Sexual Abuse Therapists in Dartmouth, NS
![Photo of Taylor Brydges, MA, RCT-C, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b64d927-c7ae-4cc7-9e1d-684cf22043f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My areas of interest and expertise include working with people who have survived trauma and sexual abuse. Initially, I build rapport and a trusting relationship with you. One of our first tasks will involve identifying your strengths and what’s important to you; these are major components of allowing successful trauma processing and resolution to occur. I also enjoy working with adolescents; having once been a teen in need of additional support, I am able to empathize and quickly connect with young people. Other topics I support clients with are BPD, anger management, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem.
Hi! My areas of interest and expertise include working with people who have survived trauma and sexual abuse. Initially, I build rapport and a trusting relationship with you. One of our first tasks will involve identifying your strengths and what’s important to you; these are major components of allowing successful trauma processing and resolution to occur. I also enjoy working with adolescents; having once been a teen in need of additional support, I am able to empathize and quickly connect with young people. Other topics I support clients with are BPD, anger management, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem.
![Photo of Gina Keegan, RCC, SEP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cea65ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Alex Wolf, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a3ed365-4875-4ddc-b80a-e047a693ba92/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist and owner of Wolf Counselling Therapy. At Wolf Counselling Therapy, we work with people of all genders (ages 14+) and specialize in working with men and boys who are experiencing a range of mental health and life challenges including relationship issues, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, anger/emotion regulation, trauma, depression, and anxiety. We offer in-office, outdoor (e.g., during a hike, at a park bench), video, and phone-based therapy sessions.
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist and owner of Wolf Counselling Therapy. At Wolf Counselling Therapy, we work with people of all genders (ages 14+) and specialize in working with men and boys who are experiencing a range of mental health and life challenges including relationship issues, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, anger/emotion regulation, trauma, depression, and anxiety. We offer in-office, outdoor (e.g., during a hike, at a park bench), video, and phone-based therapy sessions.
![Photo of Danielle Jakubiak, MA, MMus, MTA, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caa3805b-272e-4e22-8c25-a0c6e3048c90/1/320x400.jpeg)
You may face sadness, worry, repetitive thoughts, following experiences that are tough to talk about, violence and trauma resulting in numbness, isolation. Maybe you want to dig deeper, to better understand these events and how they are impacting your life now. You may feel increasingly ready to move through and beyond the difficulties you face, to embrace what feels more like the real you. I am trained to work creatively with folks who are in the midst of life’s challenges, to help them process and cope with their emotions. I know how to work with trauma, survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, depression and anxiety.
You may face sadness, worry, repetitive thoughts, following experiences that are tough to talk about, violence and trauma resulting in numbness, isolation. Maybe you want to dig deeper, to better understand these events and how they are impacting your life now. You may feel increasingly ready to move through and beyond the difficulties you face, to embrace what feels more like the real you. I am trained to work creatively with folks who are in the midst of life’s challenges, to help them process and cope with their emotions. I know how to work with trauma, survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Sexual Assault Trauma Therapist, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a8cafb0-0b16-428e-8053-56a00875d43d/7/320x400.jpeg)
Sexual Assault Trauma Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
With 15 years of experience, I look to nurture safe relationships and acknowledge this as the most powerful tool when working with traumatized parts. Sexualized violence can cripple us in many ways. Trauma symptoms can fade and be put in the past for good, please know that lasting healing is possible. Progress indicators include feeling stronger emotionally, an increase in self-worth, and a decrease in triggers which help us feel present and connected to others. Sessions are paced at your speed. Healing is possible, and you have the right to feel it. Warmly, Selina.MSW, BSW, RSW.
With 15 years of experience, I look to nurture safe relationships and acknowledge this as the most powerful tool when working with traumatized parts. Sexualized violence can cripple us in many ways. Trauma symptoms can fade and be put in the past for good, please know that lasting healing is possible. Progress indicators include feeling stronger emotionally, an increase in self-worth, and a decrease in triggers which help us feel present and connected to others. Sessions are paced at your speed. Healing is possible, and you have the right to feel it. Warmly, Selina.MSW, BSW, RSW.
