Sexual Abuse Therapists in Etobicoke, ON

Photo of Nave Nijjar, MA, RP, CC, Registered Psychotherapist
Nave Nijjar
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, abuse, relationship problems, self-esteem, and complex mental health issues.
Finding the right fit with a therapist can be overwhelming & confusing. If this is your first time or you’ve done this before, it is my intention to work with you in a non-judgmental, compassionate, & safe environment. I can help you explore your inner thoughts, feelings, emotions, conflicts & challenges that may have impacted your life. I have a strong passion to help you find your authentic self and working together to unblend your past experience's to reach your desired goals. Most importantly, I want my clients to feel safe and comfortable sharing vulnerable and sensitive stories with me.
I specialize in trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, abuse, relationship problems, self-esteem, and complex mental health issues.
Finding the right fit with a therapist can be overwhelming & confusing. If this is your first time or you’ve done this before, it is my intention to work with you in a non-judgmental, compassionate, & safe environment. I can help you explore your inner thoughts, feelings, emotions, conflicts & challenges that may have impacted your life. I have a strong passion to help you find your authentic self and working together to unblend your past experience's to reach your desired goals. Most importantly, I want my clients to feel safe and comfortable sharing vulnerable and sensitive stories with me.
(647) 371-5314 View (647) 371-5314
Photo of Zoe Ferguson, BSc, DipTIRP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Zoe Ferguson
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, DipTIRP, RP
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8X  (Online Only)
I also work with survivors of sexual abuse and assault.
If you choose to work with me I will strive to create a safe, respectful and meaningful relationship with you. I will listen carefully, with empathy and without judgement. Sometimes I ask a lot of questions in order to understand, to the best of my ability, what things are like for you. In working together to help me understand your story, usually what happens is that things start to make more sense for you too. Confusion often gives way to clarity. Feelings such as anxiety, anger, depression and isolation often subside as well.
I also work with survivors of sexual abuse and assault.
If you choose to work with me I will strive to create a safe, respectful and meaningful relationship with you. I will listen carefully, with empathy and without judgement. Sometimes I ask a lot of questions in order to understand, to the best of my ability, what things are like for you. In working together to help me understand your story, usually what happens is that things start to make more sense for you too. Confusion often gives way to clarity. Feelings such as anxiety, anger, depression and isolation often subside as well.
(844) 331-0252 View (844) 331-0252
Photo of Jess Erb - Jess Erb, Centred Self Psychotherapy, RP, DPsych, Registered Psychotherapist
Jess Erb, Centred Self Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
I specialize in BPD and (inter)personal trauma and abuse – including sexual abuse (in both childhood and adults), and emotional, domestic, or physical abuse.
If you're reading this, you've already made one of the bravest steps towards help and life-long change. I started Centred Self Psychotherapy to ensure clients get to the root of the problem - rather than a band-aid approach, and work to create lasting change. We have incredible psychotherapists who work to build safety within the relationship, which can help you delve into even the scariest of topics with someone that you trust. We also offer Reduced Cost Therapy with our student clinic, holistic nutrition, and EMDR with Gina Lihou.
I specialize in BPD and (inter)personal trauma and abuse – including sexual abuse (in both childhood and adults), and emotional, domestic, or physical abuse.
If you're reading this, you've already made one of the bravest steps towards help and life-long change. I started Centred Self Psychotherapy to ensure clients get to the root of the problem - rather than a band-aid approach, and work to create lasting change. We have incredible psychotherapists who work to build safety within the relationship, which can help you delve into even the scariest of topics with someone that you trust. We also offer Reduced Cost Therapy with our student clinic, holistic nutrition, and EMDR with Gina Lihou.
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Photo of Linda Bond, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Linda Bond
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A  (Online Only)
We all long to be heard... to have someone witness and lovingly validate our struggles, our painful suffering and our greatest achievements. Did you know that healing happens when we feel we are in a trusting, truly compassionate therapeutic relationship? You probably give more to others than to yourself but you don't know why. You may be burned out, overwhelmed, a PTSD/ sexual abuse survivor - or possibly suffering from Covid-fatigue; depressed. anxious and totally stressed out? Your inner voice won't quit and you are so hard on yourself. You are not alone. It would be an honour to help you add peace and joy into your life.
We all long to be heard... to have someone witness and lovingly validate our struggles, our painful suffering and our greatest achievements. Did you know that healing happens when we feel we are in a trusting, truly compassionate therapeutic relationship? You probably give more to others than to yourself but you don't know why. You may be burned out, overwhelmed, a PTSD/ sexual abuse survivor - or possibly suffering from Covid-fatigue; depressed. anxious and totally stressed out? Your inner voice won't quit and you are so hard on yourself. You are not alone. It would be an honour to help you add peace and joy into your life.
