Sexual Abuse Therapists in Los Altos, CA

Photo of Amy Markoff Johnson, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amy Markoff Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
My passion and purpose is working with survivors of complex relational trauma. You may be living with the effects of infidelity, domestic violence, sexual abuse, or addiction, or the stress of parenting a child with a chronic illness or disability. Or you may be seeking a therapist for your pre-teen or adolescent who is experiencing anxiety, family stress, or feeling they don't fit in with peers. You may also be a member of a marginalized group affected by systemic traumas. These kinds of relational wounds require relational healing. I will work with you to build a safe, supportive space for this healing work in therapy.
My passion and purpose is working with survivors of complex relational trauma. You may be living with the effects of infidelity, domestic violence, sexual abuse, or addiction, or the stress of parenting a child with a chronic illness or disability. Or you may be seeking a therapist for your pre-teen or adolescent who is experiencing anxiety, family stress, or feeling they don't fit in with peers. You may also be a member of a marginalized group affected by systemic traumas. These kinds of relational wounds require relational healing. I will work with you to build a safe, supportive space for this healing work in therapy.
(650) 582-3072 View (650) 582-3072
Photo of Jayn Rajandran - Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
(650) 727-1761 View (650) 727-1761
Photo of Elizabeth C Basile, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth C Basile
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
Domestic violence, sexual assault, and eating disorders all share the feature of trying to convince people of their unworthiness and failure.
I enjoy working with people who would like to change their relationship with problems in their lives, and gain power over these problems and their effects. I have extensive training and experience working with people affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and eating disorders. In addition, I meet with people who are affected by chronic medical conditions and parent/teen conflict. I view people as having ideas about how they would like to be in life and in relationships; yet, problems can disconnect people from their ideas and identities, influencing them to act in unsatisfactory ways.
Domestic violence, sexual assault, and eating disorders all share the feature of trying to convince people of their unworthiness and failure.
I enjoy working with people who would like to change their relationship with problems in their lives, and gain power over these problems and their effects. I have extensive training and experience working with people affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and eating disorders. In addition, I meet with people who are affected by chronic medical conditions and parent/teen conflict. I view people as having ideas about how they would like to be in life and in relationships; yet, problems can disconnect people from their ideas and identities, influencing them to act in unsatisfactory ways.
(408) 214-8554 View (408) 214-8554
Photo of Heather Johns - Anxiety And Trauma Therapist, MA, LPCC
Heather Johns - Anxiety And Trauma Therapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024
I have a passion for working with survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other traumas experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.
If you are a survivor of trauma, I am here to help you regain a sense of safety and wholeness. Together we can significantly reduce the negative effects that these events continue to have on your life. As a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I work to create a safe and judgement-free space where my client and I can walk along their healing journey together, gaining insight, learning coping skills, and building resiliency along the way.
I have a passion for working with survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other traumas experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.
If you are a survivor of trauma, I am here to help you regain a sense of safety and wholeness. Together we can significantly reduce the negative effects that these events continue to have on your life. As a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I work to create a safe and judgement-free space where my client and I can walk along their healing journey together, gaining insight, learning coping skills, and building resiliency along the way.
(619) 612-5085 View (619) 612-5085
Photo of Susan M Lindblade - Susan Lindblade, LMFT-AT, LMFT, AT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Lindblade, LMFT-AT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Populations treated also include teens struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, social conflicts, low self esteem, ADHD, Autism spectrum, grief, and eating disorders.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Art Therapist, I offer a genuine and non judgmental approach to helping individuals who are seeking to improve their relational and emotional well being. My experience includes working with adults, couples, adolescents, and school aged children.
Populations treated also include teens struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, social conflicts, low self esteem, ADHD, Autism spectrum, grief, and eating disorders.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Art Therapist, I offer a genuine and non judgmental approach to helping individuals who are seeking to improve their relational and emotional well being. My experience includes working with adults, couples, adolescents, and school aged children.
(415) 856-9726 View (415) 856-9726
Photo of Karen Wride, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Wride
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024
); and anger, trauma (including domestic violence and sexual abuse).
In many ways good psychotherapy is like a successful remodel, frequently resulting in a stronger and more spacious sense of one's self, lovely new rooms, remarkable views and better access to the world outside (and in). The journey of self-discovery takes courage, but increasing one's awareness of old limitations and obstacles, and developing the ability to gently and carefully dismantle and rebuild where necessary is incredibly rewarding -- often beyond what we can imagine. I believe that it's a collaborative journey on which we embark, moving together towards creating a more fulfilling and rewarding life for you.
); and anger, trauma (including domestic violence and sexual abuse).
