Sexual Abuse Therapists in Atherton, CA
![Photo of Amelia Gough, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8acd6ab-28f4-4b1c-8a62-b1ca2df7f4b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have helped clients like you successfully address a wide variety of issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Stress Management, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault.
I’m am one of the few therapists seeing in person clients for EMDR therapy in Nevada County. Whether you're struggling with an issue, or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, I can help. I provide a caring environment where you can identify and explore those issues that may be getting in the way of more rewarding relationships. The goal is to help provide you with insight and tools you need to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors. I have over 25 years experience. I will help you identify limiting beliefs and unhealthy coping mechanisms that are standing in the way of reaching your goals.
I have helped clients like you successfully address a wide variety of issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Stress Management, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault.
I’m am one of the few therapists seeing in person clients for EMDR therapy in Nevada County. Whether you're struggling with an issue, or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, I can help. I provide a caring environment where you can identify and explore those issues that may be getting in the way of more rewarding relationships. The goal is to help provide you with insight and tools you need to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors. I have over 25 years experience. I will help you identify limiting beliefs and unhealthy coping mechanisms that are standing in the way of reaching your goals.
![Photo of Marty G Schein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b36c3fe9-2a65-4f74-a626-e3cf1010c824/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have nearly 20 years of experience in trauma treatment and specialized training in sexual abuse therapy, with both accused perpetrators and with survivors.
I work with adults, teenagers, and children and specialize in supporting clients trying to manage the effects of trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I provide a safe, comforting place for clients to share their story, identify strengths, and develop healthy communication and coping skills to more effectively handle challenges. My typical client is looking for a mix of various techniques: active listening, empathy, honesty, practical tools to use on a day-to-day basis, and an improved understanding of the "why is this happening?", and humor to add to the therapeutic relationship.
I have nearly 20 years of experience in trauma treatment and specialized training in sexual abuse therapy, with both accused perpetrators and with survivors.
I work with adults, teenagers, and children and specialize in supporting clients trying to manage the effects of trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I provide a safe, comforting place for clients to share their story, identify strengths, and develop healthy communication and coping skills to more effectively handle challenges. My typical client is looking for a mix of various techniques: active listening, empathy, honesty, practical tools to use on a day-to-day basis, and an improved understanding of the "why is this happening?", and humor to add to the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Stephen Jacob Coffey, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c653801d-2a86-452a-928d-0c89586d9091/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Jacob Coffey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
How about putting down the metaphorical boulder that you have been carrying for what seems like an eternity and gain some relief? I love working with men who've experienced sexual abuse because they are resilient, resourceful and value investing in themselves.
There’s been some comfort in keeping everything held together, in avoiding talking about what’s happened. But there’s a part of you that knows that you need to deal with it at some point. You’re tired of shallow relationships and sexual hangups. And while your life looks great on paper, you are baffled why you feel so unsatisfied. It’s infuriating that you have to deal with this, but you know you have to. You’re wondering what you can do to move past your past, stop sitting on the sidelines, and start living. But sometimes you question, “Where do I go to unpack all this stuff from my past?”.
How about putting down the metaphorical boulder that you have been carrying for what seems like an eternity and gain some relief? I love working with men who've experienced sexual abuse because they are resilient, resourceful and value investing in themselves.
There’s been some comfort in keeping everything held together, in avoiding talking about what’s happened. But there’s a part of you that knows that you need to deal with it at some point. You’re tired of shallow relationships and sexual hangups. And while your life looks great on paper, you are baffled why you feel so unsatisfied. It’s infuriating that you have to deal with this, but you know you have to. You’re wondering what you can do to move past your past, stop sitting on the sidelines, and start living. But sometimes you question, “Where do I go to unpack all this stuff from my past?”.
![Photo of Vanessa Ruvalcaba, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8993da09-4b60-476b-8fbe-5a8ed1b4606f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Ruvalcaba
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Ness (Vanessa) Ruvalcaba. I am a Spanish and English speaking licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I work with individuals and families who are are needing some extra support understanding or creating change in their lives. I specialize in trauma informed care, PTSD, anxiety and depression, self harm, family dynamics and various other issues and needs. I also work with individual around resolving conflict, improving communication, processing difficult experiences, and various other experiences. At this time, I do not work with couples.