![Photo of Pamela M. Yates, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01b72cda-7f4e-4ecc-aca7-82f74362f478/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Pamela M. Yates is a Forensic Psychologist specializing in evidence-based assessment and treatment of adults in conflict with the law. Dr. Yates translates research and theory into individualized assessments and treatment plans that are client-centered and evidence-informed. She follows positive psychological and cognitive-behavioural approaches. Dr. Yates also provides specialized consultation and training services in assessment and interventions in criminal justice settings internationally, and is the author of numerous resources.
Dr. Pamela M. Yates is a Forensic Psychologist specializing in evidence-based assessment and treatment of adults in conflict with the law. Dr. Yates translates research and theory into individualized assessments and treatment plans that are client-centered and evidence-informed. She follows positive psychological and cognitive-behavioural approaches. Dr. Yates also provides specialized consultation and training services in assessment and interventions in criminal justice settings internationally, and is the author of numerous resources.
![Photo of Adrienne Buckland, BSW, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fc1cd6f-9a8a-4e3f-be5e-bfb752c946d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne Buckland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
With over 10 years experience as a trauma therapist, my practice is strongly committed to you and your needs for support and healing. I am especially passionate about working with folks in the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy, post-partum, and the early years of parenting. I have both clinical training and lived experience in navigating the perinatal period, and genuinely grasp the challenges of this time where folks are often bombarded with information and advice from the internet, social media, health and social systems, family members, and friends; much of which can feel more overwhelming than helpful.
With over 10 years experience as a trauma therapist, my practice is strongly committed to you and your needs for support and healing. I am especially passionate about working with folks in the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy, post-partum, and the early years of parenting. I have both clinical training and lived experience in navigating the perinatal period, and genuinely grasp the challenges of this time where folks are often bombarded with information and advice from the internet, social media, health and social systems, family members, and friends; much of which can feel more overwhelming than helpful.
![Photo of Karen Gross, RCT-C, MEd, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/495ef3a4-1c04-404d-ab37-b986e1545e90/3/320x400.jpeg)
My work as a therapist is grounded by my belief in the inherent dignity of all people, the wisdom of our bodies, and our innate capacity to heal. I often work with people who might want to believe these things, too, but struggle to find hope after experiences of trauma or distress. I believe that therapy can help us learn to move through the world with more ease, presence, and compassion (for self and others). As a queer and non-binary therapist, I have a special place in my heart for queer and trans clients. I aim to offer a counselling experience that is safe and that does not require you to justify or explain your identity.
My work as a therapist is grounded by my belief in the inherent dignity of all people, the wisdom of our bodies, and our innate capacity to heal. I often work with people who might want to believe these things, too, but struggle to find hope after experiences of trauma or distress. I believe that therapy can help us learn to move through the world with more ease, presence, and compassion (for self and others). As a queer and non-binary therapist, I have a special place in my heart for queer and trans clients. I aim to offer a counselling experience that is safe and that does not require you to justify or explain your identity.
![Photo of Vivica Steer, MA, RCT-C, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bff9730-c36c-4df2-9342-d0d0265a8c59/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to providing exceptional client care to individuals seeking guidance to navigate the complexities of personal life and mental health challenges. You will find a non-judgmental safe space to help you with anxiety, depression, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, trauma related symptoms, grief and loss, self-esteem, relationship and life transition challenges.
I am dedicated to providing exceptional client care to individuals seeking guidance to navigate the complexities of personal life and mental health challenges. You will find a non-judgmental safe space to help you with anxiety, depression, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, trauma related symptoms, grief and loss, self-esteem, relationship and life transition challenges.
![Photo of Brock Peter Caldwell, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46481364-88bb-486e-9cf2-b0d0dc4157b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you decide to connect with me for counselling I first focus on building a strong relationship with you to give us a foundation to work from. Whatever issues you are facing I am ready to partner with you to explore the history of the issue and work on making effective change happen. I use a Somatic approach which considers how your nervous system works, the effects of trauma / PTSD, and focuses on balancing the mind / body system. I also use a Narrative therapy approach considering identity and meaning making. Finally I incorporate Psychoanalytic theory and practice to consider life long human development.
