Sexual Abuse Therapists in King City, ON

Photo of Claudia Sarra, BSW, MACP, CCTS-I, Registered Psychotherapist
Claudia Sarra
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MACP, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B  (Online Only)
Do you sometimes feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck? Are you constantly battling with a harsh inner voice? If so, you're not alone. Many of us experience internal struggles that can leave us feeling drained and defeated. Often, we approach these parts of ourselves with judgment, unaware that they’ve played a role in helping us survive. When we experience trauma, our responses can become rooted in the past, rather than the present. My goal is to help you heal from those past wounds and restore a sense of calm and clarity within.
Do you sometimes feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck? Are you constantly battling with a harsh inner voice? If so, you're not alone. Many of us experience internal struggles that can leave us feeling drained and defeated. Often, we approach these parts of ourselves with judgment, unaware that they’ve played a role in helping us survive. When we experience trauma, our responses can become rooted in the past, rather than the present. My goal is to help you heal from those past wounds and restore a sense of calm and clarity within.
(249) 493-7441 View (249) 493-7441
Photo of Carly Elmalem, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Carly Elmalem
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Has "getting by" become a way of life? Are you feeling hijacked by anxiety, stuck in cyclical low mood, or simply overwhelmed in relationship dynamics? Toxic stress and trauma destabilize our nervous system and shake up our sense of safety and control. In therapy, we open the doorway to understanding and neutralizing the roots of your triggers. Trauma-informed therapy works to stabilize your brain and body so that surviving transforms into thriving. It empowers you to restore balance within... to become the architect of your mind... and to cultivate a resilient self, unburdened by the past or life's circumstances.
Has "getting by" become a way of life? Are you feeling hijacked by anxiety, stuck in cyclical low mood, or simply overwhelmed in relationship dynamics? Toxic stress and trauma destabilize our nervous system and shake up our sense of safety and control. In therapy, we open the doorway to understanding and neutralizing the roots of your triggers. Trauma-informed therapy works to stabilize your brain and body so that surviving transforms into thriving. It empowers you to restore balance within... to become the architect of your mind... and to cultivate a resilient self, unburdened by the past or life's circumstances.
(647) 797-9661 View (647) 797-9661
Photo of Jason Koenigbaur, MTS, CHT, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jason Koenigbaur
Registered Psychotherapist, MTS, CHT, RP
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over twenty years’ experience in the mental health field treating anxiety, depression, childhood abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I have extensive experience working with people who have experienced trauma, poor attachment, and those recovering from abusive relationships. Having been trained by leading experts in the fields of trauma, neuroscience and mind-body healing, I can help you find relief from distressing symptoms, make positive behavioural changes, and get you back connected to your True Self.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over twenty years’ experience in the mental health field treating anxiety, depression, childhood abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I have extensive experience working with people who have experienced trauma, poor attachment, and those recovering from abusive relationships. Having been trained by leading experts in the fields of trauma, neuroscience and mind-body healing, I can help you find relief from distressing symptoms, make positive behavioural changes, and get you back connected to your True Self.
(647) 951-6342 View (647) 951-6342
Photo of Mona Hwang - Green Life Counseling, BA, MMFT, RMFT, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Green Life Counseling
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MMFT, RMFT, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B
Hello from Green Life Counseling! We're a compassionate team of registered social workers, psychotherapists, and marriage and family therapists here in Ontario. As qualified members of OASW, CAMFT, and CRPO, we're dedicated to offering professional support to your needs.
Hello from Green Life Counseling! We're a compassionate team of registered social workers, psychotherapists, and marriage and family therapists here in Ontario. As qualified members of OASW, CAMFT, and CRPO, we're dedicated to offering professional support to your needs.
