Sexual Abuse Therapists in Kensington, CA

Photo of Brandon Quinn, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brandon Quinn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
Clients reach out to me to help them make sense of their lives, to move what feels stuck, and to actively choose how they want to move forward. I work with clients of all intersections with a primary focus on working with survivors of sexual assault, men who are exploring the impacts of masculine conditioning, those looking for tools to move through feelings of anxiety and depression, children who are struggling with bullying, isolation, anxiety, or depression, and couples who are struggling to build intimacy, trust, and connection in their relationship.
Clients reach out to me to help them make sense of their lives, to move what feels stuck, and to actively choose how they want to move forward. I work with clients of all intersections with a primary focus on working with survivors of sexual assault, men who are exploring the impacts of masculine conditioning, those looking for tools to move through feelings of anxiety and depression, children who are struggling with bullying, isolation, anxiety, or depression, and couples who are struggling to build intimacy, trust, and connection in their relationship.
(415) 449-8456 View (415) 449-8456
Photo of Ananda M Patterson, PsyD, Psychologist
Ananda M Patterson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kensington, CA 94707
My practice is dedicated to fostering healing through warm, relational therapy. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life, with special focus on members of the LGBTQIA+ community, those in trauma recovery, and those navigating disability or neurodiversity. I work to create a therapeutic space that fosters trust and human connection. Within this space we can engage in compassionate exploration of lifelong patterns of belief and behaviors, the impacts of trauma and stigma, relationship and intimacy concerns, identity intersections, life transitions, and issues stemming from aging, disability, and/or chronic pain.
My practice is dedicated to fostering healing through warm, relational therapy. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life, with special focus on members of the LGBTQIA+ community, those in trauma recovery, and those navigating disability or neurodiversity. I work to create a therapeutic space that fosters trust and human connection. Within this space we can engage in compassionate exploration of lifelong patterns of belief and behaviors, the impacts of trauma and stigma, relationship and intimacy concerns, identity intersections, life transitions, and issues stemming from aging, disability, and/or chronic pain.
(510) 999-8508 View (510) 999-8508
Photo of Jen Poole, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jen Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
Welcome to my practice. I am a heart-centered therapist who works collaboratively with you. This work supports you in finding the roots of self- limiting beliefs and relationship patterns, and provides tools and techniques for healing, which gives way to inner clarity and freedom. When you are connected to your inner wisdom and intelligence, your life becomes healthy and grounded, relationships are more intimate and loving, and quality of life becomes richer. I use a holistic body-heart-and soul approach with those who are committed to growth and healing.
Welcome to my practice. I am a heart-centered therapist who works collaboratively with you. This work supports you in finding the roots of self- limiting beliefs and relationship patterns, and provides tools and techniques for healing, which gives way to inner clarity and freedom. When you are connected to your inner wisdom and intelligence, your life becomes healthy and grounded, relationships are more intimate and loving, and quality of life becomes richer. I use a holistic body-heart-and soul approach with those who are committed to growth and healing.
(628) 227-5436 View (628) 227-5436
Photo of Tasha B Pera, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tasha B Pera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Kensington, CA 94708
I am currently providing telehealth Hippaa-compliant videoconferencing! We each have the tools within ourselves to make it possible to improve our lives. At times, however, we may be so overwhelmed with difficult circumstances, relationships, or transitions, that we want help from a professional. I have worked with individuals, couples and families who struggle with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, marital and family conflicts, food and substance use. I tend to see many adults, as well as adolescents who mainly suffer with anxiety-related problems. I have a positive and respectful attitude.
I am currently providing telehealth Hippaa-compliant videoconferencing! We each have the tools within ourselves to make it possible to improve our lives. At times, however, we may be so overwhelmed with difficult circumstances, relationships, or transitions, that we want help from a professional. I have worked with individuals, couples and families who struggle with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, marital and family conflicts, food and substance use. I tend to see many adults, as well as adolescents who mainly suffer with anxiety-related problems. I have a positive and respectful attitude.
(510) 400-8075 View (510) 400-8075
Photo of Wendy E Stock, PhD, MSCP, Psychologist
Wendy E Stock
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
Not accepting new clients
I treat couples and individuals, specializing in sexual and relationship problems, sexual abuse and PTSD, as well as depression and anxiety. I know that it takes courage to make that first phone call. Having empathy and even a sense of humor, when appropriate, helps my clients with this initial step. I work together with my clients to identify and change dysfunctional patterns of thought and behavior. My style is warm, direct, and interactive.