If you decide to connect with me for counselling I first focus on building a strong relationship with you to give us a foundation to work from. Whatever issues you are facing I am ready to partner with you to explore the history of the issue and work on making effective change happen. I use a Somatic approach which considers how your nervous system works, the effects of trauma / PTSD, and focuses on balancing the mind / body system. I also use a Narrative therapy approach considering identity and meaning making. Finally I incorporate Psychoanalytic theory and practice to consider life long human development.
![Photo of Felicia Burchell, OT Reg, NS,NB, RCT, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c60c9c8-8919-4eeb-8c9b-344af7a45e9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to the promotion of diversity and place a high value on the dignity and worth of all individuals regardless of their gender, ethnicity, race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age physical and mental abilities and socioeconomic status.
I am committed to the promotion of diversity and place a high value on the dignity and worth of all individuals regardless of their gender, ethnicity, race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age physical and mental abilities and socioeconomic status.
15 Second Videos
Danielle Jakubiak
Vivica Steer
Sam (King) Sarty
Diverse Roots Therapy
Maritime PTC
James Owen Dubé
Elizabeth Berlasso
Christine Sauer
Jessica Heidebrecht
![Photo of Mario Rolle, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/643cf562-d0e2-42fb-b41f-b93fe010190f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in psychotherapy, sexual therapy, sex education and wellness counseling. With extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families aged 16 and older, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I understand that navigating through challenging life situations and problematic relationships can be overwhelming and isolating. This can often lead to feelings of low mood, anxiety, and ineffective coping mechanisms. Taking a holistic approach, I deeply value and honor each individual's unique lived experiences.
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in psychotherapy, sexual therapy, sex education and wellness counseling. With extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families aged 16 and older, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I understand that navigating through challenging life situations and problematic relationships can be overwhelming and isolating. This can often lead to feelings of low mood, anxiety, and ineffective coping mechanisms. Taking a holistic approach, I deeply value and honor each individual's unique lived experiences.
![Photo of Sam (King) Sarty, MSW, RSW, RN, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5520e5ae-89df-42e6-b69f-2443f0fb34f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sam (King) Sarty
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RN
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2W
Hello! I am a specialized therapist: my focus is helping people heal from trauma and adversity using EMDR. There's no situation that is too big or too small, I am here to help. I work together with my clients to identify the root cause of their symptoms, develop tools for healing the nervous system, and emotionally process trauma. I am accepting clients with no wait for EMDR Intensives - think of it as your own wellness retreat where we are highly focused over a few days to get you on the road to recovery faster than hourly weekly sessions. Head over to my website to learn more about this model and if it is a good fit for you!
Hello! I am a specialized therapist: my focus is helping people heal from trauma and adversity using EMDR. There's no situation that is too big or too small, I am here to help. I work together with my clients to identify the root cause of their symptoms, develop tools for healing the nervous system, and emotionally process trauma. I am accepting clients with no wait for EMDR Intensives - think of it as your own wellness retreat where we are highly focused over a few days to get you on the road to recovery faster than hourly weekly sessions. Head over to my website to learn more about this model and if it is a good fit for you!
![Photo of Theresa Elizabeth Robertson, MEd, CCC, RCT-C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5392654c-b235-40eb-959c-5385dc1feed4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Elizabeth Robertson
Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate, MEd, CCC, RCT-C
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3A
We as humans possess an inherent ability to discover creative solutions to our life challenges. Unfortunately we can experience an overwhelm of issues which leave us feeling depleted and disconnected from our lives. In my practice I use a non-judgmental, empathetic, and compassionate approach to supporting you, drawing on evidence-based integrated approaches for treatment to meet your needs. I will work collaboratively with you, walking alongside you, helping you to navigate the cause of your distress and life challenges.
We as humans possess an inherent ability to discover creative solutions to our life challenges. Unfortunately we can experience an overwhelm of issues which leave us feeling depleted and disconnected from our lives. In my practice I use a non-judgmental, empathetic, and compassionate approach to supporting you, drawing on evidence-based integrated approaches for treatment to meet your needs. I will work collaboratively with you, walking alongside you, helping you to navigate the cause of your distress and life challenges.
