Sexual Abuse Therapists in Cocoa Beach, FL

Photo of Genger Kaye Benson Perez, MS, LMHC, KAP, Counselor
Genger Kaye Benson Perez
Counselor, MS, LMHC, KAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Do you sometimes feel alone, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your current life situation? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I enjoy helping individuals and couples who realize that it's ok to ask for help during these times. My mission is to help you work through any road blocks that are holding you back from moving forward on your path to a brighter day. I am an EMDREA approved EMDR therapist, an Informed IFS Therapist, call me to set a free 30 minute consult to see if we are a good fit. Ketamine Assisted Therapy consultation available in collaboration with Journey Clinical available upon request.
Do you sometimes feel alone, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your current life situation? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I enjoy helping individuals and couples who realize that it's ok to ask for help during these times. My mission is to help you work through any road blocks that are holding you back from moving forward on your path to a brighter day. I am an EMDREA approved EMDR therapist, an Informed IFS Therapist, call me to set a free 30 minute consult to see if we are a good fit. Ketamine Assisted Therapy consultation available in collaboration with Journey Clinical available upon request.
(321) 204-8435 View (321) 204-8435
Photo of David Nutter, LMFT, MA, BCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Nutter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Therapy should be a positive experience. Having experience with a wide variety of people and their unique cultures, family structures, occupations, faith traditions and other critical aspects of diversity adds to my practice capability. I enjoy assisting individuals, couples and families with their decision to engage life and love, more effectively. My goal is to provide therapy in a positive, non-judgmental, yet effective way. When people feel stuck or no viable options to change their lives, I assist them by using a consultative approach.
Therapy should be a positive experience. Having experience with a wide variety of people and their unique cultures, family structures, occupations, faith traditions and other critical aspects of diversity adds to my practice capability. I enjoy assisting individuals, couples and families with their decision to engage life and love, more effectively. My goal is to provide therapy in a positive, non-judgmental, yet effective way. When people feel stuck or no viable options to change their lives, I assist them by using a consultative approach.
(321) 587-0411 View (321) 587-0411
Photo of Angie Moates, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Angie Moates
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
My primary focus is helping INDIVIDUALS and COUPLES going through challenging, transitional life issues. I work with people who are experiencing MARRIAGE or RELATIONSHIP difficulty, as well as with those experiencing major life change, needing expert help to bring clarity and peace to their lives. I have valuable experience working with issues such as: grief and loss, depression, anxiety, abuse issues and PTSD, as well as major life transition stages such as relationship break up, divorce, retirement or job loss. I offer a FREE 15 MINUTE CONSULTATION via phone.
My primary focus is helping INDIVIDUALS and COUPLES going through challenging, transitional life issues. I work with people who are experiencing MARRIAGE or RELATIONSHIP difficulty, as well as with those experiencing major life change, needing expert help to bring clarity and peace to their lives. I have valuable experience working with issues such as: grief and loss, depression, anxiety, abuse issues and PTSD, as well as major life transition stages such as relationship break up, divorce, retirement or job loss. I offer a FREE 15 MINUTE CONSULTATION via phone.
(321) 204-8746 View (321) 204-8746
Photo of Duncan Bowen, PhD, Counselor
Duncan Bowen
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
I believe everyone needs to be respected and honored in this world. The growing up process has caused people to have and develop coping behaviors and strategies that are harmful to self and others. I view psychotherapy or counseling as a professional relationship between the therapist and client. As a client begins talking about their life, I, the therapist walks with you through your world. I will ask questions to further understand your world. Then ideas will be explored for life enhancement and positive change.
I believe everyone needs to be respected and honored in this world. The growing up process has caused people to have and develop coping behaviors and strategies that are harmful to self and others. I view psychotherapy or counseling as a professional relationship between the therapist and client. As a client begins talking about their life, I, the therapist walks with you through your world. I will ask questions to further understand your world. Then ideas will be explored for life enhancement and positive change.
