Sexual Abuse Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Ellen Faulk, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Faulk
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90067  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you achieve your goals. Having done this work for 30 years the issues that have sadly remained consistent are the high levels of child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. A significant number of people will have an assault in their lifetime, so you are not alone. My doc dissertation was on sexual trauma, resilience (surviving), & posttraumatic growth (thriving). I am dedicated to all types of trauma and see that people can not only get better but they can choose the life they wish to live, often with help of a therapist and a desire to change.
My goal is to help you achieve your goals. Having done this work for 30 years the issues that have sadly remained consistent are the high levels of child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. A significant number of people will have an assault in their lifetime, so you are not alone. My doc dissertation was on sexual trauma, resilience (surviving), & posttraumatic growth (thriving). I am dedicated to all types of trauma and see that people can not only get better but they can choose the life they wish to live, often with help of a therapist and a desire to change.
(424) 353-2338 View (424) 353-2338
Photo of Gretchen Mattox, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gretchen Mattox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
As the Clinical Director of a group practice, EMDR trained, and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. We have offices in Agoura Hills, San Diego, and West LA; successfully treat: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
As the Clinical Director of a group practice, EMDR trained, and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. We have offices in Agoura Hills, San Diego, and West LA; successfully treat: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
(310) 773-4247 View (310) 773-4247
Photo of Milena Lukic, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Milena Lukic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
I specialize in working with trauma survivors. For the past fifteen years, I have been providing therapy to survivors of abusive relationships and intimate-partner violence, sexual abuse, and adult individuals who were molested as children. I am certified in EMDR, an integrative psychotherapy treatment for processing of traumatic memories and adverse experiences and bringing them to an adaptive resolution. I am curious about who my clients are and what they need; I see them as experts of their experiences and I feel honored to be a part of a mutual exploration of their preferred self.
I specialize in working with trauma survivors. For the past fifteen years, I have been providing therapy to survivors of abusive relationships and intimate-partner violence, sexual abuse, and adult individuals who were molested as children. I am certified in EMDR, an integrative psychotherapy treatment for processing of traumatic memories and adverse experiences and bringing them to an adaptive resolution. I am curious about who my clients are and what they need; I see them as experts of their experiences and I feel honored to be a part of a mutual exploration of their preferred self.
(747) 234-2771 View (747) 234-2771
Photo of Rhonda Okonkwo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhonda Okonkwo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I am a survivor who works with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual trauma and/or sex trafficking.
Hey there, I’m Rhonda Stephanie! Do you have trouble managing anxiety and feelings of depression? Do you need assistance in processing a very difficult situation that you experienced?
I am a survivor who works with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual trauma and/or sex trafficking.
Hey there, I’m Rhonda Stephanie! Do you have trouble managing anxiety and feelings of depression? Do you need assistance in processing a very difficult situation that you experienced?
(562) 685-9187 View (562) 685-9187
Photo of Bobbie Emetu, PhD, MPH, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bobbie Emetu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, MPH, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Bobbie (she, her) is an affirming associate therapist that aims to create a safer and supportive space for clients to explore their concerns and work towards their goals. She values and respects the diversity of sexual and gender identities, as well as the inclusivity of all people. Bobbie has experience in sex therapy; sexual health and functioning; sexual abuse and sexual trauma; LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy; gender affirming therapy; couples therapy; emotionally focused therapy; polyamory, non-monogamy, and non-traditional relationship configurations; in addition to kink and BDSM.
Bobbie (she, her) is an affirming associate therapist that aims to create a safer and supportive space for clients to explore their concerns and work towards their goals. She values and respects the diversity of sexual and gender identities, as well as the inclusivity of all people. Bobbie has experience in sex therapy; sexual health and functioning; sexual abuse and sexual trauma; LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy; gender affirming therapy; couples therapy; emotionally focused therapy; polyamory, non-monogamy, and non-traditional relationship configurations; in addition to kink and BDSM.
(323) 672-4145 View (323) 672-4145
Photo of Quinn Viens, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Quinn Viens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
My practice specializes in working with individuals who struggle with addiction and recovery including substances and behavioral addictions and individuals with a history of sexual abuse trauma by assisting them in understanding barriers and forging paths toward progress. Additionally, I enjoy assisting individuals and couples to navigate issues concerning grief, identity, sexuality, relationship hurdles, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges.
My practice specializes in working with individuals who struggle with addiction and recovery including substances and behavioral addictions and individuals with a history of sexual abuse trauma by assisting them in understanding barriers and forging paths toward progress. Additionally, I enjoy assisting individuals and couples to navigate issues concerning grief, identity, sexuality, relationship hurdles, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges.
(213) 816-9716 View (213) 816-9716
Photo of Rossana Sida, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rossana Sida
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor, CA Certified Sexual Assault Counselor, Adjuct Faculty at UMass, Founder of Togetherness Therapy Inc, Learn more by visiting my website at www.