![Photo of Michelle Labine, MA , RCT, RP, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d9f5d5d-c92c-41c6-9f91-618be9b7e7d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Labine specializes in sex therapy, relationship therapy, and relational and sexual trauma therapy. Michelle works with individuals and partners who experience challenges effecting their personal wellbeing and relationships, including anxiety, changes in sexual desire, changes in sexual functioning, sexual changes related to illness, questioning sexual interest, body image, sexual expectations, sexual communication, partners who are neurodivergent, relationship communication, conflict management and connection, jealousy, infidelity, and consensual non monogamy.
Michelle Labine specializes in sex therapy, relationship therapy, and relational and sexual trauma therapy. Michelle works with individuals and partners who experience challenges effecting their personal wellbeing and relationships, including anxiety, changes in sexual desire, changes in sexual functioning, sexual changes related to illness, questioning sexual interest, body image, sexual expectations, sexual communication, partners who are neurodivergent, relationship communication, conflict management and connection, jealousy, infidelity, and consensual non monogamy.
![Photo of Erica Baker-Gagnon - Diverse Roots Therapy, RCT, MSc, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4d2638e-4f55-42a0-8ae5-237dfc18cf54/1/320x400.png)
We are a group of RCTs (Registered Counselling Therapists), RCT-Cs (Registered Counselling Therapist Candidates), Social Workers and students completing practicum placements, all with a passion to serve the LGBTQIA2S+ community. More info can be found at: www.diverserootstherapy.com.
We are a group of RCTs (Registered Counselling Therapists), RCT-Cs (Registered Counselling Therapist Candidates), Social Workers and students completing practicum placements, all with a passion to serve the LGBTQIA2S+ community. More info can be found at: www.diverserootstherapy.com.
![Photo of Jessica Gingras, MA, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe299920-ef75-4574-9626-206cad4cc199/2/320x400.jpeg)
My practice includes working with a diverse group of individuals, but some of my areas of focus are supporting adults with ADHD, people who have a history of trauma, those living with mental illness, and those who struggle to maintain healthy relationships.
My practice includes working with a diverse group of individuals, but some of my areas of focus are supporting adults with ADHD, people who have a history of trauma, those living with mental illness, and those who struggle to maintain healthy relationships.
![Photo of Karla Dawe - Karla Dawe Counselling Services, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/409df977-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking help is hard. I admire your courage and strength! I am passionate about the community and its citizens. I believe that helping empower people to live independent, resilient, successful lives is important. One person, family, couple at a time! I encourage clients to change while identifying & removing the barriers/obstacles that keep them from health. I am committed to providing you with a confidential, supportive atmosphere & a non-judgmental environment. With a genuine & empathetic nature you will feel supported. Together we can invite change into your life. I value diverse backgrounds, world views and life experiences.
Seeking help is hard. I admire your courage and strength! I am passionate about the community and its citizens. I believe that helping empower people to live independent, resilient, successful lives is important. One person, family, couple at a time! I encourage clients to change while identifying & removing the barriers/obstacles that keep them from health. I am committed to providing you with a confidential, supportive atmosphere & a non-judgmental environment. With a genuine & empathetic nature you will feel supported. Together we can invite change into your life. I value diverse backgrounds, world views and life experiences.
![Photo of Tanya Groundwater, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49aadf1c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting virtual clients for individual and/or couples therapy and parenting consults.
Currently accepting virtual clients for individual and/or couples therapy and parenting consults.
![Photo of Eric L. Ross, MEd, RCT, CCC, MTA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/152c1a1d-4a98-4d4e-ac49-6b68f36f9ddb/1/320x400.png)
At Attune Counselling Therapy, our mission is to help people uncover, explore, & enjoy greater self-awareness, self-empowerment, and well-being. People reach out to us for support with anxiety, anger management, relationship issues, substance use, stress, grieving, emotional regulation, sexual orientation, gender identity and major life transitions. We offer effective, high-quality, specialized mental health services. Our counselling therapists are committed to providing individualized therapeutic conversations that target issues and concerns in your life. We use evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are tailored to your needs.
