Sexual Abuse Therapists in Pell City, AL

Photo of Dr. Rachel Crabtree, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Rachel Crabtree
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pell City, AL 35128  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I hold a deep passion for supporting individuals who have navigated the treacherous terrain of complex trauma. Including those who have endured sexual abuse, addiction, and the heartbreak of betrayal. Many I work with carry the weight of anxiety, shame, and guilt, often entangled with codependency and addictive patterns. It is a privilege to walk alongside them on their journeys of healing and rediscovering their inner strength.My ideal client is someone who is ready to reclaim their life and embrace the healing process.
I hold a deep passion for supporting individuals who have navigated the treacherous terrain of complex trauma. Including those who have endured sexual abuse, addiction, and the heartbreak of betrayal. Many I work with carry the weight of anxiety, shame, and guilt, often entangled with codependency and addictive patterns. It is a privilege to walk alongside them on their journeys of healing and rediscovering their inner strength.My ideal client is someone who is ready to reclaim their life and embrace the healing process.
(659) 348-0947 View (659) 348-0947
Photo of Denise Lee, EdS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pell City, AL 35125
Having to face the daily challenges and exhaustion of life can wear a person out. Dealing with constant worry and struggles can feel like an uphill battle. You often wonder if you will ever overcome the past. You feel like no one understands what you've been through. You wish someone would not just hear you but actually stop to listen without questioning your experience or your mood. You’re tired of feeling isolated and alone while struggling with guilt, shame, and anger. You’re tired of having nightmares, sleepless nights, and intrusive thoughts which replay over and over in your mind. All you want is the pain to stop.
Having to face the daily challenges and exhaustion of life can wear a person out. Dealing with constant worry and struggles can feel like an uphill battle. You often wonder if you will ever overcome the past. You feel like no one understands what you've been through. You wish someone would not just hear you but actually stop to listen without questioning your experience or your mood. You’re tired of feeling isolated and alone while struggling with guilt, shame, and anger. You’re tired of having nightmares, sleepless nights, and intrusive thoughts which replay over and over in your mind. All you want is the pain to stop.
(844) 729-2191 View (844) 729-2191
Photo of Lauren Kasi Freeman, MEd, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Kasi Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pell City, AL 35128
It's an honor to be a counselor and help others find their way in this world. I'm passionate about working with children, teenagers, young adults, and new mothers. I have experience working with all types of traumas and abuses, PTSD, foster care/adoption, divorce issues, behavioral issues, peer relationships, and Per/Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders. If you're going through a hard time or know someone who is and could benefit from counseling, please call me today. Also, we love and need our pets. If you need a mental health professional to evaluate and send a letter of certification for your emotional support animal, call.
It's an honor to be a counselor and help others find their way in this world. I'm passionate about working with children, teenagers, young adults, and new mothers. I have experience working with all types of traumas and abuses, PTSD, foster care/adoption, divorce issues, behavioral issues, peer relationships, and Per/Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders. If you're going through a hard time or know someone who is and could benefit from counseling, please call me today. Also, we love and need our pets. If you need a mental health professional to evaluate and send a letter of certification for your emotional support animal, call.
(256) 804-0641 View (256) 804-0641
Photo of Elizabeth Lee, MA, LCPC
Elizabeth Lee
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pell City, AL 35128  (Online Only)
My priority is to offer a therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable and accepted in a safe and non-judgmental environment. I see my clients as a whole person, not as your presenting problem. It is imperative to me that you feel heard and understood. I love being a therapist and my goal is to instill hope and peace back into your life.
My priority is to offer a therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable and accepted in a safe and non-judgmental environment. I see my clients as a whole person, not as your presenting problem. It is imperative to me that you feel heard and understood. I love being a therapist and my goal is to instill hope and peace back into your life.
(618) 389-5401 View (618) 389-5401
Photo of Peter P. Boyle - Peter P. Boyle at Boyle & Associates, LLC , MA, LPC, NCC, CCFC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter P. Boyle at Boyle & Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCFC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pell City, AL 35128
Does your child or teen lack motivation to achieve, have unresolved emotional issues, deal with bullying and are unable to speak up, have difficulty expressing their feelings in an appropriate way, exhibit high-risk behaviors including sexual promiscuity, drug use or other self-harm, or simply need guidance through parental separation, divorce, loss or any demanding life situation? I have helped many children and teens overcome the obstacles to achieving success in behavior modification, emotional stability, academics and social relationships. I specialize in treating at-risk children and teens that suffer from behavioral/emotional issues that prevent healthy development.
Does your child or teen lack motivation to achieve, have unresolved emotional issues, deal with bullying and are unable to speak up, have difficulty expressing their feelings in an appropriate way, exhibit high-risk behaviors including sexual promiscuity, drug use or other self-harm, or simply need guidance through parental separation, divorce, loss or any demanding life situation? I have helped many children and teens overcome the obstacles to achieving success in behavior modification, emotional stability, academics and social relationships. I specialize in treating at-risk children and teens that suffer from behavioral/emotional issues that prevent healthy development.
(205) 289-3510 View (205) 289-3510
Photo of Julie Kizer, EdS, LPC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Kizer
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Pell City, AL 35125
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be hard to endure at times. I believe there is power in feeling seen and heard and I seek to give all of my clients that opportunity. If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma - you are not alone. You do not have to suffer in silence. Whether you are struggling with stress in your job or relationships, life changes/transitions, parenting concerns, low self-esteem, bullying, school issues, anger, or other issues, I welcome an opportunity to walk alongside you to find hope and healing.
Life can be hard to endure at times. I believe there is power in feeling seen and heard and I seek to give all of my clients that opportunity. If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma - you are not alone. You do not have to suffer in silence. Whether you are struggling with stress in your job or relationships, life changes/transitions, parenting concerns, low self-esteem, bullying, school issues, anger, or other issues, I welcome an opportunity to walk alongside you to find hope and healing.
(205) 558-8026 View (205) 558-8026
Photo of Sarah W Brickell - Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC, EdS, NCC, RPT-S, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, RPT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Pell City, AL 35125
At Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC, we have a variety of therapists to help. We have locations in Cullman, Huntsville, Oneonta, Cropwell, and Trussville. I am only available in Cullman. We specialize in working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults. We also serve adults. Some therapists can only accept pediatric Medicaid so please call to check.
At Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC, we have a variety of therapists to help. We have locations in Cullman, Huntsville, Oneonta, Cropwell, and Trussville. I am only available in Cullman. We specialize in working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults. We also serve adults. Some therapists can only accept pediatric Medicaid so please call to check.
(256) 255-4550 View (256) 255-4550