In many ways good psychotherapy is like a successful remodel, frequently resulting in a stronger and more spacious sense of one's self, lovely new rooms, remarkable views and better access to the world outside (and in). The journey of self-discovery takes courage, but increasing one's awareness of old limitations and obstacles, and developing the ability to gently and carefully dismantle and rebuild where necessary is incredibly rewarding -- often beyond what we can imagine. I believe that it's a collaborative journey on which we embark, moving together towards creating a more fulfilling and rewarding life for you.
(650) 668-4089 View (650) 668-4089
Photo of Chally Grundwag, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chally Grundwag
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024
I have extensive training in supporting survivors of sexual assault, and in trauma informed care.
I'm here to support you in your journey to regain trust in your unique strengths and overcome life's challenging situations, reach your goals, and make your life happier and more meaningful. In our sessions you will be invited to explore your deep values and motivations, and identify which aspects of your life help you move forwards, and how to separate from patterns and behaviors that are no longer useful for you. If you are an adult or a teen who suffer from anxiety, depression, burn-out, academic stress, PTSD, Sexual Trauma, relationship issues, or low self esteem, please don't give up. There is hope, and healing is possible.
I have extensive training in supporting survivors of sexual assault, and in trauma informed care.
I'm here to support you in your journey to regain trust in your unique strengths and overcome life's challenging situations, reach your goals, and make your life happier and more meaningful. In our sessions you will be invited to explore your deep values and motivations, and identify which aspects of your life help you move forwards, and how to separate from patterns and behaviors that are no longer useful for you. If you are an adult or a teen who suffer from anxiety, depression, burn-out, academic stress, PTSD, Sexual Trauma, relationship issues, or low self esteem, please don't give up. There is hope, and healing is possible.
(650) 479-1401 View (650) 479-1401
Photo of Kristen Zimmermann, MA, APCC, CCTS-I
Kristen Zimmermann
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety- whether it’s due to sexual abuse, relationship struggles, or challenges from your upbringing.
Do you find yourself stuck in unwanted patterns? Are you overwhelmed with past experiences that seem to still be lingering? Are you wrestling with anxiety and difficult emotions? I believe that healing is possible! I believe so many of us stay stuck because we do not have the right support for healing. While having an outlet to talk or vent can be helpful, my approach involves working more directly with the root cause of the issue, which is stored in our nervous system. I enjoy helping client’s make sense of what’s going on, so we can compassionately resolve the identified problems and achieve their goals.
I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety- whether it’s due to sexual abuse, relationship struggles, or challenges from your upbringing.
Do you find yourself stuck in unwanted patterns? Are you overwhelmed with past experiences that seem to still be lingering? Are you wrestling with anxiety and difficult emotions? I believe that healing is possible! I believe so many of us stay stuck because we do not have the right support for healing. While having an outlet to talk or vent can be helpful, my approach involves working more directly with the root cause of the issue, which is stored in our nervous system. I enjoy helping client’s make sense of what’s going on, so we can compassionately resolve the identified problems and achieve their goals.
(619) 639-8465 View (619) 639-8465
Photo of Lindsey Stewart, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsey Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I work with: depression, trauma, CPTSD, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, chronic pain/illness, birth trauma, crime survivors, high conflict divorce, domestic violence, betrayal trauma, life transitions, sexual abuse, child loss & grief, therapists/medical providers, first responders.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the pain & confusion of a relationship that should have brought you joy? Maybe you've endured the trauma of a crime, the gaslighting of narcissistic abuse, or the deep wounds of betrayal. Maybe you are struggling with divorce or memories of childhood trauma. Even though anxiety & depression are normal responses to such circumstances, there is still hope that things can be different. Together, we can navigate these turbulent emotions & find a path toward healing, strength, & renewal. Getting help today will allow you to live a life filled with peace & meaningful connections.
I work with: depression, trauma, CPTSD, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, chronic pain/illness, birth trauma, crime survivors, high conflict divorce, domestic violence, betrayal trauma, life transitions, sexual abuse, child loss & grief, therapists/medical providers, first responders.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the pain & confusion of a relationship that should have brought you joy? Maybe you've endured the trauma of a crime, the gaslighting of narcissistic abuse, or the deep wounds of betrayal. Maybe you are struggling with divorce or memories of childhood trauma. Even though anxiety & depression are normal responses to such circumstances, there is still hope that things can be different. Together, we can navigate these turbulent emotions & find a path toward healing, strength, & renewal. Getting help today will allow you to live a life filled with peace & meaningful connections.
(916) 414-9764 View (916) 414-9764
Photo of Marty G Schein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marty G Schein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
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.
