Sexual Abuse Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Melissa Mott - Headway, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Headway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
I have experience working with diverse populations including children and families, adolescents, homeless, veterans, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, addiction, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, and life challenges.
I would like to acknowledge and welcome you for taking a bold first step toward your wellness and recovery journey. My goal is the prevention and reduction of risk factors for emotional and behavioral problems and the promotion of metal health wellness. Utilizing evidence-based practices, I will work with you to help you learn to manage your difficult emotions and develop tools that work for you. I believe once something becomes shareable, it becomes more bearable.
I have experience working with diverse populations including children and families, adolescents, homeless, veterans, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, addiction, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, and life challenges.
I would like to acknowledge and welcome you for taking a bold first step toward your wellness and recovery journey. My goal is the prevention and reduction of risk factors for emotional and behavioral problems and the promotion of metal health wellness. Utilizing evidence-based practices, I will work with you to help you learn to manage your difficult emotions and develop tools that work for you. I believe once something becomes shareable, it becomes more bearable.
(650) 844-1053 View (650) 844-1053
Photo of Itzel Selene Lopez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Itzel Selene Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95103  (Online Only)
Everyone deserves a safe space to process their trauma and mental health struggles. In my practice, I provide individuals, couples, children, adolescents and parents with a judgment free environment to be able to talk about/ express their emotions around difficult topics. I have experience in working with individuals who are struggling with Complex PTSD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from childhood sexual abuse and other traumatic experiences as well as Depression, Anxiety . I am also trained to work with those who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental disabilities, and their families to improve mental health.
Everyone deserves a safe space to process their trauma and mental health struggles. In my practice, I provide individuals, couples, children, adolescents and parents with a judgment free environment to be able to talk about/ express their emotions around difficult topics. I have experience in working with individuals who are struggling with Complex PTSD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from childhood sexual abuse and other traumatic experiences as well as Depression, Anxiety . I am also trained to work with those who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental disabilities, and their families to improve mental health.
(408) 933-9701 View (408) 933-9701
Photo of Alexann Calabash Masiko-Meyer - Summer Sessions Counseling, LPCC, LCSW, CADC, ACSW, AMFT
Summer Sessions Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, CADC, ACSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95136
Finding a therapist, especially one that takes insurance, can be difficult. At Summer Sessions, we shorten the search; we have diverse providers that reflect our community, with many areas of expertise and are in network with most major insurance networks We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. Whether experiencing anxiety, depression a life stressor, OCD, depression, trauma substance use recovery, trauma, sexual assault, you deserve support and we can help. Request an appointment at www.SummerSessionsCouseling.org
Finding a therapist, especially one that takes insurance, can be difficult. At Summer Sessions, we shorten the search; we have diverse providers that reflect our community, with many areas of expertise and are in network with most major insurance networks We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. Whether experiencing anxiety, depression a life stressor, OCD, depression, trauma substance use recovery, trauma, sexual assault, you deserve support and we can help. Request an appointment at www.SummerSessionsCouseling.org
(805) 243-0739 View (805) 243-0739
Photo of Taisia McMahon, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Taisia McMahon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
I have clinical expertise with teens, depression, anxiety, grief, mental illness, divorce, sexual trauma, abuse, survivors of sexual assault, mindfulness and life transition.
I provide a space where you are free to explore and share yourself. I strive to create an environment that allows you to safely discuss, reflect, uncover, and change. You may come as you are to address the things that are affecting you today.
I have clinical expertise with teens, depression, anxiety, grief, mental illness, divorce, sexual trauma, abuse, survivors of sexual assault, mindfulness and life transition.
I provide a space where you are free to explore and share yourself. I strive to create an environment that allows you to safely discuss, reflect, uncover, and change. You may come as you are to address the things that are affecting you today.
(408) 533-8604 View (408) 533-8604
Photo of Mitra Taheri, EdS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mitra Taheri
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I worked with the clients that they had a problem with depression, anxiety, phobia, conduct disorder, divorce, family conflicts, parenting problems, relational problems, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, learning disabilities, low self-esteem, issues associated with job and educational decisions, ADHD, ODD, anger management, and multi - cultural Issues.
My goal as a mental health clinician, specialized in marriage and family therapy is to create a supportive enviroment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I have a significant amount of experience in providing individual, couple and family therapy. My work experience as the mental health clinician taught me how to understand the special needs of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I worked with the clients that they had a problem with depression, anxiety, phobia, conduct disorder, divorce, family conflicts, parenting problems, relational problems, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, learning disabilities, low self-esteem, issues associated with job and educational decisions, ADHD, ODD, anger management, and multi - cultural Issues.