(289) 205-2611 View (289) 205-2611
Photo of Angela Masuzzo, RSSW, CYC, CH, NLPP
Angela Masuzzo
Registered Social Service Worker, RSSW, CYC, CH, NLPP
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8Z
Maybe you have tried therapy in the past or explored different venues to overcome difficult situations, but you feel stuck! I have experience working with adults, children/adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief/loss, codependency tendencies, emotional/physical abuse, sexual abuse as well as life transition stressors. I also work with couples providing an active participation to identify their issue, focusing on change-oriented interventions guiding both to understand their individual roles and learn new harmonious strategies.
Maybe you have tried therapy in the past or explored different venues to overcome difficult situations, but you feel stuck! I have experience working with adults, children/adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief/loss, codependency tendencies, emotional/physical abuse, sexual abuse as well as life transition stressors. I also work with couples providing an active participation to identify their issue, focusing on change-oriented interventions guiding both to understand their individual roles and learn new harmonious strategies.
(647) 951-0406 View (647) 951-0406
Photo of Deborah Esther Callander, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Deborah Esther Callander
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Issues I have worked with extensively are substance dependence, intimate partner power and control issues, PTSD, adult and childhood sexual abuse, attachment trauma, Dissociative Identity Disorder, voluntary and involuntary sex work and human trafficking, conflict with the justice systems, and "honour based" violence and forced marriage.
Aspire Therapy is the private practice of Registered Psychotherapist Deborah Callander in Mississauga. ASPIRE is an acronym for A Supportive Partner in Recovery, which I believe describes my approach well. I draw primarily on Internal Family Systems therapy to explore the sources and development of the suffering in your life, critical to healing. Coping with pain by self medicating eventually does more harm than good. If you've tried to make changes but life has become unsustainable I can help. Let's discuss the options available to you for recovery.
Issues I have worked with extensively are substance dependence, intimate partner power and control issues, PTSD, adult and childhood sexual abuse, attachment trauma, Dissociative Identity Disorder, voluntary and involuntary sex work and human trafficking, conflict with the justice systems, and "honour based" violence and forced marriage.
Aspire Therapy is the private practice of Registered Psychotherapist Deborah Callander in Mississauga. ASPIRE is an acronym for A Supportive Partner in Recovery, which I believe describes my approach well. I draw primarily on Internal Family Systems therapy to explore the sources and development of the suffering in your life, critical to healing. Coping with pain by self medicating eventually does more harm than good. If you've tried to make changes but life has become unsustainable I can help. Let's discuss the options available to you for recovery.
(365) 804-5029 View (365) 804-5029
Photo of Debbie Papadakis, RP, CHT, CI, Registered Psychotherapist
Debbie Papadakis
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CHT, CI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9P
Areas I work in include: relationship issues, physical/emotional & sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma/PTSD,.
Hello, my name is Debbie Papadakis. My goal is to empower you to unfold your inherent potential by accessing the subconscious mind using a combination of psychotherapy with hypnotherapy to help you live a healthy, wealthy, productive and happy life. For more than 25 years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, couples and groups from diverse backgrounds to help empower them to overcome limiting beliefs, unwanted behaviours, negative thoughts and emotions, addictions and/or afflictions, fears and phobias that were hindering them from achieving their goals, unleashing their full potential, and living in harmony.
Areas I work in include: relationship issues, physical/emotional & sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma/PTSD,.
Hello, my name is Debbie Papadakis. My goal is to empower you to unfold your inherent potential by accessing the subconscious mind using a combination of psychotherapy with hypnotherapy to help you live a healthy, wealthy, productive and happy life. For more than 25 years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, couples and groups from diverse backgrounds to help empower them to overcome limiting beliefs, unwanted behaviours, negative thoughts and emotions, addictions and/or afflictions, fears and phobias that were hindering them from achieving their goals, unleashing their full potential, and living in harmony.
(855) 982-1391 View (855) 982-1391
Photo of Frances D'Amato, MSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Frances D'Amato
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9W  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I offer services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families for a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, sexual abuse, poor body image, eating disorders, addictions, low self-esteem, loss and grief and other mental health concerns. I believe that each person is a unique individual with their own personality, thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In therapy, I view you as the expert of your life.
Hello and welcome! I offer services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families for a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, sexual abuse, poor body image, eating disorders, addictions, low self-esteem, loss and grief and other mental health concerns. I believe that each person is a unique individual with their own personality, thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In therapy, I view you as the expert of your life.
(905) 936-4747 View (905) 936-4747
Photo of Iva Keighley, LLB, MSW, RSW, RP
Iva Keighley
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, LLB, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9C  (Online Only)
I am EMDR Certified Therapist (EMDRIA), Reg. Psychotherapist (ON) and Reg. Social Worker (ON) with an academic background in law, clinical social work, mental health and trauma specialized training. I provide counseling and therapy services in different categories of concern, which may include traumatic life experiences, complex post-traumatic stress, developmental trauma, workplace trauma and managing life-work changes and transitions.
