Sexual Abuse Therapists in Halifax, 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 Colleen Bob, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4579ae8-2312-4183-9a9c-f60a134e3972/2/320x400.jpeg)
Much of my other work has been in support of women facing issues of violence, sexual assault, and the need for supportive housing.
Feeling stuck in a cycle of negativity, insecurity, or hopelessness? Do you long to improve your relationship with yourself and others? Through therapy, old patterns give way as you gain more access and understanding of your emotions, and a stronger and wiser version of yourself becomes available. I hold space for your healing and growth and also for your unique values, beliefs, and lived experience. In addition to individual therapy, I also offer couples counseling, where we work to understand negative patterns that keep you in conflict, and begin to create new patterns of connection, safety, and trust.
Much of my other work has been in support of women facing issues of violence, sexual assault, and the need for supportive housing.
Feeling stuck in a cycle of negativity, insecurity, or hopelessness? Do you long to improve your relationship with yourself and others? Through therapy, old patterns give way as you gain more access and understanding of your emotions, and a stronger and wiser version of yourself becomes available. I hold space for your healing and growth and also for your unique values, beliefs, and lived experience. In addition to individual therapy, I also offer couples counseling, where we work to understand negative patterns that keep you in conflict, and begin to create new patterns of connection, safety, and trust.
![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 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 Melissa Murray, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70c1bb53-a59a-4f0e-a234-1d51c8b42784/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have specialized training in trauma informed care and sexual assault.
I want to work with you, where you're at in life. Whatever you've experienced, you deserve an open, genuine, non judgmental, and compassionate atmosphere to work through your difficulties. While working with you, we will look for the approach that fits best with your style, life, and personality. I work with individuals ages 13+ as well as couples. I am passionate about 2SLGBTQ+ issues, as well as trauma, neurodiversity, life changes, and grief. I am sex+, CNM/polyamory supportive, and body+.
I have specialized training in trauma informed care and sexual assault.
I want to work with you, where you're at in life. Whatever you've experienced, you deserve an open, genuine, non judgmental, and compassionate atmosphere to work through your difficulties. While working with you, we will look for the approach that fits best with your style, life, and personality. I work with individuals ages 13+ as well as couples. I am passionate about 2SLGBTQ+ issues, as well as trauma, neurodiversity, life changes, and grief. I am sex+, CNM/polyamory supportive, and body+.
![Photo of Angela Dawn MacKay, MSc, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1ab57c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide holistic counseling services to adolescents and adults in the Halifax/HRM area. I offer Mind/Body Psychotherapy, a holistic, trauma-informed, mindfulness based approach to psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, Please Note: As of Jan. 1, 2024, my fee will increase to $225.00/hr.
I provide holistic counseling services to adolescents and adults in the Halifax/HRM area. I offer Mind/Body Psychotherapy, a holistic, trauma-informed, mindfulness based approach to psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, Please Note: As of Jan. 1, 2024, my fee will increase to $225.00/hr.
![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 Catherine Phinney, MA, MACP, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/361b650b-6b67-40d1-930e-2e8bc0f00c35/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Phinney
Counsellor, MA, MACP, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3J
Waitlist for new clients
One of the consequences of stress is re-experiencing it in the mind and body, leaving us depleted and disconnected from life. Intense reactions can be confusing and distressing. Making sense of our experiences, putting them in perspective, and changing unhelpful ways of thinking, behaving, and coping increases our resilience. I welcome individuals from all walks of life and have a particular interest in survivors of sexual violence and exploitation; first responders, frontline workers, military, veterans and their families; survivors of adverse childhood experiences; workplace stress and life transitions; and older adults.
One of the consequences of stress is re-experiencing it in the mind and body, leaving us depleted and disconnected from life. Intense reactions can be confusing and distressing. Making sense of our experiences, putting them in perspective, and changing unhelpful ways of thinking, behaving, and coping increases our resilience. I welcome individuals from all walks of life and have a particular interest in survivors of sexual violence and exploitation; first responders, frontline workers, military, veterans and their families; survivors of adverse childhood experiences; workplace stress and life transitions; and older adults.
![Photo of Tod Augusta Scott - Tod Augusta Scott Family Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c5a679a-1684-4faa-b1df-dc5c8e35def5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tod Augusta Scott Family Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3M
Gender-based violence, restorative approaches and narrative therapy have led me to work internationally. Locally, I have spent 25 years working for a trauma-informed community-based organization and for the past fifteen I have also worked for the Canadian Armed Forces. Currently I continue to speak publicly and train others about domestic violence. I co-founded the Canadian Domestic Violence Conference when I saw a need to bring more light to the subject. I am available to help couples work through the damages caused by domestic violence as well as to help individuals repair the harm done to them so they can move forward.
