Sexual Abuse Therapists in Victoria, BC

Photo of Irvine G Harvey - Irvine Harvey Counselling, MCP, RCC, CCC, C-DBT, ADHDCSP, Counsellor
Irvine Harvey Counselling
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CCC, C-DBT, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8X
I specialize in assisting survivors of sexual abuse, individuals coping with grief and loss, and those processing traumatic experiences.
Greetings! It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I’m Irvine G. Harvey (he/him/his), a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Canadian Counsellor based on the beautiful Vancouver Island in Sidney, BC. I share my home with my husband Daniel, our beloved former Great Dane Luna, and our adorable feline companions Quincy & Cleo. My educational background includes a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University in Vancouver, BC, a Certificate in Community Counselling from Vancouver Community College, and a Degree in Physical Therapy from Angeles University.
I specialize in assisting survivors of sexual abuse, individuals coping with grief and loss, and those processing traumatic experiences.
Greetings! It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I’m Irvine G. Harvey (he/him/his), a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Canadian Counsellor based on the beautiful Vancouver Island in Sidney, BC. I share my home with my husband Daniel, our beloved former Great Dane Luna, and our adorable feline companions Quincy & Cleo. My educational background includes a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University in Vancouver, BC, a Certificate in Community Counselling from Vancouver Community College, and a Degree in Physical Therapy from Angeles University.
(778) 767-3359 View (778) 767-3359
Photo of Nichole Fairbrother, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Nichole Fairbrother
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P
I help diverse adults, including sexual and gender minorities, with anxiety and relationship difficulties including anxiety disorders, sexual assault trauma and sexual boundary setting, fear of loss and abandonment, jealousy, pregnancy and postpartum OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I am a registered psychologist in Victoria BC. I have a PhD in clinical psychology and over 15 years experience as a therapist and scientist. I specialize in anxiety (anxiety disorders, trauma, OCD, and perinatal anxiety), individual relationship difficulties, and women's mental health. I am certified in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) by the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies. Email info@drfairbrother.com to schedule a free phone consult, or BOOK ONLINE at www.drfairbrother.com.
I help diverse adults, including sexual and gender minorities, with anxiety and relationship difficulties including anxiety disorders, sexual assault trauma and sexual boundary setting, fear of loss and abandonment, jealousy, pregnancy and postpartum OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I am a registered psychologist in Victoria BC. I have a PhD in clinical psychology and over 15 years experience as a therapist and scientist. I specialize in anxiety (anxiety disorders, trauma, OCD, and perinatal anxiety), individual relationship difficulties, and women's mental health. I am certified in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) by the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies. Email info@drfairbrother.com to schedule a free phone consult, or BOOK ONLINE at www.drfairbrother.com.
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Photo of Emilie Kemlo - Emilie Kemlo Psychologist -Active Practice, MA, R, Psych, ACTIVE, PRACTIC, Psychologist
Emilie Kemlo Psychologist -Active Practice
Psychologist, MA, R, Psych, ACTIVE, PRACTIC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
All clients wear a negative psychological suit of armor to protect ourselves from the 5 basic wounds of childhoood; Abandonment, Neglect, Rejection, Denial, Physical Abuse and Sexual Abuse.
Emilie Kemlo, Psychologist is a dedicated specialist in emotionally based trauma release work for 36 years with all ages,nationalities, and income levels, using a sliding scale fee, low rates and immediate availability. She is registered with College of Psychologists of BC, worked at Counseling Center of Tokyo, Tokyo International University, and in Vancouver and Victoria, B.C. with a deep understanding of all psychological issues, both Western, First Nations and multicultural Asian issues in health, sex, work and relationships. She was a founding teacher of BC School of Art Therapy, Victoria, and uses Bioenergetic Analysis, visual language and various psychotherapeutic approaches.
All clients wear a negative psychological suit of armor to protect ourselves from the 5 basic wounds of childhoood; Abandonment, Neglect, Rejection, Denial, Physical Abuse and Sexual Abuse.
Emilie Kemlo, Psychologist is a dedicated specialist in emotionally based trauma release work for 36 years with all ages,nationalities, and income levels, using a sliding scale fee, low rates and immediate availability. She is registered with College of Psychologists of BC, worked at Counseling Center of Tokyo, Tokyo International University, and in Vancouver and Victoria, B.C. with a deep understanding of all psychological issues, both Western, First Nations and multicultural Asian issues in health, sex, work and relationships. She was a founding teacher of BC School of Art Therapy, Victoria, and uses Bioenergetic Analysis, visual language and various psychotherapeutic approaches.
