Sexual Abuse Therapists in Palo Alto, CA

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
Palo Alto, CA 94301
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 Chally Grundwag, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chally Grundwag
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94303
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 Grace N Flier, AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Grace N Flier
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306
With over four years of experience in healthcare, I bring expertise in trauma, sexual abuse, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship dynamics within couples and families.
Whatever journey you are on, you deserve a compassionate listener who can navigate your concerns and worries. I specialize in supporting individuals, families, and couples through internal struggles, trauma, and relationship challenges. My goal is to help you transform conflicts into opportunities for growth, celebrating the resilience within you.
With over four years of experience in healthcare, I bring expertise in trauma, sexual abuse, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship dynamics within couples and families.
Whatever journey you are on, you deserve a compassionate listener who can navigate your concerns and worries. I specialize in supporting individuals, families, and couples through internal struggles, trauma, and relationship challenges. My goal is to help you transform conflicts into opportunities for growth, celebrating the resilience within you.
(650) 789-5604 View (650) 789-5604
Photo of Gloria M Kardong, MD, DFAPA, DABPN
Gloria M Kardong
MD, DFAPA, DABPN
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (Online Only)
In addition, I have a specialty in Women's Health Care, eg pregnancy and postpartum-related problems, infertility, gynecologic oncology, menopause, PMS and other hormonal issues, PTSD/childhood sexual abuse, weight, eating disorders, sexuality and relationships.
I am a psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and/or psychopharmacology, depending on the client's needs. I believe it is important to offer individualized care based on the client's problems, concerns and preferences. My style is warm, collaborative and interactive. I can help with a practical, solution-focused approach for current problems. I also do exploratory therapy to address unresolved issues from the past that may be interfering with living your life as fully as possible. My clients also seek depth therapy to promote personal growth, insight and self awareness. LICENSED IN 20 STATES--Virtual therapy and med management.
In addition, I have a specialty in Women's Health Care, eg pregnancy and postpartum-related problems, infertility, gynecologic oncology, menopause, PMS and other hormonal issues, PTSD/childhood sexual abuse, weight, eating disorders, sexuality and relationships.
I am a psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and/or psychopharmacology, depending on the client's needs. I believe it is important to offer individualized care based on the client's problems, concerns and preferences. My style is warm, collaborative and interactive. I can help with a practical, solution-focused approach for current problems. I also do exploratory therapy to address unresolved issues from the past that may be interfering with living your life as fully as possible. My clients also seek depth therapy to promote personal growth, insight and self awareness. LICENSED IN 20 STATES--Virtual therapy and med management.
(650) 800-5502 View (650) 800-5502
Photo of Nazanin Khatami, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nazanin Khatami
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I have worked with sexual assault survivors, trauma, depression, stress and anxiety, with different modalities.
This-is-important! It won’t go away when you turn your back. It won’t sort itself out while you distract yourself with other things. You may well need a hand in resolving things but only YOU can take the first step and ask for that help, which we are all PERFECTLY allowed to need sometimes. Resilience isn’t about never being angry, sad, fearful or guilty. It is about knowing how to respond appropriately.
I have worked with sexual assault survivors, trauma, depression, stress and anxiety, with different modalities.
This-is-important! It won’t go away when you turn your back. It won’t sort itself out while you distract yourself with other things. You may well need a hand in resolving things but only YOU can take the first step and ask for that help, which we are all PERFECTLY allowed to need sometimes. Resilience isn’t about never being angry, sad, fearful or guilty. It is about knowing how to respond appropriately.
(650) 300-0481 View (650) 300-0481
Photo of Peter Seimas - A Center for Growth - Peter Seimas, Ph.D., PhD, Pastoral Counselor
A Center for Growth - Peter Seimas, Ph.D.
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Marriage Counseling, Conflict Resolution, Divorce Prevention/Mediation, Dealing with Marital and Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, OCD: Scrupulosity OCD, Religious OCD, Sexual OCD & All Subtypes of OCD, Addiction Therapy, Partner Sexual Abuse Recovery, Being a true communicator- business, family, and friends, dealing with conflict.
Pastoral Counselor: Pastoral Marriage and Family Counselor, & Certified Conflict Resolution Mediator, Ph.D. in Pastoral Counseling - Atlantic Coast Seminary, Ph.D. in Theology - Atlantic Coast Seminary, MA in Counseling Psychology Marriage and Family Therapy - University of San Francisco, MDiv - St. Patrick’s Seminary & University, BA in Business Management - San Jose State University, Clinical Pastoral Counseling Training (CPE) - Stanford University Hospital and Clinics Conflict Resolution Mediation Certification - National Conflict Resolution Center Sex Addiction Training - American Association for Sex Addiction Therapy (AASAT).