Are relationships supposed to be this hard? When sexual issues keep you from maintaining or obtaining a happy relationship it's time to see a sex therapist. As a sex & relationship specialist, I successfully treat people with issues surrounding sexual desire & performance, sexual trauma, problems with arousal or orgasm, differences in the amount of sex they'd like to have, & sexual pain disorders such as vaginismus. I assist clients in building intimacy by deepening their mutual understanding & compassion (for their often very opposite mate!) and help them stay accountable for taking positive action to improve relationships.
Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor, CA Certified Sexual Assault Counselor, Adjuct Faculty at UMass, Founder of Togetherness Therapy Inc, Learn more by visiting my website at www.
Are relationships supposed to be this hard? When sexual issues keep you from maintaining or obtaining a happy relationship it's time to see a sex therapist. As a sex & relationship specialist, I successfully treat people with issues surrounding sexual desire & performance, sexual trauma, problems with arousal or orgasm, differences in the amount of sex they'd like to have, & sexual pain disorders such as vaginismus. I assist clients in building intimacy by deepening their mutual understanding & compassion (for their often very opposite mate!) and help them stay accountable for taking positive action to improve relationships.
(323) 633-6986 View (323) 633-6986
Photo of Joseph Pelzman - Los Angeles EMDR, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Los Angeles EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Here at Los Angeles EMDR, we provide expert Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. EMDR is a universally recommended treatment for trauma victims suffering from symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other psychological distress. Trauma symptoms can result from experiencing life-threatening, emotionally painful, or chronic negative episodes. These can include: exposure to war, breakdown of a relationship, domestic violence, extra marital affairs, burglaries, armed robberies, traffic accidents, medical complications, physical or sexual abuse, bullying, and discrimination.
Here at Los Angeles EMDR, we provide expert Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. EMDR is a universally recommended treatment for trauma victims suffering from symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other psychological distress. Trauma symptoms can result from experiencing life-threatening, emotionally painful, or chronic negative episodes. These can include: exposure to war, breakdown of a relationship, domestic violence, extra marital affairs, burglaries, armed robberies, traffic accidents, medical complications, physical or sexual abuse, bullying, and discrimination.
(323) 747-7546 View (323) 747-7546
Photo of Ariel L LANDRUM, MA, ATR, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariel L LANDRUM
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 91335  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, military members and their families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with your life? Do you feel you have little support? Perhaps you feel on edge and don’t know how to relax? Do you feel there isn’t enough time in the day? Or your world runs on chronic stress? Maybe you’ve noticed these feelings and have even tried ways to challenge them. Jumped into yoga, didn’t work. Read a self-help book, didn’t work. Sought advice from friends. They didn’t understand. Googled your symptoms. Yeah, that was a bad idea. If you find yourself saying yes, then you're looking at the right profile. Let me be your guide to balance and mental wellness.
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, military members and their families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with your life? Do you feel you have little support? Perhaps you feel on edge and don’t know how to relax? Do you feel there isn’t enough time in the day? Or your world runs on chronic stress? Maybe you’ve noticed these feelings and have even tried ways to challenge them. Jumped into yoga, didn’t work. Read a self-help book, didn’t work. Sought advice from friends. They didn’t understand. Googled your symptoms. Yeah, that was a bad idea. If you find yourself saying yes, then you're looking at the right profile. Let me be your guide to balance and mental wellness.
(323) 792-2573 View (323) 792-2573
Photo of Dr. Gautami Ashok, PsyD, MSc, Psychologist
Dr. Gautami Ashok
Psychologist, PsyD, MSc
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90014
I have experience and interest in working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, history of trauma, relationships, substance use and abuse (including sex addiction), sexually deviant thoughts, sexual abuse, and sexual intimacy.
In dealing with stressors, life events, challenging relationships, and traumatic experiences we develop patterns to keep ourselves safe and sane; which often also limits us. The challenge is unlearning these narratives and trusting our innate wisdom. When we feel safe, secure and accepted for who we are we can begin the process of shedding what doesn’t work for us, while exploring our untapped potential. I believe you are the master of your story; and I hope to create a safe space where we can gain insight about your inner battles, develop skills to enhance holistic development, and realize the potential of your authentic self.
I have experience and interest in working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, history of trauma, relationships, substance use and abuse (including sex addiction), sexually deviant thoughts, sexual abuse, and sexual intimacy.
In dealing with stressors, life events, challenging relationships, and traumatic experiences we develop patterns to keep ourselves safe and sane; which often also limits us. The challenge is unlearning these narratives and trusting our innate wisdom. When we feel safe, secure and accepted for who we are we can begin the process of shedding what doesn’t work for us, while exploring our untapped potential. I believe you are the master of your story; and I hope to create a safe space where we can gain insight about your inner battles, develop skills to enhance holistic development, and realize the potential of your authentic self.