(321) 360-5477 View (321) 360-5477
Photo of Jacqueline Maple, LMHC, MCAP, QS, Counselor
Jacqueline Maple
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, QS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931  (Online Only)
Do you feel different, misunderstood, judged, embarrassed and or ashamed? Do you know how to create and enforce healthy relationships/healthy boundaries? Do you engage in negative self talk and have self esteem issues? Are you struggling with relationships at home and or at work? Are you or is someone you care for abusing substances? Together we will explore the way you make sense of the world and how your thoughts impact your feelings and behaviors. With a deeper understanding of yourself we will work on forgiveness, acceptance and making positive changes.
Do you feel different, misunderstood, judged, embarrassed and or ashamed? Do you know how to create and enforce healthy relationships/healthy boundaries? Do you engage in negative self talk and have self esteem issues? Are you struggling with relationships at home and or at work? Are you or is someone you care for abusing substances? Together we will explore the way you make sense of the world and how your thoughts impact your feelings and behaviors. With a deeper understanding of yourself we will work on forgiveness, acceptance and making positive changes.
(321) 204-2832 View (321) 204-2832
Photo of Alanna Taormina, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alanna Taormina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931  (Online Only)
I take a holistic approach to therapy and address client's concerns from the perspective of their mind, body, and spirit. My role is one of a guide along the journey to wholeness. I offer illumination of integral pieces along your path and help you to integrate these pieces to become a happier, healthier, more authentic you! I truly believe that each individual can heal from emotional pain. I am competent in a variety of theoretical approaches including: Psychodynamic, Transpersonal, Client centered, Humanistic, Gestalt, and CBT. I am trained in EMDR and clinical hypnosis.
I take a holistic approach to therapy and address client's concerns from the perspective of their mind, body, and spirit. My role is one of a guide along the journey to wholeness. I offer illumination of integral pieces along your path and help you to integrate these pieces to become a happier, healthier, more authentic you! I truly believe that each individual can heal from emotional pain. I am competent in a variety of theoretical approaches including: Psychodynamic, Transpersonal, Client centered, Humanistic, Gestalt, and CBT. I am trained in EMDR and clinical hypnosis.
(707) 693-4465 View (707) 693-4465
Photo of Leticia Tye, MS, LPCC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leticia Tye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931  (Online Only)
First off, congratulations for making the first step towards healing, self-love, and growth. That first step can be the hardest. Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts and memories? Crippling anxiety? Low motivation? Overwhelmed with thoughts of the future? Struggling with your relationship with food? Is self-doubt and shame keeping you from being your authentic self? Are you struggling with self-acceptance and the many challenges as an LGBTQ+ member? We can work together to overcome anything holding you back from being your authentic self. We can walk this walk together. You do not need to do it alone. Don't wait, call today!
First off, congratulations for making the first step towards healing, self-love, and growth. That first step can be the hardest. Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts and memories? Crippling anxiety? Low motivation? Overwhelmed with thoughts of the future? Struggling with your relationship with food? Is self-doubt and shame keeping you from being your authentic self? Are you struggling with self-acceptance and the many challenges as an LGBTQ+ member? We can work together to overcome anything holding you back from being your authentic self. We can walk this walk together. You do not need to do it alone. Don't wait, call today!
(747) 232-5017 View (747) 232-5017

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shetress Woods, LMHC, Counselor
Shetress Woods
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rockledge, FL 32955
Counseling is a therapeutic relationship that is developed between the therapist and the patient to achieve victory over challenges in life. Shetress Woods is a Christian Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a PH.D student in clinical sexology. She has had the pleasure, of providing therapeutic and social support for over 10 years. She desires to continue to assist others in achieving victory with a non-judgmental attitude, empathy, and encouragement. Shetress provides therapeutic services in areas that consist of, depression, anxiety, grief, domestic violence, and mental, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Counseling is a therapeutic relationship that is developed between the therapist and the patient to achieve victory over challenges in life. Shetress Woods is a Christian Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a PH.D student in clinical sexology. She has had the pleasure, of providing therapeutic and social support for over 10 years. She desires to continue to assist others in achieving victory with a non-judgmental attitude, empathy, and encouragement. Shetress provides therapeutic services in areas that consist of, depression, anxiety, grief, domestic violence, and mental, emotional, and sexual abuse.
