Sexual Abuse Counselling in Auchenflower, QLD

Photo of Mathew Heilig, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mathew Heilig
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
I work with people experiencing various psychological difficulties including anxiety and depression, trauma, issues with impulsivity and abandonment, grief and loss, difficulty coping with emotions, overwhelming stress, and low self-esteem. I work with individuals in a non-judgemental, warm, enthusiastic, and collaborative manner to assist them with achieving their therapeutic goals and help them live valued and meaningful lives. I also accept Workcover QLD referrals.
I work with people experiencing various psychological difficulties including anxiety and depression, trauma, issues with impulsivity and abandonment, grief and loss, difficulty coping with emotions, overwhelming stress, and low self-esteem. I work with individuals in a non-judgemental, warm, enthusiastic, and collaborative manner to assist them with achieving their therapeutic goals and help them live valued and meaningful lives. I also accept Workcover QLD referrals.
(07) 3186 5678 View (07) 3186 5678
Photo of Dr Wei Wang, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Wei Wang
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
My name is Dr Wei Wang. I help and support adults with various issues, including psychological and emotional, workplace, family, study, and relationship problems. I have ample experience working with clients from various backgrounds and age groups. I encourage and support my clients to develop and cultivate their inner strengths to better their coping capacities with independence and confidence.
My name is Dr Wei Wang. I help and support adults with various issues, including psychological and emotional, workplace, family, study, and relationship problems. I have ample experience working with clients from various backgrounds and age groups. I encourage and support my clients to develop and cultivate their inner strengths to better their coping capacities with independence and confidence.
(07) 3184 8297 View (07) 3184 8297
Photo of Ivannia Mena, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ivannia Mena
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
Psychologist and Practice Director Ivannia Mena is an experienced therapist with a broad range of skills in the treatment of mood disorders, at-risk behaviours, criminal attitudes, addiction and trauma. Ivannia aims to provide the highest standard of psychological support to individuals looking to work at the core of their symptoms, to develop insight, increase self awareness and learn adaptive coping skills. Mindful Perspectives Psychology welcomes adolescents, adults and older adults with cognitive, behavioural, and emotional concerns, offering practical, effective and confidential support in a safe and supportive treatment space.
Psychologist and Practice Director Ivannia Mena is an experienced therapist with a broad range of skills in the treatment of mood disorders, at-risk behaviours, criminal attitudes, addiction and trauma. Ivannia aims to provide the highest standard of psychological support to individuals looking to work at the core of their symptoms, to develop insight, increase self awareness and learn adaptive coping skills. Mindful Perspectives Psychology welcomes adolescents, adults and older adults with cognitive, behavioural, and emotional concerns, offering practical, effective and confidential support in a safe and supportive treatment space.
(07) 3062 7671 View (07) 3062 7671
Photo of Jayani Nayana Jayatilake - Peaceful Mind Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peaceful Mind Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
Do you want to feel listened and understood? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious unable to cope or make decisions and feel like nothings working for you? I am an Accredited Psychotherapist / Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years’ experience. My practice is based on compassion and mindfulness Working form, a trauma informed approach using evidence-based therapeutic interventions that is tailored to your specific needs, I can assist you with gaining insight and learning range of techniques that can guide you to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma (including PTDS), loss and grief, DV and more.
Do you want to feel listened and understood? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious unable to cope or make decisions and feel like nothings working for you? I am an Accredited Psychotherapist / Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years’ experience. My practice is based on compassion and mindfulness Working form, a trauma informed approach using evidence-based therapeutic interventions that is tailored to your specific needs, I can assist you with gaining insight and learning range of techniques that can guide you to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma (including PTDS), loss and grief, DV and more.
(07) 3088 9155 View (07) 3088 9155

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Liz Saolotoga, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Liz Saolotoga
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Other areas I counsel in are; survivors of sexual abuse, women suffering with endometriosis, anger, complex trauma, anxieties, depression, grief and loss, family and cultural expectations' and obligations, school concerns (bullying, career guidance) suicidal ideation & self-harming behavior's, infertility and IVF pathway.