(916) 848-5866 View (916) 848-5866
Photo of Chong Yu, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chong Yu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Most of my practice has been with victims of child sexual abuse, non-offending parents, offending parents and sexually reactive children.
Bi-lingual: Korean-American Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles County - Just minutes from Koreatown and Hancock Park area. Although looking in the mirror may not seem so difficult, looking beyond what is on the surface and into our souls - it can be. What everyone sees on the outside may not be how it feels inside. What seems small to others may be life changing for you. How do you cope with what life brings to you? How is it working for you?
Most of my practice has been with victims of child sexual abuse, non-offending parents, offending parents and sexually reactive children.
Bi-lingual: Korean-American Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles County - Just minutes from Koreatown and Hancock Park area. Although looking in the mirror may not seem so difficult, looking beyond what is on the surface and into our souls - it can be. What everyone sees on the outside may not be how it feels inside. What seems small to others may be life changing for you. How do you cope with what life brings to you? How is it working for you?
(626) 344-9975 View (626) 344-9975
Photo of Elizabeth Muñoz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Muñoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
My passion is helping people struggling with depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem and lacking motivation, social skills, and coping skills.
Hi, I am an experienced Bilingual Spanish/Bi Cultural LCSW Psychotherapist raised in Los Angeles, CA. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California USC. I have been practicing for 12 years.
My passion is helping people struggling with depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem and lacking motivation, social skills, and coping skills.
Hi, I am an experienced Bilingual Spanish/Bi Cultural LCSW Psychotherapist raised in Los Angeles, CA. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California USC. I have been practicing for 12 years.
(562) 573-9451 View (562) 573-9451
Photo of Faith Yoo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Faith Yoo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Let’s empower you to move past your traumas, sexual abuse, or judgements to a place of total acceptance of love and deep healing.
Your story, as a young adult or growing adult, matters. Your story is personal and holds your truth. As your Asian-American Therapist specializing in working with adults & teens, I am here to give you the voice you deserve. Your worth and happiness lies beyond fear and confusion. As a teen or an adult, your fears may cause you to feel judged, excluded, or hurt - closing you off from the world. I guide you to a place where you are seen and understood, so you can feel accepted and loved. Together, we can challenge those harmful thought patterns and help you truly feel good about yourself and your life.
Let’s empower you to move past your traumas, sexual abuse, or judgements to a place of total acceptance of love and deep healing.
Your story, as a young adult or growing adult, matters. Your story is personal and holds your truth. As your Asian-American Therapist specializing in working with adults & teens, I am here to give you the voice you deserve. Your worth and happiness lies beyond fear and confusion. As a teen or an adult, your fears may cause you to feel judged, excluded, or hurt - closing you off from the world. I guide you to a place where you are seen and understood, so you can feel accepted and loved. Together, we can challenge those harmful thought patterns and help you truly feel good about yourself and your life.
(310) 879-5572 View (310) 879-5572
Photo of Zoe Nelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoe Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
(347) 514-6386 View (347) 514-6386
Photo of Leigh Ann Greenfield, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leigh Ann Greenfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to eating disorders, trauma, and general mental health, I have some specialization in working with Dissociative Disorders and survivors of trafficking and extended childhood sexual abuse.
I specialize in treating C-PTSD and eating disorders, but also work with clients seeking healing from depression, anxiety, and general mental health concerns. Whether your trauma is a "Big T" or "Little T" trauma, I believe all our nervous systems need healing and restoration after experiences that leave us confused, unsafe, or disconnected. Whatever you are going through, you'll find a nonjudgmental, supportive space in our work.
In addition to eating disorders, trauma, and general mental health, I have some specialization in working with Dissociative Disorders and survivors of trafficking and extended childhood sexual abuse.
I specialize in treating C-PTSD and eating disorders, but also work with clients seeking healing from depression, anxiety, and general mental health concerns. Whether your trauma is a "Big T" or "Little T" trauma, I believe all our nervous systems need healing and restoration after experiences that leave us confused, unsafe, or disconnected. Whatever you are going through, you'll find a nonjudgmental, supportive space in our work.
(323) 677-2921 View (323) 677-2921
Photo of Rosa C. Shetty, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosa C. Shetty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045  (Online Only)
I have been in the field of trauma healing and recovery since 2007. I specialize in helping women of color (BIPOC) heal from complex childhood trauma and dissociative disorders stemming from sexual abuse. I have advanced training in research-based trauma recovery models: EMDR, Havening, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, and Trauma-Focused Yoga Therapy.