My goal as a mental health clinician, specialized in marriage and family therapy is to create a supportive enviroment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I have a significant amount of experience in providing individual, couple and family therapy. My work experience as the mental health clinician taught me how to understand the special needs of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(408) 514-5146 View (408) 514-5146
Photo of Savita Carothers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Savita Carothers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
Savita Carothers, is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), with 16 years of experience working with individuals, couples and youth and families. She will meet you where you are comfortable and willing to go, specializing in helping individuals to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, families in crisis, sexual abuse, marriage and partnership struggles adolescents, and parenting issues. Her therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ; Solution Focused and Family Systems.
Savita Carothers, is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), with 16 years of experience working with individuals, couples and youth and families. She will meet you where you are comfortable and willing to go, specializing in helping individuals to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, families in crisis, sexual abuse, marriage and partnership struggles adolescents, and parenting issues. Her therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ; Solution Focused and Family Systems.
(408) 669-4667 View (408) 669-4667
Photo of Mariann C Tymn - Mariann C. Tymn, LMFT, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mariann C. Tymn, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
Do you need help to make changes in your life? My main areas of interest & experience include parenting issues, LGBTQ issues, sexual abuse, trauma (childhood & recent), marriage/relationship problems, depression, ADHD, & career counseling. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultures, ethnicities, and sexual/gender orientation. My work with you begins by providing a safe and non-judging place for you to talk about your needs. We will work together to help you make positive changes in your life. I am happy to answer any questions about how I work and how therapy might work for you.
Do you need help to make changes in your life? My main areas of interest & experience include parenting issues, LGBTQ issues, sexual abuse, trauma (childhood & recent), marriage/relationship problems, depression, ADHD, & career counseling. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultures, ethnicities, and sexual/gender orientation. My work with you begins by providing a safe and non-judging place for you to talk about your needs. We will work together to help you make positive changes in your life. I am happy to answer any questions about how I work and how therapy might work for you.
(408) 622-0746 View (408) 622-0746
Photo of Kenji Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenji Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
personality disorders, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum issues, racial identity, racial trauma, relationship issues, school issues, self-esteem, self-harming, sexual abuse, sexual orientation, sleep or insomnia, spirituality, stress, suicidal ideation,teen violence, thought disorders, trauma and PTSD, weight loss, women's issues, children, and adolescents/teens.
Hey, you all, Dr. Kay Jay here! My clients describe me as a good listener who is warm, empathetic, patient, and encouraging. I've also been told that I have a comforting voice and am easy to talk to. The therapeutic process is unique to each person, so my goal is to meet clients and provide them with what they need to support growth and healing through empathy and active listening in a no-judgment zone. Together, we will work to explore healthy ways of healing and acceptance through self-awareness.
personality disorders, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum issues, racial identity, racial trauma, relationship issues, school issues, self-esteem, self-harming, sexual abuse, sexual orientation, sleep or insomnia, spirituality, stress, suicidal ideation,teen violence, thought disorders, trauma and PTSD, weight loss, women's issues, children, and adolescents/teens.
Hey, you all, Dr. Kay Jay here! My clients describe me as a good listener who is warm, empathetic, patient, and encouraging. I've also been told that I have a comforting voice and am easy to talk to. The therapeutic process is unique to each person, so my goal is to meet clients and provide them with what they need to support growth and healing through empathy and active listening in a no-judgment zone. Together, we will work to explore healthy ways of healing and acceptance through self-awareness.
(669) 282-6636 View (669) 282-6636
Photo of Destinee Gannuscio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Destinee Gannuscio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
Sometimes life throws a curveball. Other times, it feels like life's been one giant curveball from the start. You may have found yourself feeling stuck, losing hope, and struggling to talk to your people about what's going on. Whatever it is that led you to this point, I'm here to offer support and a helping hand to navigate these stressors and help you find peace. My experience consists primarily of working with trauma (including physical/sexual abuse and first responder work stress), depression, anxiety, and substance use, and my ideal client is simply someone that's willing to take that leap of faith and is ready to do the work!