My counselling approach is to find the critic voices within and bring them to the fore. Whether your dealing with anxiety, anger, depression, an addiction to pornography, infidelity or you just need a bit of guidance to find you again, we can work through those together. Life loves to throw a million curve balls and sometimes we don't have the capacity or tools to handle them. Or sometimes we think we are doing the right thing and handle it the best way we know how but then we make it worse. It becomes exhausting. I get it, have been there more than a few times myself. I invite you to Book an appointment today via my website link.
Other areas I counsel in are; survivors of sexual abuse, women suffering with endometriosis, anger, complex trauma, anxieties, depression, grief and loss, family and cultural expectations' and obligations, school concerns (bullying, career guidance) suicidal ideation & self-harming behavior's, infertility and IVF pathway.
My counselling approach is to find the critic voices within and bring them to the fore. Whether your dealing with anxiety, anger, depression, an addiction to pornography, infidelity or you just need a bit of guidance to find you again, we can work through those together. Life loves to throw a million curve balls and sometimes we don't have the capacity or tools to handle them. Or sometimes we think we are doing the right thing and handle it the best way we know how but then we make it worse. It becomes exhausting. I get it, have been there more than a few times myself. I invite you to Book an appointment today via my website link.
(07) 3477 9344 View (07) 3477 9344
Photo of Michelle Costanzo, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Michelle Costanzo
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of interest include: PTSD (Complex Trauma); Childhood Abuse; Sexual Assault/Rape, DV; Anxiety, Depression, Breast Feeding and Birth Trauma; Stress & Adjustment Disorder.
Michelle Costanzo MAPS, FIML, MAICD. I am a psychologist specialising in (complex) trauma (PTSD) and Dissociative Disorders (DID). I have been in the health industry for over 20 years.
Areas of interest include: PTSD (Complex Trauma); Childhood Abuse; Sexual Assault/Rape, DV; Anxiety, Depression, Breast Feeding and Birth Trauma; Stress & Adjustment Disorder.
Michelle Costanzo MAPS, FIML, MAICD. I am a psychologist specialising in (complex) trauma (PTSD) and Dissociative Disorders (DID). I have been in the health industry for over 20 years.
(07) 4243 4851 View (07) 4243 4851
Photo of Jane Lumley - People Psychology, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post.
Jane is an AHPRA registered psychologist who provides psychological counselling and support for children (12 years or older), teenagers/adolescents and adults. Jane offers a warm, friendly, and respectful client- centred approach. She offers evidenced based treatment that is tailored to each client to assist with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, stress, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief and loss. Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post.
Jane is an AHPRA registered psychologist who provides psychological counselling and support for children (12 years or older), teenagers/adolescents and adults. Jane offers a warm, friendly, and respectful client- centred approach. She offers evidenced based treatment that is tailored to each client to assist with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, stress, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief and loss. Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Photo of Clare MacLeod, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clare MacLeod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively over the years with women survivors of childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and trauma in various settings.
I provide trauma informed and evidence based supervision, consultancy, mentoring, training and workshops. I do not provide individual counselling. Along with supporting helping professionals as they navigate client work, I am able to provide consultancy and information sessions to parents, carers and health professionals, and educators on consent, safety, children & young people who engage in harmful sexual behaviours, protective behaviours skills. I am also able to provide sessions to playgroups, childcare centres, and early education settings.
I have worked extensively over the years with women survivors of childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and trauma in various settings.
I provide trauma informed and evidence based supervision, consultancy, mentoring, training and workshops. I do not provide individual counselling. Along with supporting helping professionals as they navigate client work, I am able to provide consultancy and information sessions to parents, carers and health professionals, and educators on consent, safety, children & young people who engage in harmful sexual behaviours, protective behaviours skills. I am also able to provide sessions to playgroups, childcare centres, and early education settings.
(07) 2100 4857 View (07) 2100 4857
Photo of David Stracey, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Stracey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
South Brisbane, QLD 4101
I provide counselling and treatment to children, young people, adults and families who have been impacted by a variety of different issues. I assist those experiencing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, self harm and suicide thoughts. I also specialise in responding to harmful sexual behaviours, sexual abuse and treatment of criminal behaviours. I build connections through empathy, fairness, and best practice approaches.
I provide counselling and treatment to children, young people, adults and families who have been impacted by a variety of different issues. I assist those experiencing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, self harm and suicide thoughts. I also specialise in responding to harmful sexual behaviours, sexual abuse and treatment of criminal behaviours. I build connections through empathy, fairness, and best practice approaches.