At Attune Counselling Therapy, our mission is to help people uncover, explore, & enjoy greater self-awareness, self-empowerment, and well-being. People reach out to us for support with anxiety, anger management, relationship issues, substance use, stress, grieving, emotional regulation, sexual orientation, gender identity and major life transitions. We offer effective, high-quality, specialized mental health services. Our counselling therapists are committed to providing individualized therapeutic conversations that target issues and concerns in your life. We use evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are tailored to your needs.
![Photo of Brian MacAulay, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0f041eb-a350-4395-a33a-ef79c9e3c085/3/320x400.jpeg)
Through counselling, we can carefully examine each challenge, evaluating and better understanding how you got to where you are. Through this exploration, we will discover the strengths and identify coping mechanisms you have developed along the way in order to deal with your challenges.
Through counselling, we can carefully examine each challenge, evaluating and better understanding how you got to where you are. Through this exploration, we will discover the strengths and identify coping mechanisms you have developed along the way in order to deal with your challenges.
![Photo of Mercy Kasheke (Arukah Psychotherapy), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2ebcae8-a2b5-4853-8eae-5b0cfc3ec675/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mercy Kasheke (Arukah Psychotherapy)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Hi, my name is Mercy, I am a bilingual Social Worker. I'm glad you found your way here! Beginning therapy is a courageous act. It may feel uncomfortable at first but as you learn more about yourself, gain support with life's struggles/stresses and heal from your trauma, you will gain a better understanding of what you desire out of this thing we call life!
Hi, my name is Mercy, I am a bilingual Social Worker. I'm glad you found your way here! Beginning therapy is a courageous act. It may feel uncomfortable at first but as you learn more about yourself, gain support with life's struggles/stresses and heal from your trauma, you will gain a better understanding of what you desire out of this thing we call life!
![Photo of Emily Bushell - Wholetherapy, MA, BSc, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ed2af8a-0989-46ff-bd6e-8c0b63b6274f/1/320x400.jpeg)
We believe that all people have a place within them that is healthy and whole. At Wholetherapy, we offer an integrative, trauma-sensitive approach to anyone who is interested in exploring their lives and making difficult changes. We specifically work with individuals, couples, and families who have faced adverse life experiences and trauma.
We believe that all people have a place within them that is healthy and whole. At Wholetherapy, we offer an integrative, trauma-sensitive approach to anyone who is interested in exploring their lives and making difficult changes. We specifically work with individuals, couples, and families who have faced adverse life experiences and trauma.
![Photo of Jody Billard, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/426d6451-f6f1-45c1-9a55-40daab9d7d38/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe the most important relationship we’ll ever have is with ourselves. When we experience trauma, how we view our world, self & others, changes. Even after the trauma has passed, our minds make us believe we are still in danger which makes it difficult to feel calm. Trauma causes intrusive thoughts, cognitive distortions, flashbacks & nightmares, which can lead to depression, anxiety, avoidance & maladaptive coping strategies including substance misuse. Feeling overwhelmed & managing intense emotions can be difficult. If this sounds like you, I am interested in working with you to heal past wounds & regain a sense of control.
I believe the most important relationship we’ll ever have is with ourselves. When we experience trauma, how we view our world, self & others, changes. Even after the trauma has passed, our minds make us believe we are still in danger which makes it difficult to feel calm. Trauma causes intrusive thoughts, cognitive distortions, flashbacks & nightmares, which can lead to depression, anxiety, avoidance & maladaptive coping strategies including substance misuse. Feeling overwhelmed & managing intense emotions can be difficult. If this sounds like you, I am interested in working with you to heal past wounds & regain a sense of control.
![Photo of Natalia A Castellanos, MACP, RCT-C, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e015b67-c3df-4b14-996b-3393c0a0924f/4/320x400.jpeg)
Trauma can affect our relationships and our sense of who we are, but we do not need to stay stuck in distress. Working to find a sense of meaning, reconnecting with the truth of our present moment, and untangling unhelpful narratives can help us reconnect with our authentic selves, making space for greater healing.
Trauma can affect our relationships and our sense of who we are, but we do not need to stay stuck in distress. Working to find a sense of meaning, reconnecting with the truth of our present moment, and untangling unhelpful narratives can help us reconnect with our authentic selves, making space for greater healing.
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Nearby Sexual Abuse Counsellors Searches for Dartmouth
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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.