Sexual Abuse Treatment Centers in Pennsylvania

Photo of Star Guides Wilderness, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Star Guides Wilderness
Treatment Center, PhD
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
Few challenges that families face today, can be as heart breaking as sexual abuse within a family.
STAR Guides is an outdoor therapeutic program designed for youth and young adults who are struggling with problematic sexual behavior. STAR Guides provides families with navigation through these challenges. Regardless of past behaviors, we believe that all youth can learn to achieve healthy sexuality. Research suggests that for many, sexual problematic behavior first begins during the adolescent years. STAR Guides helps youth to deal with these problems while they are still young. Many youth in today's modern world find themselves lost and in need of direction as they attempt to navigate the thick darkness that accompanies sexual behavior problems. Just as the ancient peoples of the world, they are in need of STAR Guides. Based in beautiful St. George, Utah the program provides teens and young adults with a high impact, life-changing therapeutic wilderness experience in the heart of the majestic red rock of the high desert of Southern Utah. STAR Guides is the ideal intervention for individuals needing to learn to manage problematic sexual behaviors that they have been unable to manage previously.
Few challenges that families face today, can be as heart breaking as sexual abuse within a family.
STAR Guides is an outdoor therapeutic program designed for youth and young adults who are struggling with problematic sexual behavior. STAR Guides provides families with navigation through these challenges. Regardless of past behaviors, we believe that all youth can learn to achieve healthy sexuality. Research suggests that for many, sexual problematic behavior first begins during the adolescent years. STAR Guides helps youth to deal with these problems while they are still young. Many youth in today's modern world find themselves lost and in need of direction as they attempt to navigate the thick darkness that accompanies sexual behavior problems. Just as the ancient peoples of the world, they are in need of STAR Guides. Based in beautiful St. George, Utah the program provides teens and young adults with a high impact, life-changing therapeutic wilderness experience in the heart of the majestic red rock of the high desert of Southern Utah. STAR Guides is the ideal intervention for individuals needing to learn to manage problematic sexual behaviors that they have been unable to manage previously.
(866) 369-8591 View (866) 369-8591
Photo of Samaritan Counseling, Guidance, Consulting, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Samaritan Counseling, Guidance, Consulting
Treatment Center, PhD, MSW, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Sewickley, PA 15143
At Samaritan Counseling, Guidance, Consulting, we welcome ALL people, including those who are not able to pay. We counsel adults, children, adolescents, older people, couples (married or unmarried), and families via teletherapy and in-person counseling at multiple sites in Western Pennsylvania. Many folks seek our help because they are struggling from depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship problems, and numerous other conditions. They come to us to learn how to cope with challenges and difficulties of all kinds, including the effects of violence, sexual abuse and other traumatic events, as well as stress, gender identity issues, and strained or shattered relationships. Plus, people who are experiencing fears, doubts, and confusion that are spiritually and faith-related come to Samaritan to seek spiritual direction without being judged or preached to, regardless of their religious beliefs or lack thereof.
At Samaritan Counseling, Guidance, Consulting, we welcome ALL people, including those who are not able to pay. We counsel adults, children, adolescents, older people, couples (married or unmarried), and families via teletherapy and in-person counseling at multiple sites in Western Pennsylvania. Many folks seek our help because they are struggling from depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship problems, and numerous other conditions. They come to us to learn how to cope with challenges and difficulties of all kinds, including the effects of violence, sexual abuse and other traumatic events, as well as stress, gender identity issues, and strained or shattered relationships. Plus, people who are experiencing fears, doubts, and confusion that are spiritually and faith-related come to Samaritan to seek spiritual direction without being judged or preached to, regardless of their religious beliefs or lack thereof.
(412) 924-5950 View (412) 924-5950
Photo of Preferred Care Counseling, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Preferred Care Counseling
Treatment Center, NCC, LSW, LPCC
Not Verified Not Verified
New Castle, PA 16101
The professional staff at Preferred Care Counseling have many years experience treating people with a variety of different problems including: chronic pain, trauma, physical and sexual abuse, domestic violence, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, insomnia, employment issues, relationship problems, bullying, discrimination, problems with peer groups, oppositional behavior, coping with disability, temper problems, addictions, panic disorder, and personality conflict.
Preferred Care Counseling is a group of Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors and Licensed Independent Social Workers. Preferred Care staff are professional, supportive, and non-judgmental. We provide specific treatment recommendations based upon your individual needs. We offer solutions and empower our patients to reach their fullest potential. So often we hear from patients that they are looking for direction regarding how to change. At Preferred Care we understand you are looking for answers and we are here to help.
