2730 View (512) 890-2730
Photo of Stacy Stewart, PhD, Psychologist
Stacy Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Many people begin seeing a therapist when they are feeling "stuck in a rut", overwhelmed with stress, have lost meaning in their lives, or are feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I am a licensed psychologist, specializing in helping people who are struggling with many different issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life stress, and healing from physical or sexual abuse. As a psychologist, my goal is to assist my clients gain a deeper understanding of the problems and issues that brought them into therapy and help them heal and grow in a meaningful way.
Many people begin seeing a therapist when they are feeling "stuck in a rut", overwhelmed with stress, have lost meaning in their lives, or are feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I am a licensed psychologist, specializing in helping people who are struggling with many different issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life stress, and healing from physical or sexual abuse. As a psychologist, my goal is to assist my clients gain a deeper understanding of the problems and issues that brought them into therapy and help them heal and grow in a meaningful way.
(512) 814-9520 View (512) 814-9520
Photo of Taralynn Robinson, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taralynn Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78732
It’s my fault. I should have known better. I could have stopped it. If you are here you may have experienced sexual abuse as a child or someone has forced, tricked, or pressured you into something sexual. Your mind screamed no, but your voice remained silent. Fear paralyzed you. Memories are foggy, but haunting. You feel dirty, used and ashamed. You hate your body. Anxiety and sadness consume you. It feels like you have been torn to pieces and your power taken. Every decision and feeling is followed by confusion and doubt. Can I ever trust my instincts again? All you want is to forget it happened and move on with your life.
It’s my fault. I should have known better. I could have stopped it. If you are here you may have experienced sexual abuse as a child or someone has forced, tricked, or pressured you into something sexual. Your mind screamed no, but your voice remained silent. Fear paralyzed you. Memories are foggy, but haunting. You feel dirty, used and ashamed. You hate your body. Anxiety and sadness consume you. It feels like you have been torn to pieces and your power taken. Every decision and feeling is followed by confusion and doubt. Can I ever trust my instincts again? All you want is to forget it happened and move on with your life.
(737) 204-5990 View (737) 204-5990
Photo of Dr. Evelyn Jagpat, PsyD, CCTP, CDMHRS, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Evelyn Jagpat
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP, CDMHRS, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a Psychologist and Author with over 25 years of experience. I believe that healing from deep wounds is possible & negative emotions, life experiences, thoughts & behavior patterns don't have to define or limit you. I'm committed to providing compassionate & supportive care in an accepting & safe space. Specialties: Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Grief/loss & integrating Christian faith into everyday life/problems. I help you to Thrive. I was the featured Psychologist in "Our Journey Alive Documentary" about the healing journey of abuse survivors. Get ready to Hope-Love-Live
I'm a Psychologist and Author with over 25 years of experience. I believe that healing from deep wounds is possible & negative emotions, life experiences, thoughts & behavior patterns don't have to define or limit you. I'm committed to providing compassionate & supportive care in an accepting & safe space. Specialties: Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Grief/loss & integrating Christian faith into everyday life/problems. I help you to Thrive. I was the featured Psychologist in "Our Journey Alive Documentary" about the healing journey of abuse survivors. Get ready to Hope-Love-Live
(512) 549-2704 View (512) 549-2704
Photo of Kathryn (Katie) Barksdale, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn (Katie) Barksdale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I've worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for ten years as an advocate.
You're here because you're hurting. Maybe it's from a past abusive relationship -- romantic or otherwise. Perhaps you had a neglectful, dismissive, or intrusive parents. Maybe you experienced sexual abuse. Whatever the reason, you find yourself anxious, numb, or just plain overwhelmed by your feelings. Sometimes you find it hard to enjoy life, the past keeps coming up. You find yourself wishing you didn't feel the things you do. You're afraid that there's something wrong with you because you can't get over it. I'm here to tell you that there's hope. Therapy can help with these issues and you don't have to do it alone.
I've worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for ten years as an advocate.
You're here because you're hurting. Maybe it's from a past abusive relationship -- romantic or otherwise. Perhaps you had a neglectful, dismissive, or intrusive parents. Maybe you experienced sexual abuse. Whatever the reason, you find yourself anxious, numb, or just plain overwhelmed by your feelings. Sometimes you find it hard to enjoy life, the past keeps coming up. You find yourself wishing you didn't feel the things you do. You're afraid that there's something wrong with you because you can't get over it. I'm here to tell you that there's hope. Therapy can help with these issues and you don't have to do it alone.