Hello! My name is Ness (Vanessa) Ruvalcaba. I am a Spanish and English speaking licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I work with individuals and families who are are needing some extra support understanding or creating change in their lives. I specialize in trauma informed care, PTSD, anxiety and depression, self harm, family dynamics and various other issues and needs. I also work with individual around resolving conflict, improving communication, processing difficult experiences, and various other experiences. At this time, I do not work with couples.
![Photo of Michelle Iankowitz - Himalia hypnotherapy and consulting LLC ✡️, LCSW, MSW, CCht, Pranic, Reiki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cba0c68e-08c0-4b06-9dba-71b655647502/2/320x400.jpeg)
Himalia hypnotherapy and consulting LLC ✡️
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CCht, Pranic, Reiki
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
You are highly motivated, ready to go into the unknown, curious about how to overcome obstacles with new tools and prepared to get uncomfortable in order to recover. You want to breathe easily, feel relaxed in your body and melt away the shame you're burdened by every day. You want wholeness.
You are highly motivated, ready to go into the unknown, curious about how to overcome obstacles with new tools and prepared to get uncomfortable in order to recover. You want to breathe easily, feel relaxed in your body and melt away the shame you're burdened by every day. You want wholeness.
![Photo of Robyn Sheiniuk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46023536-7f3c-4058-8664-f2d9fc2e635b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robyn Sheiniuk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
You present a face to the world that tells everyone you’re handling your stressors with ease. You're usually the go-to person in your closest relationships, but now you're wondering why no one checks in on you, and you realize that you've never given them a reason to. You appear fine on the outside, but when you get in touch with how you feel deep down, you notice sadness, numbness, or disconnection. You don’t have to stay disconnected from your relationships or feelings. Nor do you need to get consumed by them. They don't have to continue to overwhelm you. And you don't need to go through them alone.
You present a face to the world that tells everyone you’re handling your stressors with ease. You're usually the go-to person in your closest relationships, but now you're wondering why no one checks in on you, and you realize that you've never given them a reason to. You appear fine on the outside, but when you get in touch with how you feel deep down, you notice sadness, numbness, or disconnection. You don’t have to stay disconnected from your relationships or feelings. Nor do you need to get consumed by them. They don't have to continue to overwhelm you. And you don't need to go through them alone.
![Photo of Christene Lozano (Certified Sex Therapist), MS, LMFT, CST, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6917d14-293e-41b6-86a4-5e027cbf9fee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christene Lozano (Certified Sex Therapist)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
If you are struggling with sexual concerns, you have come to the right place. Some sexual concerns may include: low/high sexual desire, desire discrepancy, a sexless relationship, sexual difficulties (e.g. painful sex, early/delayed ejaculation), sexual trauma, rebuilding emotional and sexual intimacy, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Or perhaps you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. You have realized that your sexual thoughts and behaviors are getting out of control, or you have discovered that your partner is compulsively using sex or porn. You are feeling understandably betrayed, hurt, angry, and confused.
If you are struggling with sexual concerns, you have come to the right place. Some sexual concerns may include: low/high sexual desire, desire discrepancy, a sexless relationship, sexual difficulties (e.g. painful sex, early/delayed ejaculation), sexual trauma, rebuilding emotional and sexual intimacy, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Or perhaps you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. You have realized that your sexual thoughts and behaviors are getting out of control, or you have discovered that your partner is compulsively using sex or porn. You are feeling understandably betrayed, hurt, angry, and confused.
