Sexual Abuse Therapists in Estes Park, CO

Photo of Nancy S. Kay, LPC, CPC, CDWF, RN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy S. Kay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPC, CDWF, RN
Verified Verified
Estes Park, CO 80517
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of Specialty: Marital/Relationship Counseling, Grief, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Mood Management, Blended Families, Gender Identity, Trauma, EMDR and Physical/Sexual Abuse.
I consider it a privilege to work with and walk beside each of my clients. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and Solution Focused Therapy to provide quality care in the shortest time frame possible. I use psychological and personality assessments and practical tools to help individuals and couples live a more fulfilled, intentional, and aware life. I believe the way to live your best fulfilled life is to understand your "why" and increase your self-awareness. My experience as a therapist for over 25 years and being an RN allows me to consider each of my client's emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
Areas of Specialty: Marital/Relationship Counseling, Grief, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Mood Management, Blended Families, Gender Identity, Trauma, EMDR and Physical/Sexual Abuse.
I consider it a privilege to work with and walk beside each of my clients. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and Solution Focused Therapy to provide quality care in the shortest time frame possible. I use psychological and personality assessments and practical tools to help individuals and couples live a more fulfilled, intentional, and aware life. I believe the way to live your best fulfilled life is to understand your "why" and increase your self-awareness. My experience as a therapist for over 25 years and being an RN allows me to consider each of my client's emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
(970) 235-1815 View (970) 235-1815
Photo of Dr. Kenneth McDonald Psyd
Dr. Kenneth McDonald Psyd
Verified Verified
Estes Park, CO 80517
A lot of us have a hard time asking for help. Fear, shame, or needing to be self-sufficient are feelings that can get in the way of recognizing when we need help--and reaching out and asking for it. My approach to therapy creates a safe place where sensitive, painful or scary feelings can be openly explored without judgment. We form a partnership to figure out what is going on and how to move forward. I'm actively engaged in our work--it's a partnership, after all--to help you overcome problem behaviors and develop better ways of coping. I am a Clinician with over 10 years experience in Colorado and California.
A lot of us have a hard time asking for help. Fear, shame, or needing to be self-sufficient are feelings that can get in the way of recognizing when we need help--and reaching out and asking for it. My approach to therapy creates a safe place where sensitive, painful or scary feelings can be openly explored without judgment. We form a partnership to figure out what is going on and how to move forward. I'm actively engaged in our work--it's a partnership, after all--to help you overcome problem behaviors and develop better ways of coping. I am a Clinician with over 10 years experience in Colorado and California.
(970) 394-3617 View (970) 394-3617
Photo of Sharon Rohde, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Rohde
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Estes Park, CO 80517
Life happens and sometimes we need a little extra support. I work with a wide range of individuals and specialize in dual diagnosis and the treatment of addiction. Some of the common areas that I treat are: relationships, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, family of origin issues, abuse, change, problems managing stress, mood instability and anger.
Life happens and sometimes we need a little extra support. I work with a wide range of individuals and specialize in dual diagnosis and the treatment of addiction. Some of the common areas that I treat are: relationships, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, family of origin issues, abuse, change, problems managing stress, mood instability and anger.
(970) 610-0241 View (970) 610-0241
Photo of Casey Eike - Accessible Counseling, PLCC, LCSW, CSW-G, CAS, CCTP, ADS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Accessible Counseling, PLCC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW-G, CAS, CCTP, ADS
Verified Verified
Estes Park, CO 80517
My ideal client is someone who knows that something is wrong but is having difficulty making it right; someone who may know that they cannot control negative thoughts and behaviors and feel "stuck" in their current situation; someone who needs tools and help to make their life better. My ideal client may know what their goals are but don't know how to achieve them or someone who is struggling to define their goals. In short, my ideal client is anyone who wants to begin or continue to improve their lives. Call, text or e-mail me to schedule a free 30 minute consultation so that you can decide if I can help.
My ideal client is someone who knows that something is wrong but is having difficulty making it right; someone who may know that they cannot control negative thoughts and behaviors and feel "stuck" in their current situation; someone who needs tools and help to make their life better. My ideal client may know what their goals are but don't know how to achieve them or someone who is struggling to define their goals. In short, my ideal client is anyone who wants to begin or continue to improve their lives. Call, text or e-mail me to schedule a free 30 minute consultation so that you can decide if I can help.
