Sexual Abuse Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Rosalynn Recine, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Emily Wood, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Emily Wood
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
If you're reading this you're struggling in some way and could benefit from real, concrete and evidence-based support. I'd be happy to help! I use a person-centered approach that leverages an individual's natural resilience. But you don't have to suffer alone - it's helpful to find a supportive relationship in which to sort out thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are overwhelming or no longer serve us. I've had the great honor of seeing clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, relationship struggles and life uncertainty. Whether it's trouble sleeping, life overwhelm or general discontent, I'd love to help make meaningful change!
If you're reading this you're struggling in some way and could benefit from real, concrete and evidence-based support. I'd be happy to help! I use a person-centered approach that leverages an individual's natural resilience. But you don't have to suffer alone - it's helpful to find a supportive relationship in which to sort out thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are overwhelming or no longer serve us. I've had the great honor of seeing clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, relationship struggles and life uncertainty. Whether it's trouble sleeping, life overwhelm or general discontent, I'd love to help make meaningful change!
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Photo of Tracy C. Bryan, PsyD, Counselor
Tracy C. Bryan
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
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.
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Photo of Ben Watson, LSWAIC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
I wholeheartedly believe the greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, we 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 immense strength. 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.
I wholeheartedly believe the greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, we 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 immense strength. 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 Brook Avidon, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Brook Avidon
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
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 Charlotte Jarvis, LMHCA , Pre-Licensed Professional
Charlotte Jarvis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’re a survivor of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Narcissistic Abuse 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.
If you’re a survivor of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Narcissistic Abuse 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.
(206) 759-5250 View (206) 759-5250
Photo of Dan Woodard, MA, LMHC, Counselor
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 Alisa Horwitz, PhD, Psychologist
Alisa Horwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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.
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Photo of Ilana Skarling, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilana Skarling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a trans woman and licensed clinical social worker in the states of Washington, Vermont, and Minnesota, with over seven years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health.
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, feelings of isolation or rejection, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you needed to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
I'm a trans woman and licensed clinical social worker in the states of Washington, Vermont, and Minnesota, with over seven years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health.
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, feelings of isolation or rejection, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you needed to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
(206) 752-5508 View (206) 752-5508
Photo of Wendell Demarr Moss - Wendell Moss MA Counseling, MA, Counselor
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 Meghann Reis, PsyD, Psychologist
Meghann Reis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I also have specific expertise in treating people who are recovering from relationship and sexual abuse trauma and coping with depressive and/or anxious symptoms.
Note name change: formerly Meghann Case Platt. If you have been feeling stuck, dissatisfied, disempowered, or overwhelmed by the idea of making a change, together we can uncover what is getting in your way and help you develop a path forward. I believe that every person I work with possesses unique strengths which, through therapy, we can harness to navigate even your most challenging problems. I am open, authentic, engaged, and gently challenging in my interactions with clients. As your therapist, I will strive to create a safe and supportive setting for our work.
I also have specific expertise in treating people who are recovering from relationship and sexual abuse trauma and coping with depressive and/or anxious symptoms.
Note name change: formerly Meghann Case Platt. If you have been feeling stuck, dissatisfied, disempowered, or overwhelmed by the idea of making a change, together we can uncover what is getting in your way and help you develop a path forward. I believe that every person I work with possesses unique strengths which, through therapy, we can harness to navigate even your most challenging problems. I am open, authentic, engaged, and gently challenging in my interactions with clients. As your therapist, I will strive to create a safe and supportive setting for our work.
(503) 343-9278 View (503) 343-9278
Photo of Khadija Ewalt, LMHCA, SUDPT, Counselor
Khadija Ewalt
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Online Only
With a specialization in domestic violence, sexual assault, PTSD/C-PTSD, veteran and first responder trauma, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, drawing from both my professional expertise and personal experiences as a Navy veteran.
We ALL need a therapist, whether we like to admit it or not. We’re either struggling with our internal dialogue or external actions and behaviors. Having the space and freedom to say what we wish to but can’t/won’t goes a long way in helping us feel more like us.
With a specialization in domestic violence, sexual assault, PTSD/C-PTSD, veteran and first responder trauma, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, drawing from both my professional expertise and personal experiences as a Navy veteran.
We ALL need a therapist, whether we like to admit it or not. We’re either struggling with our internal dialogue or external actions and behaviors. Having the space and freedom to say what we wish to but can’t/won’t goes a long way in helping us feel more like us.