(855) 982-0964 View (855) 982-0964
Photo of Samasati Kiya - Holistic Trauma Therapy, RTC, Counsellor
Samasati Kiya - Holistic Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
I work with folks who have a hard time embracing themselves or feel small due to trauma/abuse (narcissistic, religious/spiritual/cult & sexual abuse).
I work with individuals struggling with low self esteem, anxiety and self-doubt due to a traumatic or abusive past. If you are a deeply self-aware person but still feel like your trauma symptoms are unresolved; if you experience a deep fear of failure and overwhelm; if you feel like you’re a burden to others and doubt your worth; or if you're a survivor of emotional or narcissistic abuse — please know that this is a soft place to land. My work focuses on building self-empowerment, implementing clearer boundaries, exploring the mind-body connection and cultivating a sense of inner peace.
I work with folks who have a hard time embracing themselves or feel small due to trauma/abuse (narcissistic, religious/spiritual/cult & sexual abuse).
I work with individuals struggling with low self esteem, anxiety and self-doubt due to a traumatic or abusive past. If you are a deeply self-aware person but still feel like your trauma symptoms are unresolved; if you experience a deep fear of failure and overwhelm; if you feel like you’re a burden to others and doubt your worth; or if you're a survivor of emotional or narcissistic abuse — please know that this is a soft place to land. My work focuses on building self-empowerment, implementing clearer boundaries, exploring the mind-body connection and cultivating a sense of inner peace.
(438) 797-7262 View (438) 797-7262
Photo of Dawn Cox, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Dawn Cox
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
My training has included working with survivors of sexual assault, abuse and traumatic brain injury and disabilities.
No matter what you are struggling with, remember that on the other side of this difficult time will be increased wisdom, the exciting potential of a better you and more of what you want. We all have a survivor inside of us, an innate ability to overcome even the most difficult of challenges. Talking to someone can help you harness the strength that lives inside you. That is the essence of counselling.
My training has included working with survivors of sexual assault, abuse and traumatic brain injury and disabilities.
No matter what you are struggling with, remember that on the other side of this difficult time will be increased wisdom, the exciting potential of a better you and more of what you want. We all have a survivor inside of us, an innate ability to overcome even the most difficult of challenges. Talking to someone can help you harness the strength that lives inside you. That is the essence of counselling.
(866) 617-5358 View (866) 617-5358
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 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 Bryan Milonja, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Bryan Milonja
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z  (Online Only)
In my practice I work with adults (individuals, couples, families). My specialty areas include complex trauma & PTSD (with a focus on the impact of emotional/physical/ sexual abuse in childhood & beyond), intimate relationships issues, depression, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, borderline personality, men's issues, parent-adult child conflict. I also help people navigate a wide range of challenges related to identity, relationship to self/others, parenting, stress. My recent training centres on integrating emotion-focused therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), & Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST).
In my practice I work with adults (individuals, couples, families). My specialty areas include complex trauma & PTSD (with a focus on the impact of emotional/physical/ sexual abuse in childhood & beyond), intimate relationships issues, depression, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, borderline personality, men's issues, parent-adult child conflict. I also help people navigate a wide range of challenges related to identity, relationship to self/others, parenting, stress. My recent training centres on integrating emotion-focused therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), & Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST).
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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 Kirsten Harding, MSW, RSW, EMDR, Registered Social Worker
Kirsten Harding
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
I bring empathy, warmth, and collaboration as a therapist and aim to create meaningful connections through the safe exploration of experiences shaping your life. I have worked extensively with anxiety, depression, trauma (including childhood trauma), sexual assault/abuse, grief/loss, relationship/family issues, stress, as well as chronic and acute health issues. I also have a heartfelt interest, and post-graduate training, in working with individuals and couples impacted by infertility and perinatal/postpartum mental health. I bring 15 years of experience and work with adults (individuals and couples) and teens.
I bring empathy, warmth, and collaboration as a therapist and aim to create meaningful connections through the safe exploration of experiences shaping your life. I have worked extensively with anxiety, depression, trauma (including childhood trauma), sexual assault/abuse, grief/loss, relationship/family issues, stress, as well as chronic and acute health issues. I also have a heartfelt interest, and post-graduate training, in working with individuals and couples impacted by infertility and perinatal/postpartum mental health. I bring 15 years of experience and work with adults (individuals and couples) and teens.
(825) 251-6408 View (825) 251-6408
Photo of Jennifer Gardiner - Jennifer Gardiner Counselling Services, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Jennifer Gardiner Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
My goal as a counsellor is to create a safe and supportive space using a strengths-based approach. Together, we will explore stressors and concerns, set goals, and celebrate accomplishments. I work with youth, adults and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and sexual difficulties, and life transitions. I also am experienced in working with trauma and PTSD, specifically historical childhood sexual abuse and sexualized violence.