The professional staff at Preferred Care Counseling have many years experience treating people with a variety of different problems including: chronic pain, trauma, physical and sexual abuse, domestic violence, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, insomnia, employment issues, relationship problems, bullying, discrimination, problems with peer groups, oppositional behavior, coping with disability, temper problems, addictions, panic disorder, and personality conflict.
Preferred Care Counseling is a group of Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors and Licensed Independent Social Workers. Preferred Care staff are professional, supportive, and non-judgmental. We provide specific treatment recommendations based upon your individual needs. We offer solutions and empower our patients to reach their fullest potential. So often we hear from patients that they are looking for direction regarding how to change. At Preferred Care we understand you are looking for answers and we are here to help.
(330) 594-3042 View (330) 594-3042
Photo of Destination Hope, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Destination Hope
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19105
Founded in 2006, Destination Hope is one of the nation’s leading Joint Commission Accredited, dual-diagnosis treatment centers. Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, we provide substance abuse and mental health treatment for adult men and women. Our center is among one of the first Non-Medicare Partial Hospitalization programs made available in the state of Florida. We are proud to offer rehab programs where clients receive the best care tailored to their individual needs. We also provide outstanding family programs and lifelong case management services covering a wide range of mood disorders, thought disorders, and trauma.
Founded in 2006, Destination Hope is one of the nation’s leading Joint Commission Accredited, dual-diagnosis treatment centers. Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, we provide substance abuse and mental health treatment for adult men and women. Our center is among one of the first Non-Medicare Partial Hospitalization programs made available in the state of Florida. We are proud to offer rehab programs where clients receive the best care tailored to their individual needs. We also provide outstanding family programs and lifelong case management services covering a wide range of mood disorders, thought disorders, and trauma.
(954) 231-2121 View (954) 231-2121
Photo of Malibu Wellness Ranch, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Malibu Wellness Ranch
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Milford, PA 18337
Malibu Wellness Ranch provides unparalleled treatment and services for anyone suffering from addiction. From our unique Equine Recovery Program to our exciting Adventure and Arts Programs, there is a place for everyone at the ranch. Get on the trail today!
Malibu Wellness Ranch provides unparalleled treatment and services for anyone suffering from addiction. From our unique Equine Recovery Program to our exciting Adventure and Arts Programs, there is a place for everyone at the ranch. Get on the trail today!
(570) 658-8755 View (570) 658-8755
Photo of Forge Health - Greensburg, PA, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Forge Health - Greensburg, PA
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
Forge Health is your vital source for mental health and substance use care. We help people from all walks of life reclaim their lives by providing comprehensive outpatient care that’s convenient to access, affordable to use, and customized to the unique needs of each individual. We're a mission-driven company dedicated to delivering the highest quality affordable, accessible, and effective “one-stop-shop” mental health and substance use care to individuals, families, and communities in need. Forge Health is also proud to provide specialized care programs designed to address the unique culture, preferences, and values of veterans and first responders, cancer patients, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Forge Health is your vital source for mental health and substance use care. We help people from all walks of life reclaim their lives by providing comprehensive outpatient care that’s convenient to access, affordable to use, and customized to the unique needs of each individual. We're a mission-driven company dedicated to delivering the highest quality affordable, accessible, and effective “one-stop-shop” mental health and substance use care to individuals, families, and communities in need. Forge Health is also proud to provide specialized care programs designed to address the unique culture, preferences, and values of veterans and first responders, cancer patients, and the LGBTQ+ community.
(724) 885-2450 View (724) 885-2450
Photo of Healing Path Psychology, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Healing Path Psychology
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
We offer outpatient treatment for mental health, trauma/PTSD and alcohol & drug problems. Get the individualized care you need from a highly qualified licensed therapist so you can live your life to the fullest. You will get the benefit of our years of advanced training and experience in evidence-based treatment, combined with a warm, collaborative, goal-oriented approach.
We offer outpatient treatment for mental health, trauma/PTSD and alcohol & drug problems. Get the individualized care you need from a highly qualified licensed therapist so you can live your life to the fullest. You will get the benefit of our years of advanced training and experience in evidence-based treatment, combined with a warm, collaborative, goal-oriented approach.