Marriage Counseling, Conflict Resolution, Divorce Prevention/Mediation, Dealing with Marital and Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, OCD: Scrupulosity OCD, Religious OCD, Sexual OCD & All Subtypes of OCD, Addiction Therapy, Partner Sexual Abuse Recovery, Being a true communicator- business, family, and friends, dealing with conflict.
Pastoral Counselor: Pastoral Marriage and Family Counselor, & Certified Conflict Resolution Mediator, Ph.D. in Pastoral Counseling - Atlantic Coast Seminary, Ph.D. in Theology - Atlantic Coast Seminary, MA in Counseling Psychology Marriage and Family Therapy - University of San Francisco, MDiv - St. Patrick’s Seminary & University, BA in Business Management - San Jose State University, Clinical Pastoral Counseling Training (CPE) - Stanford University Hospital and Clinics Conflict Resolution Mediation Certification - National Conflict Resolution Center Sex Addiction Training - American Association for Sex Addiction Therapy (AASAT).
(408) 590-5847 View (408) 590-5847
Photo of Dr. Tim Baima - Tim Baima Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy Inc, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Baima Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I have found that clients are often struggling to shield themselves and their relationships from a relentless assault of external stressors.
I specialize in working with families, couples, and children & adolescents. I strive to form relationships with my clients built upon trust, authenticity and collaboration. Working together we are able to open and expand possibilities to heal from pain, transform destructive cycles, and grow towards richer, more satisfying lives and relationships. Relationships often get stuck because we are unaware of ways we have hurt others and been hurt ourselves. Sometimes our best efforts to make things better seem to exacerbate the problem. I work to raise insight, facilitate healing, and open possibilities to connect in more satisfying ways.
I have found that clients are often struggling to shield themselves and their relationships from a relentless assault of external stressors.
I specialize in working with families, couples, and children & adolescents. I strive to form relationships with my clients built upon trust, authenticity and collaboration. Working together we are able to open and expand possibilities to heal from pain, transform destructive cycles, and grow towards richer, more satisfying lives and relationships. Relationships often get stuck because we are unaware of ways we have hurt others and been hurt ourselves. Sometimes our best efforts to make things better seem to exacerbate the problem. I work to raise insight, facilitate healing, and open possibilities to connect in more satisfying ways.
(510) 289-2292 View (510) 289-2292
Photo of Lakshmi Jaiprakash, APCC
Lakshmi Jaiprakash
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94307  (Online Only)
I specialize in exploring issues related to sex/intimacy, sexuality, alternative lifestyles/relationships (open/poly/non-monogamous), kink/BDSM, sexual shame, and sexual abuse/trauma.
Hi, I'm Lakshmi and my pronouns are she/her. As a member of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, I hope to support you on your journey of exploration and self-discovery by creating a therapeutic atmosphere of warmth, safety, and curiosity. I work with individuals, couples/partnerships, and families of every ability, age, gender, national origin, race/ethnicity, religious affiliation, and sexual orientation. My therapeutic style is eclectic, guided by your life goals and utilizing techniques that resonate with you. My practice is grounded in feminist, multicultural, anti-oppression, and anti-capitalist frameworks.
I specialize in exploring issues related to sex/intimacy, sexuality, alternative lifestyles/relationships (open/poly/non-monogamous), kink/BDSM, sexual shame, and sexual abuse/trauma.
Hi, I'm Lakshmi and my pronouns are she/her. As a member of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, I hope to support you on your journey of exploration and self-discovery by creating a therapeutic atmosphere of warmth, safety, and curiosity. I work with individuals, couples/partnerships, and families of every ability, age, gender, national origin, race/ethnicity, religious affiliation, and sexual orientation. My therapeutic style is eclectic, guided by your life goals and utilizing techniques that resonate with you. My practice is grounded in feminist, multicultural, anti-oppression, and anti-capitalist frameworks.
(760) 274-0469 View (760) 274-0469
Photo of Manali Deolalkar, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Manali Deolalkar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (Online Only)
I am specialised in South Asian Mental Health, Self-Esteem, Trauma, sex therapy and sexual misconduct (past perpetrator of sexual abuse or domestic violence).
Are you someone who is looking to get a deeper understanding into your thoughts, emotions and overall mental health well-being? I have a few years of experience working with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, self harm, relationship/dating issues, life transitions and sex-related issues. I work with BIPOC adults, South Asian immigrants, couples, college students, immigrants, tech workers, LGBTQ+ folks, other therapists, and first timers in therapy. I take into account your life experiences, cultural background and your goals, to be able to tailor therapy that meets your need.