(647) 930-0143 View (647) 930-0143
Photo of Priyan Ramanihar, BSc, MA, (Psych), Registered Psychotherapist
Priyan Ramanihar
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA, (Psych)
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Welcome to Therapy Heals! I recognize that therapy is a process that embraces the willingness to look beyond my lens and hold space for my client's narratives, as experts of their own story. Challenges and issues can be engaged within a container of safety created by compassionate, empathetic therapeutic relationships. I am a firm believer that healing happens in the presence of such a connection. That the work of healing happens through reconciliation and/or through a reparative, restorative, and corrective experience.
Welcome to Therapy Heals! I recognize that therapy is a process that embraces the willingness to look beyond my lens and hold space for my client's narratives, as experts of their own story. Challenges and issues can be engaged within a container of safety created by compassionate, empathetic therapeutic relationships. I am a firm believer that healing happens in the presence of such a connection. That the work of healing happens through reconciliation and/or through a reparative, restorative, and corrective experience.
(905) 936-4747 View (905) 936-4747
Photo of Farhana Adatia, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Farhana Adatia
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes, the things that have happened in our past can affect our daily lives significantly. Trauma can make people feel as if their past defines who they are and that it will always have a grip on them. Although traumatic events can cause lasting effects, there are ways to regain control over your life if you have experienced trauma or developed PTSD. As an EMDR clinician, I use an evidence-based approach to help you become 'unstuck'. Seeking trauma therapy requires immense courage. I understand how difficult it can be to discuss trauma, which is why I provide a calm, non-judgemental space for you to begin the healing process.
Sometimes, the things that have happened in our past can affect our daily lives significantly. Trauma can make people feel as if their past defines who they are and that it will always have a grip on them. Although traumatic events can cause lasting effects, there are ways to regain control over your life if you have experienced trauma or developed PTSD. As an EMDR clinician, I use an evidence-based approach to help you become 'unstuck'. Seeking trauma therapy requires immense courage. I understand how difficult it can be to discuss trauma, which is why I provide a calm, non-judgemental space for you to begin the healing process.
(249) 495-5338 View (249) 495-5338
Photo of Paula Scarangella, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Paula Scarangella
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B
No concern or thought is too small or large to be explored in therapy. I understand that life can bring us suffering, pain, loss, and other experiences that we oftentimes struggle to manage. My goal is to provide a safe space to explore & process your thoughts, emotions, & life situations, no matter how big or small. I understand that each individual's story is unique, & I allow for discovery to occur in a fully confidential, non-judgemental space.
No concern or thought is too small or large to be explored in therapy. I understand that life can bring us suffering, pain, loss, and other experiences that we oftentimes struggle to manage. My goal is to provide a safe space to explore & process your thoughts, emotions, & life situations, no matter how big or small. I understand that each individual's story is unique, & I allow for discovery to occur in a fully confidential, non-judgemental space.
(289) 210-4842 View (289) 210-4842
Photo of Heather Kent - Abuse - Narcissism - Nonmonogamy: Heather Kent, MC, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Abuse - Narcissism - Nonmonogamy: Heather Kent
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B
You’re dealing with a lot; feeling guilty and confused. Guilty for not loving more or trying harder. They’re telling you these things - it must be true, right? They were charismatic and charming, showering you with PDA and compliments, but it all changed. You’re embarrassing they say, and now you feel trapped and broken. You’re not alone. It's not your fault. You Google “abusive relationships” and read about narcissistic abuse. That’s your life! You need guidance. I know this because I needed it too. I chased “good enough” trying to “behave well” for my family. After college, I married and divorced a narcissist who always blamed me.
You’re dealing with a lot; feeling guilty and confused. Guilty for not loving more or trying harder. They’re telling you these things - it must be true, right? They were charismatic and charming, showering you with PDA and compliments, but it all changed. You’re embarrassing they say, and now you feel trapped and broken. You’re not alone. It's not your fault. You Google “abusive relationships” and read about narcissistic abuse. That’s your life! You need guidance. I know this because I needed it too. I chased “good enough” trying to “behave well” for my family. After college, I married and divorced a narcissist who always blamed me.
