Sexual Abuse Therapists in Edmonton, AB

Photo of Eric Luther Krepstekies, MA, Psychologist
Eric Luther Krepstekies
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
I am a registered psychologist working in Edmonton. I work primarily with individual adults and couples, but I have experience with children, and families as well. I have over 6 years experience working with complex clients with intricate problems and I have provided mentorship and supervision to student therapists. My main areas of focus are relationships, anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as men & women's issues, which covers a wide variety of topics, such as, but not limited to: sexual abuse & trauma, sexual identity & orientation, intimacy issues, infidelity, pornography addiction and sexual disorders.
I am a registered psychologist working in Edmonton. I work primarily with individual adults and couples, but I have experience with children, and families as well. I have over 6 years experience working with complex clients with intricate problems and I have provided mentorship and supervision to student therapists. My main areas of focus are relationships, anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as men & women's issues, which covers a wide variety of topics, such as, but not limited to: sexual abuse & trauma, sexual identity & orientation, intimacy issues, infidelity, pornography addiction and sexual disorders.
(587) 210-2294 View (587) 210-2294
Photo of Maddalena Genovese, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Maddalena Genovese
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G  (Online Only)
Stress can impact the whole person and trauma can turn one’s world upside down. Sexual and physical assault, combat, medical traumas or serious accidents are all examples of traumatic events that can cause an array of distressing symptoms. Anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares along with nausea, and chronic fatigue are common and can wreak havoc on relationships. Sometimes feelings of horror, anger, sadness can seem to come out of nowhere making people feel like they are going “crazy.” But they are not. These are symptoms of trauma, and specialized evidence base treatment can help.
Stress can impact the whole person and trauma can turn one’s world upside down. Sexual and physical assault, combat, medical traumas or serious accidents are all examples of traumatic events that can cause an array of distressing symptoms. Anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares along with nausea, and chronic fatigue are common and can wreak havoc on relationships. Sometimes feelings of horror, anger, sadness can seem to come out of nowhere making people feel like they are going “crazy.” But they are not. These are symptoms of trauma, and specialized evidence base treatment can help.
(587) 609-8204 View (587) 609-8204
Photo of Candace Hamilton Emdr Consultant, BSc, MSc, RPsych, Psychologist
Candace Hamilton Emdr Consultant
Psychologist, BSc, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Hi, I’m Candace. I specialize in helping adults who have experienced relational trauma. Many clients may not label their experiences as "relational trauma," but they seek help to regain control after events like intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, workplace bullying, betrayal, childhood trauma, or narcissistic abuse. These experiences can deeply impact relationships, leading to mistrust, social anxiety depression, low self-confidence.
Hi, I’m Candace. I specialize in helping adults who have experienced relational trauma. Many clients may not label their experiences as "relational trauma," but they seek help to regain control after events like intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, workplace bullying, betrayal, childhood trauma, or narcissistic abuse. These experiences can deeply impact relationships, leading to mistrust, social anxiety depression, low self-confidence.
(587) 858-0528 View (587) 858-0528
Photo of Nafisa Moallim, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nafisa Moallim
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Areas of support include childhood sexual abuse, other sexual trauma, grief events (e.
Life can be difficult and reaching out to a therapist takes a lot of courage. If you've experienced challenges in your life due to childhood trauma, relationship difficulties, life stress, or grief events, I can help. I work with individuals, couples, and families (16+) struggling with communication, understanding racial/cultural impacts on identity, and breaking cycles of trauma. We will work together to create a space for you to share deep hurts and develop ways to safely process these experiences. My approach to therapy is: pro-Black, pro-choice, pro-queer, pro-trans and focuses on being an affirming and inclusive therapist.
Areas of support include childhood sexual abuse, other sexual trauma, grief events (e.
Life can be difficult and reaching out to a therapist takes a lot of courage. If you've experienced challenges in your life due to childhood trauma, relationship difficulties, life stress, or grief events, I can help. I work with individuals, couples, and families (16+) struggling with communication, understanding racial/cultural impacts on identity, and breaking cycles of trauma. We will work together to create a space for you to share deep hurts and develop ways to safely process these experiences. My approach to therapy is: pro-Black, pro-choice, pro-queer, pro-trans and focuses on being an affirming and inclusive therapist.