Sometimes life throws a curveball. Other times, it feels like life's been one giant curveball from the start. You may have found yourself feeling stuck, losing hope, and struggling to talk to your people about what's going on. Whatever it is that led you to this point, I'm here to offer support and a helping hand to navigate these stressors and help you find peace. My experience consists primarily of working with trauma (including physical/sexual abuse and first responder work stress), depression, anxiety, and substance use, and my ideal client is simply someone that's willing to take that leap of faith and is ready to do the work!
(909) 962-7119 View (909) 962-7119
Photo of Grace N Flier, AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Grace N Flier
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95135
With over four years of experience in healthcare, I am trained in trauma, sexual abuse, DP/IPV, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and family/couple therapy.
Everyone deserves respect and a compassionate listener for their concerns and worries. I specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples dealing with internal struggles, trauma, and relationship issues. My goal is to reduce conflict and teach tools that transform adversities into celebrations.
With over four years of experience in healthcare, I am trained in trauma, sexual abuse, DP/IPV, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and family/couple therapy.
Everyone deserves respect and a compassionate listener for their concerns and worries. I specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples dealing with internal struggles, trauma, and relationship issues. My goal is to reduce conflict and teach tools that transform adversities into celebrations.
(650) 789-5604 View (650) 789-5604
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
San Jose, CA 95132
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 Jayme Marie Kabelac - Jayme Kabelac, LCSW, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jayme Kabelac, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95136
Growing up is hard and sometimes tough to navigate, for kids and parents! Between early childhood and young adulthood, there are many challenges that children face on a daily basis. Often times, daily tasks and transitions bring on stress and sometimes depression and anxiety. Events ranging from separation to assault can provoke traumatic stress in the youngest child. This stress may lead to behaviors like isolating, self harm, crying, bed wetting, refusing to participate in activities or acting out. Your child has their own way of coping with change, which may negatively affect their relationships with teachers, friends or parents.
Growing up is hard and sometimes tough to navigate, for kids and parents! Between early childhood and young adulthood, there are many challenges that children face on a daily basis. Often times, daily tasks and transitions bring on stress and sometimes depression and anxiety. Events ranging from separation to assault can provoke traumatic stress in the youngest child. This stress may lead to behaviors like isolating, self harm, crying, bed wetting, refusing to participate in activities or acting out. Your child has their own way of coping with change, which may negatively affect their relationships with teachers, friends or parents.
(408) 767-6192 View (408) 767-6192
Photo of Magda Wroblewska, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Magda Wroblewska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95120
My primary areas of expertise are issues of trauma (early or recent), grief and loss, sexual abuse, substance abuse, divorce and blended family issues.
It's not easy to look for a therapist. I talk to many nervous people who question if counseling and therapy work. They usually leave my office relaxed, sometimes laughing, most importantly hopeful. My job is to first of all provide a safe space for your self-exploration. I am endlessly fascinated by the growth that happens when people feel safe and not judged. I invite you to be your "uncensored self" because only when we accept who we are; are we open to change.
My primary areas of expertise are issues of trauma (early or recent), grief and loss, sexual abuse, substance abuse, divorce and blended family issues.
It's not easy to look for a therapist. I talk to many nervous people who question if counseling and therapy work. They usually leave my office relaxed, sometimes laughing, most importantly hopeful. My job is to first of all provide a safe space for your self-exploration. I am endlessly fascinated by the growth that happens when people feel safe and not judged. I invite you to be your "uncensored self" because only when we accept who we are; are we open to change.
(408) 335-3513 View (408) 335-3513
Photo of Michelle M Buckley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle M Buckley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
My main goal is to provide a supportive environment for you to identify what obstacles are preventing you from living a more satisfying life. Together, we will explore your resiliency and tools that you already have in your "tool box" to overcome such challenges. I have experience providing support to individuals with depression, anxiety, and anger management issues, trauma and trauma recovery, crisis intervention, processing previous and recent sexual assault or sexual abuse, and adolescent emotional/behavioral issues.
My main goal is to provide a supportive environment for you to identify what obstacles are preventing you from living a more satisfying life. Together, we will explore your resiliency and tools that you already have in your "tool box" to overcome such challenges. I have experience providing support to individuals with depression, anxiety, and anger management issues, trauma and trauma recovery, crisis intervention, processing previous and recent sexual assault or sexual abuse, and adolescent emotional/behavioral issues.
(408) 762-3167 View (408) 762-3167
Photo of Lakshmi Jaiprakash, APCC
Lakshmi Jaiprakash
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123  (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 Gabriella Calò Siegel, PsyD, Psychologist
Gabriella Calò Siegel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95101  (Online Only)
With an emphasis on treating depression, anxiety, eating disorders, compulsive and addictive behaviors, anger management, sexual abuse, trauma,ptsd, c-ptsd, relationship issues, life transitions, creative blocks and stress.
