Sexual Abuse Counselling in West End, London

Photo of Amanda Watson, PsychD, Psychotherapist
Amanda Watson
Psychotherapist, PsychD
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A  (Online Only)
I am also able to support clients with psychological and emotional issues around sex, love, relationships (of all kinds), as well as sex/porn addictions, sexual abuse, BDSM/Kink, affairs, infidelity, etc.
I offer psychotherapy and counselling to individuals and couples/partnerships of all sexual orientations with a supportive and non judgemental approach. I work from an integrative perspective using a range of theories and strategies to suit the specific needs of the client and I specialise in Psychosexual and Relationship issues. I have a 25 year background in Education and Teaching. Please check out my website: www.amandalisawatson.com
I am also able to support clients with psychological and emotional issues around sex, love, relationships (of all kinds), as well as sex/porn addictions, sexual abuse, BDSM/Kink, affairs, infidelity, etc.
I offer psychotherapy and counselling to individuals and couples/partnerships of all sexual orientations with a supportive and non judgemental approach. I work from an integrative perspective using a range of theories and strategies to suit the specific needs of the client and I specialise in Psychosexual and Relationship issues. I have a 25 year background in Education and Teaching. Please check out my website: www.amandalisawatson.com
020 4538 2359 View 020 4538 2359
Photo of Lee Valls - The London Practice, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
The London Practice
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
West End, London WC2H
We have experience with a wide variety of issues, including: Relationship, Family issues, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, HIV, Sexuality, Life threatening illness, Addiction, Bereavement, Loss of meaning and purpose, Identity issues, Low self-esteem, Relationship issues, Sexual abuse, Suicidal thoughts and Employment issues.
We believe that everyone is unique and therefore is dealt with in a way that best caters to his or her individual needs. We work with you by exploring your world to see how you engage with your life and the people around you. Along the journey, we will explore your past, look at your present and see how you perceive the future. We will help you become more aware of your values, beliefs and limitations and help you connect and improve your relationship with yourself. This process may be challenging, yet extremely rewarding as we access the changes you want to make towards living the life that you want to live.
We have experience with a wide variety of issues, including: Relationship, Family issues, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, HIV, Sexuality, Life threatening illness, Addiction, Bereavement, Loss of meaning and purpose, Identity issues, Low self-esteem, Relationship issues, Sexual abuse, Suicidal thoughts and Employment issues.
We believe that everyone is unique and therefore is dealt with in a way that best caters to his or her individual needs. We work with you by exploring your world to see how you engage with your life and the people around you. Along the journey, we will explore your past, look at your present and see how you perceive the future. We will help you become more aware of your values, beliefs and limitations and help you connect and improve your relationship with yourself. This process may be challenging, yet extremely rewarding as we access the changes you want to make towards living the life that you want to live.
020 3962 0673 View 020 3962 0673
Photo of Amber Sheikh, MBACP, Counsellor
Amber Sheikh
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A  (Online Only)
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor and have experience working in a number of organisations and charities providing psychotherapy and counselling in areas such as: Bereavement, Domestic Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Stress and Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Relationship issues, Childhood Trauma, Cultural Diversity, Racial Identity.
At times life can be challenging and we can get to point where we may feel a bit stuck and need to make sense of things. I seek to create a safe, culturally sensitive and non judgmental space for you to feel heard and understood. I’m here to support you to achieve the changes that you desire for yourself by helping you to process your feelings, gain greater clarity and to build more self awareness.
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor and have experience working in a number of organisations and charities providing psychotherapy and counselling in areas such as: Bereavement, Domestic Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Stress and Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Relationship issues, Childhood Trauma, Cultural Diversity, Racial Identity.
At times life can be challenging and we can get to point where we may feel a bit stuck and need to make sense of things. I seek to create a safe, culturally sensitive and non judgmental space for you to feel heard and understood. I’m here to support you to achieve the changes that you desire for yourself by helping you to process your feelings, gain greater clarity and to build more self awareness.
020 4538 7765 View 020 4538 7765
Photo of Fabio D'Apice - Working Through, MA, COSRT General, Counsellor
Working Through
Counsellor, MA, COSRT General
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A
I work with people who might be struggling with sexual or relationship difficulties such as erectile dysfunction, rapid or delayed ejaculation, anxiety around sex, relationships and intimacy issues, sexual abuse or assault, sexual health issues, compulsive sexual behaviours, vulval pain conditions, vaginismus, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), sexual orientation questions or insecurities, pornography issues, orgasmic or anorgasmic problems, sexual phobias or aversions, fears around lack of sexual experience, loss of desire, affairs, marital break ups, open relationships, kinks, bdsm, polyamory, addictions, codependency, trauma.