(720) 438-4051 View (720) 438-4051
Photo of Caitlin Goddard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caitlin Goddard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Estes Park, CO 80517  (Online Only)
As your therapist, I'm confident you'll be able to find that therapy can feel both safe and approachable despite its inherent challenges, that it can bring about relief while providing opportunities for growth. I offer an inherently empathic, person-centered approach and utilize humanistic theory to inform my understanding of my client's. Post-traumatic stress, ongoing anxiety, low self-esteem, navigating disordered eating patterns, and issues in understanding our identity can overwhelm us - and I'm passionate about working with those grappling with one or more of these concerns.
As your therapist, I'm confident you'll be able to find that therapy can feel both safe and approachable despite its inherent challenges, that it can bring about relief while providing opportunities for growth. I offer an inherently empathic, person-centered approach and utilize humanistic theory to inform my understanding of my client's. Post-traumatic stress, ongoing anxiety, low self-esteem, navigating disordered eating patterns, and issues in understanding our identity can overwhelm us - and I'm passionate about working with those grappling with one or more of these concerns.
(970) 507-8385 View (970) 507-8385

Online Therapists

Photo of Letitia Cullens-Proctor, MA, LPC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Letitia Cullens-Proctor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80112  (Online Only)
Tired of repeating negative patterns? Are you looking to build healthier relationships? Do you need to process a traumatic event that has affected you? I work with adult clients who are ready for a change, who want to take steps towards growing and healing. Many of my clients have multiple marginalized identities (neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, global majority), or have experienced a traumatic event in the past such as a childhood trauma, loss of a job, or sexual assault. I also work with many Graduate counseling students and working therapists, because we often forget that we need help and a safe space to work on ourselves as well.
Tired of repeating negative patterns? Are you looking to build healthier relationships? Do you need to process a traumatic event that has affected you? I work with adult clients who are ready for a change, who want to take steps towards growing and healing. Many of my clients have multiple marginalized identities (neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, global majority), or have experienced a traumatic event in the past such as a childhood trauma, loss of a job, or sexual assault. I also work with many Graduate counseling students and working therapists, because we often forget that we need help and a safe space to work on ourselves as well.
(720) 605-6675 View (720) 605-6675
Photo of Dr. Jesseca Manson, LPC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jesseca Manson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503
Waitlist for new clients
survivors of physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect) .
As a counselor and a person, I am heartfelt, playful, and energetic. I love incorporating the mind-body connection into my clinical work, and I love conducting therapy in unique spaces, including my farmhouse office and the acreage surrounding it. While I use play therapy with my child clients, I believe that incorporating playfulness and creativity into working with adolescents and adults can be helpful to communication, wellness, and healing. It is my deepest passion to journey with my clients as they grow, and to celebrate them as they move into ways of being, living, and loving that align with their heart’s deepest values!
survivors of physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect) .
As a counselor and a person, I am heartfelt, playful, and energetic. I love incorporating the mind-body connection into my clinical work, and I love conducting therapy in unique spaces, including my farmhouse office and the acreage surrounding it. While I use play therapy with my child clients, I believe that incorporating playfulness and creativity into working with adolescents and adults can be helpful to communication, wellness, and healing. It is my deepest passion to journey with my clients as they grow, and to celebrate them as they move into ways of being, living, and loving that align with their heart’s deepest values!
(720) 362-8137 View (720) 362-8137
Photo of Jo Ellen M Bourg, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jo Ellen M Bourg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I have received extensive training in Sexual Assault counseling.
My role as a therapist is not independent, but a partnership. I am a collaborator and facilitate exploration as a means of helping to determine what best serves you and helping you to empower yourself to make desired changes. I understand that it can be awkward or stressful to make the call or take the step to talk to someone. I will do my best to help you feel safe and comfortable with me. Confidentiality is sacred. If you should find that I am not the therapist for you I will help you find someone who would be a better fit for your needs.
I have received extensive training in Sexual Assault counseling.
My role as a therapist is not independent, but a partnership. I am a collaborator and facilitate exploration as a means of helping to determine what best serves you and helping you to empower yourself to make desired changes. I understand that it can be awkward or stressful to make the call or take the step to talk to someone. I will do my best to help you feel safe and comfortable with me. Confidentiality is sacred. If you should find that I am not the therapist for you I will help you find someone who would be a better fit for your needs.