(825) 425-0121 View (825) 425-0121
Photo of Hala Kaiss, MC, R, Psych, Psychologist
Hala Kaiss
Psychologist, MC, R, Psych
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5V
I am a Registered Psychologist offering in-person services in Calgary & virtual services throughout AB. I have experience working with Adults through a number of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, boundaries, self-esteem, emotional regulation, childhood abuse/sexual assault, healthy sexuality, and self-awareness/identity. I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma in their life. Trauma can look different for each and every person; what may be traumatizing for one, may not be for another. You define what it means for you, & together, we can work towards lessening the impact of these events.
I am a Registered Psychologist offering in-person services in Calgary & virtual services throughout AB. I have experience working with Adults through a number of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, boundaries, self-esteem, emotional regulation, childhood abuse/sexual assault, healthy sexuality, and self-awareness/identity. I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma in their life. Trauma can look different for each and every person; what may be traumatizing for one, may not be for another. You define what it means for you, & together, we can work towards lessening the impact of these events.
(587) 578-0483 View (587) 578-0483
Photo of Jessica Blake, MEd , RPsych, CST, Psychologist
Jessica Blake
Psychologist, MEd , RPsych, CST
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Sex, Sexual assault and trauma, affairs & Infidelity, Sexual Dysfunctions and disorders, LGBTQ2+, & Poly/Open Lifestyles.
Customer service is not a term you may automatically think of when you hear psychological services, but to me, you cannot have one without the other. I pride myself on customer service, and work hard to deliver all of my psychological services in a customer focused and driven environment. Together we can work on solutions that are of value to you for any difficulties and dilemmas you are facing. I am team orientated, and believe in a collaborative process, especially when working with children & parents, and I understand how challenging this process can be. I want us to meet your counseling and life goals together.
Sex, Sexual assault and trauma, affairs & Infidelity, Sexual Dysfunctions and disorders, LGBTQ2+, & Poly/Open Lifestyles.
Customer service is not a term you may automatically think of when you hear psychological services, but to me, you cannot have one without the other. I pride myself on customer service, and work hard to deliver all of my psychological services in a customer focused and driven environment. Together we can work on solutions that are of value to you for any difficulties and dilemmas you are facing. I am team orientated, and believe in a collaborative process, especially when working with children & parents, and I understand how challenging this process can be. I want us to meet your counseling and life goals together.
(587) 315-5539 View (587) 315-5539
Photo of Fern Ashton, M A, Psychologist
Fern Ashton
Psychologist, M A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
As a trauma specialist, I have supported individuals through diverse life experiences, including traumatic exposures (childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety) for more than 25 years. Through a client centered lens of support and encouragement, I have worked with individuals in varying stages of life span, including children, youth, adults and seniors. I value the courage, commitment, and authenticity each client brings to the table and am honoured to be a part of that healing journey. I believe in the ability to heal and approach my client interactions with love, support, and humour.
As a trauma specialist, I have supported individuals through diverse life experiences, including traumatic exposures (childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety) for more than 25 years. Through a client centered lens of support and encouragement, I have worked with individuals in varying stages of life span, including children, youth, adults and seniors. I value the courage, commitment, and authenticity each client brings to the table and am honoured to be a part of that healing journey. I believe in the ability to heal and approach my client interactions with love, support, and humour.
(855) 464-8649 View (855) 464-8649
Photo of Farrel Greenspan, MC, BA, BMOS, Psychologist
Farrel Greenspan
Psychologist, MC, BA, BMOS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5K
I am a registered psychologist specializing in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD. I previously conducted research at the University of Alberta, designing a treatment center intended to treat children of sexual abuse. I completed my Master's degree in counselling psychology at City University in Edmonton, Alberta. Prior to that I completed two Bachelor degrees in Psychology and Organizational Studies with a specialization in human resources. I aim to provide my clients with as much time and comfort as they need until they feel safe and secure.
I am a registered psychologist specializing in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD. I previously conducted research at the University of Alberta, designing a treatment center intended to treat children of sexual abuse. I completed my Master's degree in counselling psychology at City University in Edmonton, Alberta. Prior to that I completed two Bachelor degrees in Psychology and Organizational Studies with a specialization in human resources. I aim to provide my clients with as much time and comfort as they need until they feel safe and secure.