I treat couples and individuals, specializing in sexual and relationship problems, sexual abuse and PTSD, as well as depression and anxiety. I know that it takes courage to make that first phone call. Having empathy and even a sense of humor, when appropriate, helps my clients with this initial step. I work together with my clients to identify and change dysfunctional patterns of thought and behavior. My style is warm, direct, and interactive.
(510) 681-0320 View (510) 681-0320

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Devan Haddad, MA, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Devan Haddad
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with all types of trauma survivors, particularly sexual assault survivors.
Welcome! I am a queer psychotherapist working from a social justice and anti-oppression framework. This means that we will work together to understand how the systems of the world and your environment contribute to your life. I strongly believe in the ability we each have to better understand ourselves and heal with the support we need - I am here to guide you in that process.
I have extensive experience working with all types of trauma survivors, particularly sexual assault survivors.
Welcome! I am a queer psychotherapist working from a social justice and anti-oppression framework. This means that we will work together to understand how the systems of the world and your environment contribute to your life. I strongly believe in the ability we each have to better understand ourselves and heal with the support we need - I am here to guide you in that process.
(818) 797-7271 View (818) 797-7271
Photo of Chana Jessica Ceasar, LMFT, IPMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chana Jessica Ceasar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IPMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706  (Online Only)
I specialize in therapy for women who experienced trauma, particularly neglect and sexual abuse, at an early age.
Are you living with the pain of childhood trauma? Do you have a hard time setting boundaries or feeling safe because your trust was violated in the past? Is negative thinking keeping you from feeling confident in yourself and your choices? Even if you’re struggling right now, you do possess inner wisdom that can guide you toward clarity and healing. As your therapist, I will help you reconnect with your body so you can explore your emotions and strengths in a transformative, meaningful way. Collaborating together, we can enhance a sense of empowerment in your life.
I specialize in therapy for women who experienced trauma, particularly neglect and sexual abuse, at an early age.
Are you living with the pain of childhood trauma? Do you have a hard time setting boundaries or feeling safe because your trust was violated in the past? Is negative thinking keeping you from feeling confident in yourself and your choices? Even if you’re struggling right now, you do possess inner wisdom that can guide you toward clarity and healing. As your therapist, I will help you reconnect with your body so you can explore your emotions and strengths in a transformative, meaningful way. Collaborating together, we can enhance a sense of empowerment in your life.
(628) 209-4175 View (628) 209-4175
Photo of Diana L Jones - A Step Forward Inc., Psychologist
A Step Forward Inc.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
We are an incorporated psychotherapy group practice established in 1985. We specialize in working with children, adults, families who are dealing with issues of sexual abuse and/or other forms of trauma. We also provide co-parenting, custody evaluation, forensic evaluation, family reunification, and general psychotherapy services, including couples counseling.
We are an incorporated psychotherapy group practice established in 1985. We specialize in working with children, adults, families who are dealing with issues of sexual abuse and/or other forms of trauma. We also provide co-parenting, custody evaluation, forensic evaluation, family reunification, and general psychotherapy services, including couples counseling.
(925) 278-6160 x1 View (925) 278-6160 x1
Photo of Carolyn H Bray - Carolyn H. Bray, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Carolyn H. Bray, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
In my 30+ years practicing psychotherapy, I have had extensive experience working with adults who are trying to adjust to the problems that life presents to us---a difficult childhood, trauma, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, stress, working with a child who has a difficult mental illness, sexual abuse,couples' relationship struggles (heterosexual, gay, and lesbian), and grief from the loss of someone treasured. Always my treatment goal is to facilitate the improvement in the quality of life for each individual and to look for the creative aspect within the destruction. Healing is a natural process, but sometimes it is difficult to remember that fact.
In my 30+ years practicing psychotherapy, I have had extensive experience working with adults who are trying to adjust to the problems that life presents to us---a difficult childhood, trauma, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, stress, working with a child who has a difficult mental illness, sexual abuse,couples' relationship struggles (heterosexual, gay, and lesbian), and grief from the loss of someone treasured. Always my treatment goal is to facilitate the improvement in the quality of life for each individual and to look for the creative aspect within the destruction. Healing is a natural process, but sometimes it is difficult to remember that fact.
(415) 689-1012 View (415) 689-1012
Photo of H. Ameeta Singh - Virtual + In-Person Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
H. Ameeta Singh - Virtual + In-Person Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
I have supported clients to create healing & change in their lives around sexual abuse; incarceration trauma; substance use; unhealthy relationships; depression; anxiety & other challenges.