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan Brunson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Brunson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moody, AL 35004  (Online Only)
I do Teletherapy (computer or phone) Only & serve all of Alabama and Texas. I specialize in helping people heal from trauma. I provide advanced therapy that works on deep issues with efficacy. Experienced with Boy Scout sexual abuse, priest/clergy sexual abuse, survivors of child trafficking, incest, physical & emotional abuse, neglect, domestic violence, chronic bullying. Natural disasters. Military PTSD, First Responders. Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Grief, PostPartum issues.
I do Teletherapy (computer or phone) Only & serve all of Alabama and Texas. I specialize in helping people heal from trauma. I provide advanced therapy that works on deep issues with efficacy. Experienced with Boy Scout sexual abuse, priest/clergy sexual abuse, survivors of child trafficking, incest, physical & emotional abuse, neglect, domestic violence, chronic bullying. Natural disasters. Military PTSD, First Responders. Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Grief, PostPartum issues.
(346) 201-5818 View (346) 201-5818
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Jolly - Mindworks Counseling and Wellness Center, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindworks Counseling and Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moody, AL 35004
I am currently putting a pause on accepting new clients. I help people who struggle with anxiety, chronic or invisible illness, intimacy issues, and partners that have experienced betrayal. Interpersonal relationships can be severely impacted when a person is suffering from any mental health challenge. I help people find healthy ways to cope with their problems, process past events and give support during current concerns. Sex worker and LGBT ally.
I am currently putting a pause on accepting new clients. I help people who struggle with anxiety, chronic or invisible illness, intimacy issues, and partners that have experienced betrayal. Interpersonal relationships can be severely impacted when a person is suffering from any mental health challenge. I help people find healthy ways to cope with their problems, process past events and give support during current concerns. Sex worker and LGBT ally.
(205) 751-0757 View (205) 751-0757