(780) 901-2638 View (780) 901-2638
Photo of Tara Lutchman, MA, Psychologist
Tara Lutchman
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily use IFS (internal family systems), EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing), and somatic therapies to help clients heal from and cope more effectively with difficulties having to do with mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, complex trauma (i.e. repeated painful experiences of betrayal, abandonment, or boundary violations); grief, disrupted attachment in early childhood, as well as experiences of discrimination, exclusion, or shaming on the basis of sexuality, sexual orientation, cultural identity, or anything else that unjustly marks an individual as inferior.
I primarily use IFS (internal family systems), EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing), and somatic therapies to help clients heal from and cope more effectively with difficulties having to do with mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, complex trauma (i.e. repeated painful experiences of betrayal, abandonment, or boundary violations); grief, disrupted attachment in early childhood, as well as experiences of discrimination, exclusion, or shaming on the basis of sexuality, sexual orientation, cultural identity, or anything else that unjustly marks an individual as inferior.
(587) 804-9124 View (587) 804-9124
Photo of Joshua Dunn, MEd, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Joshua Dunn
Psychologist, MEd, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5P
I specialize in treating PTSD stemming from military service, first responders, policing, sexual trauma, vehicle accidents, forms of abuse, assault, and suicide.
I am a doctoral-level psychologist who has provided psychotherapy and assessment for almost 20 years in the Alberta area. I have training in many treatment modalities; however, I mostly use Cognitive Behavioural Therapies (CBT) to address a range of issues including trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, perfectionism, grief, substance use difficulties, as well as identity and relationship struggles.
I specialize in treating PTSD stemming from military service, first responders, policing, sexual trauma, vehicle accidents, forms of abuse, assault, and suicide.
I am a doctoral-level psychologist who has provided psychotherapy and assessment for almost 20 years in the Alberta area. I have training in many treatment modalities; however, I mostly use Cognitive Behavioural Therapies (CBT) to address a range of issues including trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, perfectionism, grief, substance use difficulties, as well as identity and relationship struggles.
(587) 847-2845 View (587) 847-2845
Photo of Jasmine Fulks, BA, MCPsych, RPsych, Psychologist
Jasmine Fulks
Psychologist, BA, MCPsych, RPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5K
I am a Registered Psychologist with quality clinical experience providing direct counselling services to individuals. I use an eclectic approach to helping guide the healing path with emphasis on solution-focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. I have worked with a variety of clientele of diverse cultures, backgrounds, abilities and ages experiencing a wide range of difficulties including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual assault/ sexual abuse, self-esteem/confidence, relationship issues, communication, substance abuse/recovery, crisis, anger management, suicide, self-harm, sexuality,grief and life transitions.
I am a Registered Psychologist with quality clinical experience providing direct counselling services to individuals. I use an eclectic approach to helping guide the healing path with emphasis on solution-focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. I have worked with a variety of clientele of diverse cultures, backgrounds, abilities and ages experiencing a wide range of difficulties including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual assault/ sexual abuse, self-esteem/confidence, relationship issues, communication, substance abuse/recovery, crisis, anger management, suicide, self-harm, sexuality,grief and life transitions.
(866) 818-3056 View (866) 818-3056
Photo of Hoda Samadi, MSc
Hoda Samadi
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
I also have an expertise in helping individuals overcome limitations, such as, anger control problems, cognitive deficits, grief, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, substance use issues, vocational stress, and phase of life problems.
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist that has a clinical background training in Emotional Disorders (e.g., Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Depression, and Anxiety), Sleep Disturbances, Chronic Pain and Couple Distress. Additionally, I concentrated in Child Psychology where I helped adolescents overcome childhood traumas and developmental issues.
I also have an expertise in helping individuals overcome limitations, such as, anger control problems, cognitive deficits, grief, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, substance use issues, vocational stress, and phase of life problems.
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist that has a clinical background training in Emotional Disorders (e.g., Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Depression, and Anxiety), Sleep Disturbances, Chronic Pain and Couple Distress. Additionally, I concentrated in Child Psychology where I helped adolescents overcome childhood traumas and developmental issues.
(825) 250-0656 View (825) 250-0656
Photo of Mikaela Norton - Trauma Therapy for Women (Mikaela Norton), Counsellor
Trauma Therapy for Women (Mikaela Norton)
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with women who have experienced trauma, anxiety, anger, parenting, stress, domestic abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse and sexual abuse.
