Sexual Abuse Counselling in Okehampton

Photo of Dr Rochelle Woollacott, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rochelle Woollacott
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okehampton EX20  (Online Only)
People come to therapy for many different and important reasons. For some it is to discuss difficult and emotional experiences, while for others its to have a space in their week to reflect and make time to check-in with themselves. I ask all my clients to come with an open-mind as therapy can take you on a journey of self-discovery. I have worked with many clients with varying degrees of personal difficulties; severe and mild distress including depression, anxiety, suicide, low-self-esteem, earlier life trauma, PTSD, relational difficulties and many more.
People come to therapy for many different and important reasons. For some it is to discuss difficult and emotional experiences, while for others its to have a space in their week to reflect and make time to check-in with themselves. I ask all my clients to come with an open-mind as therapy can take you on a journey of self-discovery. I have worked with many clients with varying degrees of personal difficulties; severe and mild distress including depression, anxiety, suicide, low-self-esteem, earlier life trauma, PTSD, relational difficulties and many more.
01837 516734 View 01837 516734
Photo of Syeda Daniel, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Syeda Daniel
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Okehampton EX20
Many people from all walks of life can occasionally lose their direction or can struggle with stress, anxiety, and /or depression. Therapy can be a helpful process to work through these difficulties, supporting you towards improved well-being and healing of emotional difficulties. Within our sessions, we will work towards your goals, focusing on taking the time to understand you and your individual needs. You will be heard with non-judgment, compassion, kindness and empathy. Together we will work to find a way forward to improved well-being in a caring and meaningful way.
Many people from all walks of life can occasionally lose their direction or can struggle with stress, anxiety, and /or depression. Therapy can be a helpful process to work through these difficulties, supporting you towards improved well-being and healing of emotional difficulties. Within our sessions, we will work towards your goals, focusing on taking the time to understand you and your individual needs. You will be heard with non-judgment, compassion, kindness and empathy. Together we will work to find a way forward to improved well-being in a caring and meaningful way.
01837 516697 View 01837 516697
Photo of Emily Burns - Emily Burns Child Therapy, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Emily Burns Child Therapy
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Okehampton EX20
Emily is a Child and Adolescent Therapist who has worked therapeutically with children and families for over twenty years. She has helped many children through difficult times using play and the arts to communicate emotions, often in ways words cannot. She works with play, creative arts, mindfulness, visualisations and other techniques to help children and young people cope with and make sense of anxiety and strong emotions. She is experienced in child-parent work and offers support to parents and professionals. She has specialisms in trauma and attachment and works with vulnerable children at Trevi and Psychology Associates.
Emily is a Child and Adolescent Therapist who has worked therapeutically with children and families for over twenty years. She has helped many children through difficult times using play and the arts to communicate emotions, often in ways words cannot. She works with play, creative arts, mindfulness, visualisations and other techniques to help children and young people cope with and make sense of anxiety and strong emotions. She is experienced in child-parent work and offers support to parents and professionals. She has specialisms in trauma and attachment and works with vulnerable children at Trevi and Psychology Associates.
01822 668324 View 01822 668324
Photo of Debbie Andrews, MBACP, Counsellor
Debbie Andrews
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Okehampton EX20
Life is overwhelming at times and it's just good to talk about what's going on. I like to work with you to find your own answers, to understand what is going on for you. We don't always know what we are thinking or feeling until we say it out loud. In order to do that you need to be able to trust who you are talking to. Nobody likes feeling judged or being told what to do!
Life is overwhelming at times and it's just good to talk about what's going on. I like to work with you to find your own answers, to understand what is going on for you. We don't always know what we are thinking or feeling until we say it out loud. In order to do that you need to be able to trust who you are talking to. Nobody likes feeling judged or being told what to do!
01647 408585 View 01647 408585
Photo of Basia Louise Worsley: Psychotherapy Humanistic Supervisor, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Basia Louise Worsley: Psychotherapy Humanistic Supervisor
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Okehampton EX20
Hello, I'm Basia Louise. I'm an experienced Counsellor/Psychotherapist and Humanist/Clinical Supervisor and a member of BACP with a private practice in Newton Abbot. I believe one of the most important aspect in counselling, is first, in choosing the person you'll do your best work with and then in the building of that theraputic relationship of trust. I offer an open, caring, safe and non judgemental space where I help people get to the root of what is causing their problems and support them in discovering ways to change their lives for the better.