I have been in the field of trauma healing and recovery since 2007. I specialize in helping women of color (BIPOC) heal from complex childhood trauma and dissociative disorders stemming from sexual abuse. I have advanced training in research-based trauma recovery models: EMDR, Havening, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, and Trauma-Focused Yoga Therapy.
(818) 210-4536 View (818) 210-4536
Photo of Patricia Ann Prickett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Ann Prickett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90020  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, sexual abuse/assault and combat veterans and have also served as an expert witness.
I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative process, which occurs in a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. My work with individuals is psychodynamic and insight-oriented, based on the idea that our sense of self is organized around the primary love relationships of early life, and that "mapping" these emotional experiences allows more freedom from self defeating behaviors and promotes the development of new choices. Integration and and processing early relationships can help one move towards a more conscious life in which you accept your past and are able to move towards a future of your own making.
I have extensive training in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, sexual abuse/assault and combat veterans and have also served as an expert witness.
I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative process, which occurs in a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. My work with individuals is psychodynamic and insight-oriented, based on the idea that our sense of self is organized around the primary love relationships of early life, and that "mapping" these emotional experiences allows more freedom from self defeating behaviors and promotes the development of new choices. Integration and and processing early relationships can help one move towards a more conscious life in which you accept your past and are able to move towards a future of your own making.
(213) 344-3506 View (213) 344-3506
Photo of Charlene Underhill Miller, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charlene Underhill Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
My doctoral work focused on specialized care to adults and children who have been affected by sexual abuse and trauma.
I see individuals, couples and children and treat a wide range of issues such as relational problems, self-sabotage, pregnancy and post-partum difficulties, and parenting challenges. I use a psychodynamic perspective, working with my clients in a collaborative and insightful process. Problems are understood within a context of past interpersonal experiences which often help provide understanding to the client's current situation. I am also well prepared to help clients of faith effectively integrate spiritual convictions and concerns with psychological understandings and emotional health.
My doctoral work focused on specialized care to adults and children who have been affected by sexual abuse and trauma.
I see individuals, couples and children and treat a wide range of issues such as relational problems, self-sabotage, pregnancy and post-partum difficulties, and parenting challenges. I use a psychodynamic perspective, working with my clients in a collaborative and insightful process. Problems are understood within a context of past interpersonal experiences which often help provide understanding to the client's current situation. I am also well prepared to help clients of faith effectively integrate spiritual convictions and concerns with psychological understandings and emotional health.
(424) 286-2734 View (424) 286-2734
Photo of Adam Fields, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adam Fields
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Other areas of focus include parenting, aging, and past history of sexual abuse.
Are you living in a sexless relationship? Or perhaps the sex you're having is unsatisfying, or hampered by something specific. My office provides you with a safe, comfortable space to discuss your sexual life, answer your questions, all within the framework of a sex-positive atmosphere. I don't believe in pathologizing someone's sexual behaviors. As an AASECT-certified sex therapist, my philosophy is simple: if it's consensual, and it's not hurting you or your partner(s), your sexuality and all that it entails (your fantasies, experimentation, whatever turns you on) will be supported, nurtured, and listened to without judgment.
Other areas of focus include parenting, aging, and past history of sexual abuse.
Are you living in a sexless relationship? Or perhaps the sex you're having is unsatisfying, or hampered by something specific. My office provides you with a safe, comfortable space to discuss your sexual life, answer your questions, all within the framework of a sex-positive atmosphere. I don't believe in pathologizing someone's sexual behaviors. As an AASECT-certified sex therapist, my philosophy is simple: if it's consensual, and it's not hurting you or your partner(s), your sexuality and all that it entails (your fantasies, experimentation, whatever turns you on) will be supported, nurtured, and listened to without judgment.
(216) 294-3600 View (216) 294-3600
Photo of Joshua Beckett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Beckett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005
Specific trauma includes PTSD, sexual assault, domestic violence.
We often forget that our first experience of the world is a shared one; that by nature we are relational beings. Which is why therapy can be so powerful. My job is to help you move away from the things that no longer work (perhaps never did), and toward a preferred way of being. Our process together is one of discovery & transformation, and honors both what you are and what you are becoming. You and I will collaborate to create an environment that is safe and supportive (I don't do that alone -- only you know what is safe). Through compassion & curiosity, our therapy will find new narratives and make meaning of old ones.
Specific trauma includes PTSD, sexual assault, domestic violence.
We often forget that our first experience of the world is a shared one; that by nature we are relational beings. Which is why therapy can be so powerful. My job is to help you move away from the things that no longer work (perhaps never did), and toward a preferred way of being. Our process together is one of discovery & transformation, and honors both what you are and what you are becoming. You and I will collaborate to create an environment that is safe and supportive (I don't do that alone -- only you know what is safe). Through compassion & curiosity, our therapy will find new narratives and make meaning of old ones.
(310) 928-9781 View (310) 928-9781

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.