Accepting New Clients! If you've been through a traumatic experience, it's likely that you're in search of a therapist that specializes in trauma care. You want solutions, but with a caring, judgement-free space to process your emotions and experiences. I have spent over 5 years working with survivors of trauma of all ages and successfully helped them work through their healing process. By utilizing many forms of therapy, I can successfully tailor your experience to what works best for you. You're unique. Your therapy experience should be too.
I specialize in working with women who have experienced trauma, anxiety, anger, parenting, stress, domestic abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse and sexual abuse.
Accepting New Clients! If you've been through a traumatic experience, it's likely that you're in search of a therapist that specializes in trauma care. You want solutions, but with a caring, judgement-free space to process your emotions and experiences. I have spent over 5 years working with survivors of trauma of all ages and successfully helped them work through their healing process. By utilizing many forms of therapy, I can successfully tailor your experience to what works best for you. You're unique. Your therapy experience should be too.
(587) 705-4764 View (587) 705-4764
Photo of Jan-Marie Chrzanowski, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Jan-Marie Chrzanowski
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5H
I work with a variety of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, sexual abuse, and trauma.
As a registered psychologist, I am passionate about working with children, youth, adults and their families. I support clients in their unique journeys of self-discovery, helping them to further develop their emotional, social and coping skills and self-esteem. I support families in developing their relationships, and assist parents/caregivers in adapting their parenting styles to the unique needs of each child.
I work with a variety of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, sexual abuse, and trauma.
As a registered psychologist, I am passionate about working with children, youth, adults and their families. I support clients in their unique journeys of self-discovery, helping them to further develop their emotional, social and coping skills and self-esteem. I support families in developing their relationships, and assist parents/caregivers in adapting their parenting styles to the unique needs of each child.
(855) 544-3035 View (855) 544-3035
Photo of Kenzie Brinsmead, MA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Kenzie Brinsmead
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
I help individuals and couples navigate communication issues, intimacy concerns, sexual dysfunction, infidelity, trust issues, and trauma related to sexual abuse. If something feels off in your relationships or sex life, I'm here to provide support. Together, we'll navigate the challenges of stressors and delve into unmet expectations. If anxiety, low mood, self-criticism, or shame are barriers, or if you feel like you've been conforming to societal expectations rather than embracing who you are, our focus will be on rediscovering your authentic self.
I help individuals and couples navigate communication issues, intimacy concerns, sexual dysfunction, infidelity, trust issues, and trauma related to sexual abuse. If something feels off in your relationships or sex life, I'm here to provide support. Together, we'll navigate the challenges of stressors and delve into unmet expectations. If anxiety, low mood, self-criticism, or shame are barriers, or if you feel like you've been conforming to societal expectations rather than embracing who you are, our focus will be on rediscovering your authentic self.
(587) 871-4414 View (587) 871-4414
Photo of Heather Matthews, MC, Psychologist
Heather Matthews
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Welcome! I’m Heather Matthews, a Registered Psychologist with a passion for supporting individuals through their unique healing journeys. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with children, youth, and adults, helping them navigate through various challenges such as grief, loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance dependence, and sexual abuse. My approach is client-centered and attachment-based, ensuring that each therapeutic relationship is tailored to meet the individual needs of my clients.
Welcome! I’m Heather Matthews, a Registered Psychologist with a passion for supporting individuals through their unique healing journeys. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with children, youth, and adults, helping them navigate through various challenges such as grief, loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance dependence, and sexual abuse. My approach is client-centered and attachment-based, ensuring that each therapeutic relationship is tailored to meet the individual needs of my clients.
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Photo of Debbie Jabbour, MC, Psychologist
Debbie Jabbour
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6A
I’ve been privileged to live and work in Alberta’s far north, where I’ve become familiar with a wide diversity of cultures and personalities. I understand the unique challenges – such as isolation, transportation, lack of access to support services - that Northerners face. My clients include those facing issues related to intergenerational trauma, residential schools, 60s scoop, addictions, family violence and systemic racism. I have experience working with trauma, sexual assault, grief and loss, separation/divorce, and the LGBTQ community.
