Sexual Abuse Counselling in Altona, VIC

Photo of Geetha Chetty, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altona, VIC 3018
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Photo of Liam Hiney - Liam Hiney - The Connection Concept, Counsellor
Liam Hiney - The Connection Concept
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
I am an integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor who aims to help my clients through the integration of evidence-based therapies. With experience in relational issues, childhood sexual abuse, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, and many other areas, I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to not just listen or offer advice but to work together towards sustainable change with empathy and compassions of my clients experiences within the world.
I am an integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor who aims to help my clients through the integration of evidence-based therapies. With experience in relational issues, childhood sexual abuse, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, and many other areas, I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to not just listen or offer advice but to work together towards sustainable change with empathy and compassions of my clients experiences within the world.
(03) 8658 2174 View (03) 8658 2174
Photo of Dimitri Hawa, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
(03) 9007 2339 View (03) 9007 2339
Photo of Melis Topsahin, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Melis Topsahin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018  (Online Only)
I particularly assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (other addictions), depression and relationship issues. My focus is on working with the client towards personal development and goal setting. Each client is so very unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
I particularly assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (other addictions), depression and relationship issues. My focus is on working with the client towards personal development and goal setting. Each client is so very unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
(02) 4504 0146 View (02) 4504 0146
Photo of Sylvia Collinetti, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Sylvia Collinetti
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
I have 25 years’ experience in public mental health and private practice. It is well established that the most important ingredient for any successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship which develops over time and helps you feel safe. I work with you to make sense of your unique story and the reasons you’re engaging in therapy. I start by understanding your early life experiences which impact your thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours from an emphatic and non-judgmental position. Therapy is embedded with compassion, tailored to meet your goals, from a strengths based position to empower your recovery journey.
I have 25 years’ experience in public mental health and private practice. It is well established that the most important ingredient for any successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship which develops over time and helps you feel safe. I work with you to make sense of your unique story and the reasons you’re engaging in therapy. I start by understanding your early life experiences which impact your thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours from an emphatic and non-judgmental position. Therapy is embedded with compassion, tailored to meet your goals, from a strengths based position to empower your recovery journey.
(03) 7003 2284 View (03) 7003 2284
Photo of Julian O'Sullivan, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Julian O'Sullivan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
Not accepting new clients
Julian's focus is on adult (18+) mental health. He provides treatment for various forms of psychological distress including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, and addictive behaviours. He works with clients experiencing grief and loss, identity and existential crisis, social alienation, isolation and loneliness. He is interested in helping those with difficulties in relationships, work stress, or managing distressing emotions.
Julian's focus is on adult (18+) mental health. He provides treatment for various forms of psychological distress including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, and addictive behaviours. He works with clients experiencing grief and loss, identity and existential crisis, social alienation, isolation and loneliness. He is interested in helping those with difficulties in relationships, work stress, or managing distressing emotions.
(03) 7003 2798 View (03) 7003 2798