Online Therapists

Photo of Kelley Massengale, LCSW, BACS, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Massengale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vestavia, AL 35242  (Online Only)
I provide treatment for relationships, infidelity, low libido, mismatched desire, issues of gender or sexual orientation, and work with sexual abuse or assault survivors to name a few.
As a psychotherapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I treat a wide range of sexual, relationship and intimacy issues. I work with individuals and couples. Sex is one of the deepest and most powerful experiences we have and it can also be a source of great stress and shame when things do not go as smoothly as we would like. Cultural messages and biases can further compound these issues. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment for individuals or couples to discuss these issues.
I provide treatment for relationships, infidelity, low libido, mismatched desire, issues of gender or sexual orientation, and work with sexual abuse or assault survivors to name a few.
As a psychotherapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I treat a wide range of sexual, relationship and intimacy issues. I work with individuals and couples. Sex is one of the deepest and most powerful experiences we have and it can also be a source of great stress and shame when things do not go as smoothly as we would like. Cultural messages and biases can further compound these issues. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment for individuals or couples to discuss these issues.
(205) 964-9561 View (205) 964-9561
Photo of Tammi Ellis, MEd, ALC , Counselor
Tammi Ellis
Counselor, MEd, ALC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36104
I've had the opportunity to work with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and dating violence.
Greetings! I'm Tammi Ellis, a mental health professional, owner of Mental Mindset Counseling, LLC. l have a background of 19 years in education combined with mental health services in schools; where I've worked with all age groups and their families, recent work in domestic violence, sexual assault, and aiding in healing from trauma; both past and present. I specialize in working with a selective amount of strategies to help assist in a healing journey. I enjoy working with individuals that are on a journey of change and embracing newness.
I've had the opportunity to work with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and dating violence.
Greetings! I'm Tammi Ellis, a mental health professional, owner of Mental Mindset Counseling, LLC. l have a background of 19 years in education combined with mental health services in schools; where I've worked with all age groups and their families, recent work in domestic violence, sexual assault, and aiding in healing from trauma; both past and present. I specialize in working with a selective amount of strategies to help assist in a healing journey. I enjoy working with individuals that are on a journey of change and embracing newness.
(334) 489-1721 View (334) 489-1721
Photo of Mary Michelle Anyan, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Michelle Anyan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hazel Green, AL 35750  (Online Only)
I have worked for the past 5 years with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
I appreciate how much anxiety and stress goes into finding a therapist. It is hard from just a picture to decide who you trust with your most personal thoughts. I will do my best to make you feel comfortable and earn your trust. This is your time so let's make the best of it.
I have worked for the past 5 years with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
I appreciate how much anxiety and stress goes into finding a therapist. It is hard from just a picture to decide who you trust with your most personal thoughts. I will do my best to make you feel comfortable and earn your trust. This is your time so let's make the best of it.
(256) 826-0946 View (256) 826-0946
Photo of Victoria Frazier - Insight Therapeutic Services, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Insight Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35243
Frazier is a certified Family Trauma Professional specializing in the areas of trauma and sexual abuse in children, adolescents and adults.
Insight Therapeutic Services, LLC is a group of 14 Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each with certifications in a variety of specialty areas serving children and adults. Our team strives to match the needs of your family with a therapist knowledgeable and skilled in your area of need. Our therapists are skilled in the areas of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and addictions. Each therapist holds a certification in their area of expertise. We are currently accepting new clients for Alabaster and Birmingham locations. Telehealth offered as well.
Frazier is a certified Family Trauma Professional specializing in the areas of trauma and sexual abuse in children, adolescents and adults.
Insight Therapeutic Services, LLC is a group of 14 Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each with certifications in a variety of specialty areas serving children and adults. Our team strives to match the needs of your family with a therapist knowledgeable and skilled in your area of need. Our therapists are skilled in the areas of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and addictions. Each therapist holds a certification in their area of expertise. We are currently accepting new clients for Alabaster and Birmingham locations. Telehealth offered as well.
(205) 374-9859 View (205) 374-9859
Photo of Jane Allgood, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Allgood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
I work with a variety of issues, which include new parent mood disorders and anxiety disorders, depression, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, military sexual trauma, and life transitions.
Are you going through a rough time and need help but are not sure where to turn? Are you pregnant or a new parent and feeling anxious or depressed? Together, we can help you to feel better and receive the help you need to get on track in your life. My belief is in person-centered and compassionate care and I use evidence-based practices that we know work. I will work with you to develop your goals for therapy and to decide what works best for you. During the COVID-19 epidemic, I am accepting new clients and I do offer telemedicine appointments. Call today if you are feeling stressed or anxious during this difficult time
I work with a variety of issues, which include new parent mood disorders and anxiety disorders, depression, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, military sexual trauma, and life transitions.
Are you going through a rough time and need help but are not sure where to turn? Are you pregnant or a new parent and feeling anxious or depressed? Together, we can help you to feel better and receive the help you need to get on track in your life. My belief is in person-centered and compassionate care and I use evidence-based practices that we know work. I will work with you to develop your goals for therapy and to decide what works best for you. During the COVID-19 epidemic, I am accepting new clients and I do offer telemedicine appointments. Call today if you are feeling stressed or anxious during this difficult time