My goal as a counsellor is to create a safe and supportive space using a strengths-based approach. Together, we will explore stressors and concerns, set goals, and celebrate accomplishments. I work with youth, adults and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and sexual difficulties, and life transitions. I also am experienced in working with trauma and PTSD, specifically historical childhood sexual abuse and sexualized violence.
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Photo of Rowan Percy, MA RCC, Counsellor
Rowan Percy
Counsellor, MA RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
I am an experienced therapist, working with individuals and couples. I am open to helping you with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, self-care, spirituality, life purpose, end of life issues, ageing, stress, parenting, work, vocation, sexual orientation, transitioning, gender questioning, chronic illness, sexual abuse, and the residue of early childhood experiences. If you don’t see your concern here, please feel free to contact me to find out if it’s something I work with. I love to do this work. You can read more at rowanpercy.com
I am an experienced therapist, working with individuals and couples. I am open to helping you with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, self-care, spirituality, life purpose, end of life issues, ageing, stress, parenting, work, vocation, sexual orientation, transitioning, gender questioning, chronic illness, sexual abuse, and the residue of early childhood experiences. If you don’t see your concern here, please feel free to contact me to find out if it’s something I work with. I love to do this work. You can read more at rowanpercy.com
(778) 901-2239 View (778) 901-2239
Photo of Gina Keegan, RCC, SEP, Counsellor
Gina Keegan
Counsellor, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8X
I work with the following diagnosis; GAD, PTSD, Panic attacks, Grief, Trauma, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Do you feel frozen, anxious, only working at half capacity? Or....are you usually frustrated, angry, sad, confused? Or...are you mad at many people and situations, including your personal relationships? I use cognitive, emotive and somatic (body) approaches. My extensive experience has shown me that counseling with the SOMATIC aspect included usually gets the DEEPEST AND QUICKEST RESULTS. I am an SEP., Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, from Peter Levine's trauma work.
I work with the following diagnosis; GAD, PTSD, Panic attacks, Grief, Trauma, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Do you feel frozen, anxious, only working at half capacity? Or....are you usually frustrated, angry, sad, confused? Or...are you mad at many people and situations, including your personal relationships? I use cognitive, emotive and somatic (body) approaches. My extensive experience has shown me that counseling with the SOMATIC aspect included usually gets the DEEPEST AND QUICKEST RESULTS. I am an SEP., Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, from Peter Levine's trauma work.
(782) 222-6387 View (782) 222-6387
Photo of Jude Marleau, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Jude Marleau
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R  (Online Only)
My counselling practice focuses on helping people heal from the effects of relational trauma and PTSD. I specialize in helping people whose trauma occurred because of historical and recent sexualized violence, intimate relationship abuse (including same-sex abuse and women's use of violence) as well as helping people heal from family-of-origin issues and dynamics. I also support people who are exploring sexual issues, sexuality and sexual orientation, gender diversity and expressions, self-esteem, and boundaries within relationships. I am trained in EMDR and Somatic Attachment Psychotherapy. I also offer Clinical Supervision.
My counselling practice focuses on helping people heal from the effects of relational trauma and PTSD. I specialize in helping people whose trauma occurred because of historical and recent sexualized violence, intimate relationship abuse (including same-sex abuse and women's use of violence) as well as helping people heal from family-of-origin issues and dynamics. I also support people who are exploring sexual issues, sexuality and sexual orientation, gender diversity and expressions, self-esteem, and boundaries within relationships. I am trained in EMDR and Somatic Attachment Psychotherapy. I also offer Clinical Supervision.
(506) 713-2212 View (506) 713-2212
Photo of Nichola Watson - NW Books and Therapy, RCC, Counsellor
NW Books and Therapy
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8X  (Online Only)
My practice is person-centered, strength-based, trauma informed. I think that each person coming to therapy is unique. Each person attempts to do the best possible with the resources available. Each person has wisdom, creativity, and strength, and is the authority in their life. Doing counselling means providing a safer space for you to tell your story. And it is a space for us to have conversations and to work together.
My practice is person-centered, strength-based, trauma informed. I think that each person coming to therapy is unique. Each person attempts to do the best possible with the resources available. Each person has wisdom, creativity, and strength, and is the authority in their life. Doing counselling means providing a safer space for you to tell your story. And it is a space for us to have conversations and to work together.
(236) 837-0280 View (236) 837-0280
Photo of Kaleigh Scott, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Kaleigh Scott
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8V
I recognize the vulnerability it takes to connect with someone new about the challenges you’ve been facing. As a queer and non-binary counsellor, I believe in the power of experiencing relationships which unconditionally affirm our authentic selves. In our work together, I strive to harness moments of safety in which your connection to self can emerge, so that a new experience of healing and wholeness can take root. My hope is that this collaborative process will open portals of possibility for you, and new ways of being in the world.