There are many reasons to seek out therapy. The ultimate purpose for considering therapy is often to resolve whatever is in the way of having a better life. As an active, empathic and experienced psychotherapist, my goal is to assist individuals in overcoming the barriers that prevent them from experiencing, the relationships in their lives in a full and rich way. I work to understand each individual's unique struggle, while respecting personal history and cultural background. Ultimately, I help individuals to see how past experiences and behavioral patterns may contribute to their current symptoms and difficulties.
With an emphasis on treating depression, anxiety, eating disorders, compulsive and addictive behaviors, anger management, sexual abuse, trauma,ptsd, c-ptsd, relationship issues, life transitions, creative blocks and stress.
There are many reasons to seek out therapy. The ultimate purpose for considering therapy is often to resolve whatever is in the way of having a better life. As an active, empathic and experienced psychotherapist, my goal is to assist individuals in overcoming the barriers that prevent them from experiencing, the relationships in their lives in a full and rich way. I work to understand each individual's unique struggle, while respecting personal history and cultural background. Ultimately, I help individuals to see how past experiences and behavioral patterns may contribute to their current symptoms and difficulties.
(424) 325-4067 View (424) 325-4067
Photo of Nina Lindajane Holmes, LMFT, TRI, ESMHL, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nina Lindajane Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, TRI, ESMHL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95111
I am a Certified Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Imago Workshop Presenter. I am Internal Family Systems or IFS Level One trained, currently enrolled in Level Two IFS training in Intimacy From the Inside Out (the IFS couples model). I have 18 years of clinical experience assisting with relationships as well as with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, psychosis and sexual assault. I often work collaboratively with the entire family to promote positive change. I provide equine facilitated psychotherapy for individuals who make better progress working outdoors.
I am a Certified Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Imago Workshop Presenter. I am Internal Family Systems or IFS Level One trained, currently enrolled in Level Two IFS training in Intimacy From the Inside Out (the IFS couples model). I have 18 years of clinical experience assisting with relationships as well as with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, psychosis and sexual assault. I often work collaboratively with the entire family to promote positive change. I provide equine facilitated psychotherapy for individuals who make better progress working outdoors.
(408) 916-3092 View (408) 916-3092
Photo of Julia Chaffin, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Julia Chaffin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126  (Online Only)
Martin Luther King, Jr. said it best, "Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope." Challenges in life are inevitable and at times, there are challenges that seem larger than our ability to manage them. Issues such as depression, anxiety; healing from previous trauma, and abuse are areas that can grip us and prevent us from living our best lives.
Martin Luther King, Jr. said it best, "Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope." Challenges in life are inevitable and at times, there are challenges that seem larger than our ability to manage them. Issues such as depression, anxiety; healing from previous trauma, and abuse are areas that can grip us and prevent us from living our best lives.
(408) 413-4202 x459 View (408) 413-4202 x459
Photo of Kim Panelo Xue, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Panelo Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
I believe safety to be a human right - not a privilege. This is what sits at the very core of who I am. This is what I bring to the work that I do. A certain intensity; a certain empathy; a certain knowing.
I believe safety to be a human right - not a privilege. This is what sits at the very core of who I am. This is what I bring to the work that I do. A certain intensity; a certain empathy; a certain knowing.
(408) 837-7881 View (408) 837-7881
Photo of Christine Lemmon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Lemmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
I am a psychotherapist providing individual therapy services to adults. Many of clients who come to me are experiencing feelings of grief, sadness, anxiety, confusion about an area of their life, or difficulty in intimate or familial relationships. I also specialize in working with adults who are impacted by trauma. In my work I understand trauma as how we are impacted by the painful experiences in our lives and the ways in which those experiences shape the way we form relationships with others, with ourselves, and the degree to which we are able to find joy.
I am a psychotherapist providing individual therapy services to adults. Many of clients who come to me are experiencing feelings of grief, sadness, anxiety, confusion about an area of their life, or difficulty in intimate or familial relationships. I also specialize in working with adults who are impacted by trauma. In my work I understand trauma as how we are impacted by the painful experiences in our lives and the ways in which those experiences shape the way we form relationships with others, with ourselves, and the degree to which we are able to find joy.
(408) 844-4374 View (408) 844-4374
1
...
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.