I work with people who might be struggling with sexual or relationship difficulties such as erectile dysfunction, rapid or delayed ejaculation, anxiety around sex, relationships and intimacy issues, sexual abuse or assault, sexual health issues, compulsive sexual behaviours, vulval pain conditions, vaginismus, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), sexual orientation questions or insecurities, pornography issues, orgasmic or anorgasmic problems, sexual phobias or aversions, fears around lack of sexual experience, loss of desire, affairs, marital break ups, open relationships, kinks, bdsm, polyamory, addictions, codependency, trauma.
020 8103 5619 View 020 8103 5619
Photo of Dr Nazee Akbari, PsychD, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Dr Nazee Akbari
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A
Specialising in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cross-Cultural therapy, and advanced-level Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), I effectively address PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, relationship issues, confidence, phobias, OCD, personality disorder, sexual abuse, bereavement, and addiction.
With over 23 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring expertise as a bilingual psychotherapist with a Doctorate-level qualification. Providing therapy in English and Farsi, I tailor an integrative approach to meet each client's unique needs. My extensive background encompasses Humanistic, Psychoanalytic, Existential,and Cognitive Behavioural approaches, with a focus on CBT and Cross-Cultural therapy. As a cross-cultural therapist, I specialise in supporting individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, including those navigating mixed cultural relationships and identity challenges within different cultures.
Specialising in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cross-Cultural therapy, and advanced-level Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), I effectively address PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, relationship issues, confidence, phobias, OCD, personality disorder, sexual abuse, bereavement, and addiction.
With over 23 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring expertise as a bilingual psychotherapist with a Doctorate-level qualification. Providing therapy in English and Farsi, I tailor an integrative approach to meet each client's unique needs. My extensive background encompasses Humanistic, Psychoanalytic, Existential,and Cognitive Behavioural approaches, with a focus on CBT and Cross-Cultural therapy. As a cross-cultural therapist, I specialise in supporting individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, including those navigating mixed cultural relationships and identity challenges within different cultures.
020 4538 7865 View 020 4538 7865
Photo of Mitika Goolry Fowler, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Mitika Goolry Fowler
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A
I have previously worked within secondary care NHS psychotherapy service where I provided long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy to survivors of childhood sexual abuse and trauma.
I provide short-term therapy aimed at dealing with an immediate presenting issue and long-term therapy aimed at facilitating change at a deeper psychological level. I use different psychotherapeutic modalities to create a unique therapeutic approach that focuses and addresses each client’s individual needs. My way of working might be helpful for people who wish to understand themselves and what troubles them.
I have previously worked within secondary care NHS psychotherapy service where I provided long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy to survivors of childhood sexual abuse and trauma.
I provide short-term therapy aimed at dealing with an immediate presenting issue and long-term therapy aimed at facilitating change at a deeper psychological level. I use different psychotherapeutic modalities to create a unique therapeutic approach that focuses and addresses each client’s individual needs. My way of working might be helpful for people who wish to understand themselves and what troubles them.
020 3984 9652 View 020 3984 9652
Photo of Svetlana Balashova, MSc, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Svetlana Balashova
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West End, London WC2B
I am an experienced counsellor, working in the areas of personal relationships, family problems, immigration difficulties, work place problems with authorities, problems with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, unhelpful stereotypes of behaviour, childhood sexual abuse, gender uncertainty, sexual orientation problem My ideal client is somebody who is willing to to be able to walk and explore issues that difficult for them. Is somebody who is curious take risks and trust and it's able to
I am an experienced counsellor, working in the areas of personal relationships, family problems, immigration difficulties, work place problems with authorities, problems with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, unhelpful stereotypes of behaviour, childhood sexual abuse, gender uncertainty, sexual orientation problem My ideal client is somebody who is willing to to be able to walk and explore issues that difficult for them. Is somebody who is curious take risks and trust and it's able to
020 3985 5850 View 020 3985 5850
Photo of Spencer Bridge, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Spencer Bridge
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West End, London WC2N  (Online Only)
And draw from a wide range of experience, working therapeutically with young people and adult client groups around loss, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, racial identity, and relationships.