(249) 490-5850 View (249) 490-5850
Photo of Sara Saniee, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sara Saniee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
(289) 217-0906 View (289) 217-0906
Photo of Jennifer Lippa, BSc, MC, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Lippa
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MC
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Welcome, you have made an important step in starting your therapy journey just by being here on this site. I believe that for many, it can take courage to pursue therapy. I would be happy to support you in whatever way you need. I will work with you at your pace, using your strengths and my skill set to support your goal attainment. Whether your goal(s) are related to personal growth, finding a sense of peacefulness, achieving something specific or any other therapeutic goal, I can help.
Welcome, you have made an important step in starting your therapy journey just by being here on this site. I believe that for many, it can take courage to pursue therapy. I would be happy to support you in whatever way you need. I will work with you at your pace, using your strengths and my skill set to support your goal attainment. Whether your goal(s) are related to personal growth, finding a sense of peacefulness, achieving something specific or any other therapeutic goal, I can help.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Orr Ariely, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Orr Ariely
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Have you been feeling “stuck” in old patterns of anxiety, low mood and numbness? Have you wondered if there is more to life than "just coping”? You’re not alone and there is a way forward. The catalyst to change is when we recognize that staying hidden underneath the “I’m okay” armor is no longer an option. Root-cause therapy focuses on addressing unprocessed painful experiences that feed our current symptoms and emotional patterns. This approach empowers you to let go of fears, self-doubt and old wounds so that you can gain a sense of control over your life and form strong bonds in relationships.
Have you been feeling “stuck” in old patterns of anxiety, low mood and numbness? Have you wondered if there is more to life than "just coping”? You’re not alone and there is a way forward. The catalyst to change is when we recognize that staying hidden underneath the “I’m okay” armor is no longer an option. Root-cause therapy focuses on addressing unprocessed painful experiences that feed our current symptoms and emotional patterns. This approach empowers you to let go of fears, self-doubt and old wounds so that you can gain a sense of control over your life and form strong bonds in relationships.
(289) 797-3238 View (289) 797-3238
Photo of Andrea Frith | Recovery For High-Functioning Anxiety, MDiv, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Andrea Frith | Recovery For High-Functioning Anxiety
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B  (Online Only)
Many of the clients I work with struggle with overthinking, procrastination or imposter syndrome. Perhaps you’re a high-achieving professional woman but sometimes you feel like you’re the only one in the room who doesn’t have it all together. Or maybe you have a million things on your plate, a to-do list that never seems to get any shorter, and when you lay your head down to sleep, your thoughts kick into gear & keep you awake. You may be feeling anxious, stressed & exhausted & you just want to find a way to regain your self-confidence & put some joy back into life. Everything feels hard & you long to feel peaceful & energized again
Many of the clients I work with struggle with overthinking, procrastination or imposter syndrome. Perhaps you’re a high-achieving professional woman but sometimes you feel like you’re the only one in the room who doesn’t have it all together. Or maybe you have a million things on your plate, a to-do list that never seems to get any shorter, and when you lay your head down to sleep, your thoughts kick into gear & keep you awake. You may be feeling anxious, stressed & exhausted & you just want to find a way to regain your self-confidence & put some joy back into life. Everything feels hard & you long to feel peaceful & energized again
(289) 278-3350 View (289) 278-3350
Photo of Shelby Doherty-Sirkovich, HBSc, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Shelby Doherty-Sirkovich
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBSc, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed by relationship struggles, whether with romantic partners, family, or friends? I specialize in helping individuals navigate betrayal trauma, divorce, and separation. My trauma-informed approach is flexible and client-centered, empowering you to manage stress, anxiety, grief, and PTSD symptoms. Together, we’ll work towards healing and resilience, guiding you to hope and to regain control over your space in relationships and your life.