I am specialised in South Asian Mental Health, Self-Esteem, Trauma, sex therapy and sexual misconduct (past perpetrator of sexual abuse or domestic violence).
Are you someone who is looking to get a deeper understanding into your thoughts, emotions and overall mental health well-being? I have a few years of experience working with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, self harm, relationship/dating issues, life transitions and sex-related issues. I work with BIPOC adults, South Asian immigrants, couples, college students, immigrants, tech workers, LGBTQ+ folks, other therapists, and first timers in therapy. I take into account your life experiences, cultural background and your goals, to be able to tailor therapy that meets your need.
(628) 216-7639 View (628) 216-7639
Photo of Christine Benetua- Taking New Clients, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christine Benetua- Taking New Clients
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306
I work with couples, adults, teens, college students and kids. I understand how trauma can stop our daily lives, and force us to time travel to the past to relive our suffering. Trauma can cause blocks in our ability to think, feel, understand ourselves and the world.
I work with couples, adults, teens, college students and kids. I understand how trauma can stop our daily lives, and force us to time travel to the past to relive our suffering. Trauma can cause blocks in our ability to think, feel, understand ourselves and the world.
(415) 212-9827 View (415) 212-9827
Photo of Rashmi Nayak, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rashmi Nayak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94305  (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 Dr. Melissa Risso, PhD, MA, CSE, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Melissa Risso
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, CSE, CST
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94304  (Online Only)
Are you tired of talking endlessly about the problems in your relationships and are ready to find solutions? Are you frustrated with all the general relationship advice out there and just really want a professional therapist to understand your unique situation and guide you through it? I’m Dr. Melissa Risso, and I can help. I am a Licensed MFT, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and an AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator with a passion for helping individuals and couples live better lives. My education, professional experience, and life experience have taught me how to listen to people without judgment.
Are you tired of talking endlessly about the problems in your relationships and are ready to find solutions? Are you frustrated with all the general relationship advice out there and just really want a professional therapist to understand your unique situation and guide you through it? I’m Dr. Melissa Risso, and I can help. I am a Licensed MFT, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and an AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator with a passion for helping individuals and couples live better lives. My education, professional experience, and life experience have taught me how to listen to people without judgment.
(650) 262-5707 View (650) 262-5707
Photo of Jason Magers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Magers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Hello! Welcome to my practice. Sometimes we get stuck in painful experiences when our normal ways of coping are overwhelmed. With the right support there is potential to transform suffering into compassion, calm, and creativity. The focus of my work is to help my clients restore connection with their core self, where they can rediscover their innate wisdom. Over the years, my clients have shown me that working through life's challenges can be an opportunity to courageously grow.
Hello! Welcome to my practice. Sometimes we get stuck in painful experiences when our normal ways of coping are overwhelmed. With the right support there is potential to transform suffering into compassion, calm, and creativity. The focus of my work is to help my clients restore connection with their core self, where they can rediscover their innate wisdom. Over the years, my clients have shown me that working through life's challenges can be an opportunity to courageously grow.
(408) 533-0581 View (408) 533-0581
Photo of Patrick Joseph Purcell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Joseph Purcell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94308  (Online Only)
This is my passion and my clients feel at ease with me quickly with my empathy and humor. I help relationship stress, anxiety, PTSD, neurodiversity, grief, recovery from child and narcissistic abuse, finding their true authentic self and passion. I use client-centered Rogers, Kohut, Jung, EMDR, Beck and Ellis CBT, DBT. ACT, EFT, IFS, hypnosis. I am Christian and I also respect people with other faiths or no faith. I help therapists, interns too. I am 73 years old and I have been married for 48 years to my beautiful wife singer Christina Purcell and we did individual and couple therapy too. We wrote songs on her CD "Love's Calling."
This is my passion and my clients feel at ease with me quickly with my empathy and humor. I help relationship stress, anxiety, PTSD, neurodiversity, grief, recovery from child and narcissistic abuse, finding their true authentic self and passion. I use client-centered Rogers, Kohut, Jung, EMDR, Beck and Ellis CBT, DBT. ACT, EFT, IFS, hypnosis. I am Christian and I also respect people with other faiths or no faith. I help therapists, interns too. I am 73 years old and I have been married for 48 years to my beautiful wife singer Christina Purcell and we did individual and couple therapy too. We wrote songs on her CD "Love's Calling."
(831) 219-2362 View (831) 219-2362
Photo of Kayleigh Watters, PhD, Psychologist
Kayleigh Watters
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94305  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of PTSD, complex trauma, and traumatic invalidation. I provide evidence based treatment approaches that have been supported by research, while tailoring treatment to meet the unique needs of each client. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and I work with each client to clarify their goals to develop an individualized treatment plan.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of PTSD, complex trauma, and traumatic invalidation. I provide evidence based treatment approaches that have been supported by research, while tailoring treatment to meet the unique needs of each client. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and I work with each client to clarify their goals to develop an individualized treatment plan.