I’ve been privileged to live and work in Alberta’s far north, where I’ve become familiar with a wide diversity of cultures and personalities. I understand the unique challenges – such as isolation, transportation, lack of access to support services - that Northerners face. My clients include those facing issues related to intergenerational trauma, residential schools, 60s scoop, addictions, family violence and systemic racism. I have experience working with trauma, sexual assault, grief and loss, separation/divorce, and the LGBTQ community.
(587) 410-5992 View (587) 410-5992
Photo of Kingsley Moyo, MAMFT, CCC, CST, Counsellor
Kingsley Moyo
Counsellor, MAMFT, CCC, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
A significant part of my ethos, is seeing Individuals and couples thrive in their sexual health and relationships. Ranging from helping couples bring the passion back in their mismatched sexual desires, stop the reoccurring fights, resolve the parenting and money conflicts, and heal betrayal (infidelity). I work with you to let go of the shame surrounding your sex life; resolve the joy stolen by erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation and the frustration of in-orgasm and painful sex. There's hope to heal the trauma of sexual abuse and sexual addictions. Pleasure and happiness belong in your sex life and relationships.
A significant part of my ethos, is seeing Individuals and couples thrive in their sexual health and relationships. Ranging from helping couples bring the passion back in their mismatched sexual desires, stop the reoccurring fights, resolve the parenting and money conflicts, and heal betrayal (infidelity). I work with you to let go of the shame surrounding your sex life; resolve the joy stolen by erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation and the frustration of in-orgasm and painful sex. There's hope to heal the trauma of sexual abuse and sexual addictions. Pleasure and happiness belong in your sex life and relationships.
(587) 415-6718 View (587) 415-6718
Photo of Erin Martin, MEd, PhD, Psychologist
Erin Martin
Psychologist, MEd, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
I specialize in working with adults and trauma with a passion for supporting people who have experienced some kind of sexual abuse/ assault (recently or a long time ago).
Daytime availability only - I provide support for adults around anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, boundaries, relationship challenges, trauma, sexual abuse/ assault, and difficult childhoods. I also provide support for partners and supporters of people who have experienced sexual abuse/ assault. Many people I work with want to live more fulfilling and meaningful lives -This can come up in their relationships with others, in their relationships with themselves, and/or in their professional/educational lives. I love talking about self-worth and supporting people to feel better about themselves.
I specialize in working with adults and trauma with a passion for supporting people who have experienced some kind of sexual abuse/ assault (recently or a long time ago).
Daytime availability only - I provide support for adults around anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, boundaries, relationship challenges, trauma, sexual abuse/ assault, and difficult childhoods. I also provide support for partners and supporters of people who have experienced sexual abuse/ assault. Many people I work with want to live more fulfilling and meaningful lives -This can come up in their relationships with others, in their relationships with themselves, and/or in their professional/educational lives. I love talking about self-worth and supporting people to feel better about themselves.
(587) 907-5182 View (587) 907-5182
Photo of Naomi Isaac - Queer Spirit Counselling and Therapy Services, MA-CP
Queer Spirit Counselling and Therapy Services
MA-CP
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
My heart especially goes out to those who find themselves at the intersection of queerness and faith, and those who have suffered spiritual, emotional or sexual abuse and trauma.
My name is Naomi Isaac (she/her), and I am a queer therapist who specializes in working with individuals who may be struggling to integrate queer and spiritual identities. Queer people from religious faith backgrounds (and their families) are often marginalized by both the queer community and their faith community, and may feel alone in the struggle they may have to understand their queerness in the context of their faith or religious upbringing. Having a therapist who is familiar with both worlds, who will respect all aspects of their identity, is crucial in working through these unique challenges in counselling.
My heart especially goes out to those who find themselves at the intersection of queerness and faith, and those who have suffered spiritual, emotional or sexual abuse and trauma.
My name is Naomi Isaac (she/her), and I am a queer therapist who specializes in working with individuals who may be struggling to integrate queer and spiritual identities. Queer people from religious faith backgrounds (and their families) are often marginalized by both the queer community and their faith community, and may feel alone in the struggle they may have to understand their queerness in the context of their faith or religious upbringing. Having a therapist who is familiar with both worlds, who will respect all aspects of their identity, is crucial in working through these unique challenges in counselling.
(825) 809-5495 View (825) 809-5495
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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.