Sexual Abuse Counselling in Barrhead

Photo of Rebecca Hepson, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rebecca Hepson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Barrhead G78
I work with clients with a wide range of presenting issues, from low self esteem and relationship problems, to survivors of sexual abuse/traumas.
I believe that the most important relationship we will have over our lifetime is the relationship that we have with ourselves. Throughout our lives we can come to conclusions about ourselves and others that cause us to feel insecure with who we are and around others. My job as a therapist and life coach is to provide a talking space for you to figure out what is holding you back from achieving the relationships and lifestyle you deserve. The more we understand who we really are, the easier it becomes to truly and deliberately create the life we desire.
I work with clients with a wide range of presenting issues, from low self esteem and relationship problems, to survivors of sexual abuse/traumas.
I believe that the most important relationship we will have over our lifetime is the relationship that we have with ourselves. Throughout our lives we can come to conclusions about ourselves and others that cause us to feel insecure with who we are and around others. My job as a therapist and life coach is to provide a talking space for you to figure out what is holding you back from achieving the relationships and lifestyle you deserve. The more we understand who we really are, the easier it becomes to truly and deliberately create the life we desire.
01389 317526 View 01389 317526
Photo of Sharon Joyce, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Sharon Joyce
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Barrhead G78
GMBPSS, MBACP, MCOSCA, MSSSC. 29 years experience I use the latest evidence-informed therapies. Psychologist and psychotherapist. Masters degree Glasgow University 2001 and Masters degree in counselling and psychotherapy fully accredited and registered with BACP in addition to my fully qualified registration SSSC since my qualification in 1997. I am a registered member of MBACP Accred. MCOSCA and MSSSC. Adhere to policies and procedures and comply with the ethical framework for practice. This includes ongoing professional development, supervision and complainFees available on request. Supervision, BACP and SSSC regulations applied.
GMBPSS, MBACP, MCOSCA, MSSSC. 29 years experience I use the latest evidence-informed therapies. Psychologist and psychotherapist. Masters degree Glasgow University 2001 and Masters degree in counselling and psychotherapy fully accredited and registered with BACP in addition to my fully qualified registration SSSC since my qualification in 1997. I am a registered member of MBACP Accred. MCOSCA and MSSSC. Adhere to policies and procedures and comply with the ethical framework for practice. This includes ongoing professional development, supervision and complainFees available on request. Supervision, BACP and SSSC regulations applied.
07493 304649 View 07493 304649
Photo of Sam Pattison, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sam Pattison
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrhead G78
I take a whole picture approach to my therapeutic work, getting to know clients and what is important for them, and why. My approach to working is a beginning-to-end approach, meaning that my focus is taking clients from where they are to where they want to be. I take great enjoyment in helping clients work toward their goals, and in supporting them in achieving a better relationship and understanding of themselves while doing so. I work in a person-centred way with clients 12 and above. I have experience working with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem related issues, trauma and abuse.
I take a whole picture approach to my therapeutic work, getting to know clients and what is important for them, and why. My approach to working is a beginning-to-end approach, meaning that my focus is taking clients from where they are to where they want to be. I take great enjoyment in helping clients work toward their goals, and in supporting them in achieving a better relationship and understanding of themselves while doing so. I work in a person-centred way with clients 12 and above. I have experience working with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem related issues, trauma and abuse.
0141 673 8667 View 0141 673 8667

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shirley Macmillan
Shirley Macmillan
Verified Verified
Glasgow G2  (Online Only)
I specialise working for an organisation that supports clients affected by sexual abuse.
I am a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist based in Ayrshire. I work predominantly with a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, but also draw on other therapeutic approaches to provide a more integrative and tailored therapy for you. There are times when we all experience situations that cause distress or uncertainty and it can be difficult to move past these events or to speak to those close to us.
I specialise working for an organisation that supports clients affected by sexual abuse.
I am a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist based in Ayrshire. I work predominantly with a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, but also draw on other therapeutic approaches to provide a more integrative and tailored therapy for you. There are times when we all experience situations that cause distress or uncertainty and it can be difficult to move past these events or to speak to those close to us.
01292 439650 View 01292 439650
Photo of Sandra Joann Xavier, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sandra Joann Xavier
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G1
I have experience working with individuals struggling with employment, immigration, mid-life crisis, menopause, bereavement, sexual abuse and assault, divorces, custody battles, generational trauma, abusive relationships, suicidal ideation, gender identities, relationship struggles, education, bullying, depression and anxiety.