(650) 686-5461 View (650) 686-5461
Photo of Maureen D Perriello, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maureen D Perriello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I believe that everyone will experience some level of psychological/emotional difficulty at one time or another in this life.
I believe that everyone will experience some level of psychological/emotional difficulty at one time or another in this life.
(650) 910-6979 View (650) 910-6979
Photo of Barbara Morrill, PhD, Psychologist
Barbara Morrill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
As a transpersonal, Jungian oriented depth psychologist, I will help you explore your own depths - To help you get at old, limiting patterns, that repeat and repeat... to get to the freedom of your own essence and true nature. Low self esteem, anxiety and depression are those states, that when explored, can be understood, and lifted with mindfulness, meditation, somatic and dream exploration, and in some cases medication if needed. I work with an excellent psychiatrist, if needed. Welcome back to your true self!
As a transpersonal, Jungian oriented depth psychologist, I will help you explore your own depths - To help you get at old, limiting patterns, that repeat and repeat... to get to the freedom of your own essence and true nature. Low self esteem, anxiety and depression are those states, that when explored, can be understood, and lifted with mindfulness, meditation, somatic and dream exploration, and in some cases medication if needed. I work with an excellent psychiatrist, if needed. Welcome back to your true self!
(650) 585-0616 View (650) 585-0616
Photo of Angela A Sowa, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela A Sowa
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Waitlist for new clients
While some individuals enter therapy with acute distress and specific problems that need to be addressed; others have a more vague feeling of discontent. In either case, the self-exploration of analytic work is meant to expand the way one thinks and feels. Learning to think creatively is one way to describe the goal of psychoanalytic psychotherapy. WIth guidance, an individual learns to hold the tension of multiple perspectives/emotions resulting in a flexibility of thinking that involves both analytic and imaginative parts of the mind. This "full thinking" can be applied to personal life issues, relationships and creative pursuits.
While some individuals enter therapy with acute distress and specific problems that need to be addressed; others have a more vague feeling of discontent. In either case, the self-exploration of analytic work is meant to expand the way one thinks and feels. Learning to think creatively is one way to describe the goal of psychoanalytic psychotherapy. WIth guidance, an individual learns to hold the tension of multiple perspectives/emotions resulting in a flexibility of thinking that involves both analytic and imaginative parts of the mind. This "full thinking" can be applied to personal life issues, relationships and creative pursuits.
(650) 381-9588 View (650) 381-9588
Photo of Sheila Rivera-Cardinelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Rivera-Cardinelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303  (Online Only)
Sometimes life’s events can be overwhelming, making everyday activities and incidents even more difficult to handle. These experiences can lead to sadness, anxiety, insecurity, feelings of isolation, and even an immense feeling of loss or being lost. It is in these moments that having a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to talk to someone can be the most helpful. As a therapist, I provide a space where we can work collaboratively to reflect and gain insight on these cycles, where they come from and how they impact our choices and behaviors to make healthy and sustainable changes in our lives.
Sometimes life’s events can be overwhelming, making everyday activities and incidents even more difficult to handle. These experiences can lead to sadness, anxiety, insecurity, feelings of isolation, and even an immense feeling of loss or being lost. It is in these moments that having a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to talk to someone can be the most helpful. As a therapist, I provide a space where we can work collaboratively to reflect and gain insight on these cycles, where they come from and how they impact our choices and behaviors to make healthy and sustainable changes in our lives.
(510) 800-8793 View (510) 800-8793
Photo of Rebecca Kahle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Kahle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94303  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. As a therpaist, I'm here to support you in navigating life's challenges - especially relationships. Relationship issues are my speciality, and I know from seeing hundreds of clients that when our relationships are out of whack, we are more likely to experience depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders. I also have specialized experience and training for parents of traumatized children, whether that child is still a kid, or is an adult. Whatever relationship you find yourself in (couple, family, peer, work) or whatever relationship you would like to manifest, I can help.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. As a therpaist, I'm here to support you in navigating life's challenges - especially relationships. Relationship issues are my speciality, and I know from seeing hundreds of clients that when our relationships are out of whack, we are more likely to experience depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders. I also have specialized experience and training for parents of traumatized children, whether that child is still a kid, or is an adult. Whatever relationship you find yourself in (couple, family, peer, work) or whatever relationship you would like to manifest, I can help.
(650) 977-3807 View (650) 977-3807
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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.