(610) 320-2366 View (610) 320-2366
Photo of ETHOS Treatment, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
ETHOS Treatment
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
ETHOS was founded by three long-time providers of treatment, dedicated to reestablishing individualized care for people and their families who struggle with substance use disorder and/or mental health issues. Our unique Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) include individual counseling, small group therapy and family therapy, which maximizes the potential for long-term, sustainable recovery.
ETHOS was founded by three long-time providers of treatment, dedicated to reestablishing individualized care for people and their families who struggle with substance use disorder and/or mental health issues. Our unique Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) include individual counseling, small group therapy and family therapy, which maximizes the potential for long-term, sustainable recovery.
(484) 715-8523 View (484) 715-8523
Photo of Pennsylvania Recovery Center, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Recovery Center
Treatment Center, LPC, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
If you or your family member is struggling with an addiction you have found the right place. Our team of professionals will create an individualized treatment plan according to your needs, and to meet your goals. Our Clinical Director is a Licensed Professional Counselor, and we have a Medical Doctor on site to prescribe medications.
If you or your family member is struggling with an addiction you have found the right place. Our team of professionals will create an individualized treatment plan according to your needs, and to meet your goals. Our Clinical Director is a Licensed Professional Counselor, and we have a Medical Doctor on site to prescribe medications.
(610) 936-8863 View (610) 936-8863
Photo of MPower Wellness of Exton, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
MPower Wellness of Exton
Treatment Center, LPC, ACS, LCADC
Verified Verified
Exton, PA 19341
Create a Meaningful Future! MPower Wellness offers holistic treatment plans to help individuals with addiction and mental health take accountability for their recovery and enjoy a sober lifestyle. We utilize evidence-based therapies in conjunction with holistic practices and 12-step facilitation to help clients find relief from the chronic stress of addiction and mental health conditions. Mental health and addiction are two sides of the same coin. Utilizing a holistic approach and evidence-based therapies helps to deepen healing, maintain sobriety and discover a sense of purpose.
Create a Meaningful Future! MPower Wellness offers holistic treatment plans to help individuals with addiction and mental health take accountability for their recovery and enjoy a sober lifestyle. We utilize evidence-based therapies in conjunction with holistic practices and 12-step facilitation to help clients find relief from the chronic stress of addiction and mental health conditions. Mental health and addiction are two sides of the same coin. Utilizing a holistic approach and evidence-based therapies helps to deepen healing, maintain sobriety and discover a sense of purpose.
(484) 725-6187 View (484) 725-6187
Photo of Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services, Inc, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services, Inc
Treatment Center, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Uniontown, PA 15401  (Online Only)
Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services, Inc. outpatient clinics provide behavioral health services including: Individual Therapy Group Therapy Family Therapy Mental Health Evaluations Psychiatric Evaluations Medication Services Specialized services include DBT, CBT, Trauma, Art Therapy, Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, and Anger Management. With a staff of 7 Psychiatrists, Certified Nurse Practitioners and therapists, Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services has been the primary provider of mental healthcare for the past 55 years in Fayette County. Children of all ages are seen at CRCSI by our therapists and/or Child and Adolescent psychiatrists either via tele-therapy or in person. Our New Directions school is an option for children suffering with moderate to severe mental health issues. It is the only licensed Private Academic School and Partial Hospitalization mental health treatment program in Fayette County, PA.
Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services, Inc. outpatient clinics provide behavioral health services including: Individual Therapy Group Therapy Family Therapy Mental Health Evaluations Psychiatric Evaluations Medication Services Specialized services include DBT, CBT, Trauma, Art Therapy, Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, and Anger Management. With a staff of 7 Psychiatrists, Certified Nurse Practitioners and therapists, Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services has been the primary provider of mental healthcare for the past 55 years in Fayette County. Children of all ages are seen at CRCSI by our therapists and/or Child and Adolescent psychiatrists either via tele-therapy or in person. Our New Directions school is an option for children suffering with moderate to severe mental health issues. It is the only licensed Private Academic School and Partial Hospitalization mental health treatment program in Fayette County, PA.
(878) 201-1566 View (878) 201-1566
Photo of Hope Springs Behavioral Health, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Hope Springs Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
Life is work! We help with adults and teens who, due to life's issues and stressors, need assistance in developing the kinds of everyday coping skills that allow them to function more independently and bring confidence and happiness, to their lives. Our most successful program is a team of highly qualified therapists and psychiatrists experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults with various issues. Through a variety of proven treatment modalities including groups and individual therapy, and supportive counseling, and with a large measure of caring and compassion, we help clients meet their life goals. At Hope Springs Behavioral Health Intensive Outpatient Program we carry 3 different licenses to show we go above and beyond just our reputation.