Gender-based violence, restorative approaches and narrative therapy have led me to work internationally. Locally, I have spent 25 years working for a trauma-informed community-based organization and for the past fifteen I have also worked for the Canadian Armed Forces. Currently I continue to speak publicly and train others about domestic violence. I co-founded the Canadian Domestic Violence Conference when I saw a need to bring more light to the subject. I am available to help couples work through the damages caused by domestic violence as well as to help individuals repair the harm done to them so they can move forward.
![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
Halifax, NS B3J
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 Kristina Fifield - Kristina Fifield , MSW, RSW, CCTP-11, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96db9b07-5e71-4d12-8cee-36ee926cecab/3/320x400.png)
Kristina Fifield
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCTP-11
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3J
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is grounded in a deep commitment to creating intentional space for your healing journey; building on connectedness, trust, and safety. I hope to support you in feeling safe, seen and heard. I invite curiosity, collaboration, self-compassion, courage, and creativity into the therapy space. I center relational values and ethics at the heart of my practice on intersectional, equity-centered, trauma-informed, justice-doing, and community approaches to healing.
My practice is grounded in a deep commitment to creating intentional space for your healing journey; building on connectedness, trust, and safety. I hope to support you in feeling safe, seen and heard. I invite curiosity, collaboration, self-compassion, courage, and creativity into the therapy space. I center relational values and ethics at the heart of my practice on intersectional, equity-centered, trauma-informed, justice-doing, and community approaches to healing.
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![Photo of Natalie M. Edmondson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc6d6c4-0b02-436c-a676-7604210114c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie M. Edmondson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3N (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Reaching out for help can be overwhelming and especially difficult when you are searching for support to understand, process and heal from trauma. You may often find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, angry, or agitated and you don't know why. I know how confusing and challenging life can be when you have experienced any difficult situation and how it can affect all aspects of your life including your mental health, your work life, and relationships. I can help you understand why you are feeling the way you are and together determine what you might need to improve your overall wellbeing.
Accepting new clients. Reaching out for help can be overwhelming and especially difficult when you are searching for support to understand, process and heal from trauma. You may often find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, angry, or agitated and you don't know why. I know how confusing and challenging life can be when you have experienced any difficult situation and how it can affect all aspects of your life including your mental health, your work life, and relationships. I can help you understand why you are feeling the way you are and together determine what you might need to improve your overall wellbeing.
![Photo of Jey Benoit, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f64e5bf-bfcd-4280-a499-6cb38bedf083/2/320x400.jpeg)
Practicing from an ecological stance, I recognize that individuals exist within larger systems which can significantly impact their well-being. It's important for me to understand all aspects of a client's life beyond their presenting symptoms to form a well-rounded picture of the contributing factors in their mental health experiences. I primarily work with adolescent and adult clients for individual, couple and family therapy. I am specifically interested in working with romantic relationship conflict, trauma (acute and complex), transgender health, life transition stress, anxiety, and emotional disturbances.
Practicing from an ecological stance, I recognize that individuals exist within larger systems which can significantly impact their well-being. It's important for me to understand all aspects of a client's life beyond their presenting symptoms to form a well-rounded picture of the contributing factors in their mental health experiences. I primarily work with adolescent and adult clients for individual, couple and family therapy. I am specifically interested in working with romantic relationship conflict, trauma (acute and complex), transgender health, life transition stress, anxiety, and emotional disturbances.
![Photo of Yasmin Kawar, MA, MTA, RCT-C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5face120-48c4-4cce-8999-901c0798ada7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) and Registered Counselling Therapist - Candidate (RCT-C) working in the K’jipuktuk (Halifax) area. I provide counselling and music therapy for individuals and groups in the public sector and private practice. I specialize in addictions recovery, and with those impacted by addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, abuse, and the criminal justice system. My approach to therapy is anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and person-centered. I work collaboratively with clients to support their personal goals and well-being while considering the holistic, intersecting aspects at play in their lives.
I am a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) and Registered Counselling Therapist - Candidate (RCT-C) working in the K’jipuktuk (Halifax) area. I provide counselling and music therapy for individuals and groups in the public sector and private practice. I specialize in addictions recovery, and with those impacted by addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, abuse, and the criminal justice system. My approach to therapy is anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and person-centered. I work collaboratively with clients to support their personal goals and well-being while considering the holistic, intersecting aspects at play in their lives.