I work with clients to cultivate deeper insight & understanding about the ways our life experiences impact our choices & behaviors. I support clients to connect with their sense of agency & power to make changes to unhealthy behaviors & create proactive coping strategies for managing situations they may not be able to change yet. Additionally, I draw upon clients' strengths, culture, spirituality & community as a means of facilitating healing, empowerment & change. My therapeutic approach is grounded in anti-racist & social justice principles & I utilize talk & somatic therapy techniques centered in mindfulness.
I have supported clients to create healing & change in their lives around sexual abuse; incarceration trauma; substance use; unhealthy relationships; depression; anxiety & other challenges.
I work with clients to cultivate deeper insight & understanding about the ways our life experiences impact our choices & behaviors. I support clients to connect with their sense of agency & power to make changes to unhealthy behaviors & create proactive coping strategies for managing situations they may not be able to change yet. Additionally, I draw upon clients' strengths, culture, spirituality & community as a means of facilitating healing, empowerment & change. My therapeutic approach is grounded in anti-racist & social justice principles & I utilize talk & somatic therapy techniques centered in mindfulness.
(415) 723-4309 View (415) 723-4309
Photo of Bill Burmester, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bill Burmester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94710
Waitlist for new clients
I work with survivors of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, in particular with male survivors of sexual abuse.
I have been in private practice as a psychotherapist in Berkeley since 1994, working with adults and teens individually and with couples and groups, on recovering from relationship and betrayal trauma. This trauma may manifest as recurring intrusive reminders of overwhelming and unresolved past experiences and as emotional / somatic distress in your present life. Or it may result from inadequate nurture and protection in childhood (attachment trauma). Often, both contribute to the need and desire for relief and a better life beyond trauma. Individualized trauma therapy addresses the need for a new relationship with your past.
I work with survivors of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, in particular with male survivors of sexual abuse.
I have been in private practice as a psychotherapist in Berkeley since 1994, working with adults and teens individually and with couples and groups, on recovering from relationship and betrayal trauma. This trauma may manifest as recurring intrusive reminders of overwhelming and unresolved past experiences and as emotional / somatic distress in your present life. Or it may result from inadequate nurture and protection in childhood (attachment trauma). Often, both contribute to the need and desire for relief and a better life beyond trauma. Individualized trauma therapy addresses the need for a new relationship with your past.
(510) 574-7508 View (510) 574-7508
Photo of Kara Swedlow, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kara Swedlow
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94701  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in working with sexual abuse and other trauma, shame and self-esteem, and issues unique to artists, performers, writers, and activists.
My work is integrative, blending depth psychology with studies in attachment, neuroscience, and relational and developmental psychology. I am influenced by analytic traditions which contain a focus on trauma, and studies in contemporary neuroscience, which show how our brains process our affective (emotional) experience, particularly in the context of relationship. In addition to discussing your current and historical life experiences in our sessions, we may incorporate your dreams and somatic (body) mindfulness practices, such as exploring body sensations and their emotional counterparts.
I have a special interest in working with sexual abuse and other trauma, shame and self-esteem, and issues unique to artists, performers, writers, and activists.
My work is integrative, blending depth psychology with studies in attachment, neuroscience, and relational and developmental psychology. I am influenced by analytic traditions which contain a focus on trauma, and studies in contemporary neuroscience, which show how our brains process our affective (emotional) experience, particularly in the context of relationship. In addition to discussing your current and historical life experiences in our sessions, we may incorporate your dreams and somatic (body) mindfulness practices, such as exploring body sensations and their emotional counterparts.
(415) 347-8854 View (415) 347-8854
Photo of Ayala Kalisher, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ayala Kalisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94701  (Online Only)
• Desire to have a more fulfilling relationship to your body and sexuality • Healing from past traumas, especially around sexual assault • Psychedelic integration • Wanting a somatic (body based therapy) approach to self exploration and healing.
You are likely here because you are in discomfort or experiencing longing for things to be different. This human experience can be messy and vast. I won't claim to be an expert on you or your lived experience but I will meet you from a place of compassion and explore the terrain with you as we find your path through. Themes people come to explore with me include: •Attachment trauma and CPTSD • Challenges with connection and in relationships (friendships, romantic relationships or familial) • Self-exploration and empowerment • Issues around sex and sexuality including but not limited to shame, pain, confusion or disconnection
• Desire to have a more fulfilling relationship to your body and sexuality • Healing from past traumas, especially around sexual assault • Psychedelic integration • Wanting a somatic (body based therapy) approach to self exploration and healing.
