Sexual Abuse Therapists in Agassiz, BC

Photo of Catherine Farrell, RPC-C, Counsellor
Catherine Farrell
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
Agassiz, BC V0M
The overwhelm of life can catch up to us all at times. You may have found yourself with more questions than answers lately. Perhaps your life stressors are taking up more space than usual, causing anxiety, depression or a general feeling of overwhelm. Maybe you are experiencing negative self esteem, grief, trauma or complex life milestone issues. You want to be in a more grounded space with the confidence to make decisions and become a better participant in your own life. You want to be able to better regulate those stressors in your life and get back to the carefree, confident person you know you can be. Let's get started.
The overwhelm of life can catch up to us all at times. You may have found yourself with more questions than answers lately. Perhaps your life stressors are taking up more space than usual, causing anxiety, depression or a general feeling of overwhelm. Maybe you are experiencing negative self esteem, grief, trauma or complex life milestone issues. You want to be in a more grounded space with the confidence to make decisions and become a better participant in your own life. You want to be able to better regulate those stressors in your life and get back to the carefree, confident person you know you can be. Let's get started.
(226) 780-4021 View (226) 780-4021
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth White - Expressive Child Therapies, MA, CCC, RCC, SPT, Counsellor
Expressive Child Therapies
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC, SPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Agassiz, BC V0M
Parenting is the most invested relationship one can partake in. There are many tasks and challenges involved in guiding little people towards becoming adults. Life can force families to face events that impact children's ability to feel safe and function successfully. This is when it becomes key to incorporate "it takes a whole community to raise a child", and I believe that people do the best they can with what they know. I have dedicated 23 years to helping children express their needs. And I can help increase your "knowing" so that we can enrich your child's relationships and increase their tolerance for the difficult stuff
Parenting is the most invested relationship one can partake in. There are many tasks and challenges involved in guiding little people towards becoming adults. Life can force families to face events that impact children's ability to feel safe and function successfully. This is when it becomes key to incorporate "it takes a whole community to raise a child", and I believe that people do the best they can with what they know. I have dedicated 23 years to helping children express their needs. And I can help increase your "knowing" so that we can enrich your child's relationships and increase their tolerance for the difficult stuff
(825) 251-5344 View (825) 251-5344
Photo of Heather MacPherson - Heather MacPherson & Associates Counselling , MA, RCC, Counsellor
Heather MacPherson & Associates Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Agassiz, BC V0M
Welcome and thank you for taking time to explore my page! I am a highly experienced counsellor for women with an online practice and an in-person practice. I aim to create a warm and welcoming place where clients can come to explore, grow, and find increased healing from difficulties. As a highly relational person, my attuned attention and compassionate nature support a large part of my practice. I firmly believe that healing takes place, partly, in relationships. It is within the therapeutic relationship that I tailor theoretical approaches to meet each individual's unique strengths, desires, processes, and needs.
Welcome and thank you for taking time to explore my page! I am a highly experienced counsellor for women with an online practice and an in-person practice. I aim to create a warm and welcoming place where clients can come to explore, grow, and find increased healing from difficulties. As a highly relational person, my attuned attention and compassionate nature support a large part of my practice. I firmly believe that healing takes place, partly, in relationships. It is within the therapeutic relationship that I tailor theoretical approaches to meet each individual's unique strengths, desires, processes, and needs.
(604) 265-5524 View (604) 265-5524
Photo of Anna Brotzel, Counsellor
Anna Brotzel
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Agassiz, BC V0M
Anna specializes in working with trauma, anxiety and depression. She also provides support for autistic and/or ADHD clients from a strengths-based perspective. Parent coaching and support are available for parents of neurodivergent children. Therapy is a collaborative process based on your needs and wants, the speed you want to work at, and the goals you want to achieve.
Anna specializes in working with trauma, anxiety and depression. She also provides support for autistic and/or ADHD clients from a strengths-based perspective. Parent coaching and support are available for parents of neurodivergent children. Therapy is a collaborative process based on your needs and wants, the speed you want to work at, and the goals you want to achieve.
(672) 202-1367 View (672) 202-1367
Photo of Jessica Hilton, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Jessica Hilton
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Agassiz, BC V0M
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling stuck, lost, or overwhelmed by life's challenges? Is your life consumed by unresolved painful emotions, limiting beliefs, or distressing experiences? If your coping mechanisms and strategies are no longer effective, and you're seeking fresh ways to navigate emotions and relationships, you've come to the right place. In therapy, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, aiming to identify the difficulties you face and reconnect with your core values, inner strengths, and the capacity to learn, heal, and grow toward the life you envision.