I am EMDR Certified Therapist (EMDRIA), Reg. Psychotherapist (ON) and Reg. Social Worker (ON) with an academic background in law, clinical social work, mental health and trauma specialized training. I provide counseling and therapy services in different categories of concern, which may include traumatic life experiences, complex post-traumatic stress, developmental trauma, workplace trauma and managing life-work changes and transitions.
(416) 500-1792 View (416) 500-1792
Photo of Sarah Lo, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sarah Lo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
We cannot get through life unscathed, but when we choose to explore our internal motivation and interpersonal relationships with compassion, positive changes can be made. My passion for helping others lies in a person-centered, culturally intuitive, and competent approach where mind and body can be explored safely and inclusively.
We cannot get through life unscathed, but when we choose to explore our internal motivation and interpersonal relationships with compassion, positive changes can be made. My passion for helping others lies in a person-centered, culturally intuitive, and competent approach where mind and body can be explored safely and inclusively.
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Photo of Natasha Sharma - NKS Therapy, Counsellor
NKS Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
(289) 206-7074 View (289) 206-7074
Photo of Sandra Gautreau, Registered Psychotherapist
Sandra Gautreau
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8W  (Online Only)
Your well-being is my top priority. I offer a trauma-informed, nurturing, and inclusive environment where you can feel seen and heard. My goal is to help you understand and overcome feelings of isolation and inauthenticity, guiding you towards a future filled with connection, vulnerability, and genuine self-expression. At Sandra Gautreau Therapy, I’m here to provide a warm, safe, and supportive space where we can explore your experiences together. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, and we’ll work collaboratively to set meaningful goals and measure your progress along the way.
Your well-being is my top priority. I offer a trauma-informed, nurturing, and inclusive environment where you can feel seen and heard. My goal is to help you understand and overcome feelings of isolation and inauthenticity, guiding you towards a future filled with connection, vulnerability, and genuine self-expression. At Sandra Gautreau Therapy, I’m here to provide a warm, safe, and supportive space where we can explore your experiences together. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, and we’ll work collaboratively to set meaningful goals and measure your progress along the way.
(365) 661-5019 View (365) 661-5019
Photo of Shagun Sharma - Thought & Feeling: Shagun Sharma, Registered Psychotherapist
Thought & Feeling: Shagun Sharma
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8W
Starting therapy can feel foreign. Providing a space to explore, challenge and sometimes sit with different emotions, memories, and feelings can help understand our connectivity to our internal and external world, and process difficult and challenging obstacles. I create a compassionate, open, and empowering space while you explore past, present and/or future obstacles and issues. I can help with: anxiety, depression, trauma/complex PTSD/PTSD, bereavement, self-esteem, depersonalization, communication, family conflict, and general life stressors. Ultimately, one of the key goals is to feel a stronger connection to yourself.
Starting therapy can feel foreign. Providing a space to explore, challenge and sometimes sit with different emotions, memories, and feelings can help understand our connectivity to our internal and external world, and process difficult and challenging obstacles. I create a compassionate, open, and empowering space while you explore past, present and/or future obstacles and issues. I can help with: anxiety, depression, trauma/complex PTSD/PTSD, bereavement, self-esteem, depersonalization, communication, family conflict, and general life stressors. Ultimately, one of the key goals is to feel a stronger connection to yourself.
(365) 536-0014 View (365) 536-0014
Photo of Natasha Sharma, PsyD, Counsellor
Natasha Sharma
Counsellor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
(289) 207-4800 View (289) 207-4800
Photo of John Sendim | Uplift Therapy For Men - Etobicoke, MPS, RP, CAPP, Registered Psychotherapist
John Sendim | Uplift Therapy For Men - Etobicoke
Registered Psychotherapist, MPS, RP, CAPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Are you tired of suffering in silence? As a man, you may feel uncomfortable thinking or talking about your feelings. From challenges in your relationships and your career to feelings of self-doubt, you may find yourself feeling disconnected from how you want to show up in your life. Life’s stressors can have you acting in ways that you don’t feel good about at the end of the day. By talking it out, you can find calm in the chaos, and develop new ways of coping. As a male therapist who understands how men have been conditioned to suppress their feelings, I invite you to explore those emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Are you tired of suffering in silence? As a man, you may feel uncomfortable thinking or talking about your feelings. From challenges in your relationships and your career to feelings of self-doubt, you may find yourself feeling disconnected from how you want to show up in your life. Life’s stressors can have you acting in ways that you don’t feel good about at the end of the day. By talking it out, you can find calm in the chaos, and develop new ways of coping. As a male therapist who understands how men have been conditioned to suppress their feelings, I invite you to explore those emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
(647) 931-3454 View (647) 931-3454
Photo of Amy Rankin, MSW, MA, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Amy Rankin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
Everyone’s story matters, and we all deserve a place to share it that is comfortable and non-judgmental. I believe that each person is an expert in their own life. As a therapist, it is my goal to bear witness to your story and help you navigate your current challenges, as well as deepen your knowledge, understanding, appreciation, and acceptance of yourself and others. I am a trauma-informed therapist who uses a client-centered approach, working with different modalities tailored to meet each client's unique needs.