(970) 572-8622 View (970) 572-8622
Photo of Mo Bankey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mo Bankey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
I have experience working in reproductive healthcare and with sexual assault survivors.
There is a way through this. We will find it together. I believe in the power of authentic expression and deep relationships. I incorporate contemplative, somatic, and social justice approaches in my counseling. I work with adults focusing on identity, gender, and relationships. I provide a collaborative approach utilizing mind-body and present moment awareness to support you in connecting with your intrinsic health and inherent wisdom. As meditator, dancer, and gardener I value time to reflect, slow down, be with nature, and developing our capacity to move from the heart with courage and gentleness.
I have experience working in reproductive healthcare and with sexual assault survivors.
There is a way through this. We will find it together. I believe in the power of authentic expression and deep relationships. I incorporate contemplative, somatic, and social justice approaches in my counseling. I work with adults focusing on identity, gender, and relationships. I provide a collaborative approach utilizing mind-body and present moment awareness to support you in connecting with your intrinsic health and inherent wisdom. As meditator, dancer, and gardener I value time to reflect, slow down, be with nature, and developing our capacity to move from the heart with courage and gentleness.
(970) 410-3517 View (970) 410-3517
Photo of Alice Henningsen, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alice Henningsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I have additional experience supporting sexual assault survivors of all ages.
As a Licensed Social Worker, I believe in the power of genuine connection for well-being. I provide expertise while honoring my clients as the true experts in their lives. My experience with paralysis informs my understanding of trauma, resilience, and adapting to challenges. As a queer disabled therapist, I offer a unique perspective, embracing diverse identities and fostering inclusivity.
I have additional experience supporting sexual assault survivors of all ages.
As a Licensed Social Worker, I believe in the power of genuine connection for well-being. I provide expertise while honoring my clients as the true experts in their lives. My experience with paralysis informs my understanding of trauma, resilience, and adapting to challenges. As a queer disabled therapist, I offer a unique perspective, embracing diverse identities and fostering inclusivity.
(720) 733-1692 View (720) 733-1692
Photo of Gillian Kaag, PhD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Gillian Kaag
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
I am a clinical specialist with expertise in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, depression, complicated grief (suicide loss, perinatal loss), and unwanted sexual experiences (rape, sexual assault, harassment, violence).
As a psychologist, I partner with clients to help them heal from raw emotional pain, recognize their inner strengths, and build resiliency in the face of life’s biggest challenges. My style is one that is warm and nurturing while also direct and honest. If you’re feeling stuck, not good enough, lonely, overwhelmed, devastated, or ashamed, you are not alone. I have dedicated my career to learning gold standard treatments to ensure that when clients have the courage to reach out for help, I am able to offer treatment interventions that they can trust will make a difference.
I am a clinical specialist with expertise in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, depression, complicated grief (suicide loss, perinatal loss), and unwanted sexual experiences (rape, sexual assault, harassment, violence).
As a psychologist, I partner with clients to help them heal from raw emotional pain, recognize their inner strengths, and build resiliency in the face of life’s biggest challenges. My style is one that is warm and nurturing while also direct and honest. If you’re feeling stuck, not good enough, lonely, overwhelmed, devastated, or ashamed, you are not alone. I have dedicated my career to learning gold standard treatments to ensure that when clients have the courage to reach out for help, I am able to offer treatment interventions that they can trust will make a difference.
(720) 730-6722 View (720) 730-6722
Photo of Lisa Tafolla, MA, LPC, NCC, SEP, EMDR, Counselor
Lisa Tafolla
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, SEP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
Therapy is self-care. Optimize life and increase joy and satisfaction. Release stress and trauma, PTSD, sexism-based traumatic stress (SBTS), including sexual assault, workplace harassment, domestic violence, misogyny/sexism, oppression, abuse, childhood abuse/neglect, accidents/medical, mass disasters, and attachment, developmental and intergenerational trauma. Entrepreneurs & professionals including leadership, vision, ambition, energy, meaning, stress management, boundaries, imposter syndrome. Relationship issues, nervous system regulation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life-limiting mental blocks and values misalignment.
Therapy is self-care. Optimize life and increase joy and satisfaction. Release stress and trauma, PTSD, sexism-based traumatic stress (SBTS), including sexual assault, workplace harassment, domestic violence, misogyny/sexism, oppression, abuse, childhood abuse/neglect, accidents/medical, mass disasters, and attachment, developmental and intergenerational trauma. Entrepreneurs & professionals including leadership, vision, ambition, energy, meaning, stress management, boundaries, imposter syndrome. Relationship issues, nervous system regulation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life-limiting mental blocks and values misalignment.