Feeling stuck, lost, or overwhelmed by life's challenges? Is your life consumed by unresolved painful emotions, limiting beliefs, or distressing experiences? If your coping mechanisms and strategies are no longer effective, and you're seeking fresh ways to navigate emotions and relationships, you've come to the right place. In therapy, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, aiming to identify the difficulties you face and reconnect with your core values, inner strengths, and the capacity to learn, heal, and grow toward the life you envision.
(866) 641-7211 View (866) 641-7211
Photo of Chelsea Stenner, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Chelsea Stenner
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Agassiz, BC V0M
A common misconception is that you need to hit "rock bottom" before you decide to seek counselling. There are numerous reasons why a person may choose to speak with a qualified professional; everything from taking preventative measures to addressing a full-blown crisis. Whether you're in a season of life where you're looking for insight, needing some guidance in making a shift or transition, wanting to change but not being sure how, hurting badly and feeling hopeless, carrying a burden of past traumas and memories, or in a crisis and you've reached your limit - counselling can help.
A common misconception is that you need to hit "rock bottom" before you decide to seek counselling. There are numerous reasons why a person may choose to speak with a qualified professional; everything from taking preventative measures to addressing a full-blown crisis. Whether you're in a season of life where you're looking for insight, needing some guidance in making a shift or transition, wanting to change but not being sure how, hurting badly and feeling hopeless, carrying a burden of past traumas and memories, or in a crisis and you've reached your limit - counselling can help.
(778) 765-3316 View (778) 765-3316

Online Therapists

Photo of Rebecca I Christofferson, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Rebecca I Christofferson
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Duncan, BC V9L
in art therapy, MA, parenting training, NLP / hypnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment therapy, sexual abuse and trauma therapy, mental health interventions, addictions programs, and EMDR.
I am committed to creating a comfortable space for you to strengthen your abilities and face your challenges. I have over 20 years of experience helping people overcome challenges including trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, family violence, anger management, developmental delays, behavioral challenges, eating disorders, ADHD/ADD and divorce. I work with individuals and families to help them identify their goals and develop the skills needed to reach them.
in art therapy, MA, parenting training, NLP / hypnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment therapy, sexual abuse and trauma therapy, mental health interventions, addictions programs, and EMDR.
I am committed to creating a comfortable space for you to strengthen your abilities and face your challenges. I have over 20 years of experience helping people overcome challenges including trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, family violence, anger management, developmental delays, behavioral challenges, eating disorders, ADHD/ADD and divorce. I work with individuals and families to help them identify their goals and develop the skills needed to reach them.
(343) 307-5768 View (343) 307-5768
Photo of Earl Blacklock, MALM, MDiv, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Earl Blacklock
Counsellor, MALM, MDiv, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
I am both a trained therapeutic counsellor and trauma survivor from PTSD experienced as a result of a workplace assault.
Although I am also a couples counsellor, I work primarily with those who have experienced trauma. Trauma is the experience of being emotionally and psychologically overwhelmed and overcome for weeks, months, or years by adverse childhood experiences and adult traumatic events. My focus is always on the present and a hopeful future - how can those debilitated by anxiety, shame, poor self-worth, child sexual abuse, c-PTSD and PTSD, and dissociative disorders including Dissociative Identity Disorder, become healthy enough to meet their own needs for income, housing, affirming relationships, and wellness - physical, emotional AND mental
I am both a trained therapeutic counsellor and trauma survivor from PTSD experienced as a result of a workplace assault.
Although I am also a couples counsellor, I work primarily with those who have experienced trauma. Trauma is the experience of being emotionally and psychologically overwhelmed and overcome for weeks, months, or years by adverse childhood experiences and adult traumatic events. My focus is always on the present and a hopeful future - how can those debilitated by anxiety, shame, poor self-worth, child sexual abuse, c-PTSD and PTSD, and dissociative disorders including Dissociative Identity Disorder, become healthy enough to meet their own needs for income, housing, affirming relationships, and wellness - physical, emotional AND mental
(778) 770-2917 View (778) 770-2917
Photo of Charis Santiago, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Charis Santiago
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. How brave and courageous to explore newness for yourself. My name is Charis Santiago and I am a 2nd generation Filipina-Canadian therapist who provides relational analytic counselling services in Victoria, BC and telehealth. I am passionate about working with you surrounding a wide range of mental health issues. My specialties include working with issues of trauma and sexual abuse, racial/ethnic and identity development, issues with family, play therapy, addiction and mood disorders.