Everyone’s story matters, and we all deserve a place to share it that is comfortable and non-judgmental. I believe that each person is an expert in their own life. As a therapist, it is my goal to bear witness to your story and help you navigate your current challenges, as well as deepen your knowledge, understanding, appreciation, and acceptance of yourself and others. I am a trauma-informed therapist who uses a client-centered approach, working with different modalities tailored to meet each client's unique needs.
(289) 206-8837 View (289) 206-8837
Photo of John Sendim - Uplift Therapy for Men - Etobicoke & Virtual (ON), RP, OT, Registered Psychotherapist
Uplift Therapy for Men - Etobicoke & Virtual (ON)
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, OT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Are you a man seeking to break free from the grip of stress, anger, anxiety, grief and self-doubt? Are you someone who's ready to embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery and growth? You're looking for effective strategies to manage challenges, enhance self-esteem, and cultivate meaningful connections. You aspire to reclaim your inner strength and embrace a life of purpose, because you deserve it. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and the benefits ripple through every aspect of your life.
Are you a man seeking to break free from the grip of stress, anger, anxiety, grief and self-doubt? Are you someone who's ready to embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery and growth? You're looking for effective strategies to manage challenges, enhance self-esteem, and cultivate meaningful connections. You aspire to reclaim your inner strength and embrace a life of purpose, because you deserve it. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and the benefits ripple through every aspect of your life.
(647) 931-9474 View (647) 931-9474
Photo of Patricia Keith - Break Free Family Centre, PhD, EdD, OACCPP, CPCA, OCA
Break Free Family Centre
PhD, EdD, OACCPP, CPCA, OCA
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9W
I counsel children (16 years and older), youth, and adults through individual and or group sessions. I am in good standing and have been awarded Full membership with the designation of Registered Counsellor (RCC) with CPCA as well as a member in good standing of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrics and Psychotherapists (OACCPP), and Bereavement Ontario Network (BON). Canadian Addiction Counsellors (CACCF) I provide psychological services under the supervision of a Registered Psychologist of Dalton Associates. I work in collaboration with clients to build upon their strength(s) to solve family issues.
I counsel children (16 years and older), youth, and adults through individual and or group sessions. I am in good standing and have been awarded Full membership with the designation of Registered Counsellor (RCC) with CPCA as well as a member in good standing of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrics and Psychotherapists (OACCPP), and Bereavement Ontario Network (BON). Canadian Addiction Counsellors (CACCF) I provide psychological services under the supervision of a Registered Psychologist of Dalton Associates. I work in collaboration with clients to build upon their strength(s) to solve family issues.
(844) 332-2287 View (844) 332-2287
Photo of Racha Rkein, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Racha Rkein
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, & are stuck in one place in life? When you're used to living in a state of chronic stress, feeling calm feels unfamiliar. This is the same reason you remain in chaotic relationships. You may perceive dysfunction as love & find yourself walking on eggshells in relationships. Life becomes exhausting & you end up experiencing stress and dissociation from the overwhelming environment you're exposed to. Regulating your nervous system & living a meaningful life can be a difficult journey but one that's worth exploring so you can live a self-sufficient life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, & are stuck in one place in life? When you're used to living in a state of chronic stress, feeling calm feels unfamiliar. This is the same reason you remain in chaotic relationships. You may perceive dysfunction as love & find yourself walking on eggshells in relationships. Life becomes exhausting & you end up experiencing stress and dissociation from the overwhelming environment you're exposed to. Regulating your nervous system & living a meaningful life can be a difficult journey but one that's worth exploring so you can live a self-sufficient life.
(647) 576-0981 View (647) 576-0981
Photo of Peace Yvonne Nduka - Peace-Yvonne Solutions Corp, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Peace-Yvonne Solutions Corp
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9W  (Online Only)
I am a registered Social Worker with Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I hold a Master’s of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from York University. My professional experience includes working with families and individuals involved with the child welfare system, families experiencing parent teen conflicts, separation issues, depression, anger, divorce, contact issues, stress, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, relationship challenges.
I am a registered Social Worker with Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I hold a Master’s of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from York University. My professional experience includes working with families and individuals involved with the child welfare system, families experiencing parent teen conflicts, separation issues, depression, anger, divorce, contact issues, stress, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, relationship challenges.
(289) 216-6875 View (289) 216-6875
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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.