![Photo of Mary Deyo, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23a68f3d-f634-4a83-9a89-1fe83372ca12/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS for individual, couples and group therapy. PLEASE ASK ABOUT ONLINE SUPPORT GROUPS Anyone who is currently struggling with emotional pain and wanting to change, is my ideal client. I am here to guide you through a journey into your mind and heart, to help you face your greatest fears, and discover your unimaginable strength. Out of the ashes, rises the phoenix and out of a personal crisis, comes tremendous growth and healing. Whether you are dealing with mood swings, depression, anxiety, addiction, panic, trauma or relationship issues, I am here to help. https://fitforjoy.org/guests1/dr-mary-deyo
NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS for individual, couples and group therapy. PLEASE ASK ABOUT ONLINE SUPPORT GROUPS Anyone who is currently struggling with emotional pain and wanting to change, is my ideal client. I am here to guide you through a journey into your mind and heart, to help you face your greatest fears, and discover your unimaginable strength. Out of the ashes, rises the phoenix and out of a personal crisis, comes tremendous growth and healing. Whether you are dealing with mood swings, depression, anxiety, addiction, panic, trauma or relationship issues, I am here to help. https://fitforjoy.org/guests1/dr-mary-deyo
![Photo of Belén Mora-Byers, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca79d72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of clinical practice. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on multiple issues from anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting to transitions, and trauma work, to name a few. I place much emphasis in helping families and individuals develop the series of skills that are necessary for real success - collaboration, flexibility, adaptability, and creativity.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of clinical practice. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on multiple issues from anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting to transitions, and trauma work, to name a few. I place much emphasis in helping families and individuals develop the series of skills that are necessary for real success - collaboration, flexibility, adaptability, and creativity.
![Photo of Michael A Langlois, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d78facc-dc9c-4759-ae2c-fab3c8f87cf8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael A Langlois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
Now Providing Clinical Supervision in MA, NY, CA & OR. When people come to therapy, it's important to remember that they are trying to cope in the best way they can. You don't have to wait until things feel unbearable. I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years, and have experience working with Online Gaming, Adolescents, Parenting Conflicts, Cross-cultural Therapy, Learning Disabilities, Depression, GLBT Issues, Bereavement, Anxiety and Trauma.
Now Providing Clinical Supervision in MA, NY, CA & OR. When people come to therapy, it's important to remember that they are trying to cope in the best way they can. You don't have to wait until things feel unbearable. I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years, and have experience working with Online Gaming, Adolescents, Parenting Conflicts, Cross-cultural Therapy, Learning Disabilities, Depression, GLBT Issues, Bereavement, Anxiety and Trauma.
![Photo of Araceli Hirtle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98cdb431-cb6c-4f23-8ab7-23ae253ef294/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help women to better manage parenting, while maintaining her work/life balance. Is this you? Marriage and parenting are difficult. Often it is hard to find the energy to be patient, creative or loving. Do you struggle with solo parenting and feeling unseen? Do you want to feel more connected with your spouse? Do you want to feel like "you" again? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression and / or have experienced trauma but haven't "faced" it because "there is not enough time" or because you've "dealt with it this long", I get it and I can help you find the joy in your life again.
I help women to better manage parenting, while maintaining her work/life balance. Is this you? Marriage and parenting are difficult. Often it is hard to find the energy to be patient, creative or loving. Do you struggle with solo parenting and feeling unseen? Do you want to feel more connected with your spouse? Do you want to feel like "you" again? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression and / or have experienced trauma but haven't "faced" it because "there is not enough time" or because you've "dealt with it this long", I get it and I can help you find the joy in your life again.
15 Second Videos
Stephen Jacob Coffey
Himalia hypnotherapy and consulting LLC ✡️
Robyn Sheiniuk
Christene Lozano (Certified Sex Therapist)
Mary Deyo
Michael A Langlois
Araceli Hirtle
Hanna Stensby
Sean M Cook
April Delgadillo-Jolley
Mary Pat Killoran
Paloma Margaret Mckenna
Carey Incledon
Daniele Levy
Laura Sgro
Shuriee Gioieni
Sara Rabinovitch Phd
Maren Jorgensen
Sharon Windham
![Photo of Hanna Stensby, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e08cebb0-b22d-4abd-a888-e04847e20082/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you frustrated and feeling unheard in your relationship? Have you found yourself unintentionally choosing partners who are emotionally unavailable? Losing patience with your partner and feeling exhausted by repetitive fights? If you are ready to build a strong foundation and seek to deepen your relationship with your partner, couples therapy can help. If you want to boost your confidence, trust your decisions about your relationships and navigate conflict in a healthy way you are in the right place. Through therapy, I can help you heal from trauma, anxiety, or depression using alternative approaches backed by research.