Welcome. How brave and courageous to explore newness for yourself. My name is Charis Santiago and I am a 2nd generation Filipina-Canadian therapist who provides relational analytic counselling services in Victoria, BC and telehealth. I am passionate about working with you surrounding a wide range of mental health issues. My specialties include working with issues of trauma and sexual abuse, racial/ethnic and identity development, issues with family, play therapy, addiction and mood disorders.
(705) 805-6019 View (705) 805-6019
Photo of Claudette Alain, MEd,  MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Claudette Alain
Counsellor, MEd, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Z
My areas of treatment include: Adult and Early Childhood Trauma, Male and Female Survivors of Sexual Abuse, Couples Counselling, Parent-Child Relationships, Career Transitions, Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Loss, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Grief, Senior Issues, LGBTQ awareness, Eating Disorders, Educational Counselling.
Developing a new relationship with your inner world can feel overwhelming and almost impossible at times. It is important to find a therapist that can help you explore your concerns with care, attention and support. My approach to psychotherapy is based on many years of training in both psychology and education. My passion for psychology led me to private practice after 20 years in the education sector. My role as a Principal of French Immersion Schools helps me establish strong therapeutic alliances with clients based on diverse interpersonal skills and a passion for the human condition.
My areas of treatment include: Adult and Early Childhood Trauma, Male and Female Survivors of Sexual Abuse, Couples Counselling, Parent-Child Relationships, Career Transitions, Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Loss, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Grief, Senior Issues, LGBTQ awareness, Eating Disorders, Educational Counselling.
Developing a new relationship with your inner world can feel overwhelming and almost impossible at times. It is important to find a therapist that can help you explore your concerns with care, attention and support. My approach to psychotherapy is based on many years of training in both psychology and education. My passion for psychology led me to private practice after 20 years in the education sector. My role as a Principal of French Immersion Schools helps me establish strong therapeutic alliances with clients based on diverse interpersonal skills and a passion for the human condition.
(819) 201-6655 View (819) 201-6655
Photo of Carol Hodge, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Carol Hodge
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
Trauma in relationships, developmental trauma, assault, and intimate partner violence.
Hello, and welcome to my profile. I'm so glad you're here! Whether you are looking for relief from anxiety, support in managing grief or loss, coping with trauma, relationship struggles, life transitions, or whatever has brought you to search for a counsellor, I will strive to always meet you where you are at in your own unique process. It is my view, that therapy is best done when in a collaborative process with you- together we co-create your vision of your future and I have the honour and privilege of working alongside you as you courageously move through some of what may be holding you back.
Trauma in relationships, developmental trauma, assault, and intimate partner violence.
Hello, and welcome to my profile. I'm so glad you're here! Whether you are looking for relief from anxiety, support in managing grief or loss, coping with trauma, relationship struggles, life transitions, or whatever has brought you to search for a counsellor, I will strive to always meet you where you are at in your own unique process. It is my view, that therapy is best done when in a collaborative process with you- together we co-create your vision of your future and I have the honour and privilege of working alongside you as you courageously move through some of what may be holding you back.
(778) 200-4363 View (778) 200-4363
Photo of Dr. Jem Tosh - Emdr And Oei Trauma Counselling, PhD, RCC, Counsellor
Dr. Jem Tosh - Emdr And Oei Trauma Counselling
Counsellor, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
One of the difficulties of previous trauma and/or sexual abuse is that we often don't realise they are impacting us today.
Starting therapy and seeing the impact of positive changes was wonderful, not only because I felt like I was slowly getting my life back, but it showed me something that I have never thought possible - that you can heal the trauma from sexual abuse. The journey... was so beautifully freeing that it empowered me to continue the hard work of facing my own trauma and helping others heal theirs - Dr. Jem Tosh, 'Sexual Abuse and Surviving with(in) Psychology' published in MeToo: Counsellors and Psychotherapists Speak About Sexual Violence (2020).
One of the difficulties of previous trauma and/or sexual abuse is that we often don't realise they are impacting us today.
Starting therapy and seeing the impact of positive changes was wonderful, not only because I felt like I was slowly getting my life back, but it showed me something that I have never thought possible - that you can heal the trauma from sexual abuse. The journey... was so beautifully freeing that it empowered me to continue the hard work of facing my own trauma and helping others heal theirs - Dr. Jem Tosh, 'Sexual Abuse and Surviving with(in) Psychology' published in MeToo: Counsellors and Psychotherapists Speak About Sexual Violence (2020).