I recognize the vulnerability it takes to connect with someone new about the challenges you’ve been facing. As a queer and non-binary counsellor, I believe in the power of experiencing relationships which unconditionally affirm our authentic selves. In our work together, I strive to harness moments of safety in which your connection to self can emerge, so that a new experience of healing and wholeness can take root. My hope is that this collaborative process will open portals of possibility for you, and new ways of being in the world.
(431) 814-6102 View (431) 814-6102
Photo of Maggi Feehan - White Eagle Counselling & Therapy - Maggi Feehan, MA, RCC, Counsellor
White Eagle Counselling & Therapy - Maggi Feehan
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R  (Online Only)
When we embrace both our intellect and our body wisdom, we have a vital, rich resource of knowledge, awareness and understanding. My practice focuses on accessing, honouring and nurturing what our bodies know, what our voices wish to say, and what sense our minds can make of the human experience.
When we embrace both our intellect and our body wisdom, we have a vital, rich resource of knowledge, awareness and understanding. My practice focuses on accessing, honouring and nurturing what our bodies know, what our voices wish to say, and what sense our minds can make of the human experience.
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Photo of Shay Manerikar, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shay Manerikar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R
Hi, I'm Shay and I'm so glad you're here. It is incredibly brave and vulnerable to reach out for support. If you've experienced sexual violence, are questioning your gender or sexuality, enduring racism, or feeling overwhelmed by trauma symptoms - know that you aren't alone and that together we can find a way forward! You can expect me to show up with curiosity, compassion, kindness, presence, flexibility, and a deep love for this work. I believe healing happens through authentic relationship, so I bring my full self into counselling. My hope is for you to show up exactly as you are, and know that you are seen, heard, and accepted.
Hi, I'm Shay and I'm so glad you're here. It is incredibly brave and vulnerable to reach out for support. If you've experienced sexual violence, are questioning your gender or sexuality, enduring racism, or feeling overwhelmed by trauma symptoms - know that you aren't alone and that together we can find a way forward! You can expect me to show up with curiosity, compassion, kindness, presence, flexibility, and a deep love for this work. I believe healing happens through authentic relationship, so I bring my full self into counselling. My hope is for you to show up exactly as you are, and know that you are seen, heard, and accepted.
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Photo of Lola Storry, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Lola Storry
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
I believe in the independence and integrity of all my clients. When healing from trauma, we can only relax and learn when we feel safe. Safety is established when we believe that we can be seen and understood without judgement - as your therapist, I will stay with you as you tell your story and help you develop skills to feel safe and regulated. In addition to my Master's degree in Counselling Psychology, I bring 10+ years of experience in the non-profit sector, working with survivors of trauma, interpersonal violence and child abuse. When we work together, I will always be consistent, calm and gentle.
I believe in the independence and integrity of all my clients. When healing from trauma, we can only relax and learn when we feel safe. Safety is established when we believe that we can be seen and understood without judgement - as your therapist, I will stay with you as you tell your story and help you develop skills to feel safe and regulated. In addition to my Master's degree in Counselling Psychology, I bring 10+ years of experience in the non-profit sector, working with survivors of trauma, interpersonal violence and child abuse. When we work together, I will always be consistent, calm and gentle.
(778) 721-0961 View (778) 721-0961
Photo of Diana Sadat - Allura Sex Therapy Centre, MCP, RCC, CST, Counsellor
Allura Sex Therapy Centre
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CST
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R
Waitlist for new clients
At Allura, we know and understand that sexuality is one of the most fun but complicated parts of humanity, while also one of the hardest to find a safe and non-judgmental space to speak openly about. Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about your sexuality, sex life, or relationship? Do you wish for more connection and excitement with your partner? Do you sometimes feel stress or anxiety fill your life? We can help with that. Our clients are professionals, parents, sometimes monogamous and sometimes polyamorous, LGBTQ+ - but they all share one thing in common: they are struggling with their sexuality in some way.
At Allura, we know and understand that sexuality is one of the most fun but complicated parts of humanity, while also one of the hardest to find a safe and non-judgmental space to speak openly about. Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about your sexuality, sex life, or relationship? Do you wish for more connection and excitement with your partner? Do you sometimes feel stress or anxiety fill your life? We can help with that. Our clients are professionals, parents, sometimes monogamous and sometimes polyamorous, LGBTQ+ - but they all share one thing in common: they are struggling with their sexuality in some way.
(604) 245-1105 View (604) 245-1105
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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.