Are you frustrated and feeling unheard in your relationship? Have you found yourself unintentionally choosing partners who are emotionally unavailable? Losing patience with your partner and feeling exhausted by repetitive fights? If you are ready to build a strong foundation and seek to deepen your relationship with your partner, couples therapy can help. If you want to boost your confidence, trust your decisions about your relationships and navigate conflict in a healthy way you are in the right place. Through therapy, I can help you heal from trauma, anxiety, or depression using alternative approaches backed by research.
![Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f53713c-f643-48fb-a1ea-d7f510d25007/2/320x400.jpeg)
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
![Photo of Dr. Gregory E Hamlin, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf37eccd-f72e-412c-92b6-80b5de8c96e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
You want to be listened to--really heard. You are sick and tired of conflict that creates lonely distance between you and your partner. You would like fewer angry moments and more times when you feel close and connected to your partner. You want the tools and skills to have RESPECTFUL conflict conversations that bring you closer. You are ready to grow, if only someone really understood you and had the expertise to coach both of you each step of the way. You may be feeling discouraged: "We've tried everything." So you want couples therapy rooted in solid research and a therapist who tailors it to your unique situation.
You want to be listened to--really heard. You are sick and tired of conflict that creates lonely distance between you and your partner. You would like fewer angry moments and more times when you feel close and connected to your partner. You want the tools and skills to have RESPECTFUL conflict conversations that bring you closer. You are ready to grow, if only someone really understood you and had the expertise to coach both of you each step of the way. You may be feeling discouraged: "We've tried everything." So you want couples therapy rooted in solid research and a therapist who tailors it to your unique situation.
![Photo of Marcia Vasconcelos Neville, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6de72579-8d78-4305-8a70-f6f809652ade/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marcia Vasconcelos Neville
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atherton, CA 94027
CURRENTLY CONDUCTING PHONE SESSIONS, TELE-THERAPY. I possess an unconditional positive regard for my clients, as I easily see the goodness and gift that each person brings. I desire to assist people to reach their highest potential and identify their purpose. I am invigorated by the work I do and strive to be part of creating more fulfilling, happier lives! I enjoy witnessing others become the best version of themselves, passionate about their interests, communicating better, finding solutions and setting goals!
CURRENTLY CONDUCTING PHONE SESSIONS, TELE-THERAPY. I possess an unconditional positive regard for my clients, as I easily see the goodness and gift that each person brings. I desire to assist people to reach their highest potential and identify their purpose. I am invigorated by the work I do and strive to be part of creating more fulfilling, happier lives! I enjoy witnessing others become the best version of themselves, passionate about their interests, communicating better, finding solutions and setting goals!
![Photo of Dr. Gabriella Imbriano, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91542d28-1e25-48fd-8f1b-1cc66510a085/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gabriella Imbriano
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am accepting new private pay and sliding scale clients. I am a licensed (PSY34504) clinical psychologist in California. My approach to psychotherapy is integrative, collaborative, and client-centered. I focus on each client’s goals, values, and strengths to effectively conceptualize a treatment plan that meets the needs of my clients in a timely manner. I specialize in the treatment of trauma & stressful life events, and have expertise in treating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, phobias, OCD, adjustment disorders, relationship challenges, and related concerns.
Welcome! I am accepting new private pay and sliding scale clients. I am a licensed (PSY34504) clinical psychologist in California. My approach to psychotherapy is integrative, collaborative, and client-centered. I focus on each client’s goals, values, and strengths to effectively conceptualize a treatment plan that meets the needs of my clients in a timely manner. I specialize in the treatment of trauma & stressful life events, and have expertise in treating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, phobias, OCD, adjustment disorders, relationship challenges, and related concerns.