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Photo of Parker Croshaw, RTC, Counsellor
Parker Croshaw
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
I prioritize safety and trust above all other factors in building relationships. My clients are people looking for help with problems not limited to physical or sexual abuse, childhood abuse, parents seeking guidance with child/youth sexuality, ADHD, or traumatic loss. I have an extensive background in trauma/PTSD, suicidality/depression, and death & dying. I'm skilled at helping clients begin the difficult work of acknowledging pain and hurt. I work extensively with kids, youth, and adults around ADHD, and have worked with addictions and mental health issues. Crimes Victims Assistance registered. Currently accepting new clients.
I prioritize safety and trust above all other factors in building relationships. My clients are people looking for help with problems not limited to physical or sexual abuse, childhood abuse, parents seeking guidance with child/youth sexuality, ADHD, or traumatic loss. I have an extensive background in trauma/PTSD, suicidality/depression, and death & dying. I'm skilled at helping clients begin the difficult work of acknowledging pain and hurt. I work extensively with kids, youth, and adults around ADHD, and have worked with addictions and mental health issues. Crimes Victims Assistance registered. Currently accepting new clients.
(250) 532-1661 View (250) 532-1661
Photo of Nicole Marcia, MA, MC, RCC, C-IAYT, Counsellor
Nicole Marcia
Counsellor, MA, MC, RCC, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6A
Do you have intrusive memories or flashbacks of a traumatic event? Is it difficult to trust others or feel safe? Do you feel a sense of hopelessness or a lack of purpose in your life? Do you want to feel more energized and more safely embodied? In a safe and supportive environment, you can heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. While it can be difficult to recover from sexual assault or substance use disorders, you are not alone. In our work, you can expect trauma-informed, feminist, LGBTQ2+ affirming, culturally aware therapy. I look forward to hearing your story. Reach out today for a complimentary consultation.
Do you have intrusive memories or flashbacks of a traumatic event? Is it difficult to trust others or feel safe? Do you feel a sense of hopelessness or a lack of purpose in your life? Do you want to feel more energized and more safely embodied? In a safe and supportive environment, you can heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. While it can be difficult to recover from sexual assault or substance use disorders, you are not alone. In our work, you can expect trauma-informed, feminist, LGBTQ2+ affirming, culturally aware therapy. I look forward to hearing your story. Reach out today for a complimentary consultation.
(579) 600-1014 View (579) 600-1014
Photo of Helena Bryn-McLeod, BA, BEd, MACP, Counsellor
Helena Bryn-McLeod
Counsellor, BA, BEd, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Spring Island, BC V8K
I care about your unique lived experience. I work with teenagers, women, men - with all folks of any age experiencing life challenges. I work with acute stress, identity challenges, relational PTSD, C-PTSD, sexual assault, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and challenges with self-esteem. I'm trained in Narrative therapy, person-centred therapy, trauma-informed practices, and hypnotherapy. I also have practices with Jungian psychoanalysis which can help clients wanting to access, experience, and integrate unconscious material into conscious awareness.
I care about your unique lived experience. I work with teenagers, women, men - with all folks of any age experiencing life challenges. I work with acute stress, identity challenges, relational PTSD, C-PTSD, sexual assault, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and challenges with self-esteem. I'm trained in Narrative therapy, person-centred therapy, trauma-informed practices, and hypnotherapy. I also have practices with Jungian psychoanalysis which can help clients wanting to access, experience, and integrate unconscious material into conscious awareness.
(672) 648-0551 View (672) 648-0551
Photo of Tammam El-Khodor, Reg OT, MRSc, MEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Tammam El-Khodor
Counsellor, Reg OT, MRSc, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
I have diverse clinical skills with a special focus on anxiety, depression, trauma, concussions and brain injuries, PTSD, and men's survivors of sexual abuse.
I work with individuals and couples who seek to improve their mental health and relationships. I work with individuals, who experienced trauma, struggling with anxiety, and/ or seeking meaning to life events. My unique life experience exposed me to different cultures and ways of living, which included the Middle East, Europe, and North America. I believe that relationships, mental health, and behaviors are better understood when body, mind, and context are examined simultaneously. I work with my clients to navigate through their experiences, including their spirituality, to create helpful meanings in their lives.
I have diverse clinical skills with a special focus on anxiety, depression, trauma, concussions and brain injuries, PTSD, and men's survivors of sexual abuse.
I work with individuals and couples who seek to improve their mental health and relationships. I work with individuals, who experienced trauma, struggling with anxiety, and/ or seeking meaning to life events. My unique life experience exposed me to different cultures and ways of living, which included the Middle East, Europe, and North America. I believe that relationships, mental health, and behaviors are better understood when body, mind, and context are examined simultaneously. I work with my clients to navigate through their experiences, including their spirituality, to create helpful meanings in their lives.