(938) 222-3757 View (938) 222-3757
Photo of Cecelia A Watts, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecelia A Watts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35242
I see adults, adolescents, pre-teens, couples and families who come to counseling with a variety of issues they want to explore. Some of these areas of concern include depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, relationships, and grief. Some clients may want to reduce or eliminate negative effects of the issues they face. Others may want to change unhealthy habits or create healthier ones. And other clients may want to recover from trauma or abuse and find more positive ways of coping.
I see adults, adolescents, pre-teens, couples and families who come to counseling with a variety of issues they want to explore. Some of these areas of concern include depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, relationships, and grief. Some clients may want to reduce or eliminate negative effects of the issues they face. Others may want to change unhealthy habits or create healthier ones. And other clients may want to recover from trauma or abuse and find more positive ways of coping.
(205) 883-9517 View (205) 883-9517
Photo of Tori Conner-Hearn, LPC, MS, MPH, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tori Conner-Hearn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MPH, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35216
Hello. I'm Tori. I'm so glad you are here. As a professional counselor, my goal is to help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, feel less alone, and create the changes you want in yourself. I‘ll work with you in a compassion, collaborative way to overcome the roadblocks that you struggle with even if they seem overwhelming. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma (especially sexual abuse/ assault and relationship violence), PTSD, grief, and gender identity. I am LGBTQ affirming. I work from a social justice and feminist framework. I am a CCTP Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Hello. I'm Tori. I'm so glad you are here. As a professional counselor, my goal is to help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, feel less alone, and create the changes you want in yourself. I‘ll work with you in a compassion, collaborative way to overcome the roadblocks that you struggle with even if they seem overwhelming. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma (especially sexual abuse/ assault and relationship violence), PTSD, grief, and gender identity. I am LGBTQ affirming. I work from a social justice and feminist framework. I am a CCTP Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
(205) 255-1612 View (205) 255-1612
Photo of Fran Sumner Jones, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fran Sumner Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35233
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to collaborate with clients in an empathetic and non-judgmental space. My approch is to use a combination of clinical training and real world experience to help clients better connect with themselves and with others. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, self esteem, grief, relationship issues, perinatal issues, life transitions, and most extensively with people who have experienced trauma in their lives including childhood trauma, sexual assault, abusive relationships, and marginalized identities. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to access change.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to collaborate with clients in an empathetic and non-judgmental space. My approch is to use a combination of clinical training and real world experience to help clients better connect with themselves and with others. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, self esteem, grief, relationship issues, perinatal issues, life transitions, and most extensively with people who have experienced trauma in their lives including childhood trauma, sexual assault, abusive relationships, and marginalized identities. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to access change.
(205) 927-3074 View (205) 927-3074
Photo of Jay Pesek, MEd, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Pesek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Helena, AL 35080
My graduate training dealt with adolescent male patients with behavioral problems, emotional intelligence deficiencies, sexual abuse history and suicidal gestures and ideations.
We treat children, adolescents and adults with behavioral issues, mood disorders, developmental and personality disorders. I work with parents to develop behavioral plans for their homes and families to supplement the therapy done with their children/adolescents in my office.
My graduate training dealt with adolescent male patients with behavioral problems, emotional intelligence deficiencies, sexual abuse history and suicidal gestures and ideations.
We treat children, adolescents and adults with behavioral issues, mood disorders, developmental and personality disorders. I work with parents to develop behavioral plans for their homes and families to supplement the therapy done with their children/adolescents in my office.
(205) 636-8176 View (205) 636-8176
Photo of Kimberly Jenkins-Richardson - Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
(205) 691-4385 View (205) 691-4385
Photo of Erin Guffey, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Guffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed clinician who has specialized experience working with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse/ assault and domestic violence.
Change is sometimes overwhelming, but continuing in familiar unhealthy patterns are likely preventing you from living the best version of yourself. My hope is to walk along beside you as you identify some of your unhealthy patterns; help you establish realistic goals; and implement healthy change in a way that doesn’t feel daunting. I have seven years experience working with individuals from all backgrounds with varying concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, strained family dynamics, and unhealthy boundaries.
I am a trauma informed clinician who has specialized experience working with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse/ assault and domestic violence.
Change is sometimes overwhelming, but continuing in familiar unhealthy patterns are likely preventing you from living the best version of yourself. My hope is to walk along beside you as you identify some of your unhealthy patterns; help you establish realistic goals; and implement healthy change in a way that doesn’t feel daunting. I have seven years experience working with individuals from all backgrounds with varying concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, strained family dynamics, and unhealthy boundaries.
(205) 270-5565 View (205) 270-5565

See more therapy options for Pell City

Sexual Abuse Therapists

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.