Hello, I'm Basia Louise. I'm an experienced Counsellor/Psychotherapist and Humanist/Clinical Supervisor and a member of BACP with a private practice in Newton Abbot. I believe one of the most important aspect in counselling, is first, in choosing the person you'll do your best work with and then in the building of that theraputic relationship of trust. I offer an open, caring, safe and non judgemental space where I help people get to the root of what is causing their problems and support them in discovering ways to change their lives for the better.
01626 248101 View 01626 248101
Photo of Debbie Lavinchi - Two's-Talking Counselling & Supervision Service, MBACP, Counsellor
Two's-Talking Counselling & Supervision Service
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okehampton EX20
My name is Debbie and I am a registered therapist with BACP and NCPS. I offer counselling face to face, online or via a telephone service. I work with person/s over the age of eight years old. I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy. I understand you want to see a therapist as soon as you make that decision to do so. I will validate your feelings and i will acknowledge how distressing you are experiencing your life right now. I want to help you and I aim to see you within 7 working days. My goal is to get you to where you want to be.
My name is Debbie and I am a registered therapist with BACP and NCPS. I offer counselling face to face, online or via a telephone service. I work with person/s over the age of eight years old. I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy. I understand you want to see a therapist as soon as you make that decision to do so. I will validate your feelings and i will acknowledge how distressing you are experiencing your life right now. I want to help you and I aim to see you within 7 working days. My goal is to get you to where you want to be.
01392 690620 View 01392 690620

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lucy Smart, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Lucy Smart
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Chagford TQ13
I am an experienced psychotherapist specialising in an evidence-based therapy that accelerates psychological change. I help people to overcome whatever is preventing them from living fully and freely; addressing the issues they bring with compassion and integrity, in a collaborative, focused and emotionally therapeutic way. There are always reasons for suffering, and when we do not tackle this it tends to be repeated throughout our lives, often without understanding why. Therapy can be life-changing; bringing confidence, vitality, purpose, a realisation of potential, and more satisfying relationships.
I am an experienced psychotherapist specialising in an evidence-based therapy that accelerates psychological change. I help people to overcome whatever is preventing them from living fully and freely; addressing the issues they bring with compassion and integrity, in a collaborative, focused and emotionally therapeutic way. There are always reasons for suffering, and when we do not tackle this it tends to be repeated throughout our lives, often without understanding why. Therapy can be life-changing; bringing confidence, vitality, purpose, a realisation of potential, and more satisfying relationships.
01884 211197 View 01884 211197

Online Therapists

Photo of Joanna Atkinson, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Joanna Atkinson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH8
I am professionally trained to work with survivors of sexual abuse.
We all go through life experiencing good and bad moments, but sometimes the bad experiences can become too overwhelming to manage them on our own. Sometimes they may be a result of sudden changes which life throws at us unexpectedly leaving us vulnerable and lost in a new reality and sometimes it may be that we want to change something in our lives, but don’t really know how, which leaves us feeling stuck and helpless. If this sounds familiar to how you feel why not try counselling? Talking to someone you can trust who can listen without any judgement can be very helpful especially in these challenging times.
I am professionally trained to work with survivors of sexual abuse.
We all go through life experiencing good and bad moments, but sometimes the bad experiences can become too overwhelming to manage them on our own. Sometimes they may be a result of sudden changes which life throws at us unexpectedly leaving us vulnerable and lost in a new reality and sometimes it may be that we want to change something in our lives, but don’t really know how, which leaves us feeling stuck and helpless. If this sounds familiar to how you feel why not try counselling? Talking to someone you can trust who can listen without any judgement can be very helpful especially in these challenging times.
01202 125114 View 01202 125114
Photo of Anna-Marie Elizabeth Lounds - Anna-Marie Lounds Counselling Dip.Couns. MBACP, BACP, Counsellor
Anna-Marie Lounds Counselling Dip.Couns. MBACP
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Truro TR1
My areas of expertise are rape & sexual abuse, childhood trauma, domestic violence / relationship problems, PTSD / CPTSD, bereavement, by suicide, accident or crime.
I'm predominantly a person centred practitioner but also integrate other skills & models of counselling as required, to ensure the best outcome for each individual that I work with. I provide a free initial consultation so that I can assess & meet each unique clients' needs, wishes & goals in a non-judgemental, supportive, empathic way, after all you know yourself better than I do so it makes sense for us to decide between us the best way forward. I offer face to face sessions in Truro, Penzance & surrounding areas, also online video or telephone sessions if you are further afield.