(720) 295-5736 View (720) 295-5736
Photo of Gina Hoag - Gina Hoag, LCSW-C, Psychotherapy, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Hoag, LCSW-C, Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80501  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, eating disorders, and bipolar disorder.
I offer individual, family and couples psychotherapy in a supportive environment. Regardless of why you're seeking therapy, I'm here to help you. Do you ever wonder why you repeat the same patterns in your relationships? Do you find yourself thinking the same negative thoughts? If so, you're not alone. To be heard and understood is a basic human need. It's hard to find someone to talk to and someone who will listen. Together we'll explore the connection between your behaviors, thoughts and feelings and how you can learn to control them.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, eating disorders, and bipolar disorder.
I offer individual, family and couples psychotherapy in a supportive environment. Regardless of why you're seeking therapy, I'm here to help you. Do you ever wonder why you repeat the same patterns in your relationships? Do you find yourself thinking the same negative thoughts? If so, you're not alone. To be heard and understood is a basic human need. It's hard to find someone to talk to and someone who will listen. Together we'll explore the connection between your behaviors, thoughts and feelings and how you can learn to control them.
(720) 307-3868 View (720) 307-3868
Photo of Christina M. Valastro, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina M. Valastro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
My formal education includes mindfulness, intuition, spirituality, rape recovery, social justice, yoga, sexuality, sexual abuse trauma, and transpersonal psychology.
Welcome! Stepping into therapy takes courage, it's a sign you're ready for positive change. All humans have blind spots, having empathetic guidance directs your discovery and healing. I offer an open atmosphere to find clarity, support and growth. I will honor your journey with non-judgment, and extreme respect. Your challenges and strengths can facilitate your new path. The process is collaborative and I will uphold the goal for it to be productive.
My formal education includes mindfulness, intuition, spirituality, rape recovery, social justice, yoga, sexuality, sexual abuse trauma, and transpersonal psychology.
Welcome! Stepping into therapy takes courage, it's a sign you're ready for positive change. All humans have blind spots, having empathetic guidance directs your discovery and healing. I offer an open atmosphere to find clarity, support and growth. I will honor your journey with non-judgment, and extreme respect. Your challenges and strengths can facilitate your new path. The process is collaborative and I will uphold the goal for it to be productive.
(970) 355-3134 View (970) 355-3134
Photo of Mary Miranda, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Miranda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80020
I am committed to using EMDR Therapy to help individuals process traumatic events such as abuse and assault.
Would you like to gain personal power, meet your potential, live and enjoy your life? I am here to assist you to empower yourself in your everyday life and make needed changes; whether it's in a relationship,career/job, marriage, or family. I will provide you with a positive, safe, non-judgmental environment where we will work together to achieve realistic goals that are uniquely important to you.
I am committed to using EMDR Therapy to help individuals process traumatic events such as abuse and assault.
Would you like to gain personal power, meet your potential, live and enjoy your life? I am here to assist you to empower yourself in your everyday life and make needed changes; whether it's in a relationship,career/job, marriage, or family. I will provide you with a positive, safe, non-judgmental environment where we will work together to achieve realistic goals that are uniquely important to you.
(720) 608-4801 View (720) 608-4801
Photo of Sandy Buchanan, MS, LPC, CAS, Assoc, SOMB, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandy Buchanan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAS, Assoc, SOMB
Verified Verified
Broomfield, CO 80020
Are you struggling with your relationships, depression, anxiety, and past trauma? Perhaps you have experienced sexual abuse in your past and you are having trouble with current relationships. Are you a juvenile who has committed a sexual offense? Counseling can help. I use EMDR, it is a type of therapy that can be done to address those memories and clear a path to a happier, healthier you. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and is a therapy that can help people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. Here is a link to a video to introduce you to EMDR: https://youtu.be/Pkfln-ZtWeY
Are you struggling with your relationships, depression, anxiety, and past trauma? Perhaps you have experienced sexual abuse in your past and you are having trouble with current relationships. Are you a juvenile who has committed a sexual offense? Counseling can help. I use EMDR, it is a type of therapy that can be done to address those memories and clear a path to a happier, healthier you. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and is a therapy that can help people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. Here is a link to a video to introduce you to EMDR: https://youtu.be/Pkfln-ZtWeY
(720) 815-3982 View (720) 815-3982
Photo of Carolyn Newman, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loveland, CO 80537  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, the effects of sexual abuse and other forms of trauma, PTSD, and identity issues.