(509) 745-5651 View (509) 745-5651
Photo of Emily Nayar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Nayar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
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 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 Leslie Vriesman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Vriesman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 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 Natassja Barnes, LMHC, Counselor
Natassja Barnes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with folks on issues of trauma, body image, sexual abuse, intimacy challenges, gender identity, sexual orientation, and agency centered healing.
As a sex therapist, my approach engages a mixture of humanistic, feminist, and social justice perspectives that work together to see an individual within all the roles and identities they possess. I feel passionate about working with those who are concerned with topics surrounding sexuality, LGBTQIA issues, and anti-oppression work. I believe the answers on how to get through hardships reside within us, and I am committed to your personal journey of healing or transformation and what that means for you. My role allows me to become an ally with the healing power of human connection to better your relationships and life.
I work with folks on issues of trauma, body image, sexual abuse, intimacy challenges, gender identity, sexual orientation, and agency centered healing.
As a sex therapist, my approach engages a mixture of humanistic, feminist, and social justice perspectives that work together to see an individual within all the roles and identities they possess. I feel passionate about working with those who are concerned with topics surrounding sexuality, LGBTQIA issues, and anti-oppression work. I believe the answers on how to get through hardships reside within us, and I am committed to your personal journey of healing or transformation and what that means for you. My role allows me to become an ally with the healing power of human connection to better your relationships and life.
(425) 409-2043 View (425) 409-2043
Photo of A Levine-Ward, LMHC, Counselor
A Levine-Ward
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the UCSF/ZSFG Trauma Recovery Center, working with survivors of religion and gender-based persecution, gun violence, and sexual assault in San Francisco.
Therapy begins with safety, connection, and communication, fostered through a respectful and nonjudgmental relationship. In sessions, I will be collaborative, flexible, and open, using empowerment and coping skills to help you stay present and authentic. My integrative approach incorporates narrative, feminist, social justice, evidence-based, and trauma-informed methods. I specialize in sexual orientation, gender transition, BDSM/kink, alternative relationships, sex work, trauma, microaggressive trauma, death and dying, substance abuse, disordered eating, and body positivity.
I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the UCSF/ZSFG Trauma Recovery Center, working with survivors of religion and gender-based persecution, gun violence, and sexual assault in San Francisco.
Therapy begins with safety, connection, and communication, fostered through a respectful and nonjudgmental relationship. In sessions, I will be collaborative, flexible, and open, using empowerment and coping skills to help you stay present and authentic. My integrative approach incorporates narrative, feminist, social justice, evidence-based, and trauma-informed methods. I specialize in sexual orientation, gender transition, BDSM/kink, alternative relationships, sex work, trauma, microaggressive trauma, death and dying, substance abuse, disordered eating, and body positivity.
(425) 600-3301 View (425) 600-3301
Stefanie Talmadge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, sexual abuse (all ages and genders, including adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse), gender identity, OCD, behavioral issues in children/teens, parent coaching and grief and loss.
I believe that every individual has the ability to make change, heal and grow. I will create a supportive environment where you will be heard, new skills can be learned and also practiced. My treatment methods are grounded in evidence-based models, while allowing for the flexibility to individualize to best meet your needs. I want to make therapy work for you and know that no approach is perfect for everyone. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure, Mindfulness techniques and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Together we will decide what works for you.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, sexual abuse (all ages and genders, including adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse), gender identity, OCD, behavioral issues in children/teens, parent coaching and grief and loss.
I believe that every individual has the ability to make change, heal and grow. I will create a supportive environment where you will be heard, new skills can be learned and also practiced. My treatment methods are grounded in evidence-based models, while allowing for the flexibility to individualize to best meet your needs. I want to make therapy work for you and know that no approach is perfect for everyone. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure, Mindfulness techniques and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Together we will decide what works for you.
(206) 207-4676 View (206) 207-4676
Photo of Caitlin Bauermeister Vincent, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlin Bauermeister Vincent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
Whether you feel deeply stuck in a dark place, or just need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I will provide focused, caring attention, utilize my expertise to respectfully offer suggestions, and make a step-by-step plan. I specialize in treating trauma (with a range of proven approaches); most commonly with sexual assault survivors, childhood abuse, and vicarious trauma. I also work with most anxiety and mood disorders, stress management, and life transitions.
Whether you feel deeply stuck in a dark place, or just need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I will provide focused, caring attention, utilize my expertise to respectfully offer suggestions, and make a step-by-step plan. I specialize in treating trauma (with a range of proven approaches); most commonly with sexual assault survivors, childhood abuse, and vicarious trauma. I also work with most anxiety and mood disorders, stress management, and life transitions.
(206) 929-2223 View (206) 929-2223
Photo of Randy Marinez, MS, LMHC, Counselor
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
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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.