Sexual Abuse Counselling in Flemington, VIC

Photo of Monique Toohey, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Monique Toohey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Flemington, VIC 3031
I have been providing psychological services & counselling to adults for over 2 decades. I am also a Gottman informed couple's therapist. Clients who love working with me are often growth and values oriented and strategy focussed because I am strength and strategy focussed. I am very passionate about my work and have 28 years of experience working with people from an array of cultural backgrounds navigating personal, familial and workplace relationships.
I have been providing psychological services & counselling to adults for over 2 decades. I am also a Gottman informed couple's therapist. Clients who love working with me are often growth and values oriented and strategy focussed because I am strength and strategy focussed. I am very passionate about my work and have 28 years of experience working with people from an array of cultural backgrounds navigating personal, familial and workplace relationships.
(03) 9034 6163 View (03) 9034 6163
Photo of Tom Trikojus, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tom Trikojus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Flemington, VIC 3031
I’ve been working as a psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor in private practice in Footscray for 18 years. The vibrancy, diversity and unique qualities of Footscray and the inner western suburbs of Melbourne have always felt like the right fit for my practice. I’ve worked with a diverse range of issues and presentations. As well as supporting people through mental health issues, I’m also interested in helping people develop their capacity for awareness and self-discovery. I have a steadfast commitment to the depth and transformative potential of the therapeutic process.
I’ve been working as a psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor in private practice in Footscray for 18 years. The vibrancy, diversity and unique qualities of Footscray and the inner western suburbs of Melbourne have always felt like the right fit for my practice. I’ve worked with a diverse range of issues and presentations. As well as supporting people through mental health issues, I’m also interested in helping people develop their capacity for awareness and self-discovery. I have a steadfast commitment to the depth and transformative potential of the therapeutic process.
(03) 8595 5296 View (03) 8595 5296
Photo of Luke Bamford, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Luke Bamford
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Flemington, VIC 3031
I like the therapy room to be warm and welcoming. I enjoy working with teens and adults struggling with a range of issues, no matter how complex or longstanding. I am also culturally sensitive and LGBTIQA+ inclusive. I have experience working with issues like depression, anxiety, stress, anger, PTSD and trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, interpersonal/relationship issues, chronic pain/illness and neurodiverse people (ADHD/ASD).
I like the therapy room to be warm and welcoming. I enjoy working with teens and adults struggling with a range of issues, no matter how complex or longstanding. I am also culturally sensitive and LGBTIQA+ inclusive. I have experience working with issues like depression, anxiety, stress, anger, PTSD and trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, interpersonal/relationship issues, chronic pain/illness and neurodiverse people (ADHD/ASD).
(03) 7003 2227 View (03) 7003 2227
Photo of Casey Anderson - Casey Anderson , MA, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Casey Anderson
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Flemington, VIC 3031
Casey Anderson takes a psychoanalytic approach to psychotherapy. This way of working can be particularly helpful to work through unresolved feelings from the past and locate the hidden cause of symptoms; bringing relief from depression, anxiety, somatic disorders, and repetitive relationship issues.
Casey Anderson takes a psychoanalytic approach to psychotherapy. This way of working can be particularly helpful to work through unresolved feelings from the past and locate the hidden cause of symptoms; bringing relief from depression, anxiety, somatic disorders, and repetitive relationship issues.
(03) 7003 2898 View (03) 7003 2898