My areas of expertise are rape & sexual abuse, childhood trauma, domestic violence / relationship problems, PTSD / CPTSD, bereavement, by suicide, accident or crime.
I'm predominantly a person centred practitioner but also integrate other skills & models of counselling as required, to ensure the best outcome for each individual that I work with. I provide a free initial consultation so that I can assess & meet each unique clients' needs, wishes & goals in a non-judgemental, supportive, empathic way, after all you know yourself better than I do so it makes sense for us to decide between us the best way forward. I offer face to face sessions in Truro, Penzance & surrounding areas, also online video or telephone sessions if you are further afield.
01736 808713 View 01736 808713
Photo of Cerian Louise Lye-Owens, MBACP, Counsellor
Cerian Louise Lye-Owens
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chippenham SN15
I have experience supporting people with many issues including; sexual abuse, trauma, anxiety, change and loss, addiction and self confidence.
How are you? That's a question that gets asked a lot but it's often more of a statement, a greeting than an actual question. Most people don't even stop for the response and if they do, they're often too busy thinking about what they want to say, rather than listening to what's being said. It's no wonder then that we often stop asking ourselves that question too. If you're ready to stop and answer that question, then I'm here to listen and to hear what you have to say. Even if right now, you don't have the words, or you just don't know what to say... we can start with the question and go from there.
I have experience supporting people with many issues including; sexual abuse, trauma, anxiety, change and loss, addiction and self confidence.
How are you? That's a question that gets asked a lot but it's often more of a statement, a greeting than an actual question. Most people don't even stop for the response and if they do, they're often too busy thinking about what they want to say, rather than listening to what's being said. It's no wonder then that we often stop asking ourselves that question too. If you're ready to stop and answer that question, then I'm here to listen and to hear what you have to say. Even if right now, you don't have the words, or you just don't know what to say... we can start with the question and go from there.
01249 911060 View 01249 911060
Photo of Jane Meares, MBACP, Counsellor
Jane Meares
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
I support adults affected by low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or grief, often those who have experienced the death of a loved one, a major life transition or trauma, or childhood sexual abuse.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are is liberating.
I support adults affected by low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or grief, often those who have experienced the death of a loved one, a major life transition or trauma, or childhood sexual abuse.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are is liberating.
01392 321316 View 01392 321316
Photo of Alex Joy Davies Walsh - Alex Joy Therapy, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Alex Joy Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol BS15
I'm a Level 7, Masters qualified therapist and I have almost a decade of experience working with female survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.
I believe therapy can be a transformative experience. Whether you have recently been through a difficult or traumatic experience, are feeling lost, low, are struggling with negative self-image, or you just feel it may be helpful to have a space to untangle your thoughts and develop a deeper understanding of yourself, I can hold a safe and non-judgemental space for you. My work is integrative (meaning I draw from different therapy theories), and is client-centred, at your pace, gentle and compassionate.
I'm a Level 7, Masters qualified therapist and I have almost a decade of experience working with female survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.
I believe therapy can be a transformative experience. Whether you have recently been through a difficult or traumatic experience, are feeling lost, low, are struggling with negative self-image, or you just feel it may be helpful to have a space to untangle your thoughts and develop a deeper understanding of yourself, I can hold a safe and non-judgemental space for you. My work is integrative (meaning I draw from different therapy theories), and is client-centred, at your pace, gentle and compassionate.
0117 463 6918 View 0117 463 6918
Photo of Gemma Marie Owen - Gemma Owen Counselling (MBACP) Accred, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Gemma Owen Counselling (MBACP) Accred
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS32
I understand the gravity and rippling affect violence and sexual abuse can have but also that there is hope, strength and empowerment that can be found within oneself with the help of counselling.
I am a Humanistic, trauma informed counsellor and member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. I understand there are times when life can feel overwhelming and daily life can become more of a struggle. This can often feel isolating and confusing, but it is important to know that you don’t have to go through it alone. My aim is to provide a warm, welcoming and supportive environment in which you feel able to explore your feelings and emotions without fear of judgement. I am able to help with many of life's challenges and have specialist experience of working with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence.