Life is work! We help with adults and teens who, due to life's issues and stressors, need assistance in developing the kinds of everyday coping skills that allow them to function more independently and bring confidence and happiness, to their lives. Our most successful program is a team of highly qualified therapists and psychiatrists experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults with various issues. Through a variety of proven treatment modalities including groups and individual therapy, and supportive counseling, and with a large measure of caring and compassion, we help clients meet their life goals. At Hope Springs Behavioral Health Intensive Outpatient Program we carry 3 different licenses to show we go above and beyond just our reputation.
(267) 214-2135 View (267) 214-2135
Photo of Healing Hearts Therapy, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Healing Hearts Therapy
Treatment Center, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
People struggling with sexually compulsive behavior, people with PTSD, Spouses, Partners, Couples, Families, Adolescents, and Adult Children
People struggling with sexually compulsive behavior, people with PTSD, Spouses, Partners, Couples, Families, Adolescents, and Adult Children
(484) 749-0581 View (484) 749-0581
Photo of Arkview Recovery Center, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Arkview Recovery Center
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Arkview Recovery Center is a leading addiction treatment facility in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Centrally and conveniently located to effectively serve people from communities across the state and beyond. Arkview offers a full continuum of care, from detox to residential to outpatient, designed to meet you where you are in your journey to recovery. A completely confidential conversation with no cost or obligation is just a phone call away to find out if Arkview Recovery Center is right for you.
Arkview Recovery Center is a leading addiction treatment facility in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Centrally and conveniently located to effectively serve people from communities across the state and beyond. Arkview offers a full continuum of care, from detox to residential to outpatient, designed to meet you where you are in your journey to recovery. A completely confidential conversation with no cost or obligation is just a phone call away to find out if Arkview Recovery Center is right for you.
(717) 400-6184 View (717) 400-6184
Photo of Sobriety Solutions of Plymouth Meeting, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Sobriety Solutions of Plymouth Meeting
Treatment Center, MS, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
At Sobriety Solutions, we provide a combination of therapies; individual, family, and group to meet a client's tailored needs. We offer an individualized, evidence based treatment approach to address individuals and families' unique needs. As a family owned and operated business, we understand addiction may be a family disease, but recovery is a family process. Our vision is to cultivate personal responsibility, promote healthy behavioral habits, and incentivize recovery through a variety of treatment techniques for our clients. We provide our clients with additional services so they have the opportunity to be successful in recovery and personal journey. We provide our clients with further support such as medical services, family therapy, parenting support, job training, and social and legal services as they move towards recovery. As they recover, our clients are able to stay connected with our alumni program and follow-up services to help them continue down the path of recovery.
At Sobriety Solutions, we provide a combination of therapies; individual, family, and group to meet a client's tailored needs. We offer an individualized, evidence based treatment approach to address individuals and families' unique needs. As a family owned and operated business, we understand addiction may be a family disease, but recovery is a family process. Our vision is to cultivate personal responsibility, promote healthy behavioral habits, and incentivize recovery through a variety of treatment techniques for our clients. We provide our clients with additional services so they have the opportunity to be successful in recovery and personal journey. We provide our clients with further support such as medical services, family therapy, parenting support, job training, and social and legal services as they move towards recovery. As they recover, our clients are able to stay connected with our alumni program and follow-up services to help them continue down the path of recovery.
(610) 463-1757 View (610) 463-1757
Photo of Adolescent & Young Adult Advocates, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Adolescent & Young Adult Advocates
Treatment Center, MHS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Rosemont, PA 19010
Adolescent & Young Adult Advocates (A2) is an innovative Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient Program and Partial Hospitalization Program specializing in the treatment of adolescents, Young Adults, and adults with substance abuse, mental health, and social issues. The A2 staff is a group of highly trained, qualified professionals. Our philosophy is to live in integrity, lead by example and create a strong sense of self and community. We are committed to restoring balance and integrity in our clients' family, academic and social lives. A2 is a community comprised of a network of adolescents, young adults, and families who are focused on changing their lives by working through negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Our clients are like teammates rooting for each other's success, relying on one another and our staff for support. Parents and families are an important part of our community, too, and their involvement is crucial to the treatment process.