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed by relationship struggles, whether with romantic partners, family, or friends? I specialize in helping individuals navigate betrayal trauma, divorce, and separation. My trauma-informed approach is flexible and client-centered, empowering you to manage stress, anxiety, grief, and PTSD symptoms. Together, we’ll work towards healing and resilience, guiding you to hope and to regain control over your space in relationships and your life.
(365) 651-9608 View (365) 651-9608
Photo of Mya Moran, HBSc, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mya Moran
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and don’t know what to do next? Are you feeling pressure and behind in life? OR Are you struggling with chronic pain or infertility? If this resonates with you, you are not alone. Together we will work to create safety, help you regain control, and reduce anxiety. We will deepen your trust in yourself to effectively establish and communicate healthy boundaries. My approach is to meet you where you are at, moving at your own pace one step and moment at a time.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and don’t know what to do next? Are you feeling pressure and behind in life? OR Are you struggling with chronic pain or infertility? If this resonates with you, you are not alone. Together we will work to create safety, help you regain control, and reduce anxiety. We will deepen your trust in yourself to effectively establish and communicate healthy boundaries. My approach is to meet you where you are at, moving at your own pace one step and moment at a time.
(289) 277-5603 View (289) 277-5603

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brenda Brough, RSSW, ADS, Registered Social Worker
Brenda Brough
Registered Social Worker, RSSW, ADS
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3X
My goal as a Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW), Psychotherapist, is to offer assistance to those looking to heal, obtain self-acceptance & understanding things that have, or are happening in their lives. I have experience in substance use/addictions, coping skills, relapse prevention, mental health, trauma (informed), sexual assault/abuse, as well as other areas. Covered by benefits under Registered Psychotherapist
My goal as a Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW), Psychotherapist, is to offer assistance to those looking to heal, obtain self-acceptance & understanding things that have, or are happening in their lives. I have experience in substance use/addictions, coping skills, relapse prevention, mental health, trauma (informed), sexual assault/abuse, as well as other areas. Covered by benefits under Registered Psychotherapist
(647) 933-1020 View (647) 933-1020
Photo of Katelyn Boersma - Dr. Katelyn Boersma @ FLEX Psychology, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Katelyn Boersma @ FLEX Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Making the decision to disclose difficulties and seek out psychological services can be challenging. I work collaboratively with adult and adolescent therapy clients to develop a clear understanding of problems, building agreement on the core tasks of therapy to lead to meaningful changes. I utilize my training in Emotion-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioural, Psychodynamic, and Integrative therapies to address a diverse range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma (eg. sexual assault, childhood abuse), and personality difficulties. The foundation of our relationship will be our focus on establishing and maintaining a strong working-alliance rooted in empathy and trust.
Making the decision to disclose difficulties and seek out psychological services can be challenging. I work collaboratively with adult and adolescent therapy clients to develop a clear understanding of problems, building agreement on the core tasks of therapy to lead to meaningful changes. I utilize my training in Emotion-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioural, Psychodynamic, and Integrative therapies to address a diverse range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma (eg. sexual assault, childhood abuse), and personality difficulties. The foundation of our relationship will be our focus on establishing and maintaining a strong working-alliance rooted in empathy and trust.
(855) 586-7390 View (855) 586-7390
Photo of Jennifer Shneer, AWCCA, MSW, RSW, CT, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Shneer
Registered Social Worker, AWCCA, MSW, RSW, CT
Verified Verified
Thornhill, ON L4J  (Online Only)
With over 20 years of experience, I will be able to assist you with a range of issues such as: domestic violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, sexual assault, trauma, self-esteem, loss, grief, separation and divorce, self-care, anxiety.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying practical therapeutic approaches and techniques, we may discover long-standing behaviour patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Growth is definitely in your hands!
With over 20 years of experience, I will be able to assist you with a range of issues such as: domestic violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, sexual assault, trauma, self-esteem, loss, grief, separation and divorce, self-care, anxiety.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying practical therapeutic approaches and techniques, we may discover long-standing behaviour patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Growth is definitely in your hands!