(07) 2100 4037 View (07) 2100 4037
Photo of Michelle Joy McClintock - Mindful Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mindful Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ashgrove, QLD 4060
I especially connect with and enjoy providing support to people who struggle because they are highly-sensitive (hsperson.com), perfectionists, over-thinkers, anxious/worriers, or they have a history of trauma (from childhood, or from adult experiences, such as military service, miscarriage, violent assault, workplace bullying). I enjoy complex presentations, where there may be PTSD, anxiety, attachment issues, perfectionism, where the person's goal is to create an inner peace, fulfilment and live a more contented life. With couples, I can help you learn how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts and improve your connection.
I especially connect with and enjoy providing support to people who struggle because they are highly-sensitive (hsperson.com), perfectionists, over-thinkers, anxious/worriers, or they have a history of trauma (from childhood, or from adult experiences, such as military service, miscarriage, violent assault, workplace bullying). I enjoy complex presentations, where there may be PTSD, anxiety, attachment issues, perfectionism, where the person's goal is to create an inner peace, fulfilment and live a more contented life. With couples, I can help you learn how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts and improve your connection.
(07) 2000 4279 View (07) 2000 4279
Photo of Elke Ponczek, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Elke Ponczek
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
These include: anxiety, panic attacks, worry and perfectionism, social anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, relationship difficulties, assertive communication, childhood trauma, personality disorders, past sexual assault, and low self-esteem.
Currently accepting new clients. Elke is offering telehealth psychological services (via videoconferencing and telephone). With more than 20 years of experience, she has worked with people from all walks of life. Working collaboratively, she takes a client-centred approach to help individuals identify and make the changes required to achieve their goals. Elke has an accepting and non-judgemental manner. Her friendly and warm approach facilitates openness as people explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviours in a safe space. Elke is an LGBTIQ+ affirming and aware practitioner.
These include: anxiety, panic attacks, worry and perfectionism, social anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, relationship difficulties, assertive communication, childhood trauma, personality disorders, past sexual assault, and low self-esteem.
Currently accepting new clients. Elke is offering telehealth psychological services (via videoconferencing and telephone). With more than 20 years of experience, she has worked with people from all walks of life. Working collaboratively, she takes a client-centred approach to help individuals identify and make the changes required to achieve their goals. Elke has an accepting and non-judgemental manner. Her friendly and warm approach facilitates openness as people explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviours in a safe space. Elke is an LGBTIQ+ affirming and aware practitioner.
(03) 7003 2763 View (03) 7003 2763
Photo of Katie Graham Gold Coast Trauma Counselling, MSc, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Katie Graham Gold Coast Trauma Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Trained in NZ and the US in a range of dynamic and flexible trauma treatments, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of domestic and family violence, sexual abuse and trauma across the lifespan.
I specialise in Trauma counselling; acute, chronic, historical and ongoing, drawing on several counselling theories and strategies to help you heal and move towards the 'you' that you want to be. I also frequently work with people dealing with anxiety, major life changes, or those just knowing there can be a little more joy in your life. Your wants and needs out of therapy will remain at the forefront of the work we do together.
Trained in NZ and the US in a range of dynamic and flexible trauma treatments, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of domestic and family violence, sexual abuse and trauma across the lifespan.
I specialise in Trauma counselling; acute, chronic, historical and ongoing, drawing on several counselling theories and strategies to help you heal and move towards the 'you' that you want to be. I also frequently work with people dealing with anxiety, major life changes, or those just knowing there can be a little more joy in your life. Your wants and needs out of therapy will remain at the forefront of the work we do together.
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Photo of Charmaine Dunn - Charmaine Dunn Counselling & Trauma Therapy, PACFA, Counsellor
Charmaine Dunn Counselling & Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
South Brisbane, QLD 4101
I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and complex PTSD including childhood trauma and sexual abuse trauma.
Hi! I am Charmaine, thanks for stopping by. Are you feeling stuck? Can’t move forward? Either living in the past, hating the present or wishing for a different future? Life is tough, and sometimes we all need a little help, but finding the right person to support you is essential. For the last 10 years, I have been working with individuals to clear the patterns of the past, helping them get unstuck and move forward into the future. I work with both conscious (talk therapies) and sub-conscious (experiential therapies) to find resolution, finding the unique therapy that best suits you and your circumstances.
