Sexual Abuse Therapists in Richmond Hill, ON

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 Mahshid Abbasi, RP, CHyp, EFT, EMDR, LCSW, Registered Psychotherapist
Mahshid Abbasi
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CHyp, EFT, EMDR, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4E
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Ontario and an EMDR Clinician, Hypnotherapist in bilingual counselling (Farsi-English) to individuals, couples and families experiencing a variety of life transitions and challenges. I offer counselling within a safe conducive environment to individuals and couples. I have worked successfully with clients seeking support with personal growth, anger management, anxiety, coping with loss, child sexual abuse, relationship issues, life crisis, divorce and many other personal issues.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Ontario and an EMDR Clinician, Hypnotherapist in bilingual counselling (Farsi-English) to individuals, couples and families experiencing a variety of life transitions and challenges. I offer counselling within a safe conducive environment to individuals and couples. I have worked successfully with clients seeking support with personal growth, anger management, anxiety, coping with loss, child sexual abuse, relationship issues, life crisis, divorce and many other personal issues.
(855) 976-3256 View (855) 976-3256
Photo of Saeed Behckam, RCC, MSc, CCPA, APA, Counsellor
Saeed Behckam
Counsellor, RCC, MSc, CCPA, APA
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Seyyed Saeed Behckam ֎ Master of Clinical Psychology & Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) ֎ Member of American Psychological Association (APA) ֎ Member of Canadian Counselling And Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) Σ Treatment and counseling regarding: Depression - Sex therapy - Immigration - Couple therapy and sexual dysfunctions- Childhood traumas - Anxiety - Obsession - life journey- Social traumas - Family relations - Relationship problems with teenage children - Drug use - Sexual abuse- Stress and diseases - ADHD-Traumatic relationships - I also work with lawyers' clients of family court
Seyyed Saeed Behckam ֎ Master of Clinical Psychology & Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) ֎ Member of American Psychological Association (APA) ֎ Member of Canadian Counselling And Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) Σ Treatment and counseling regarding: Depression - Sex therapy - Immigration - Couple therapy and sexual dysfunctions- Childhood traumas - Anxiety - Obsession - life journey- Social traumas - Family relations - Relationship problems with teenage children - Drug use - Sexual abuse- Stress and diseases - ADHD-Traumatic relationships - I also work with lawyers' clients of family court
(289) 778-5451 View (289) 778-5451
Photo of Sheryl Blum, MEd, Psychologist
Sheryl Blum
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (Online Only)
I have over 2 decades of counselling expertise. Special training in cognitive-behavior therapy at the Montreal General Hospital. I treat: anxiety/panic , fear of flying, depression, OCD, phobias, self-esteem, excessive worrying, procrastination, assertiveness, generalized anxiety, relationship isssues, sexual abuse and incest, insomnia, infertility, and general life stress. I also teach relaxation. I work with you, the client, together as a team on your goals. We will achieve your goals in a successful, organized manner. I offer warmth and empathy in a supportive environment. Contact me so that you can begin your awesome journey.
I have over 2 decades of counselling expertise. Special training in cognitive-behavior therapy at the Montreal General Hospital. I treat: anxiety/panic , fear of flying, depression, OCD, phobias, self-esteem, excessive worrying, procrastination, assertiveness, generalized anxiety, relationship isssues, sexual abuse and incest, insomnia, infertility, and general life stress. I also teach relaxation. I work with you, the client, together as a team on your goals. We will achieve your goals in a successful, organized manner. I offer warmth and empathy in a supportive environment. Contact me so that you can begin your awesome journey.
(647) 952-1970 View (647) 952-1970
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 Joyce Weinberg, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Joyce Weinberg
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (Online Only)
As a therapist in a hospital mental health setting from 1971-2005, I set up and ran the hospital's program for adult survivors of child sexual abuse and other severe trauma, including adult trauma.
I am a psychologist with over 30 years of clinical experience providing therapy and counselling for individuals and couples. I work with adults experiencing difficulties with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship issues, and other problems in living. I am trained and experienced in a variety of therapeutic approaches, and have extensive experience with a wide range of problems. My approach to therapy is tailored to the individual client/couple, and varies according to problem, personality, available resources, and personal goals. I also offer consultation, assessments and treatment for psychological problems related to automobile accidents, workplace injuries, or inability to work.
As a therapist in a hospital mental health setting from 1971-2005, I set up and ran the hospital's program for adult survivors of child sexual abuse and other severe trauma, including adult trauma.
I am a psychologist with over 30 years of clinical experience providing therapy and counselling for individuals and couples. I work with adults experiencing difficulties with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship issues, and other problems in living. I am trained and experienced in a variety of therapeutic approaches, and have extensive experience with a wide range of problems. My approach to therapy is tailored to the individual client/couple, and varies according to problem, personality, available resources, and personal goals. I also offer consultation, assessments and treatment for psychological problems related to automobile accidents, workplace injuries, or inability to work.