(512) 710-1354 View (512) 710-1354
Photo of Lacey Castilleja Fisher - Open Heart Counseling of Austin/Trauma & Grief , LPC-S, RPT-S, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Open Heart Counseling of Austin/Trauma & Grief
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
This includes: trauma, sexual abuse, grief & loss, fertility treatments, donor recipient consultations, TFMR, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, body image, family of origin, addictions, anxiety, depression and so much more.
Immediate Openings! Open Heart Counseling of Austin (OHC) is a group practice founded by Lacey Castilleja Fisher. Lacey wanted to create a practice that is all inclusive so the community can have a safe space to come and share their stories as they find healing after they have experienced trauma. Survivors of trauma often feel worried that they cannot share their experiences with others because it is too difficult to hear. Our therapists are able to sit with you to hear your story as many times as you need to tell it. When you are ready, we are here to hold hope for you as you begin your healing journey, with an Open Heart.
This includes: trauma, sexual abuse, grief & loss, fertility treatments, donor recipient consultations, TFMR, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, body image, family of origin, addictions, anxiety, depression and so much more.
Immediate Openings! Open Heart Counseling of Austin (OHC) is a group practice founded by Lacey Castilleja Fisher. Lacey wanted to create a practice that is all inclusive so the community can have a safe space to come and share their stories as they find healing after they have experienced trauma. Survivors of trauma often feel worried that they cannot share their experiences with others because it is too difficult to hear. Our therapists are able to sit with you to hear your story as many times as you need to tell it. When you are ready, we are here to hold hope for you as you begin your healing journey, with an Open Heart.
(512) 399-4584 View (512) 399-4584
Photo of Roxana Ortega-Hart, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roxana Ortega-Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have focused on the areas of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. I provide free consultations so you can get an idea if we are a good fit. It has been my passion the last 17 years to help people after experiencing traumatic events. I am trained in EMDR which is also known as "no talk therapy". You can share as much or as little as you like making it a preferable type of therapy for those struggling with trauma but not comfortable talking about it. I have also worked closely with first responders for the last 10 years making me familiar with the culture. I also provide consultation and subject matter testimony for domestic violence trials.
I have focused on the areas of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. I provide free consultations so you can get an idea if we are a good fit. It has been my passion the last 17 years to help people after experiencing traumatic events. I am trained in EMDR which is also known as "no talk therapy". You can share as much or as little as you like making it a preferable type of therapy for those struggling with trauma but not comfortable talking about it. I have also worked closely with first responders for the last 10 years making me familiar with the culture. I also provide consultation and subject matter testimony for domestic violence trials.
(737) 300-9232 View (737) 300-9232
Photo of Stephanie Burgess, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Burgess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive training and experience working with domestic violence, sexual abuse, and grief/loss.
Have you experienced a traumatic event, or multiple traumatic events, that lead you questioning when the next bad thing will happen? Have your experiences led you to negative self talk and to feel hard on yourself? Oftentimes someone who has experienced a traumatic event will find themselves feeling ashamed and a burden to those who love them. I enjoy empowering clients to process the heavy things on their heart and mind that maybe don't feel safe to share with others. Together we can build coping skills, incorporate mindfulness techniques, and utilize EMDR to get you moving forward with less stress.
I have extensive training and experience working with domestic violence, sexual abuse, and grief/loss.
Have you experienced a traumatic event, or multiple traumatic events, that lead you questioning when the next bad thing will happen? Have your experiences led you to negative self talk and to feel hard on yourself? Oftentimes someone who has experienced a traumatic event will find themselves feeling ashamed and a burden to those who love them. I enjoy empowering clients to process the heavy things on their heart and mind that maybe don't feel safe to share with others. Together we can build coping skills, incorporate mindfulness techniques, and utilize EMDR to get you moving forward with less stress.
(512) 877-1672 View (512) 877-1672
Photo of Christina Marie Watson, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Marie Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
I have experience in providing counseling to individuals who suffer from the effects of trauma, such as sexual assault, domestic violence, neglect and emotional abuse.
Plagued with constant negative thoughts? Feel like you're in a fog or find yourself on autopilot? If these questions seem all too familiar, don't panic there is hope... I have a passion for working with individuals who have lost their drive, that fire and sense of hope that makes life exciting and worthwhile. I would like to help you move forward to find that spark deep inside. I will tailor the counseling experience to meet your specific needs and unique personality. I will work in collaboration with you to identify problematic areas and help you achieve your personal goals.
I have experience in providing counseling to individuals who suffer from the effects of trauma, such as sexual assault, domestic violence, neglect and emotional abuse.