Reaching out can be difficult. Maybe you feel stuck, anxious, unsettled, lost your way, or uncomfortable with whom you have become. The difficulties within our lives can change who we are or how we see the world. It can lead to thoughts or behaviours that take us away from who we are, resulting in a feeling of something not being right, struggling to cope or to make sense of things. When entering therapy, our life experiences enter too, and healing occurs within the processing. We will work together to build trust and explore your emotions and thoughts within a non-judgemental and safe environment, working at your own pace.
And draw from a wide range of experience, working therapeutically with young people and adult client groups around loss, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, racial identity, and relationships.
Reaching out can be difficult. Maybe you feel stuck, anxious, unsettled, lost your way, or uncomfortable with whom you have become. The difficulties within our lives can change who we are or how we see the world. It can lead to thoughts or behaviours that take us away from who we are, resulting in a feeling of something not being right, struggling to cope or to make sense of things. When entering therapy, our life experiences enter too, and healing occurs within the processing. We will work together to build trust and explore your emotions and thoughts within a non-judgemental and safe environment, working at your own pace.
01274 015347 View 01274 015347
Photo of Anh Doan - Talking Counselling , MBACP, Psychotherapist
Talking Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC2B  (Online Only)
Mandarin-speaking counsellors, Cantonese, Italian, Welsh, Greek, and Urdu, specialities in Anxiety disorder, Depression and suicidal idealisation, Relationship problems, Childhood trauma from sexual abuse, and emotional/physical abuse.
Anh is the Head of Counselling at Talking Counselling. Booking an assessment is easy and swift after a 1-hour online assessment (£38) we will match you to our team of trainee counsellors, the cost is £40 per session, and for the senior team, it's £90-£120 per session these are weekly sessions. We have no waiting We provide counselling in many languages. Booking an assessment via our website we endeavour to return your email within a day or call or WhatsApp message us at M: 07960333256
Mandarin-speaking counsellors, Cantonese, Italian, Welsh, Greek, and Urdu, specialities in Anxiety disorder, Depression and suicidal idealisation, Relationship problems, Childhood trauma from sexual abuse, and emotional/physical abuse.
Anh is the Head of Counselling at Talking Counselling. Booking an assessment is easy and swift after a 1-hour online assessment (£38) we will match you to our team of trainee counsellors, the cost is £40 per session, and for the senior team, it's £90-£120 per session these are weekly sessions. We have no waiting We provide counselling in many languages. Booking an assessment via our website we endeavour to return your email within a day or call or WhatsApp message us at M: 07960333256
020 3962 0491 View 020 3962 0491
Photo of Milo Brandon - Milo Brandon - Accredited EMDR Therapist., MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Milo Brandon - Accredited EMDR Therapist.
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1H
I use EMDR to help people process trauma (PTSD and C-PTSD). My clients are typically living with a range of issues - flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, night terrors, palpitations, catastrophising, insomnia, feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt. They also very often experience 'triggering' - making everyday life, work and relationships difficult. Additionally, they may not remember aspects of what has happened to them and others ('dissociation'.) People come to me for EMDR to enable them to reduce the disturbance levels in their nervous systems and hence, get on with their lives.
I use EMDR to help people process trauma (PTSD and C-PTSD). My clients are typically living with a range of issues - flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, night terrors, palpitations, catastrophising, insomnia, feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt. They also very often experience 'triggering' - making everyday life, work and relationships difficult. Additionally, they may not remember aspects of what has happened to them and others ('dissociation'.) People come to me for EMDR to enable them to reduce the disturbance levels in their nervous systems and hence, get on with their lives.
01727 638162 View 01727 638162
Photo of Emma Corker, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Emma Corker
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1H
I am a qualified Group Analyst and Psychotherapist, working with groups, couples, and individuals. I have extensive experience working in the NHS, the voluntary sector and in further education, particularly in the areas of sexual health, drug and alcohol addiction, and mental health. A group analytic group meets weekly for 90 minutes in a confidential and a containing space. Over time, you will experience the benefits of exploring with other group members the issues that burden you and are causing you distress. We look at your past, as a means of exploring and understanding how it has shaped your present.
I am a qualified Group Analyst and Psychotherapist, working with groups, couples, and individuals. I have extensive experience working in the NHS, the voluntary sector and in further education, particularly in the areas of sexual health, drug and alcohol addiction, and mental health. A group analytic group meets weekly for 90 minutes in a confidential and a containing space. Over time, you will experience the benefits of exploring with other group members the issues that burden you and are causing you distress. We look at your past, as a means of exploring and understanding how it has shaped your present.