(416) 712-2646 View (416) 712-2646
Photo of Olivia Stewart: Trauma And Self-Esteem, HBSc, MACP, DCP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Olivia Stewart: Trauma And Self-Esteem
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, MACP, DCP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with clients who have experienced trauma in its various forms: childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, parental trauma, narcissistic abuse, attachment trauma and more.
Trauma, anxiety, loss of self and identity - these are incredibly painful parts of life that you don't have to face alone. With values deeply rooted in self-compassion and acceptance, I strive to help people reclaim and reconnect to their true Self and return to feeling happy and fulfilled in life. Having worked in the mental health field for over a decade, I apply a wide range of skills and expertise. As a Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy, I have a comprehensive knowledge of psychotherapy and trauma work.
I am passionate about working with clients who have experienced trauma in its various forms: childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, parental trauma, narcissistic abuse, attachment trauma and more.
Trauma, anxiety, loss of self and identity - these are incredibly painful parts of life that you don't have to face alone. With values deeply rooted in self-compassion and acceptance, I strive to help people reclaim and reconnect to their true Self and return to feeling happy and fulfilled in life. Having worked in the mental health field for over a decade, I apply a wide range of skills and expertise. As a Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy, I have a comprehensive knowledge of psychotherapy and trauma work.
(289) 212-6902 View (289) 212-6902
Photo of Nancy - Priftis, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nancy - Priftis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
I work with individuals with a history of physical, emotional or sexual abuse and with survivors of more recent trauma.
As a therapist I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can discuss personal and sensitive issues. I will work collaboratively with you to help you find the solutions that are best for you. Through psychotherapy you can explore negative emotions, gain insight to problematic thoughts and behaviours and learn healthy coping strategies that will help to rebuild your self confidence. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or overwhelmed therapy can help you overcome these feelings. If you are struggling in your relationships, therapy can help you create more satisfying and meaningful relationships.
I work with individuals with a history of physical, emotional or sexual abuse and with survivors of more recent trauma.
As a therapist I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can discuss personal and sensitive issues. I will work collaboratively with you to help you find the solutions that are best for you. Through psychotherapy you can explore negative emotions, gain insight to problematic thoughts and behaviours and learn healthy coping strategies that will help to rebuild your self confidence. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or overwhelmed therapy can help you overcome these feelings. If you are struggling in your relationships, therapy can help you create more satisfying and meaningful relationships.
(647) 952-6412 View (647) 952-6412
Photo of Dorothy Hsieh, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Dorothy Hsieh
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I can support people who have experienced a wide range of issues, such as, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, PTSD, hopelessness, post-migration stress, prejudice, racism, developmental and personality disorders, and gender and identity issues.
As a counsellor, my perspective stems from my ethnic background and where I grew up. I am a Chinese-Tibetan woman, a second-generation Indian and a first generation Canadian. If you're seeking support, please know that I'm here for you. I am committed to providing a non-judgmental, empathic, and trauma-sensitive space within my practice. Therapy is a collaborative relationship, and together, we can assess your current challenges, identify treatment goals, and build a pathway towards improving your well-being. My approach is client-focused and goal-oriented, tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
I can support people who have experienced a wide range of issues, such as, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, PTSD, hopelessness, post-migration stress, prejudice, racism, developmental and personality disorders, and gender and identity issues.
As a counsellor, my perspective stems from my ethnic background and where I grew up. I am a Chinese-Tibetan woman, a second-generation Indian and a first generation Canadian. If you're seeking support, please know that I'm here for you. I am committed to providing a non-judgmental, empathic, and trauma-sensitive space within my practice. Therapy is a collaborative relationship, and together, we can assess your current challenges, identify treatment goals, and build a pathway towards improving your well-being. My approach is client-focused and goal-oriented, tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
(437) 747-7938 View (437) 747-7938

See more therapy options for King City

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.