I have experience working with individuals struggling with employment, immigration, mid-life crisis, menopause, bereavement, sexual abuse and assault, divorces, custody battles, generational trauma, abusive relationships, suicidal ideation, gender identities, relationship struggles, education, bullying, depression and anxiety.
0141 673 5519 View 0141 673 5519
Photo of Satinder Panesar, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Satinder Panesar
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G3  (Online Only)
My areas of specialism are working with both Adults and Young People who have experienced: Trauma, Tradition & Culture - Domestic Violence, Rape & Sexual Assault , Child Sexual Abuse , Honour Based Violence, Forced Marriage, Sexual Health Concerns, Pre & Post Termination.
If you are reading this you will be searching for someone that is able to support you at a time you need it most. . My suggestion is to read the statements and contact the individual that can support you directly with the issue you would like to work with. I am a registered accredited member of BACP & NCPS. I have over 25+ years of working in Third Sector, NHS, Education & Private Sector. I work as a Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor & Coach - I work from a Integrative perspective - working with Person Centred, CBT or Attachment modalities enables me to work uniquely with the modality that suits you.
My areas of specialism are working with both Adults and Young People who have experienced: Trauma, Tradition & Culture - Domestic Violence, Rape & Sexual Assault , Child Sexual Abuse , Honour Based Violence, Forced Marriage, Sexual Health Concerns, Pre & Post Termination.
If you are reading this you will be searching for someone that is able to support you at a time you need it most. . My suggestion is to read the statements and contact the individual that can support you directly with the issue you would like to work with. I am a registered accredited member of BACP & NCPS. I have over 25+ years of working in Third Sector, NHS, Education & Private Sector. I work as a Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor & Coach - I work from a Integrative perspective - working with Person Centred, CBT or Attachment modalities enables me to work uniquely with the modality that suits you.
0141 483 7613 View 0141 483 7613
Photo of Sue Reid, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Sue Reid
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G42
Counselling is a safe place for you to stop, take stock and explore the parts of your life that you are finding difficult. It is a time for you to use for whatever you decide, and always without pressure or judgement. I have particular experience in working with trauma and sexual abuse, but you can use counselling for all sorts of issues, for example self-esteem, stress, depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationships, suicidal thoughts, harassment at work, identity issues, breakup, or decision-making. Dealing with ‘unwanted habits’ of whatever kind can be a large part of counselling.
Counselling is a safe place for you to stop, take stock and explore the parts of your life that you are finding difficult. It is a time for you to use for whatever you decide, and always without pressure or judgement. I have particular experience in working with trauma and sexual abuse, but you can use counselling for all sorts of issues, for example self-esteem, stress, depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationships, suicidal thoughts, harassment at work, identity issues, breakup, or decision-making. Dealing with ‘unwanted habits’ of whatever kind can be a large part of counselling.
0141 280 4539 View 0141 280 4539
Photo of Jeremy Sachs, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Jeremy Sachs
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G1
I have extensive experience working in the field of mental health, I run group therapy at SurvivorsUK, a charity supporting men, boys, Trans & non binary people who have survived sexual abuse or violence.
Hello, My name is Jeremy Sachs and I am an Integrative Psychotherapist. This means I am trained in multiple models of psychological care so I can respond to your needs in a flexible and friendly way. I work with couples, groups and individuals to help them better understand their experience, be that distressing issues from the past or challenges they are currently facing. Feel free to visit my website for free resources and additional information about my practice. www.jeremysachs.com
I have extensive experience working in the field of mental health, I run group therapy at SurvivorsUK, a charity supporting men, boys, Trans & non binary people who have survived sexual abuse or violence.
Hello, My name is Jeremy Sachs and I am an Integrative Psychotherapist. This means I am trained in multiple models of psychological care so I can respond to your needs in a flexible and friendly way. I work with couples, groups and individuals to help them better understand their experience, be that distressing issues from the past or challenges they are currently facing. Feel free to visit my website for free resources and additional information about my practice. www.jeremysachs.com
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Photo of Nurturing Hearts Lisa Ann Harkins, MBACP, Counsellor
Nurturing Hearts Lisa Ann Harkins
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G2
I consider myself to be very understanding, open-minded, compassionate, and empathic I have had my own lived experiences in trauma, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my profile. I am Lisa Ann, an Integrative Humanistic Counsellor. My practice is grounded in a person centred approach and I believe that we are all unique, that we are experts in our own story! Being Integrative allows me to draw from a range of different modalities, and apply them to best suit your needs as the client. Sometimes life can be very difficult and can leave us feeling stuck between a rock and a hard place. If you want to seek some help getting out of that hard place, then please get in touch and lets see if I can help you. Being human is tough, but rest assured your not alone!