![Photo of Michelle Strazzeri Psychotherapy For You Nova Scotia, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97fff526-0230-4619-ac2c-e2cb955a6dc9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Strazzeri Psychotherapy For You Nova Scotia
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3J (Online Only)
You are here because you are experiencing struggle, are ready to make some changes and you are looking for help. Together we can address your concerns and reestablish your sense of wellness and hope. I look forward to building a strong therapeutic relationship with you and supporting you through the changes you want with warmth, empathy and experience.
You are here because you are experiencing struggle, are ready to make some changes and you are looking for help. Together we can address your concerns and reestablish your sense of wellness and hope. I look forward to building a strong therapeutic relationship with you and supporting you through the changes you want with warmth, empathy and experience.
![Photo of Melaney White, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f66aad4-eb0b-422b-adbb-20cdc9f6b69a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm passionate about treating trauma and the wide range of symptoms it can cause. I experienced intergenerational trauma and poverty in my family of origin and I'm passionate about working with individuals and families who share this experience.
I'm passionate about treating trauma and the wide range of symptoms it can cause. I experienced intergenerational trauma and poverty in my family of origin and I'm passionate about working with individuals and families who share this experience.
![Photo of Dr. Ailís Walker, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67d9d84f-ba11-42d1-a85d-d9232a009e79/3/320x400.jpeg)
When the injured psyche drives behaviour, it can isolate us from community and separate us from our own heart. Yet, when we heal our unconscious patterns and stay connected with our heart, we begin to evolve into the most loving and courageous version of ourselves. Our traumatic and injurious experiences hold lessons and opportunities for emotional, psychological and spiritual growth; as well as an opportunity to evolve beyond survival, to expand in consciousness into the wisdom of knowing ourselves and the power of mastering ourselves.
When the injured psyche drives behaviour, it can isolate us from community and separate us from our own heart. Yet, when we heal our unconscious patterns and stay connected with our heart, we begin to evolve into the most loving and courageous version of ourselves. Our traumatic and injurious experiences hold lessons and opportunities for emotional, psychological and spiritual growth; as well as an opportunity to evolve beyond survival, to expand in consciousness into the wisdom of knowing ourselves and the power of mastering ourselves.
![Photo of Kristen Williams True North Psychological Services - Halifax, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d49fbd62-9c2c-4f55-b0f0-368e239c869d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Williams True North Psychological Services - Halifax
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3S
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a registered social worker (RSW) in Nova Scotia since 2022 after immigrating from Los Angeles, California where I practiced as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Prior to HRM, I had been working with formerly unhoused veterans and their families in the Greater Los Angeles community through the US Veterans' Healthcare Administration for ten years. I currently work with adults and older adults (18+), veterans, military, and first responders. Those in the LGBTQ+, multicultural, and polyamorous/ENM communities. As well as many others struggling with mental health challenges.
I have been a registered social worker (RSW) in Nova Scotia since 2022 after immigrating from Los Angeles, California where I practiced as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Prior to HRM, I had been working with formerly unhoused veterans and their families in the Greater Los Angeles community through the US Veterans' Healthcare Administration for ten years. I currently work with adults and older adults (18+), veterans, military, and first responders. Those in the LGBTQ+, multicultural, and polyamorous/ENM communities. As well as many others struggling with mental health challenges.
![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.
![Photo of Charisma Grace Walker - Anahata Integrative Sex & Relationship Therapy, MEd, RCT-C, CCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/123566d4-1570-47e3-8311-651f9aa29db8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anahata Integrative Sex & Relationship Therapy
Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate, MEd, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3L
Greetings! I am a collaborative practitioner who enters the therapeutic space from a place of compassion and curiosity. Relationships are vital to our survival as a species. Therefore, connecting to others through relationship hold transformative power and fulfills our most basic human needs. So how do we engage with each other in a positive and vitalizing manner? I work primarily with individuals and couples who are experiencing a range of emotional difficulties and concerns including relational conflict, lack of communication, sexual concerns, lack of intimacy, feeling of disconnection and isolation.
Greetings! I am a collaborative practitioner who enters the therapeutic space from a place of compassion and curiosity. Relationships are vital to our survival as a species. Therefore, connecting to others through relationship hold transformative power and fulfills our most basic human needs. So how do we engage with each other in a positive and vitalizing manner? I work primarily with individuals and couples who are experiencing a range of emotional difficulties and concerns including relational conflict, lack of communication, sexual concerns, lack of intimacy, feeling of disconnection and isolation.