Plagued with constant negative thoughts? Feel like you're in a fog or find yourself on autopilot? If these questions seem all too familiar, don't panic there is hope... I have a passion for working with individuals who have lost their drive, that fire and sense of hope that makes life exciting and worthwhile. I would like to help you move forward to find that spark deep inside. I will tailor the counseling experience to meet your specific needs and unique personality. I will work in collaboration with you to identify problematic areas and help you achieve your personal goals.
(512) 843-7068 View (512) 843-7068
Photo of Ailyn Corchado, LMSW, LCDC, CCAIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ailyn Corchado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCDC, CCAIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. Hi, I’m Ailyn (I-lean)! As a therapist, I combine personal insight and professional expertise to support individuals navigating substance use, anxiety, OCD, and the lasting effects of childhood sexual assault. I understand how overwhelming these challenges can feel, but I also believe in the incredible power of resilience and growth. Together, we’ll work to confront fears, manage emotions, and build practical tools to navigate life’s toughest moments. In addition to therapy, I offer substance abuse evaluations to meet your needs. Let’s take that first step towards healing!
Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. Hi, I’m Ailyn (I-lean)! As a therapist, I combine personal insight and professional expertise to support individuals navigating substance use, anxiety, OCD, and the lasting effects of childhood sexual assault. I understand how overwhelming these challenges can feel, but I also believe in the incredible power of resilience and growth. Together, we’ll work to confront fears, manage emotions, and build practical tools to navigate life’s toughest moments. In addition to therapy, I offer substance abuse evaluations to meet your needs. Let’s take that first step towards healing!
(512) 714-3277 View (512) 714-3277
Photo of Carol Hernandez, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with managing their emotions, anxiety, depression, stress, single parents, neurodivergent individuals (ADHD), are part of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, immigrant population, and survivors of trauma, specifically sexual assault and intergenerational trauma.
Hi! I am a bilingual Latina therapist, hablo español, and utilize trauma-informed care and cultural awareness in my work with individuals. I consider myself someone who is driven and motivated to provide support, guidance, and tools to improve one's goals within their own personal life journey. I also think of myself and my client as a team, where we work together so that you may heal, learn, grow, and thrive.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with managing their emotions, anxiety, depression, stress, single parents, neurodivergent individuals (ADHD), are part of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, immigrant population, and survivors of trauma, specifically sexual assault and intergenerational trauma.
Hi! I am a bilingual Latina therapist, hablo español, and utilize trauma-informed care and cultural awareness in my work with individuals. I consider myself someone who is driven and motivated to provide support, guidance, and tools to improve one's goals within their own personal life journey. I also think of myself and my client as a team, where we work together so that you may heal, learn, grow, and thrive.
(737) 252-4139 View (737) 252-4139
Photo of Ashley Hubbard, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Hubbard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
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 Miracle Obeta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miracle Obeta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
If you or your child have experienced trauma, dysfunction, sexual abuse or you've perpetrated on someone, I can help.
You're probably wondering how I can best meet your therapeutic needs. With so many options out there, I wouldn't blame you. The truth is that we'll both work together to identity what those needs are, starting exactly where you're comfortable, and working together to ignite clarity, bring about healing, and restore hope within you or your family, one therapeutic session at a time. With over seven years of experience working with patients in the medical field, children/families in child welfare and mental health institutions, you'll be attended to with the most up to date evidence based practice tools and methods.
If you or your child have experienced trauma, dysfunction, sexual abuse or you've perpetrated on someone, I can help.
You're probably wondering how I can best meet your therapeutic needs. With so many options out there, I wouldn't blame you. The truth is that we'll both work together to identity what those needs are, starting exactly where you're comfortable, and working together to ignite clarity, bring about healing, and restore hope within you or your family, one therapeutic session at a time. With over seven years of experience working with patients in the medical field, children/families in child welfare and mental health institutions, you'll be attended to with the most up to date evidence based practice tools and methods.
(405) 363-2342 View (405) 363-2342
Photo of Lorena Mendoza Gibson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lorena Mendoza Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78739
Hi, I am Lorena Mendoza Gibson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with over 17 years of experience. My focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults in areas such as trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, LGBTQIA+, and women's issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Eclectic, Client-Centered, and Reality Therapy.
Hi, I am Lorena Mendoza Gibson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with over 17 years of experience. My focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults in areas such as trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, LGBTQIA+, and women's issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Eclectic, Client-Centered, and Reality Therapy.
(512) 866-9696 View (512) 866-9696
Photo of Katey Wagner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katey Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to therapy, I am honored to join you on this journey. I believe healing happens in the context of connection and support. And I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe sharing your story and exploring areas for growth and change. I specialize in partnering with survivors of sexual abuse on their path to healing.