More Therapists Nearby

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 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 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 Peta de Burgh, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peta de Burgh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
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 Charles Maddison, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles Maddison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Waitlist for new clients
It's my job to make myself redundant with clients, to help them end their work with me equipped with insights & skills to better manage emotional challenges. I use EMDR to treat trauma from childhood, military service, sexual assault, family violence, road accidents & medical procedures. EMDR can also be helpful with workplace & social anxiety. In addition, I counsel adult clients with symptoms of autism such as rigid thinking & emotional barriers. I offer a safe space where intrusive & distressing thoughts can be safely explored, discussed respectfully & helpfully - & with some humour, but no nonsense.
It's my job to make myself redundant with clients, to help them end their work with me equipped with insights & skills to better manage emotional challenges. I use EMDR to treat trauma from childhood, military service, sexual assault, family violence, road accidents & medical procedures. EMDR can also be helpful with workplace & social anxiety. In addition, I counsel adult clients with symptoms of autism such as rigid thinking & emotional barriers. I offer a safe space where intrusive & distressing thoughts can be safely explored, discussed respectfully & helpfully - & with some humour, but no nonsense.
(03) 7003 2045 View (03) 7003 2045
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 sexual assault, pregnancy counselling and reproductive health support, however I also work with people across a range of issues. 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 sexual assault, pregnancy counselling and reproductive health support, however I also work with people across a range of issues. 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 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
Footscray, VIC 3011
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 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 Paco Romeu, MSc, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paco Romeu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
Also, I have worked in LGBTIQA+ health programs and sexual assault services.
My practice is collaborative and reflective. It focuses on working together to develop a deepening understanding of life-long patterns of thinking, feeling and experiencing.It assists people to grapple with very challenging emotional difficulties and with complex personal relationships. I specialize in working with people who deal with childhood trauma and related complications. These are often intertwined within the person’s emotional world and can manifest in a range of problems, including depression, panic attacks, difficulties with intimacy and trust, obsessive thinking, mood swings, and substance misuse.
Also, I have worked in LGBTIQA+ health programs and sexual assault services.
My practice is collaborative and reflective. It focuses on working together to develop a deepening understanding of life-long patterns of thinking, feeling and experiencing.It assists people to grapple with very challenging emotional difficulties and with complex personal relationships. I specialize in working with people who deal with childhood trauma and related complications. These are often intertwined within the person’s emotional world and can manifest in a range of problems, including depression, panic attacks, difficulties with intimacy and trust, obsessive thinking, mood swings, and substance misuse.
(02) 4504 0169 View (02) 4504 0169
Photo of Sanctuary Space Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Sanctuary Space Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Maribyrnong, VIC 3032
Pam is a qualified counsellor with wealth of experience in the areas of addictions,trauma,mental health ,domestic family violence and sexual assault and supervision. Pam also provides coaching,mentoring, debriefing support to navigate challenging situations and enhance the emotional,mental and general psychological wellbeing of individuals and their loved ones.With over 13 years of experience under her belt working through a trauma informed lens with clients,Pam is passionate about bringing hope through acceptance,value and belonging .
Pam is a qualified counsellor with wealth of experience in the areas of addictions,trauma,mental health ,domestic family violence and sexual assault and supervision. Pam also provides coaching,mentoring, debriefing support to navigate challenging situations and enhance the emotional,mental and general psychological wellbeing of individuals and their loved ones.With over 13 years of experience under her belt working through a trauma informed lens with clients,Pam is passionate about bringing hope through acceptance,value and belonging .
(03) 7303 3702 View (03) 7303 3702
Photo of Nicole Osborn - Art of Mindful Psychology - Nicole Osborn, Psychotherapist
Art of Mindful Psychology - Nicole Osborn
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Southbank, VIC 3006
I am an NDIS Registered Child and Adolescent Psycotherapist sp in Autism with Advanced training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy. I offer analysis, Behavioral Therapy, ABA, Art as Therapy, and Emotional and Psychological support for all ages, and needs, including parents, families, schools and teachers. Areas include autism, anxiety, depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, grief/loss, social and behavioural issues, sexual assault and more. I am known for my unconventional ways of working which works well with children and young adults. Please email info@artofmindfulpsychology with a brief description and best contact to arrange an appointment.