I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and complex PTSD including childhood trauma and sexual abuse trauma.
Hi! I am Charmaine, thanks for stopping by. Are you feeling stuck? Can’t move forward? Either living in the past, hating the present or wishing for a different future? Life is tough, and sometimes we all need a little help, but finding the right person to support you is essential. For the last 10 years, I have been working with individuals to clear the patterns of the past, helping them get unstuck and move forward into the future. I work with both conscious (talk therapies) and sub-conscious (experiential therapies) to find resolution, finding the unique therapy that best suits you and your circumstances.
0406 411 466 View 0406 411 466
Photo of Kenneth Love - Kenneth Love - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kenneth Love - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Dr Nicolas Kessous, PsychD, Psychologist
Dr Nicolas Kessous
Psychologist, PsychD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
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Photo of Richard Mark Hindmarsh Elms - Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Richard provides therapy for children, adolescents & adults with issues including anxiety & depression, behavioural problems, domestic violence, anger problems, sexual abuse, addiction, disability, trauma, parenting challenges, relationship problems etc.
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
Richard provides therapy for children, adolescents & adults with issues including anxiety & depression, behavioural problems, domestic violence, anger problems, sexual abuse, addiction, disability, trauma, parenting challenges, relationship problems etc.
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
(07) 5241 2997 View (07) 5241 2997
Photo of Imogen Rose Todd - Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy, MSc
Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy
MSc
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
As a Sexologist and Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer support to people needing sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support with their gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
As a Sexologist and Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer support to people needing sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support with their gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
(03) 8338 1600 View (03) 8338 1600
Photo of Veronica Woolcott, PACFA, Counsellor
Veronica Woolcott
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
I am an NDIS and PACFA registered counsellor, specializing in counselling and therapy for children (up to 12 years old) who have experienced sexual abuse, displaying sexualized behaviours or have been exposed to such.
My practice at Silverthorn provides a safe and calm therapeutic space, where privacy and comfort are paramount. I offer each of my clients an individualised plan of consultation and evidence-based therapies designed to support their journey toward healing, recovery and a renewed sense of control. I believe in the value of authentic truth and honesty, where the core feelings of anxiety and fear – so typically related to trauma and distress – can be tended to and moderated, allowing for the steady restoration of trust and confidence.
I am an NDIS and PACFA registered counsellor, specializing in counselling and therapy for children (up to 12 years old) who have experienced sexual abuse, displaying sexualized behaviours or have been exposed to such.
My practice at Silverthorn provides a safe and calm therapeutic space, where privacy and comfort are paramount. I offer each of my clients an individualised plan of consultation and evidence-based therapies designed to support their journey toward healing, recovery and a renewed sense of control. I believe in the value of authentic truth and honesty, where the core feelings of anxiety and fear – so typically related to trauma and distress – can be tended to and moderated, allowing for the steady restoration of trust and confidence.
(07) 2100 4801 View (07) 2100 4801
Photo of Anine Cummins - Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Please note: I am a counsellor, and cannot accept mental health care plans. I provide online counselling for adults and teenagers. Everyone is welcome! I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
Please note: I am a counsellor, and cannot accept mental health care plans. I provide online counselling for adults and teenagers. Everyone is welcome! I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
(03) 8338 1789 View (03) 8338 1789
Photo of Julie Messenger - Bluest Skies Counselling + Animal Assisted Therapy, PACFA, Counsellor
Bluest Skies Counselling + Animal Assisted Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Bluest Skies Counselling is private practice counselling service for children, families and individuals impacted by Trauma. I also provide Animal Assisted Therapy with my Golden Retriever, Pirate. Please note, I am a Psychotherapist, not a Psychologist and am unable to see clients under a Mental Health Care Plan/Medicare funded scheme.
Bluest Skies Counselling is private practice counselling service for children, families and individuals impacted by Trauma. I also provide Animal Assisted Therapy with my Golden Retriever, Pirate. Please note, I am a Psychotherapist, not a Psychologist and am unable to see clients under a Mental Health Care Plan/Medicare funded scheme.
(07) 3184 8464 View (07) 3184 8464

See more therapy options for Auchenflower

Sexual Abuse Counsellors

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.