Adolescent & Young Adult Advocates (A2) is an innovative Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient Program and Partial Hospitalization Program specializing in the treatment of adolescents, Young Adults, and adults with substance abuse, mental health, and social issues. The A2 staff is a group of highly trained, qualified professionals. Our philosophy is to live in integrity, lead by example and create a strong sense of self and community. We are committed to restoring balance and integrity in our clients' family, academic and social lives. A2 is a community comprised of a network of adolescents, young adults, and families who are focused on changing their lives by working through negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Our clients are like teammates rooting for each other's success, relying on one another and our staff for support. Parents and families are an important part of our community, too, and their involvement is crucial to the treatment process.
(484) 494-2758 View (484) 494-2758
Photo of Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Center, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Center
Treatment Center, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
The Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Center provides comprehensive mental health care services to individuals 18 & up who are experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns. Our clients come from diverse backgrounds and have varying degrees of severity of their mental health challenges. We provide treatment for a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and eating disorders. We also offer specialized treatment for individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. The needs of our clients vary widely, and we strive to provide personalized and individualized care to meet their unique needs. Many of our clients require assistance with medication management, therapy, and counseling to address their mental health concerns. Others may require more intensive treatment, such as inpatient hospitalization, to address acute symptoms and prevent the risk of harm to themselves or others.
The Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Center provides comprehensive mental health care services to individuals 18 & up who are experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns. Our clients come from diverse backgrounds and have varying degrees of severity of their mental health challenges. We provide treatment for a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and eating disorders. We also offer specialized treatment for individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. The needs of our clients vary widely, and we strive to provide personalized and individualized care to meet their unique needs. Many of our clients require assistance with medication management, therapy, and counseling to address their mental health concerns. Others may require more intensive treatment, such as inpatient hospitalization, to address acute symptoms and prevent the risk of harm to themselves or others.
(610) 998-3548 View (610) 998-3548
Photo of Armada of King of Prussia, PA, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Armada of King of Prussia, PA
Treatment Center, MSS, LCSW, CCDP-D, LPC, CA
Verified Verified
All of our clients start out as Rescues: people who are drowning in a hopeless state of mind bound by the chains of addiction. Through an innovative, heartfelt approach, we guide each client toward Transformation—a place where they can take control of their own body and live their life to the fullest. When their treatment program is complete, they are no longer Rescued. They are Reborn. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, they put their past behind them and start a whole new life.
All of our clients start out as Rescues: people who are drowning in a hopeless state of mind bound by the chains of addiction. Through an innovative, heartfelt approach, we guide each client toward Transformation—a place where they can take control of their own body and live their life to the fullest. When their treatment program is complete, they are no longer Rescued. They are Reborn. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, they put their past behind them and start a whole new life.
(267) 699-7345 View (267) 699-7345
Photo of Otto Psychological Associates, LLC, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Otto Psychological Associates, LLC
Treatment Center
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
We are currently accepting new patients. At OPA, we understand that people are complex individuals with dynamic lives and histories. Through this understanding, our efforts are focused on delivering individualized mental health services that are helpful, meaningful, and effective.
We are currently accepting new patients. At OPA, we understand that people are complex individuals with dynamic lives and histories. Through this understanding, our efforts are focused on delivering individualized mental health services that are helpful, meaningful, and effective.
(610) 379-3334 View (610) 379-3334
Photo of Mind Dojo, Treatment Center in Pennsylvania
Mind Dojo
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Irwin, PA 15642
Mind Dojo is a new way of life for people struggling with mental health disorders. Our treatment center is a beacon of light not only for those suffering but their families as well. Together, we retrain the mind for a healthier way of thinking. With an emphasis on science, research and results, Mind Dojo has developed a team that will kickstart your life — and recovery. As you partake on your journey to healing we promise to never end our mission toward ever-evolving and top notch care. Our combined evidence-based and holistic approach allows clients to experience a plethora of treatments to best support their wellness journey.
Mind Dojo is a new way of life for people struggling with mental health disorders. Our treatment center is a beacon of light not only for those suffering but their families as well. Together, we retrain the mind for a healthier way of thinking. With an emphasis on science, research and results, Mind Dojo has developed a team that will kickstart your life — and recovery. As you partake on your journey to healing we promise to never end our mission toward ever-evolving and top notch care. Our combined evidence-based and holistic approach allows clients to experience a plethora of treatments to best support their wellness journey.
(724) 257-4586 View (724) 257-4586

See more therapy options for Pennsylvania


Sexual Abuse Treatment Centers

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.