I consider myself to be very understanding, open-minded, compassionate, and empathic I have had my own lived experiences in trauma, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my profile. I am Lisa Ann, an Integrative Humanistic Counsellor. My practice is grounded in a person centred approach and I believe that we are all unique, that we are experts in our own story! Being Integrative allows me to draw from a range of different modalities, and apply them to best suit your needs as the client. Sometimes life can be very difficult and can leave us feeling stuck between a rock and a hard place. If you want to seek some help getting out of that hard place, then please get in touch and lets see if I can help you. Being human is tough, but rest assured your not alone!
0141 465 5221 View 0141 465 5221
Photo of Carol Dobbins, MBACP, Counsellor
Carol Dobbins
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East Kilbride G75
I have extensive experience working with domestic violence, depression, anxiety and sexual abuse.
Hello. I’m Carol and welcome to my profile. Are you someone who has experienced difficult challenges in your life that may have left you feeling “stuck”, "lost", anxious or afraid and finding it hard to cope with day to day activities? I am here for you to provide you with a safe, confidential space as we work together to help you gain insight, self-awareness, clarity, confidence and positive growth towards greater fulfilment. My work as a psychodynamic therapist is to help you find your way again by unravelling hidden or unconscious aspects of you. Whatever the issue we can explore them in-person or online or by telephone.
I have extensive experience working with domestic violence, depression, anxiety and sexual abuse.
Hello. I’m Carol and welcome to my profile. Are you someone who has experienced difficult challenges in your life that may have left you feeling “stuck”, "lost", anxious or afraid and finding it hard to cope with day to day activities? I am here for you to provide you with a safe, confidential space as we work together to help you gain insight, self-awareness, clarity, confidence and positive growth towards greater fulfilment. My work as a psychodynamic therapist is to help you find your way again by unravelling hidden or unconscious aspects of you. Whatever the issue we can explore them in-person or online or by telephone.
01355 201303 View 01355 201303
Photo of Birte Nachtwey, COSRT General, Psychotherapist
Birte Nachtwey
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Glasgow G1
Are you a couple or individual who would like to improve their relationship and/or sexuality? Couple therapy and sex therapy can help you sort things and initiate the changes you want. They are often closely connected. Couple therapy deals with all kinds of problems: different levels of desire for sex and/or closeness, bad communication, fears, hostility, affairs... Sex therapy addresses issues like: erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, difficulities to or lack of orgasm, pain or vaginal spasm during intercourse, desire problems, sex addiction, sexual abuse, problems with gender identity, sexual orientation or preferences.
Are you a couple or individual who would like to improve their relationship and/or sexuality? Couple therapy and sex therapy can help you sort things and initiate the changes you want. They are often closely connected. Couple therapy deals with all kinds of problems: different levels of desire for sex and/or closeness, bad communication, fears, hostility, affairs... Sex therapy addresses issues like: erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, difficulities to or lack of orgasm, pain or vaginal spasm during intercourse, desire problems, sex addiction, sexual abuse, problems with gender identity, sexual orientation or preferences.
01496 733314 View 01496 733314
Photo of Michelle Black, MBABCP, Counsellor
Michelle Black
Counsellor, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G51
I work with anyone struggling with a broad range of issues including Anxiety, depression, stress, marital/relationship issues, bereavement, emotional or sexual abuse, self esteem.
Thank’s for visiting my page :) I am a fully qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist based in the southside of Glasgow, I am currently able to offer sessions though video call or over the phone whichever is most comfortable for yourself. Using a counselling or/with CBT approach. I provide a comfortable, confidential, safe space for you to explore any issues that you wish to bring to the room. Working collaboratively, we will determine the most effective solutions to help gain a better understanding and manage/overcome anything which may be having a negative impact on your day to day Life.
I work with anyone struggling with a broad range of issues including Anxiety, depression, stress, marital/relationship issues, bereavement, emotional or sexual abuse, self esteem.