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to therapy, I am honored to join you on this journey. I believe healing happens in the context of connection and support. And I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe sharing your story and exploring areas for growth and change. I specialize in partnering with survivors of sexual abuse on their path to healing.
(512) 866-7438 View (512) 866-7438
Photo of Russell Kauitzsch - Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
At Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists, our skilled counselors work with many different populations and needs! Our greatest areas of experience include trauma, crisis, sexual abuse/ assault, EMDR, grief and loss, LGBTQ+, gender identity, Military, First Responders, and most general counseling needs as well. If you are looking to heal, grow and/or make a change, counseling is a great way to do that; to find or restore balance, peace, calm, well-being, and overall happiness. We believe in the power of healthy therapeutic relationships and are dedicated to helping you reach your counseling goals. We are here when you are ready!
At Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists, our skilled counselors work with many different populations and needs! Our greatest areas of experience include trauma, crisis, sexual abuse/ assault, EMDR, grief and loss, LGBTQ+, gender identity, Military, First Responders, and most general counseling needs as well. If you are looking to heal, grow and/or make a change, counseling is a great way to do that; to find or restore balance, peace, calm, well-being, and overall happiness. We believe in the power of healthy therapeutic relationships and are dedicated to helping you reach your counseling goals. We are here when you are ready!
(512) 237-7975 View (512) 237-7975
Photo of Aubrey Jones, MAT, LPC-A
Aubrey Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MAT, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
In my therapeutic practice, I am committed to providing compassionate and inclusive support to individuals with diverse needs. I have extensive experience working with clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including but not limited to eating disorders, trauma, mood disorders, intellectual disabilities, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding that each person's journey is unique. My clients value the opportunity to process utilizing both Art Therapy and Talk Therapy.
In my therapeutic practice, I am committed to providing compassionate and inclusive support to individuals with diverse needs. I have extensive experience working with clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including but not limited to eating disorders, trauma, mood disorders, intellectual disabilities, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding that each person's journey is unique. My clients value the opportunity to process utilizing both Art Therapy and Talk Therapy.
(430) 758-5305 View (430) 758-5305
Photo of Nicole Garcia, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize as a trauma therapist, specifically working with clients with domestic violence, sexual assault and other trauma history.
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
I specialize as a trauma therapist, specifically working with clients with domestic violence, sexual assault and other trauma history.
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
(737) 215-3881 View (737) 215-3881
Photo of Carrie J Visger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie J Visger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with families that have experienced domestic violence and survivors of sexual assault.
Life can be so challenging. Even when "good" things happen to us, it can bring stress and grief. Deciding to work with a counselor is a bold and brave step toward coping with whatever life is giving you. Having a person to help you process issues is liberating. By learning about your strengths and by learning how to use them effectively, you can begin to heal and transform into the person you were meant to be. I have worked with many different presenting issues including anxiety, depression, lgbtqia+ issues, family and parenting issues, school related issues/microaggressions, and many more.
I have extensive experience working with families that have experienced domestic violence and survivors of sexual assault.
Life can be so challenging. Even when "good" things happen to us, it can bring stress and grief. Deciding to work with a counselor is a bold and brave step toward coping with whatever life is giving you. Having a person to help you process issues is liberating. By learning about your strengths and by learning how to use them effectively, you can begin to heal and transform into the person you were meant to be. I have worked with many different presenting issues including anxiety, depression, lgbtqia+ issues, family and parenting issues, school related issues/microaggressions, and many more.
(210) 879-1342 View (210) 879-1342
Photo of Andrea Addie, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Addie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78730
Have you found yourself overwhelmed by the weight of past trauma either from childhood abuse, intergenerational trauma, or sexual assault & feeling stuck with the memories playing out in your head? Or maybe you’ve been saying “I need to get back to my old self,” or “I’ve been dealing with a lot lately” & hoping for the insight or tools to change that? I work with adults & LGBTQIA folks just like you: ones that have it within them to thrive again after trauma & life challenges, but just need the support to tap into their strengths to get there or support gathering & sorting pieces of life to make sense of everything.
Have you found yourself overwhelmed by the weight of past trauma either from childhood abuse, intergenerational trauma, or sexual assault & feeling stuck with the memories playing out in your head? Or maybe you’ve been saying “I need to get back to my old self,” or “I’ve been dealing with a lot lately” & hoping for the insight or tools to change that? I work with adults & LGBTQIA folks just like you: ones that have it within them to thrive again after trauma & life challenges, but just need the support to tap into their strengths to get there or support gathering & sorting pieces of life to make sense of everything.
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Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.