![Photo of Melissa Hum, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c74899aa-1b69-4bbb-88a9-998a5d6d34b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced, thoughtful and dedicated Clinical Social Worker available to help you develop goals for managing emotions, dealing with stress, coping strategies and increased self-awareness. I work with pre-teens, adolescents, young people and adults.
I am an experienced, thoughtful and dedicated Clinical Social Worker available to help you develop goals for managing emotions, dealing with stress, coping strategies and increased self-awareness. I work with pre-teens, adolescents, young people and adults.
![Photo of Amanda Henry, MA, RCT, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4a9b07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Is the inside of your head feeling like an uncomfortable place to be? Working with a mental health professional can create a meaningful shift. Sometimes the harsh things we say to ourselves and our unconscious patterns can leave us trapped in a cycle of just trying to survive. Could the way you've learned to cope/survive be keeping you stuck or moving you away from who you want to be and how you want to live? Learning to see yourself, your life, and your patterns clearly can create opportunities for healing, growth, and more meaningful relationships.
Is the inside of your head feeling like an uncomfortable place to be? Working with a mental health professional can create a meaningful shift. Sometimes the harsh things we say to ourselves and our unconscious patterns can leave us trapped in a cycle of just trying to survive. Could the way you've learned to cope/survive be keeping you stuck or moving you away from who you want to be and how you want to live? Learning to see yourself, your life, and your patterns clearly can create opportunities for healing, growth, and more meaningful relationships.
![Photo of Julian Manthorne, RCT-C, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a19d067b-7c3d-4290-b2ae-ebb052249e3a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am ready to help you! No matter what you are going through, I know that if we can talk about it, we can work it out! I am ready to help you get the tools you need to get back on your feet. I want to get to know you as a person, not just your symptoms, and to help you get back to the things that bring you joy. I am proudly inclusive, queer-friendly, and sex-positive.
I am ready to help you! No matter what you are going through, I know that if we can talk about it, we can work it out! I am ready to help you get the tools you need to get back on your feet. I want to get to know you as a person, not just your symptoms, and to help you get back to the things that bring you joy. I am proudly inclusive, queer-friendly, and sex-positive.
![Photo of Dawn Maskine, MEd , RCT-C , RYT, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb02e457-c5c8-43d0-9f2d-0283743a88d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Maskine
Counsellor, MEd , RCT-C , RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3L
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, my name is Dawn and I have been working with individuals and groups in the fields of community-based development, education, health and wellness, and physical rehabilitation for over 20 years. Using narrative, trauma informed, and somatic approaches, I follow the philosophy that people are not their problems, behaviours, or past. If we can externalize and deconstruct the latter, by tapping into values and strengths, then there is potential to rewrite your narrative moving forward. I am dedicated in assisting you in relieving the stressors of holding onto stories that do not connect with your true self concept.
Welcome, my name is Dawn and I have been working with individuals and groups in the fields of community-based development, education, health and wellness, and physical rehabilitation for over 20 years. Using narrative, trauma informed, and somatic approaches, I follow the philosophy that people are not their problems, behaviours, or past. If we can externalize and deconstruct the latter, by tapping into values and strengths, then there is potential to rewrite your narrative moving forward. I am dedicated in assisting you in relieving the stressors of holding onto stories that do not connect with your true self concept.
![Photo of Dr. Marcel Peloquin, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba22a7a9-234e-4360-8bbf-8f50dc24cbad/1/320x400.jpeg)
What has spared us from pain in the past often keeps us stuck and anxious in the present. Most of us wish to be free of our psychological suffering, but we find ourselves continuing to treat ourselves or others poorly in spite of our best interest to do otherwise. We all need a therapeutic relationship where we can learn to experience our emotions safely, regulate our anxiety, and turn against our defenses. I provide Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), a comprehensive form of psychotherapy that helps patients experience their emotions and understand themselves across a broad range of clinical concerns.
What has spared us from pain in the past often keeps us stuck and anxious in the present. Most of us wish to be free of our psychological suffering, but we find ourselves continuing to treat ourselves or others poorly in spite of our best interest to do otherwise. We all need a therapeutic relationship where we can learn to experience our emotions safely, regulate our anxiety, and turn against our defenses. I provide Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), a comprehensive form of psychotherapy that helps patients experience their emotions and understand themselves across a broad range of clinical concerns.
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Nearby Sexual Abuse Counsellors Searches for Halifax
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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.