Life is hard. Hurt happens to all of us. Sometimes it is intentional, sometimes unintentional. When it happens, we are left with a wound that, if left unexamined, can affect every aspect of our lives: body, soul, and spirit. Lancing the wound can be painful, especially those wounds caused by trauma and abuse, but the compromised life that we live if we don't examine the wounds is often as painful as the original wound. Choosing to face the pain is a courageous act, and successful resolution requires a safe and supportive atmosphere with safe and knowledgeable professionals.
I work with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, the effects of sexual abuse and other forms of trauma, PTSD, and identity issues.
Life is hard. Hurt happens to all of us. Sometimes it is intentional, sometimes unintentional. When it happens, we are left with a wound that, if left unexamined, can affect every aspect of our lives: body, soul, and spirit. Lancing the wound can be painful, especially those wounds caused by trauma and abuse, but the compromised life that we live if we don't examine the wounds is often as painful as the original wound. Choosing to face the pain is a courageous act, and successful resolution requires a safe and supportive atmosphere with safe and knowledgeable professionals.
(970) 812-1116 View (970) 812-1116
Photo of Daniela Y Perez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniela Y Perez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212  (Online Only)
I work with children (ages 6+), adolescents, young adults, and parents. Many of my clients are dealing with challenges related to managing stress, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. These concerns may be related to trauma, such as bullying, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, and immigration-related trauma. I help with developing coping skills, working with big feelings like anger and grief, addressing depression, and navigating mood disorders. In other words, I work with young people and families who are looking for both guidance and practical solutions to improve their mental health and quality of life.
I work with children (ages 6+), adolescents, young adults, and parents. Many of my clients are dealing with challenges related to managing stress, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. These concerns may be related to trauma, such as bullying, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, and immigration-related trauma. I help with developing coping skills, working with big feelings like anger and grief, addressing depression, and navigating mood disorders. In other words, I work with young people and families who are looking for both guidance and practical solutions to improve their mental health and quality of life.
(720) 861-4069 View (720) 861-4069
Photo of Amanda Hofbauer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Hofbauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Currently accepting new clients for in-person sessions in Fort Collins. My goal: to provide a safe relationship where you can face your difficulties in order to restore your connection to yourself and others. I am present with you in the messiness of life, while also providing you with new tools when possible. I work with individuals around pregnancy/postpartum, trauma (dangerous childhoods, sexual assault, etc), grief/loss, infertility, relationship patterns, emotions, identity, and deconstructing faith beliefs. I also help couples who have a respectful, loving relationship but are going through a difficult circumstance/transition.
Currently accepting new clients for in-person sessions in Fort Collins. My goal: to provide a safe relationship where you can face your difficulties in order to restore your connection to yourself and others. I am present with you in the messiness of life, while also providing you with new tools when possible. I work with individuals around pregnancy/postpartum, trauma (dangerous childhoods, sexual assault, etc), grief/loss, infertility, relationship patterns, emotions, identity, and deconstructing faith beliefs. I also help couples who have a respectful, loving relationship but are going through a difficult circumstance/transition.
(970) 463-7805 View (970) 463-7805
Photo of Rachel Smith, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Rachel Smith
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
Waitlist for new clients
How do we find inner peace when our outer presentation is wrong? Where is self-acceptance when the world around you is unaccepting? Your internal struggles are real, and you are not alone. Wholeness begins with healing. They say time heals all wounds, but some wounds are so deep it feels as though they may never heal. Asking for help takes strength. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma from sexual assault or abuse, and/or sex and relationship issues, let’s chat. Please reach out via email if possible
How do we find inner peace when our outer presentation is wrong? Where is self-acceptance when the world around you is unaccepting? Your internal struggles are real, and you are not alone. Wholeness begins with healing. They say time heals all wounds, but some wounds are so deep it feels as though they may never heal. Asking for help takes strength. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma from sexual assault or abuse, and/or sex and relationship issues, let’s chat. Please reach out via email if possible
(719) 294-1656 View (719) 294-1656

See more therapy options for Estes Park

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.