I am an NDIS Registered Child and Adolescent Psycotherapist sp in Autism with Advanced training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy. I offer analysis, Behavioral Therapy, ABA, Art as Therapy, and Emotional and Psychological support for all ages, and needs, including parents, families, schools and teachers. Areas include autism, anxiety, depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, grief/loss, social and behavioural issues, sexual assault and more. I am known for my unconventional ways of working which works well with children and young adults. Please email info@artofmindfulpsychology with a brief description and best contact to arrange an appointment.
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Photo of Victoria Soar, MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
Victoria Soar
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Port Melbourne, VIC 3207
I specialise in trauma informed care, obtained through working in a sexual assault centre.
Hi, I'm Vicki. I am a qualified Art Psychotherapist in England and Australia. I am passionate about art therapy and specialise in trauma informed art psychotherapy. This involves helping and educating clients on how to regulate their nervous system with art making, in a safe therapeutic relationship. This is particularly effective for clients with ptsd and anxiety disorders (select mutism, ocd). Client's goals are often to learn new ways of regulating their emotions and reduce anxiety and build coping skills. We can do this with art therapy, so they can be empowered to live the life they desire, with freedom from the past.
I specialise in trauma informed care, obtained through working in a sexual assault centre.
Hi, I'm Vicki. I am a qualified Art Psychotherapist in England and Australia. I am passionate about art therapy and specialise in trauma informed art psychotherapy. This involves helping and educating clients on how to regulate their nervous system with art making, in a safe therapeutic relationship. This is particularly effective for clients with ptsd and anxiety disorders (select mutism, ocd). Client's goals are often to learn new ways of regulating their emotions and reduce anxiety and build coping skills. We can do this with art therapy, so they can be empowered to live the life they desire, with freedom from the past.
(03) 7003 2425 View (03) 7003 2425
Photo of Leigh Milne - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Leigh Milne - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
(03) 7003 2164 View (03) 7003 2164
Photo of Linda Taylor - TaylorMade Counselling, MA, AMHSW, Counsellor
TaylorMade Counselling
Counsellor, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
I have extensive experience across a broad range of social work and counselling sectors including youth justice, family violence, sexual assault, child protection, the Indigenous community, defence, the veteran community, mental health, training and professional development, hospitals, international development and child protection.
TaylorMade Counselling has been designed to work with people of all ages who are looking for a comfortable and safe environment to have life changing, meaningful and practical conversations. The TaylorMade journey began with a single goal; to be able to connect with people and to support them to reconnect with themselves. I wanted TaylorMade to be about empowering people who are experiencing challenges, to encourage them to look at their lives from different angles, to reframe their thinking, to recognise and acknowledge their strengths and triumphs, in order to facilitate them to make positive changes, so that they can lead happy and fulfilling lives.
I have extensive experience across a broad range of social work and counselling sectors including youth justice, family violence, sexual assault, child protection, the Indigenous community, defence, the veteran community, mental health, training and professional development, hospitals, international development and child protection.
TaylorMade Counselling has been designed to work with people of all ages who are looking for a comfortable and safe environment to have life changing, meaningful and practical conversations. The TaylorMade journey began with a single goal; to be able to connect with people and to support them to reconnect with themselves. I wanted TaylorMade to be about empowering people who are experiencing challenges, to encourage them to look at their lives from different angles, to reframe their thinking, to recognise and acknowledge their strengths and triumphs, in order to facilitate them to make positive changes, so that they can lead happy and fulfilling lives.
(03) 9069 9437 View (03) 9069 9437
Photo of Bree Buck, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Bree Buck
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I have worked in multiple settings with vulnerable members of society across the public mental health (community, inpatient, residential, veterans and NGO’s focused on victim survivors of sexual assault/family violence) and now in private practice.
I can offer you a safe space where we can collaboratively turn our attention inwards towards your internal world using a curious, non-judgmental stance. We will observe and try to understand your current concerns in light of your past patterns informed by clinical interventions & research. The type of clients that I am drawn to are interested in medium to long term therapy in order to change maladaptive coping strategies that are no longer benefiting the client. I am passionate about the process of empower you to find your own path towards living your values.
I have worked in multiple settings with vulnerable members of society across the public mental health (community, inpatient, residential, veterans and NGO’s focused on victim survivors of sexual assault/family violence) and now in private practice.
I can offer you a safe space where we can collaboratively turn our attention inwards towards your internal world using a curious, non-judgmental stance. We will observe and try to understand your current concerns in light of your past patterns informed by clinical interventions & research. The type of clients that I am drawn to are interested in medium to long term therapy in order to change maladaptive coping strategies that are no longer benefiting the client. I am passionate about the process of empower you to find your own path towards living your values.
(03) 7003 2524 View (03) 7003 2524

See more therapy options for Flemington

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.