(559) 344-8008 View (559) 344-8008
Photo of Janina Scarlet, PhD, Psychologist
Janina Scarlet
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024  (Online Only)
Do you often feel disconnected from others? Do you pretend to be “fine” while you’re actually struggling on the inside? Do you have a hard time managing your symptoms? I understand your pain. I specialize in working with people with trauma and PTSD, including assault, physical and emotional abuse, bullying, neglect, abandonment, and narcissistic abuse. I also treat grief, burnout, and stress. I have many years of experience working with mental health providers and other healthcare professionals. I am a LGBTQIA-affirming provider, as well as a body positivity provider, and I offer neurodiversity-affirming care.
Do you often feel disconnected from others? Do you pretend to be “fine” while you’re actually struggling on the inside? Do you have a hard time managing your symptoms? I understand your pain. I specialize in working with people with trauma and PTSD, including assault, physical and emotional abuse, bullying, neglect, abandonment, and narcissistic abuse. I also treat grief, burnout, and stress. I have many years of experience working with mental health providers and other healthcare professionals. I am a LGBTQIA-affirming provider, as well as a body positivity provider, and I offer neurodiversity-affirming care.
(858) 260-3499 View (858) 260-3499
Photo of Natalie Lin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Lin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy to adults. I offer a collaborative, direct and non-judgmental approach empowering you to use your strengths, expertise and abilities to find meaning and purpose during life's toughest transitions. Through the dynamic relationship of therapy, I can help you uncover frustrating patterns and behaviors, build insight and awareness to develop and sustain healthier relationships, and move towards healing. Taking the next step to talk with someone is vulnerable, but often life altering and healing in itself.
I provide individual therapy to adults. I offer a collaborative, direct and non-judgmental approach empowering you to use your strengths, expertise and abilities to find meaning and purpose during life's toughest transitions. Through the dynamic relationship of therapy, I can help you uncover frustrating patterns and behaviors, build insight and awareness to develop and sustain healthier relationships, and move towards healing. Taking the next step to talk with someone is vulnerable, but often life altering and healing in itself.
(650) 753-6324 View (650) 753-6324
Photo of Aria Kenney, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aria Kenney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024
I am a psychotherapist providing individual therapy services to adults and adolescents. My clients often come to me having experienced significant pain in their lives. Together, we work to explore and heal those wounds. In our sessions, we'll prioritize a pace that feels both comfortable yet stimulating—creating a balance between safety and growth. My hope is that this space becomes one where you can simply be, without judgment or expectation, as we navigate through your emotions and experiences.
I am a psychotherapist providing individual therapy services to adults and adolescents. My clients often come to me having experienced significant pain in their lives. Together, we work to explore and heal those wounds. In our sessions, we'll prioritize a pace that feels both comfortable yet stimulating—creating a balance between safety and growth. My hope is that this space becomes one where you can simply be, without judgment or expectation, as we navigate through your emotions and experiences.
(408) 762-4614 View (408) 762-4614
Photo of Christopher Sato-Perry, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Christopher Sato-Perry
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
For over 24 years, I've collaborated with people to resolve their psychological trauma, phobias, anxiety & stress as well as maximize responses to their medical diagnoses, treatments & conditions. This clinical focus stems from both a personal medical challenge since age 12 and research on treating women with breast cancer and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet Kaiser research (1998) finding 70% of primary care visits are driven by mental, emotional and relational issues highlights how mind and body are interwoven for each of us. This interplay provides leverage for preventive medicine, for responding to illness and for maximizing peak performance.
For over 24 years, I've collaborated with people to resolve their psychological trauma, phobias, anxiety & stress as well as maximize responses to their medical diagnoses, treatments & conditions. This clinical focus stems from both a personal medical challenge since age 12 and research on treating women with breast cancer and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet Kaiser research (1998) finding 70% of primary care visits are driven by mental, emotional and relational issues highlights how mind and body are interwoven for each of us. This interplay provides leverage for preventive medicine, for responding to illness and for maximizing peak performance.
(650) 440-7197 View (650) 440-7197
Photo of Rashmi Nayak, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rashmi Nayak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
As a relationship-focused therapist, I understand the complexities of human connection. Are you feeling isolated, replaying past experiences, or longing for deeper relationships? Perhaps you're seeking to reconnect with your true self and create more meaningful bonds. Recognizing these feelings is the first step to healing. In a safe, compassionate space, I’m here to help you explore these emotions, uncover your strengths, and identify patterns that may be holding you back from the fulfilling connections you seek.
As a relationship-focused therapist, I understand the complexities of human connection. Are you feeling isolated, replaying past experiences, or longing for deeper relationships? Perhaps you're seeking to reconnect with your true self and create more meaningful bonds. Recognizing these feelings is the first step to healing. In a safe, compassionate space, I’m here to help you explore these emotions, uncover your strengths, and identify patterns that may be holding you back from the fulfilling connections you seek.