Thank’s for visiting my page :) I am a fully qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist based in the southside of Glasgow, I am currently able to offer sessions though video call or over the phone whichever is most comfortable for yourself. Using a counselling or/with CBT approach. I provide a comfortable, confidential, safe space for you to explore any issues that you wish to bring to the room. Working collaboratively, we will determine the most effective solutions to help gain a better understanding and manage/overcome anything which may be having a negative impact on your day to day Life.
0141 673 6682 View 0141 673 6682
Photo of Mairi Albiston, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Mairi Albiston
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Glasgow G61
I first started work in a Community Mental Health Team for people with moderate to severe mental health difficulties, and I learned a lot of skills to treat people who had histories of trauma, and a history of sexual abuse.
My name is Dr Mairi Albiston, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, with 19 years of qualified experience. I work full time for the NHS, specialising in Adult Mental Health, Physical Health, and Supervision. I provide a small private therapy service in the Glasgow area in Scotland to assist clients with a wide range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, eating disorders and adjustment to chronic physical health problems. I am insured for clients within the UK.
I first started work in a Community Mental Health Team for people with moderate to severe mental health difficulties, and I learned a lot of skills to treat people who had histories of trauma, and a history of sexual abuse.
My name is Dr Mairi Albiston, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, with 19 years of qualified experience. I work full time for the NHS, specialising in Adult Mental Health, Physical Health, and Supervision. I provide a small private therapy service in the Glasgow area in Scotland to assist clients with a wide range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, eating disorders and adjustment to chronic physical health problems. I am insured for clients within the UK.
0141 673 6752 View 0141 673 6752
Photo of Janice Alston, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Janice Alston
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Glasgow G61
I work with individual adults with a wide range of problems including low mood/depression, anxiety disorders, stress, woman’s health related issues, bereavement and loss, life transitions, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), historic childhood sexual abuse and other complex traumas, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); self-harm; and many more issues. I have had therapeutic roles within a number of different therapeutic settings including working currently within a veteran mental health charity, and previous roles within the NHS, cancer services, a university counselling service, and third sector organisations.
I work with individual adults with a wide range of problems including low mood/depression, anxiety disorders, stress, woman’s health related issues, bereavement and loss, life transitions, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), historic childhood sexual abuse and other complex traumas, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); self-harm; and many more issues. I have had therapeutic roles within a number of different therapeutic settings including working currently within a veteran mental health charity, and previous roles within the NHS, cancer services, a university counselling service, and third sector organisations.
0141 673 0780 View 0141 673 0780
Photo of Laura Beech, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Laura Beech
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G1  (Online Only)
I specialise in working with relationships, adverse childhood experiences (neglect or abuse), sexual abuse, bullying, parental breakup and other difficult experiences whilst growing up.
Do you feel like past events are affecting how you cope with life today leaving you feeling stuck and anxious or depressed? Are you having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep? Do you keep repeating the same negative patterns in relationships? I am an experienced, accredited psychotherapist who works with couples, individuals, and groups who can help you identify and change these unhelpful patterns. Currently only taking on EMDR Clients.
I specialise in working with relationships, adverse childhood experiences (neglect or abuse), sexual abuse, bullying, parental breakup and other difficult experiences whilst growing up.
Do you feel like past events are affecting how you cope with life today leaving you feeling stuck and anxious or depressed? Are you having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep? Do you keep repeating the same negative patterns in relationships? I am an experienced, accredited psychotherapist who works with couples, individuals, and groups who can help you identify and change these unhelpful patterns. Currently only taking on EMDR Clients.
0121 817 7042 View 0121 817 7042
Photo of Gillian Wardhaugh, Counsellor
Gillian Wardhaugh
Counsellor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glasgow G1
Having worked as a CBT therapist for individuals affected by childhood sexual abuse, I am well equipped to help individuals cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, bereavement, sleep disturbances, phobias, health anxiety, panic, social anxiety, stress and many other issues.
I am an integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapist passionate about helping individuals shape day-to-day struggles into a happier, calmer, more fulfilling life. I can provide CBT therapy while keeping your needs at the forefront of our treatment plan, including using creative ways to adapt traditional therapies for neurodiverse clients who may struggle with traditional CBT therapy structures, completing homework or attending sessions. Therapy sessions offer a calm, non-judgmental atmosphere where you're in control of your healing journey and together, we'll develop a customised plan based on what matters most to you.