020 3835 4807 View 020 3835 4807
Photo of Julie Cully - juliecullytherapy, MBACP, Counsellor
juliecullytherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC2E
The decision to start counselling can be a daunting one, especially if this is your first time experiencing therapy. With a gentle and welcoming approach I will prioritise your individual needs and together we will explore your experiences at a pace thats comfortable for you. Our time together aims to realign with you with your inheritance capacity for developing personal growth, empower you to find your own solutions and process those feelings and emotions that are impacting your well-being.
The decision to start counselling can be a daunting one, especially if this is your first time experiencing therapy. With a gentle and welcoming approach I will prioritise your individual needs and together we will explore your experiences at a pace thats comfortable for you. Our time together aims to realign with you with your inheritance capacity for developing personal growth, empower you to find your own solutions and process those feelings and emotions that are impacting your well-being.
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Photo of Jonathan de Oliveira, MBACP, Counsellor
Jonathan de Oliveira
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A
An integrative therapist in private practice in Ealing, West London, W5 and Online. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental and considerate space that helps you fell at ease to explore the issues and concerns in your life. I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. I work in a client centred way which draws on a variety of perspectives tailored to your needs. I offer 50 minute sessions in English and Brazilian Portuguese on a short-term or ongoing basis. I have a background in teaching, mental health support and complementary therapies.
An integrative therapist in private practice in Ealing, West London, W5 and Online. I offer a confidential, non-judgemental and considerate space that helps you fell at ease to explore the issues and concerns in your life. I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. I work in a client centred way which draws on a variety of perspectives tailored to your needs. I offer 50 minute sessions in English and Brazilian Portuguese on a short-term or ongoing basis. I have a background in teaching, mental health support and complementary therapies.
020 3835 5362 View 020 3835 5362
Photo of Janice Chan - Janice Chan Therapy & Consulting, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Janice Chan Therapy & Consulting
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A  (Online Only)
Looking a therapist can feel daunting, and my hope is to offer a space for you to feel totally seen, heard and understood. We all find ourselves feeling stuck in thinking and behaviour patterns that we wish were different at times. Talking to friends and family isn't always useful, or an option. That's where therapy may be more effective. I am a BACP registered psychological therapist with over a decade of experience of working multi-culturally using CBT, CPT, IFS and solution-focused approaches. I provide a warm, confidential, non-judgmental space to support you to work through life's issues.
Looking a therapist can feel daunting, and my hope is to offer a space for you to feel totally seen, heard and understood. We all find ourselves feeling stuck in thinking and behaviour patterns that we wish were different at times. Talking to friends and family isn't always useful, or an option. That's where therapy may be more effective. I am a BACP registered psychological therapist with over a decade of experience of working multi-culturally using CBT, CPT, IFS and solution-focused approaches. I provide a warm, confidential, non-judgmental space to support you to work through life's issues.
Photo of Karen Stallard, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Karen Stallard
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West End, London WC1A
I am a friendly creative therapist who believes that human connection is vital for a sense of wellbeing and also for equipping people to make significant changes in their lives. I am trained to use the arts, this includes image making, clay, sand tray, puppets, music, drama, movement as well as working as a talking psychotherapist. My approach will depend on what is right for you. I am interested in the whole person and enjoy working with different spiritualities and am experienced in working with childhood trauma, sexuality and gender issues.
I am a friendly creative therapist who believes that human connection is vital for a sense of wellbeing and also for equipping people to make significant changes in their lives. I am trained to use the arts, this includes image making, clay, sand tray, puppets, music, drama, movement as well as working as a talking psychotherapist. My approach will depend on what is right for you. I am interested in the whole person and enjoy working with different spiritualities and am experienced in working with childhood trauma, sexuality and gender issues.
020 3984 8426 View 020 3984 8426
Photo of Diane Griffiths, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Diane Griffiths
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC2B
You might be experiencing difficulty in relationships in general or in one relationship in particular, or finding work a challenge, or maybe you are unhappy about the quality or direction of your life. Perhaps you are feeling flat or low, stressed or anxious, or even quite desperate. Exploring and expressing your thoughts and feelings with a professional can help make sense of these difficult experiences, and allow space for solutions and opportunities to arise. I aim to offer you the best support I can for this process, with a respectful, sensitive, honest and empathic approach.
You might be experiencing difficulty in relationships in general or in one relationship in particular, or finding work a challenge, or maybe you are unhappy about the quality or direction of your life. Perhaps you are feeling flat or low, stressed or anxious, or even quite desperate. Exploring and expressing your thoughts and feelings with a professional can help make sense of these difficult experiences, and allow space for solutions and opportunities to arise. I aim to offer you the best support I can for this process, with a respectful, sensitive, honest and empathic approach.