I understand the gravity and rippling affect violence and sexual abuse can have but also that there is hope, strength and empowerment that can be found within oneself with the help of counselling.
I am a Humanistic, trauma informed counsellor and member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. I understand there are times when life can feel overwhelming and daily life can become more of a struggle. This can often feel isolating and confusing, but it is important to know that you don’t have to go through it alone. My aim is to provide a warm, welcoming and supportive environment in which you feel able to explore your feelings and emotions without fear of judgement. I am able to help with many of life's challenges and have specialist experience of working with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence.
0117 325 3561 View 0117 325 3561
Photo of Sandra Anne Breach, MBACP, Counsellor
Sandra Anne Breach
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS5
I have experience in helping with addiction, MH, sexual abuse issues and related trauma and inner child work.
You maybe seeking support/help when things have become tough, difficult, or overwhelming that could be having an impact on health, mental health, on work, family, partner or affecting other relationships. Maybe past events are having an impact on you today in your life that you feel you need to talk about with a trusted professional, in a confidential way, where you will not be judge or criticised. This could be because you want to address issues around self esteem, sexual abuse, stress related work, health problems, trauma or bereavement. It could be that you need the space to off load, be listened to to find a new perspective
I have experience in helping with addiction, MH, sexual abuse issues and related trauma and inner child work.
You maybe seeking support/help when things have become tough, difficult, or overwhelming that could be having an impact on health, mental health, on work, family, partner or affecting other relationships. Maybe past events are having an impact on you today in your life that you feel you need to talk about with a trusted professional, in a confidential way, where you will not be judge or criticised. This could be because you want to address issues around self esteem, sexual abuse, stress related work, health problems, trauma or bereavement. It could be that you need the space to off load, be listened to to find a new perspective
0117 325 6495 View 0117 325 6495
Photo of Helen Marie Yates, BACP, Counsellor
Helen Marie Yates
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frome BA11
Hello and welcome, I have experience in many different client issues, to name some- self harm, relationship difficulties, body dysmorphia, gender dysphoria, neuro diversity, relationship difficulties, bereavement, miscarriage, infertility, addiction and trauma. I have a strong grounding in eating disorders, LGBTQ issues and sexual abuse. You may use the space how you wish to and I will be alongside you, supporting you along the way to find your own answers and come to your own solutions, conclusions and understandings. I wouldn't offer you advice but would facilitate what you would like to work on and what you wish to explore.
Hello and welcome, I have experience in many different client issues, to name some- self harm, relationship difficulties, body dysmorphia, gender dysphoria, neuro diversity, relationship difficulties, bereavement, miscarriage, infertility, addiction and trauma. I have a strong grounding in eating disorders, LGBTQ issues and sexual abuse. You may use the space how you wish to and I will be alongside you, supporting you along the way to find your own answers and come to your own solutions, conclusions and understandings. I wouldn't offer you advice but would facilitate what you would like to work on and what you wish to explore.
01373 485190 View 01373 485190
Photo of Cathrin Wildwood, MBACP, Counsellor
Cathrin Wildwood
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Llandovery SA20
I am a qualified and experienced therapist, offering individual and couple counselling and psychotherapy. I work with clients of all ages, children, young people and adults. If you are feeling low, sad, worried, confused, overwhelmed by life, unable to cope, alone, empty, hurt by past experiences, experiencing painful emotions or if you are dissatisfied with life and longing for something to be different then counselling can be immensely helpful. I have helped people with a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, abuse, sexual assault, addictions, eating difficulties, grief, relationship challenges, emotions and stress.
I am a qualified and experienced therapist, offering individual and couple counselling and psychotherapy. I work with clients of all ages, children, young people and adults. If you are feeling low, sad, worried, confused, overwhelmed by life, unable to cope, alone, empty, hurt by past experiences, experiencing painful emotions or if you are dissatisfied with life and longing for something to be different then counselling can be immensely helpful. I have helped people with a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, abuse, sexual assault, addictions, eating difficulties, grief, relationship challenges, emotions and stress.
01550 919698 View 01550 919698
Photo of Stella Beever, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Stella Beever
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tiverton EX16
I welcome issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and rape, relationship issues, men's mental health, grief and loss, anything which is making life difficult for you to navigate.