Having worked as a CBT therapist for individuals affected by childhood sexual abuse, I am well equipped to help individuals cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, bereavement, sleep disturbances, phobias, health anxiety, panic, social anxiety, stress and many other issues.
I am an integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapist passionate about helping individuals shape day-to-day struggles into a happier, calmer, more fulfilling life. I can provide CBT therapy while keeping your needs at the forefront of our treatment plan, including using creative ways to adapt traditional therapies for neurodiverse clients who may struggle with traditional CBT therapy structures, completing homework or attending sessions. Therapy sessions offer a calm, non-judgmental atmosphere where you're in control of your healing journey and together, we'll develop a customised plan based on what matters most to you.
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Photo of Joanne Elizabeth Phimister - Mind Matters - Joanne E Phimister, MCOSCA, Counsellor
Mind Matters - Joanne E Phimister
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
Glasgow G12  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have specialist training and experience in working with baby loss, survivors of childhood sexual abuse and the armed forces community.
My name is Joanne and I am a fully qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Group Work Therapist. I offer a range of services including online counselling, online CBT and telephone counselling to help you on your journey to mental wellness. I am a skilled, warm and empathetic practitioner with a keen interest in personal development in the field of CBT and all modalities of psychotherapy. I pride myself on the relationships I build with my clients which forms the basis of the work we are able to achieve together.
Additionally, I have specialist training and experience in working with baby loss, survivors of childhood sexual abuse and the armed forces community.
My name is Joanne and I am a fully qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Group Work Therapist. I offer a range of services including online counselling, online CBT and telephone counselling to help you on your journey to mental wellness. I am a skilled, warm and empathetic practitioner with a keen interest in personal development in the field of CBT and all modalities of psychotherapy. I pride myself on the relationships I build with my clients which forms the basis of the work we are able to achieve together.
01383 661316 View 01383 661316
Photo of Valéry Hervé Renault, MA, Counsellor
Valéry Hervé Renault
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Glasgow G13  (Online Only)
Do you want to understand why you always act the way you do? Does it seem to you that your behavior follows repetitive patterns and you'd like to be able to change it, but you tend to always fall back into the same ruts? How about starting from the beginning and trying to understand what's going on?
Do you want to understand why you always act the way you do? Does it seem to you that your behavior follows repetitive patterns and you'd like to be able to change it, but you tend to always fall back into the same ruts? How about starting from the beginning and trying to understand what's going on?
020 3856 7704 View 020 3856 7704
Photo of Lisa Berry, MBACP, Counsellor
Lisa Berry
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G1
I have over 9 years' experience in counselling adults and young people, in various settings including educational, EAP, third sector and private practice. I have worked with Employee Assistance Programmes for the last 6+ years, offering counselling and helpline support to employees of various organisations, including the Police and NHS. I previously worked for a charity supporting adult survivors of historical abuse, for which I underwent additional training. I have supported people experiencing various issues including depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma, relationship issues, stress, bereavement, sleep and work-related issues.
I have over 9 years' experience in counselling adults and young people, in various settings including educational, EAP, third sector and private practice. I have worked with Employee Assistance Programmes for the last 6+ years, offering counselling and helpline support to employees of various organisations, including the Police and NHS. I previously worked for a charity supporting adult survivors of historical abuse, for which I underwent additional training. I have supported people experiencing various issues including depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma, relationship issues, stress, bereavement, sleep and work-related issues.
07723 450633 View 07723 450633
Photo of Paula Kane, MBACP, Counsellor
Paula Kane
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G11
Have you been in abusive relationship after abusive relationship and wonder why you can't seem to find a partner who will treat you well and respect you? Do you worry that you won't be able to have a healthy relationship? Perhaps you find yourself prioritising others needs over your own and feel that you come last in all your relationships throughout your life. Do you wish you could set boundaries with others, and have the ability to ask for what you want without feeling guilty?
Have you been in abusive relationship after abusive relationship and wonder why you can't seem to find a partner who will treat you well and respect you? Do you worry that you won't be able to have a healthy relationship? Perhaps you find yourself prioritising others needs over your own and feel that you come last in all your relationships throughout your life. Do you wish you could set boundaries with others, and have the ability to ask for what you want without feeling guilty?
028 9433 8832 View 028 9433 8832

See more therapy options for Barrhead

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.