020 3667 0982 View 020 3667 0982
Photo of Helena Jane Byrne, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Helena Jane Byrne
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1H
I am a Systemic and Gestalt counsellor and a registered member of the BACP.  Who offers a safe and non-judgemental space for clients to explore their feelings. I work with adults, young people and families. Sometimes we all need help to cope with life's challenges. Therapy can provide the support and framework from which to begin gaining an understanding of yourself and your needs. Talking with a therapist can benefit us in many ways, including giving us a better understanding of our emotions. Therapy can also promote healthy coping mechanisms, improved relationships and achievement of goals.
I am a Systemic and Gestalt counsellor and a registered member of the BACP.  Who offers a safe and non-judgemental space for clients to explore their feelings. I work with adults, young people and families. Sometimes we all need help to cope with life's challenges. Therapy can provide the support and framework from which to begin gaining an understanding of yourself and your needs. Talking with a therapist can benefit us in many ways, including giving us a better understanding of our emotions. Therapy can also promote healthy coping mechanisms, improved relationships and achievement of goals.
01263 801374 View 01263 801374
Photo of Kelly Dickson - Dr Kelly Dickson, PhD, MBACP, Counsellor
Dr Kelly Dickson
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A
The evidence suggests that finding a therapist you feel able to talk to and understood by is key to a successful therapeutic experience. I am a down-to-earth, intelligent and non-judgmental integrative psychotherapist working with a range of issues. Ideally, therapy is a collaborative partnership and my style is active and empowering. I see you as the 'expert' in your life and myself as the 'expert' on therapeutic interventions. Together we focus on utilising your strengths and fostering insight and awareness in a safe and confidential environment. I love my work and look forward to helping you improve your mental health and wellbeing
The evidence suggests that finding a therapist you feel able to talk to and understood by is key to a successful therapeutic experience. I am a down-to-earth, intelligent and non-judgmental integrative psychotherapist working with a range of issues. Ideally, therapy is a collaborative partnership and my style is active and empowering. I see you as the 'expert' in your life and myself as the 'expert' on therapeutic interventions. Together we focus on utilising your strengths and fostering insight and awareness in a safe and confidential environment. I love my work and look forward to helping you improve your mental health and wellbeing
020 3962 0347 View 020 3962 0347
Photo of Emma Penketh, MA, BPC, Psychotherapist
Emma Penketh
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1A
Many people experience emotional difficulties at some point in their lives, triggered by a particular event, or as a result of deeper unidentified issues. Talking to a psychodynamic therapist, in a safe and confidential environment, provides a unique opportunity to identify the themes and patterns of thought and behaviour that can generate emotional distress,. This can involve talking through past experiences and understanding how they impact you today. The relationship with the therapist is important, as it provides an opportunity to examine ways of thinking and relating in the here and now as well as developmental factors.
Many people experience emotional difficulties at some point in their lives, triggered by a particular event, or as a result of deeper unidentified issues. Talking to a psychodynamic therapist, in a safe and confidential environment, provides a unique opportunity to identify the themes and patterns of thought and behaviour that can generate emotional distress,. This can involve talking through past experiences and understanding how they impact you today. The relationship with the therapist is important, as it provides an opportunity to examine ways of thinking and relating in the here and now as well as developmental factors.
020 4538 3260 View 020 4538 3260
Valeh Amooi
Psychotherapist, PhD, BPC
Verified Verified
West End, London WC1H
I am an adult psychodynamic psychotherapist with a PhD in Psychology. I am also involved in teaching and supervision within training organisations. I offer both in-person and online psychotherapy in English and Farsi. I work with patients from diverse backgrounds, nationalities, ethnicities, religions, genders, and sexual orientations, with a wide range of emotional, relational, and psychological challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, traumas, loss and grief, conflicts related to sexual orientation and gender identity, difficult life transitions and separations, and work-related difficulties, such as burnout.
I am an adult psychodynamic psychotherapist with a PhD in Psychology. I am also involved in teaching and supervision within training organisations. I offer both in-person and online psychotherapy in English and Farsi. I work with patients from diverse backgrounds, nationalities, ethnicities, religions, genders, and sexual orientations, with a wide range of emotional, relational, and psychological challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, traumas, loss and grief, conflicts related to sexual orientation and gender identity, difficult life transitions and separations, and work-related difficulties, such as burnout.
020 3835 2166 View 020 3835 2166

See more therapy options for West End, London

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.