You are likely here because you are in discomfort or experiencing longing for things to be different. This human experience can be messy and vast. I won't claim to be an expert on you or your lived experience but I will meet you from a place of compassion and explore the terrain with you as we find your path through. Themes people come to explore with me include: •Attachment trauma and CPTSD • Challenges with connection and in relationships (friendships, romantic relationships or familial) • Self-exploration and empowerment • Issues around sex and sexuality including but not limited to shame, pain, confusion or disconnection
(510) 988-5609 View (510) 988-5609
Photo of Jamie Sansivero, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Sansivero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Jamie creates a safe, compassionate, judgment-free space for her patients to work on what is important to them. She helps with academic issues, body image, self-esteem, self-harm, and sexual assault. Jamie is flexible in employing different approaches to best suit each patient’s needs and personality.
Jamie creates a safe, compassionate, judgment-free space for her patients to work on what is important to them. She helps with academic issues, body image, self-esteem, self-harm, and sexual assault. Jamie is flexible in employing different approaches to best suit each patient’s needs and personality.
(510) 405-5514 View (510) 405-5514
Photo of Danielle Elissa Comerford Worth - Danielle Comerford Worth, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Comerford Worth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94701  (Online Only)
We explore a host of issues, including: emotionally rooted physiologic ailments, medical trauma, PTSD, developmental trauma, grief, energetic sensitivity, assault, boundary setting, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, addiction, codependency, and transitional and relational struggles.
As humans, we are brilliantly complex, wired for connection, attachment, and survival. Our experience of joy and suffering are innately human and are connected to our physical and emotional wellness--inseparable realms. In somatic psychotherapy we hold space for the body to have a language of its own, honoring what it has to say, so that we may more clearly see what is beneath the surface. As a somatic psychotherapist, I am a collaborator, guide and mirror, supporting you in increasing your own sense of exploration of conscious and unconscious patterns of behaviors, beliefs, body signals and cues.
We explore a host of issues, including: emotionally rooted physiologic ailments, medical trauma, PTSD, developmental trauma, grief, energetic sensitivity, assault, boundary setting, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, addiction, codependency, and transitional and relational struggles.
As humans, we are brilliantly complex, wired for connection, attachment, and survival. Our experience of joy and suffering are innately human and are connected to our physical and emotional wellness--inseparable realms. In somatic psychotherapy we hold space for the body to have a language of its own, honoring what it has to say, so that we may more clearly see what is beneath the surface. As a somatic psychotherapist, I am a collaborator, guide and mirror, supporting you in increasing your own sense of exploration of conscious and unconscious patterns of behaviors, beliefs, body signals and cues.
(510) 345-1765 View (510) 345-1765
Photo of Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio, MA, LMFT, AASECT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I specialize in embodied intimacy and sexuality: relationships, childhood sexual abuse, sexual shame, body image, gender questioning, LGBTQIA, boundary setting in the nuances of consent, inhibition, sexual body concerns (i.
Seeking to deepen your intimacy in relationships with romantic and/or non-romantic partners? Desiring a fuller sexual expression & pleasure in your experience? Have you desired to enliven your sex life? Or, perhaps you are desiring restorative healing, justice, & repair from childhood sexual abuse / have had non-consensual, sexual experiences; either being the victim or the transgressor and require integral support. I can help you. I facilitate individuals and couples heal and recover from personal, collective, and intergenerational trauma to come back into authentic, embodied connection through intimacy from the inside out.
I specialize in embodied intimacy and sexuality: relationships, childhood sexual abuse, sexual shame, body image, gender questioning, LGBTQIA, boundary setting in the nuances of consent, inhibition, sexual body concerns (i.
Seeking to deepen your intimacy in relationships with romantic and/or non-romantic partners? Desiring a fuller sexual expression & pleasure in your experience? Have you desired to enliven your sex life? Or, perhaps you are desiring restorative healing, justice, & repair from childhood sexual abuse / have had non-consensual, sexual experiences; either being the victim or the transgressor and require integral support. I can help you. I facilitate individuals and couples heal and recover from personal, collective, and intergenerational trauma to come back into authentic, embodied connection through intimacy from the inside out.
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Photo of Belinda Garcia Uriarte de Roehl, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Belinda Garcia Uriarte de Roehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
I've worked with victims of crime, children and youth, specialized in 0-5 years old during graduate school, domestic violence, sexual abuse, vocational rehabilitation with youth and adults with disabilities, and mediation in family court.
Working in non profits and government services for 20 plus years both in San Francisco and Alameda County, has taught me the art of appreciating people for who they are, keeping an open mind and helping them see their own strength within. I am very excited to be in private practice. Working with couples , parents, and individuals. I am very curious and passionate about non traditional coupling, open relationships, polyamory, issues of infidelity and the sexual needs of couples and individuals. I believe that we can heal intuitively and I look forward to meeting people willing to share that journey with me.