![Photo of Andrea D Hayes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bb85666-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Choosing a therapist is often an overwhelming ordeal. How do you know who to choose? What can you expect from this experience? Being vulnerable emotionally often feels intimidating. At the root of it, regardless of their individual issues, most people are simply struggling to be themselves. The human condition yearns for authenticity.... to be the best we can be, to be known and accepted, especially by one's self. I provide a use of humor and a non-judgmental yet very reality based environment where authenticity and self direction can be safely built at your own pace. You will then be able to realize the path that is best for you
Choosing a therapist is often an overwhelming ordeal. How do you know who to choose? What can you expect from this experience? Being vulnerable emotionally often feels intimidating. At the root of it, regardless of their individual issues, most people are simply struggling to be themselves. The human condition yearns for authenticity.... to be the best we can be, to be known and accepted, especially by one's self. I provide a use of humor and a non-judgmental yet very reality based environment where authenticity and self direction can be safely built at your own pace. You will then be able to realize the path that is best for you
![Photo of Samantha Mero, LCSW, EMDR, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbebe15a-5020-40be-88e8-020b8729dcbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Mero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
I work with people-pleasing millennials who want to heal from past emotional wounds and stop self-sabotaging. Do you struggle with anxiety, body image and patterns of self-judgment? Always putting others needs before your own? The traumas and abuse you experience throughout your lifespan- big or small, can warp the way you see yourself, making you question everything, overthink, and cause you to stand in your own way. If this feels relatable, you are not alone. I will work with you to break through these barriers, heal, and create a life that aligns with your values.
I work with people-pleasing millennials who want to heal from past emotional wounds and stop self-sabotaging. Do you struggle with anxiety, body image and patterns of self-judgment? Always putting others needs before your own? The traumas and abuse you experience throughout your lifespan- big or small, can warp the way you see yourself, making you question everything, overthink, and cause you to stand in your own way. If this feels relatable, you are not alone. I will work with you to break through these barriers, heal, and create a life that aligns with your values.
![Photo of Annalisa Sciullo, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/278fe773-f006-4954-bc71-4fe68f5099dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are all traveling on this journey we call life. While it can be full of moments of beauty, joy, and wonder, it can also plunge us into the depths of fear, darkness, and loneliness. We can be trapped in an endless chorus of worry, weighed down by expectations from ourselves and others, full of doubt and struggling to see our own worth or a way forward, and sometimes even our own bodies feel like they are abandoning us. Allow me to be a guide for whatever path you are on. You do not have to do it alone. My specialty areas include helping adults with anxiety, depression, chronic pain and medical conditions, insomnia, and trauma.
We are all traveling on this journey we call life. While it can be full of moments of beauty, joy, and wonder, it can also plunge us into the depths of fear, darkness, and loneliness. We can be trapped in an endless chorus of worry, weighed down by expectations from ourselves and others, full of doubt and struggling to see our own worth or a way forward, and sometimes even our own bodies feel like they are abandoning us. Allow me to be a guide for whatever path you are on. You do not have to do it alone. My specialty areas include helping adults with anxiety, depression, chronic pain and medical conditions, insomnia, and trauma.
![Photo of Sean M Cook, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ccb7934-fc84-45e7-b41d-8802cdbc9f82/2/320x400.jpeg)
I conduct individual, couples, and family work via TeleHealth; and am currently only accepting private pay clients. This allows me to keep a small client base of no more than 12 people, so I am free to offer follow-up treatment and communication for optimal facilitation and navigation. I strive to achieve significant breakthrough and results within 6 sessions of treatment, as efficiently and effectively as possible. Please see my ZenCare profile for more information and an introductory video on the nature of my work. CenCal clients can be referred directly to any number of reliable colleagues at my group practice.
I conduct individual, couples, and family work via TeleHealth; and am currently only accepting private pay clients. This allows me to keep a small client base of no more than 12 people, so I am free to offer follow-up treatment and communication for optimal facilitation and navigation. I strive to achieve significant breakthrough and results within 6 sessions of treatment, as efficiently and effectively as possible. Please see my ZenCare profile for more information and an introductory video on the nature of my work. CenCal clients can be referred directly to any number of reliable colleagues at my group practice.
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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.