Silence can be difficult... its good to talk. I welcome you in a non-judgmental, safe space to express your fears, worries, and stresses, to disclose issues which may leave you unsure which way to turn. I would like to help you gain some clarity, and work towards effecting change. In the aftermath of significant life-altering events or shocks, counselling can offer you a structured avenue to unravel the complexities of your personal situation. You may have never experienced being truly yourself and voicing aloud what is causing you confusion and pain. Talking issues through with me can be a first step.
I welcome issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and rape, relationship issues, men's mental health, grief and loss, anything which is making life difficult for you to navigate.
Silence can be difficult... its good to talk. I welcome you in a non-judgmental, safe space to express your fears, worries, and stresses, to disclose issues which may leave you unsure which way to turn. I would like to help you gain some clarity, and work towards effecting change. In the aftermath of significant life-altering events or shocks, counselling can offer you a structured avenue to unravel the complexities of your personal situation. You may have never experienced being truly yourself and voicing aloud what is causing you confusion and pain. Talking issues through with me can be a first step.
01794 337442 View 01794 337442
Photo of Lyn Christine Oakley, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lyn Christine Oakley
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Braunton EX33
I have used art therapy and creativity successfully in the areas of increased self-knowledge and awareness, BPD management, PTSD, anxiety, depression, rape and historic child sexual abuse.
Hi, I'm Lyn. I've been working in counselling / psychotherapy for 22 years. I am an accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) I hold additional qualifications in life-coaching and NLP. I work integratively, which means that my professional practice can be personalised to suit each client's needs. You can be assured of a safe, empathic, confidential and professional space in which you can explore issues that you may find difficult to face alone. If you are experiencing issues that are holding you back, either personally or professionally, then we can work together to help you move forward.
I have used art therapy and creativity successfully in the areas of increased self-knowledge and awareness, BPD management, PTSD, anxiety, depression, rape and historic child sexual abuse.
Hi, I'm Lyn. I've been working in counselling / psychotherapy for 22 years. I am an accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) I hold additional qualifications in life-coaching and NLP. I work integratively, which means that my professional practice can be personalised to suit each client's needs. You can be assured of a safe, empathic, confidential and professional space in which you can explore issues that you may find difficult to face alone. If you are experiencing issues that are holding you back, either personally or professionally, then we can work together to help you move forward.
01271 815899 View 01271 815899
Photo of Magda Janaszek, MBACP, Counsellor
Magda Janaszek
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Plymouth PL1
I work with adults, couples and young people on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, loss, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, relationship issues, existential crisis and much more.
I am a fully qualified Therapeutic Counsellor and a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) based in Plymouth, Devon, UK. My aim is to provide a respectful, safe, confidential and supportive environment where clients can explore and work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe that each individual has the ability to reach their true potential within safe and non-judgemental space that the therapeutic relationship can offer. I am passionate about helping people to recognise their self-worth and to achieve their goals.
I work with adults, couples and young people on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, loss, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, relationship issues, existential crisis and much more.
I am a fully qualified Therapeutic Counsellor and a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) based in Plymouth, Devon, UK. My aim is to provide a respectful, safe, confidential and supportive environment where clients can explore and work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe that each individual has the ability to reach their true potential within safe and non-judgemental space that the therapeutic relationship can offer. I am passionate about helping people to recognise their self-worth and to achieve their goals.
07525 755527 View 07525 755527
Photo of Lisa Arlington - Counselling Connection, MBACP
Counselling Connection
MBACP
Verified Verified
Saint Austell PL26
We are trained within the humanistic approach of person centred counselling with further training in mental health, sexual abuse, suicide, substance abuse, domestic violence, child protection and safeguarding.
It can be hard to reach out for professional support. Counselling Connection has designed its service to connect you to a small team of qualified therapists who may work in different ways but all have the same goal: to support you on your journey. If you don't "click" with the first counsellor you see, you are encouraged to meet with another member of our team so that you don't have to go back to square one in your search for a counsellor.
We are trained within the humanistic approach of person centred counselling with further training in mental health, sexual abuse, suicide, substance abuse, domestic violence, child protection and safeguarding.
It can be hard to reach out for professional support. Counselling Connection has designed its service to connect you to a small team of qualified therapists who may work in different ways but all have the same goal: to support you on your journey. If you don't "click" with the first counsellor you see, you are encouraged to meet with another member of our team so that you don't have to go back to square one in your search for a counsellor.
01344 567782 View 01344 567782

See more therapy options for Okehampton

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.