(877) 623-5335 View (877) 623-5335
Photo of Dr. Julie Cinamon, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Julie Cinamon
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Dr. Cinamon sees individuals and families for a number of reasons including difficulties with mood, anxiety, work and family related stress, emotion regulation, behaviour, and parenting. She supports people experiencing life transitions, parents seeking help for their children and teens, and individuals with symptoms impacting their day-to-day lives. She has a special focus on trauma, including sexual assault. She is skilled in providing a variety of therapy approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, traditional play therapy, family therapy, psychodynamic/family systems talk therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
Dr. Cinamon sees individuals and families for a number of reasons including difficulties with mood, anxiety, work and family related stress, emotion regulation, behaviour, and parenting. She supports people experiencing life transitions, parents seeking help for their children and teens, and individuals with symptoms impacting their day-to-day lives. She has a special focus on trauma, including sexual assault. She is skilled in providing a variety of therapy approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, traditional play therapy, family therapy, psychodynamic/family systems talk therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
(647) 370-2966 View (647) 370-2966
Photo of Frances D'Amato, MSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Frances D'Amato
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (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 Sara Saniee, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sara Saniee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
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 Marta Suchta, Hons BA, MSW, RSW, RRP, Registered Social Worker
Marta Suchta
Registered Social Worker, Hons BA, MSW, RSW, RRP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Chances are that you may be experiencing some stress, dissatisfaction or disenchantment in your life. These are completely normal facets of the human condition and looking into some outside supports is one step to address these often difficult feelings. I acknowledge that this can be a frightening process and want to assure you that I will meet you where you are at; in a safe, kind, genuine and non-judgmental space. I have over 14 years of counselling and therapy experience in hospitals, community & government settings. I have helped individuals of different ages, backgrounds and cultural groups with a wide range of difficulties.
Chances are that you may be experiencing some stress, dissatisfaction or disenchantment in your life. These are completely normal facets of the human condition and looking into some outside supports is one step to address these often difficult feelings. I acknowledge that this can be a frightening process and want to assure you that I will meet you where you are at; in a safe, kind, genuine and non-judgmental space. I have over 14 years of counselling and therapy experience in hospitals, community & government settings. I have helped individuals of different ages, backgrounds and cultural groups with a wide range of difficulties.
(647) 372-1466 View (647) 372-1466
Photo of Iris Chanmi Park, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Iris Chanmi Park
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with social, emotional, and mental health challenges. I am passionate about journeying with people sensitively through their changes, growth and healing process, and helping clients recover from trauma. I have experience working with individuals (children, youth, and adults), couples and families to manage overwhelming emotions. I enjoy working with parents, providing them with strategies to manage different challenges.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with social, emotional, and mental health challenges. I am passionate about journeying with people sensitively through their changes, growth and healing process, and helping clients recover from trauma. I have experience working with individuals (children, youth, and adults), couples and families to manage overwhelming emotions. I enjoy working with parents, providing them with strategies to manage different challenges.
(289) 275-9196 View (289) 275-9196
Photo of Maria Iraheta - GTA Psychotherapy, RP, RSW, Registered Psychotherapist
GTA Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Hello, and Welcome to our page! Our practice specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Stabilizing emotions, Depression, Sexual and Physical Abuse, Family/Relationships problems, and self-esteem. Not only can we assist you by giving you tools that you can use to cope with your day-to-day mental health struggles, but we can help you find the root of the cause. We are a team of Psychotherapists and Social Workers combined we have over 25+years of experience working with clients that have challenges with their past trauma that comes up and their overall mental health that is affecting their quality of life.
Hello, and Welcome to our page! Our practice specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Stabilizing emotions, Depression, Sexual and Physical Abuse, Family/Relationships problems, and self-esteem. Not only can we assist you by giving you tools that you can use to cope with your day-to-day mental health struggles, but we can help you find the root of the cause. We are a team of Psychotherapists and Social Workers combined we have over 25+years of experience working with clients that have challenges with their past trauma that comes up and their overall mental health that is affecting their quality of life.
(289) 217-3608 View (289) 217-3608
Photo of Christine Hansen - Markham Psychological Services, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Markham Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Dr. Christine Hansen, is a registered Ph.D psychologist in Clinical, Counselling and Rehabilitation Psychology with a thriving practices in Richmond Hill / Markham. She is a member of the College of Psychologists and the Ontario Psychological Association. Dr. Hansen obtained her doctorate in Counselling Psychology from U.of T.With 25 years + of experience obtained in diverse settings, she works with a variety of problems with clients from many cultural backgrounds. Working with a psychologist can facilitate changes and solutions sooner providing realistic solutions and strategies.
Dr. Christine Hansen, is a registered Ph.D psychologist in Clinical, Counselling and Rehabilitation Psychology with a thriving practices in Richmond Hill / Markham. She is a member of the College of Psychologists and the Ontario Psychological Association. Dr. Hansen obtained her doctorate in Counselling Psychology from U.of T.With 25 years + of experience obtained in diverse settings, she works with a variety of problems with clients from many cultural backgrounds. Working with a psychologist can facilitate changes and solutions sooner providing realistic solutions and strategies.