I've worked with victims of crime, children and youth, specialized in 0-5 years old during graduate school, domestic violence, sexual abuse, vocational rehabilitation with youth and adults with disabilities, and mediation in family court.
Working in non profits and government services for 20 plus years both in San Francisco and Alameda County, has taught me the art of appreciating people for who they are, keeping an open mind and helping them see their own strength within. I am very excited to be in private practice. Working with couples , parents, and individuals. I am very curious and passionate about non traditional coupling, open relationships, polyamory, issues of infidelity and the sexual needs of couples and individuals. I believe that we can heal intuitively and I look forward to meeting people willing to share that journey with me.
(510) 216-1720 View (510) 216-1720
Photo of Liz Abrams, PhD, Psychologist
Liz Abrams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Stress and trauma can take many forms. Sometimes we survive an event such as a car accident, wildfire, assault, or military-related event. Or we may notice chronic struggles with trusting others and ourselves, and feeling stressed and unsatisfied in our relationships. The experience of trauma can significantly impact how we change or grow in each present moment, how we connect and separate from others, and how we experiment, take risks, and resource our creativity. Let's co-create a therapy relationship that works to support the development of loving relationships with self and others.
Stress and trauma can take many forms. Sometimes we survive an event such as a car accident, wildfire, assault, or military-related event. Or we may notice chronic struggles with trusting others and ourselves, and feeling stressed and unsatisfied in our relationships. The experience of trauma can significantly impact how we change or grow in each present moment, how we connect and separate from others, and how we experiment, take risks, and resource our creativity. Let's co-create a therapy relationship that works to support the development of loving relationships with self and others.
(510) 851-8667 View (510) 851-8667
Photo of Corina Martinez, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corina Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94720  (Online Only)
For women navigating life's complexities - balancing relationships, careers, & self-connection among childhood traumas, such as neglect, and emotional, psychological, or sexual abuse - my tailored support is here for you. I assist in exploring the grips of challenging family & romantic relationships, overcoming self-discovery obstacles, & navigating people-pleasing behaviors, all stemming from your traumas. I guide you through the healing process, assisting you in seeking balance, being more present, reminding you of your resilience, and ultimately witnessing your joy being reclaimed. Let's embark on this journey together!
For women navigating life's complexities - balancing relationships, careers, & self-connection among childhood traumas, such as neglect, and emotional, psychological, or sexual abuse - my tailored support is here for you. I assist in exploring the grips of challenging family & romantic relationships, overcoming self-discovery obstacles, & navigating people-pleasing behaviors, all stemming from your traumas. I guide you through the healing process, assisting you in seeking balance, being more present, reminding you of your resilience, and ultimately witnessing your joy being reclaimed. Let's embark on this journey together!
(424) 484-6892 View (424) 484-6892
Photo of Greg Kaplan, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Greg Kaplan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
34 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
EMDR studies show high degrees of effectiveness with the following conditions: Fears or Depression related to Trauma, Surviving Childhood Abuse, Performance & Test Anxiety, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Anxiety/Panic Attacks, Surviving an Assault or Robbery, Surviving Rape or an Accident, Witnessing Violence, Loss or Injury of a Loved One, Childhood Trauma.
My primary area of focus has been working with people who suffer from trauma and anxiety, in addition to depression. I do much work with those who suffer from emotional neglect, abuse histories, & post-traumatic stress (PTSD). I'm certified in EMDR and am continually impressed at the ability of something so simple to so rapidly relieve pain and suffering. EMDR has been listed as one of the leading trauma therapies. It can also be very effective in helping those who suffer from a childhood history of family difficulties and a lack of nurturing. Also trained in Somatic Experiencing.
EMDR studies show high degrees of effectiveness with the following conditions: Fears or Depression related to Trauma, Surviving Childhood Abuse, Performance & Test Anxiety, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Anxiety/Panic Attacks, Surviving an Assault or Robbery, Surviving Rape or an Accident, Witnessing Violence, Loss or Injury of a Loved One, Childhood Trauma.
My primary area of focus has been working with people who suffer from trauma and anxiety, in addition to depression. I do much work with those who suffer from emotional neglect, abuse histories, & post-traumatic stress (PTSD). I'm certified in EMDR and am continually impressed at the ability of something so simple to so rapidly relieve pain and suffering. EMDR has been listed as one of the leading trauma therapies. It can also be very effective in helping those who suffer from a childhood history of family difficulties and a lack of nurturing. Also trained in Somatic Experiencing.
(510) 863-8101 View (510) 863-8101

See more therapy options for Kensington

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.