(510) 241-4107 View (510) 241-4107
Photo of Ziba Taghipour, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ziba Taghipour
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
For more than a decade, I have successfully helped individuals, couples, and families find greater clarity about what they want their life to stand for and how to pursue that life. Within a supportive therapeutic relationship, I help my clients attain the vibrant and valued life they desire. My approach in therapy is active. I work based on the assumption that clients are able to achieve rapid and significant changes in their behaviors. The interventions used in this approach help clients access alternative ways of "problem solving" that utilize the resources beyond the "common-sense" mind. https://effective-therapy.com/
For more than a decade, I have successfully helped individuals, couples, and families find greater clarity about what they want their life to stand for and how to pursue that life. Within a supportive therapeutic relationship, I help my clients attain the vibrant and valued life they desire. My approach in therapy is active. I work based on the assumption that clients are able to achieve rapid and significant changes in their behaviors. The interventions used in this approach help clients access alternative ways of "problem solving" that utilize the resources beyond the "common-sense" mind. https://effective-therapy.com/
(408) 384-9959 View (408) 384-9959
Photo of Sonia Aldape, LCSW, CA91224, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Aldape
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CA91224
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
Hi and welcome! I am a relationship, trauma, neurodiversity and culture informed therapist. If you feel that you are, are going through, have seen or lived through "too much," I offer you professional and compassionate support honoring your unique experiences, recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, speak your truth and trust someone new. I am passionate about helping you not just cope in life but find your way to lasting peace, liberation and healing through the power of your innate wisdom and our collaborative alliance. It would be a great honor to be considered as your therapist and a privilege to join you on your path.
Hi and welcome! I am a relationship, trauma, neurodiversity and culture informed therapist. If you feel that you are, are going through, have seen or lived through "too much," I offer you professional and compassionate support honoring your unique experiences, recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, speak your truth and trust someone new. I am passionate about helping you not just cope in life but find your way to lasting peace, liberation and healing through the power of your innate wisdom and our collaborative alliance. It would be a great honor to be considered as your therapist and a privilege to join you on your path.
(650) 910-1486 View (650) 910-1486
Photo of Theresa E Chesnut, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa E Chesnut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
Once you make the decision to seek therapy, finding a therapist who "gets you" is the key element in starting the process. I focus on: eating disorders, trauma resolution / PTSD, adolescents in crisis, and elite athletes. As a psychodynamic therapist, my goal is to help clients uncover their true potential and lead a meaningful life; it's about having a life that becomes worth celebrating.
Once you make the decision to seek therapy, finding a therapist who "gets you" is the key element in starting the process. I focus on: eating disorders, trauma resolution / PTSD, adolescents in crisis, and elite athletes. As a psychodynamic therapist, my goal is to help clients uncover their true potential and lead a meaningful life; it's about having a life that becomes worth celebrating.
(650) 206-4505 View (650) 206-4505
Photo of Therese Frey, MA, LMFT, MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Therese Frey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MAC
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Are you relying on unhealthy habits to cope with stress, anxiety, depression or life's challenges? Is it time to make some changes in your life but you feel stuck and don't know where to begin? Are you tired of feeling lonely, empty, sad or misunderstood? Do you struggle with allowing yourself to feel vulnerable with others? Does a healthy work-life balance seem impossible for you? If any of these questions ring true for you, some support might be just what you need.
Are you relying on unhealthy habits to cope with stress, anxiety, depression or life's challenges? Is it time to make some changes in your life but you feel stuck and don't know where to begin? Are you tired of feeling lonely, empty, sad or misunderstood? Do you struggle with allowing yourself to feel vulnerable with others? Does a healthy work-life balance seem impossible for you? If any of these questions ring true for you, some support might be just what you need.
(408) 837-7610 View (408) 837-7610
Photo of Sharon C. Greenberg, PhD, Psychologist
Sharon C. Greenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Looking for a psychologist is difficult. It is important to find someone who is a close match with your needs. I approach therapy with an active style, providing direct feedback in a supportive manner. For more than thirty years, I have been successfully helping individuals and couples through Emotionally Focused Therapy, find greater enjoyment in life. For therapy to work, I believe that the therapist needs to care about, and feel connected to, the individuals he or she works with. Psychotherapy is not just a job; helping people get better and live their life in a fuller happier way is something I strive for.
Looking for a psychologist is difficult. It is important to find someone who is a close match with your needs. I approach therapy with an active style, providing direct feedback in a supportive manner. For more than thirty years, I have been successfully helping individuals and couples through Emotionally Focused Therapy, find greater enjoyment in life. For therapy to work, I believe that the therapist needs to care about, and feel connected to, the individuals he or she works with. Psychotherapy is not just a job; helping people get better and live their life in a fuller happier way is something I strive for.
(650) 590-5759 View (650) 590-5759
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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.