(778) 403-5273 View (778) 403-5273
Photo of Jess Marie, BA,  BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jess Marie
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
I encourage you to bring forward any topics you'd like to explore during our sessions. It is my privilege to get to support you through any number of life experiences with non-judgement, compassion, and authentic interest. My experience spans sexual assault centres, various non-profits, and most recently developing the counselling program of a medical clinic offering sexual health and gender-affirming care.
I encourage you to bring forward any topics you'd like to explore during our sessions. It is my privilege to get to support you through any number of life experiences with non-judgement, compassion, and authentic interest. My experience spans sexual assault centres, various non-profits, and most recently developing the counselling program of a medical clinic offering sexual health and gender-affirming care.
(226) 794-5311 View (226) 794-5311
Photo of Emma Cox, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Emma Cox
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5V
I specialize in trauma counselling, particularly in the areas of sexual abuse, childhood abuse & neglect, and intimate partner violence.
You've felt the weight of expectations to conform to other’s standards of who you “should” be for as long as you can remember. It might feel extra draining as the pressure comes from multiple sources- perhaps from family, friends, religion, school, or society. You’re fed up with spinning in the same circles and experiencing the same internal conflict; parts of you are done with feeling unseen and misunderstood, while other parts of you have concerns about being a burden or have fears about being perceived. Together, let's create a space where you don't need anyone's approval or to be anything other than exactly who you are.
I specialize in trauma counselling, particularly in the areas of sexual abuse, childhood abuse & neglect, and intimate partner violence.
You've felt the weight of expectations to conform to other’s standards of who you “should” be for as long as you can remember. It might feel extra draining as the pressure comes from multiple sources- perhaps from family, friends, religion, school, or society. You’re fed up with spinning in the same circles and experiencing the same internal conflict; parts of you are done with feeling unseen and misunderstood, while other parts of you have concerns about being a burden or have fears about being perceived. Together, let's create a space where you don't need anyone's approval or to be anything other than exactly who you are.
(825) 606-0765 View (825) 606-0765
Photo of Danielle Holtjer, RCC, MCP, Counsellor
Danielle Holtjer
Counsellor, RCC, MCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I’ve received my EMDR certificate, Critical Incident Stress Management certificate, and Childhood Sexual Abuse Certificate from the Justice Institute of BC, as well as completed DBT training, Sensory Motor classes, and others.
Hi I’m Dani and I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Clinical Director at Skylark Counselling! I have worked in the counselling field for over a decade and have had the pleasure of gaining hands-on experience across a wide range of topics, such as ADHD, substance use, relationships, eating disorders, anxiety/depression, and various traumas. My clients in the past have described me as an open, genuine counsellor who is honest and to-the-point. I like to approach challenges from a variety of different perspectives to work collaboratively with my clients towards solutions-focused goals.
I’ve received my EMDR certificate, Critical Incident Stress Management certificate, and Childhood Sexual Abuse Certificate from the Justice Institute of BC, as well as completed DBT training, Sensory Motor classes, and others.
Hi I’m Dani and I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Clinical Director at Skylark Counselling! I have worked in the counselling field for over a decade and have had the pleasure of gaining hands-on experience across a wide range of topics, such as ADHD, substance use, relationships, eating disorders, anxiety/depression, and various traumas. My clients in the past have described me as an open, genuine counsellor who is honest and to-the-point. I like to approach challenges from a variety of different perspectives to work collaboratively with my clients towards solutions-focused goals.
(604) 265-7815 View (604) 265-7815
Photo of Devin Chen, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Devin Chen
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6K  (Online Only)
I go by he/him/his and I work with folks who are in the marginalized group(s) (gay/bi/queer, person of colour... etc.) who experienced discrimination and/or sexual and physical assault who wants to have more options to respond and understand themselves. Folks who feel that they oftentimes react out of proportion to the situation and experienced challenges to trust and build favourable relationships with others. Folks who want to gain some perspectives on their own strengths and resilience. My client demographic so far has only been with men or masculine identifying individuals.
I go by he/him/his and I work with folks who are in the marginalized group(s) (gay/bi/queer, person of colour... etc.) who experienced discrimination and/or sexual and physical assault who wants to have more options to respond and understand themselves. Folks who feel that they oftentimes react out of proportion to the situation and experienced challenges to trust and build favourable relationships with others. Folks who want to gain some perspectives on their own strengths and resilience. My client demographic so far has only been with men or masculine identifying individuals.
(778) 949-9031 View (778) 949-9031

See more therapy options for Agassiz

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.