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ruairi Gallagher, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruairi Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I held a counsellor role at a rights-based sex worker organisation and I continue trauma-specific counselling at a sexual assault centre.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
I held a counsellor role at a rights-based sex worker organisation and I continue trauma-specific counselling at a sexual assault centre.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
(03) 8338 4331 View (03) 8338 4331
Photo of Rebecca Reale - Wholehearted Psychology, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Wholehearted Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Consequently, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
Consequently, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
(03) 8338 1979 View (03) 8338 1979
Photo of Claudia G, AThR, Psychotherapist
Claudia G
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Elwood, VIC 3184
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
(03) 7003 2134 View (03) 7003 2134
Photo of Paula-Jane Buckland, PACFA, Counsellor
Paula-Jane Buckland
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
Paula-Jane specializes in complex trauma, working with adults who are victim/survivors of childhood sexual assault, and sex and intimacy education for NDIS participants.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
Paula-Jane specializes in complex trauma, working with adults who are victim/survivors of childhood sexual assault, and sex and intimacy education for NDIS participants.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
(03) 8338 4767 View (03) 8338 4767
Photo of Lucy McCarthy, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Lucy McCarthy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
As a Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor I have experience working with many common issues and concerns (such as relationship conflict, grief and loss, work stress) as well as serious mental health difficulties (such as Depression, Anxiety, Self Harm and Suicidal Ideation). My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling. I have spent the past 15 years developing specialist knowledge and skills in connecting with clients who have found it difficult to connect with a therapist in the past to get the assistance they need.
As a Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor I have experience working with many common issues and concerns (such as relationship conflict, grief and loss, work stress) as well as serious mental health difficulties (such as Depression, Anxiety, Self Harm and Suicidal Ideation). My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling. I have spent the past 15 years developing specialist knowledge and skills in connecting with clients who have found it difficult to connect with a therapist in the past to get the assistance they need.
(03) 7500 5855 View (03) 7500 5855
Photo of Jaz Forrester - Core Trauma Therapy, PACFA, Counsellor
Core Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brunswick East, VIC 3057  (Online Only)
I invite adults of all gender and cultural diversities living in Australia to reach out for support. My areas of focus include substance use, mental health, complex trauma, victims of crime, sexual assault, domestic violence, grief & loss, compassion fatigue, burnout, sexuality, and gender. In your therapy sessions my goal is to help you lead a life aligned with your values by integrating clinical evidence-based practices with practical knowledge. I take a personable approach, tailoring each session to your individual strengths and unique goals.
I invite adults of all gender and cultural diversities living in Australia to reach out for support. My areas of focus include substance use, mental health, complex trauma, victims of crime, sexual assault, domestic violence, grief & loss, compassion fatigue, burnout, sexuality, and gender. In your therapy sessions my goal is to help you lead a life aligned with your values by integrating clinical evidence-based practices with practical knowledge. I take a personable approach, tailoring each session to your individual strengths and unique goals.
(03) 7003 2361 View (03) 7003 2361
Photo of Peta de Burgh, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peta de Burgh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Accredited E.M.D.R Practitioner with more than 16 years experience working in the area of Trauma. I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event. I have a particular interest in trauma and how it impacts on a person's ability to have a harmonious relationships with themselves and others. https://www.breathcounselling.com.au/
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Accredited E.M.D.R Practitioner with more than 16 years experience working in the area of Trauma. I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event. I have a particular interest in trauma and how it impacts on a person's ability to have a harmonious relationships with themselves and others. https://www.breathcounselling.com.au/
(03) 7003 2905 View (03) 7003 2905
Photo of Jane Lumley - People Psychology, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
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 Kat O'Mara, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Brighton East, VIC 3187
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life has thrown your way? Struggling to navigate through a difficult situation? I'm here to lend a helping hand. As a registered counselor, I can provide the support you need to overcome these tough times. Together, we can create a safe space for you to explore your emotions and work towards healing at your own pace. My main focus is on assisting women who are dealing with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem resulting from unhealthy relationships or sexual assault. Throughout the years, I have helped numerous women heal and move forward from the pain of toxic relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life has thrown your way? Struggling to navigate through a difficult situation? I'm here to lend a helping hand. As a registered counselor, I can provide the support you need to overcome these tough times. Together, we can create a safe space for you to explore your emotions and work towards healing at your own pace. My main focus is on assisting women who are dealing with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem resulting from unhealthy relationships or sexual assault. Throughout the years, I have helped numerous women heal and move forward from the pain of toxic relationships.
(03) 7500 5605 View (03) 7500 5605
Photo of Barbara Drossos, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Drossos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I specialiase in trauma, sexual assault, pregnancy counselling, reproductive health support, as well as anxiety and depression. You might want support to process a past experience, to deal with a present difficulty or to have more fulfilling relationships and feel a greater sense of joy and wellbeing. I have 20+ years' experience working in social work and counselling settings.
I specialiase in trauma, sexual assault, pregnancy counselling, reproductive health support, as well as anxiety and depression. You might want support to process a past experience, to deal with a present difficulty or to have more fulfilling relationships and feel a greater sense of joy and wellbeing. I have 20+ years' experience working in social work and counselling settings.
(03) 9344 1556 View (03) 9344 1556
Photo of Meg Wettenhall, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Meg Wettenhall
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Werribee, VIC 3030
Hi! I'm Meg. I am registered clinical psychotherapist and an equine therapist. I am training in somatic experiencing and EMDR. I specialise in trauma, anxiety, and other mental health and relational issues. I use a relational, integrative approach to psychotherapy, mainly based in humanistic, experiential and somatic approaches. If you have experienced an adverse childhood and/or on going challenging interpersonal issues, I specialise in developmental trauma, complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault. I also work with young people seeking mental health support and have experience working with ASD Level 1 & 2.
Hi! I'm Meg. I am registered clinical psychotherapist and an equine therapist. I am training in somatic experiencing and EMDR. I specialise in trauma, anxiety, and other mental health and relational issues. I use a relational, integrative approach to psychotherapy, mainly based in humanistic, experiential and somatic approaches. If you have experienced an adverse childhood and/or on going challenging interpersonal issues, I specialise in developmental trauma, complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault. I also work with young people seeking mental health support and have experience working with ASD Level 1 & 2.
(03) 4238 0899 View (03) 4238 0899
Photo of Penelope Beth McDonald - Penny McDonald Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Penny McDonald Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I am a registered psychologist with 20 years' experience providing therapy to individuals who have experienced a range of issues including sexual assault, family violence, grief and loss, other significant traumas, depression and anxiety, and relational issues. I have a keen interest in trauma recovery and with a focus on complex, attachment and developmental trauma. I work with a client centred approach with flexibility as the client is the expert in their own lives. My work assists those to work with the parts of self that might get in the way of life and relationships, build self-compassion and safety.
I am a registered psychologist with 20 years' experience providing therapy to individuals who have experienced a range of issues including sexual assault, family violence, grief and loss, other significant traumas, depression and anxiety, and relational issues. I have a keen interest in trauma recovery and with a focus on complex, attachment and developmental trauma. I work with a client centred approach with flexibility as the client is the expert in their own lives. My work assists those to work with the parts of self that might get in the way of life and relationships, build self-compassion and safety.
(03) 7003 2022 View (03) 7003 2022
Photo of Clare MacLeod, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clare MacLeod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (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 Sara Wulf, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Sara Wulf
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Hello and Kia ora, I'm Sara. If you're looking for a safe space to be vulnerable and talk about something you're struggling with or something in the past that seems to follow you everywhere, you've come to the right place. I offer a trauma informed and culturally safe place to talk, reflect, unpack, problem solve, laugh and cry at all that is life. I have been practising for over 5 years and have experience in depression, anxiety and trauma stemming from family violence and sexual assault.
Hello and Kia ora, I'm Sara. If you're looking for a safe space to be vulnerable and talk about something you're struggling with or something in the past that seems to follow you everywhere, you've come to the right place. I offer a trauma informed and culturally safe place to talk, reflect, unpack, problem solve, laugh and cry at all that is life. I have been practising for over 5 years and have experience in depression, anxiety and trauma stemming from family violence and sexual assault.
(03) 7303 3998 View (03) 7303 3998

See more therapy options for Altona

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.