(855) 741-1303 View (855) 741-1303
Photo of Lisa Freud-Goldman, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Freud-Goldman
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
I am a clinical therapist with over 30 years of experience working in the field of mental health and the treatment of anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues,post-traumatic stress syndrome, grief, anger management, and addictions. I also provide specialized counseling for individuals who have been in trouble with the law. Following an extensive training program I am now providing Family Mediation services. I work in partnership with my clients to establish the approach that works best for them. Each treatment plan is individualized and flexible. All sessions are provided online.
I am a clinical therapist with over 30 years of experience working in the field of mental health and the treatment of anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues,post-traumatic stress syndrome, grief, anger management, and addictions. I also provide specialized counseling for individuals who have been in trouble with the law. Following an extensive training program I am now providing Family Mediation services. I work in partnership with my clients to establish the approach that works best for them. Each treatment plan is individualized and flexible. All sessions are provided online.
(647) 955-3877 View (647) 955-3877
Photo of Carly Elmalem, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Carly Elmalem
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
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.
(289) 301-7993 View (289) 301-7993
Photo of Helen So, BSc, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Helen So
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B  (Online Only)
A lot of the time, our first instinct is to seek support when we may feel we are drowning in our current struggles. The first step is always the hardest, in where we fear we will not be understood. My belief is that because each one of us is unique, our struggles and thus our journey in healing will be too. I aim to be an anchor in these turbulent times and be a beacon of unfiltered, unconditional and non-judgemental space in exploring our internal processes. In collaboration, we can address motivational, acceptance, behavioural, cognitive, social, biological and cultural aspects that can work in tandem in maintaining our struggles.
A lot of the time, our first instinct is to seek support when we may feel we are drowning in our current struggles. The first step is always the hardest, in where we fear we will not be understood. My belief is that because each one of us is unique, our struggles and thus our journey in healing will be too. I aim to be an anchor in these turbulent times and be a beacon of unfiltered, unconditional and non-judgemental space in exploring our internal processes. In collaboration, we can address motivational, acceptance, behavioural, cognitive, social, biological and cultural aspects that can work in tandem in maintaining our struggles.
(647) 360-3170 View (647) 360-3170
Photo of Anna Lukomsky, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Anna Lukomsky
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Hello! I'm Anna Lukomsky (she/her), a registered social worker and trauma therapist with over 15 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. Throughout treatment I emphasize safety above all else; guiding people to learn to feel safe in their lives, in their bodies and in sessions with me. I create a supportive environment that fosters personal growth through warmth, humour, compassion, and gentle patience; letting clients set a pace that works best for them; from the very start showing them they have everything they need to heal already within them, waiting to be acknowledged and seen.
Hello! I'm Anna Lukomsky (she/her), a registered social worker and trauma therapist with over 15 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. Throughout treatment I emphasize safety above all else; guiding people to learn to feel safe in their lives, in their bodies and in sessions with me. I create a supportive environment that fosters personal growth through warmth, humour, compassion, and gentle patience; letting clients set a pace that works best for them; from the very start showing them they have everything they need to heal already within them, waiting to be acknowledged and seen.
(647) 696-0890 View (647) 696-0890
Photo of Stacey Neumin, DipCS, CPsychA, Psychological Associate
Stacey Neumin
Psychological Associate, DipCS, CPsychA
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (Online Only)
If you are dealing with a crisis, are feeling confused and overwhelmed, or have suffered a loss, or a relationship struggle, then please contact me. I have been counselling 20+ years with adults, and I welcome the privilege of working with you, supporting you to reclaim your inner strength. I believe I combine integrity, compassion and clinical skill to offer you effective, thought provoking therapy. And I will provide you with feedback and tools to make a difference in your current circumstances. I welcome hearing from you.
If you are dealing with a crisis, are feeling confused and overwhelmed, or have suffered a loss, or a relationship struggle, then please contact me. I have been counselling 20+ years with adults, and I welcome the privilege of working with you, supporting you to reclaim your inner strength. I believe I combine integrity, compassion and clinical skill to offer you effective, thought provoking therapy. And I will provide you with feedback and tools to make a difference in your current circumstances. I welcome hearing from you.
(855) 465-1532 View (855) 465-1532
Photo of Carolyne Lee - Dr Carolyne Lee @ FLEX Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Dr Carolyne Lee @ FLEX Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Many people experience difficulty managing their emotions or feel “stuck” in life. Collaboratively, we will work together towards meaningful change. My approach is informed by Emotion-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioural, and Acceptance and Commitment therapies. I provide therapy to teens and adults, with particular expertise in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma/abuse.
Many people experience difficulty managing their emotions or feel “stuck” in life. Collaboratively, we will work together towards meaningful change. My approach is informed by Emotion-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioural, and Acceptance and Commitment therapies. I provide therapy to teens and adults, with particular expertise in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma/abuse.
(289) 809-6177 View (289) 809-6177
Photo of Orr Ariely, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Orr Ariely
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
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
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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.