(321) 684-5172 x4 View (321) 684-5172 x4
Photo of Dr. Michael Ian Rothenberg, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Michael Ian Rothenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Porn/Sex Addiction? Male Sexual Dysfunction? Sexual Performance Anxiety? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist, Sex Therapist and Psychotherapist, Dr. Michael Ian Rothenberg, specializes in counseling and therapy related to Human Sexuality and Sexual Behavior. Areas discussed include: Sex Addiction, Porn Addiction, Out of Control Sexual Behaviors, Compulsive Masturbation, Male Sexual Dysfunction, Erectile Dysfunction, ED, Impotence, Sexual Anxiety, Sexual Performance, Orgasm, Incompatibility, Desire, Arousal, Adult Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, Honesty, Trust, Loneliness, Cheating, Anger, Sadness, Anxiety and Depression. To learn more please visit my websites: CounselingAndSexualHealth.com and OnlineSexualAddiction.com. I look forward to speaking with you!
Porn/Sex Addiction? Male Sexual Dysfunction? Sexual Performance Anxiety? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist, Sex Therapist and Psychotherapist, Dr. Michael Ian Rothenberg, specializes in counseling and therapy related to Human Sexuality and Sexual Behavior. Areas discussed include: Sex Addiction, Porn Addiction, Out of Control Sexual Behaviors, Compulsive Masturbation, Male Sexual Dysfunction, Erectile Dysfunction, ED, Impotence, Sexual Anxiety, Sexual Performance, Orgasm, Incompatibility, Desire, Arousal, Adult Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, Honesty, Trust, Loneliness, Cheating, Anger, Sadness, Anxiety and Depression. To learn more please visit my websites: CounselingAndSexualHealth.com and OnlineSexualAddiction.com. I look forward to speaking with you!
(407) 674-0058 View (407) 674-0058
Photo of Peggy Freeman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Peggy Freeman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Viera, FL 32940
I specialize in trauma therapy with training in EMDR and extensive experience helping clients heal from childhood abuse or neglect, sexual abuse or domestic violence.
Finding it difficult to heal from painful memories, distressing emotions, anxiety, or losses? Trouble coping with current stressors? I have 20+ years of experience in which I have been privileged to witness the transformational power of therapy to bring healing and growth to my clients. I offer a variety of treatment approaches but also know that the quality of the relationship with your therapist is the most important factor for a positive outcome. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to address your issues and respect for your right to set your goals for therapy.
I specialize in trauma therapy with training in EMDR and extensive experience helping clients heal from childhood abuse or neglect, sexual abuse or domestic violence.
Finding it difficult to heal from painful memories, distressing emotions, anxiety, or losses? Trouble coping with current stressors? I have 20+ years of experience in which I have been privileged to witness the transformational power of therapy to bring healing and growth to my clients. I offer a variety of treatment approaches but also know that the quality of the relationship with your therapist is the most important factor for a positive outcome. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to address your issues and respect for your right to set your goals for therapy.
(321) 316-6181 View (321) 316-6181
Photo of Marilyn Bennett, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Marilyn Bennett
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cocoa, FL 32922
I have extensive experience working with complex trauma and dissociation, including trauma, PTSD, adult survivors of sexual abuse and clients with Dissociative Identity Disorder.
Therapy can be a journey of growth and discovery. Life's most difficult challenges often present opportunities for positive change. If you are dealing with transition, struggling with a difficult situation, or taking a positive step towards healing and personal growth, I am dedicated to assist you on your journey. Each person comes to therapy with their own unique needs and goals. I have no "one size fits all" approach. I am guided by what is best for each individual. Open yourself to new possibilities and begin your own journey to personal growth and development.
I have extensive experience working with complex trauma and dissociation, including trauma, PTSD, adult survivors of sexual abuse and clients with Dissociative Identity Disorder.
Therapy can be a journey of growth and discovery. Life's most difficult challenges often present opportunities for positive change. If you are dealing with transition, struggling with a difficult situation, or taking a positive step towards healing and personal growth, I am dedicated to assist you on your journey. Each person comes to therapy with their own unique needs and goals. I have no "one size fits all" approach. I am guided by what is best for each individual. Open yourself to new possibilities and begin your own journey to personal growth and development.
(321) 578-7944 View (321) 578-7944
Photo of Ilene A Scharf - Ilene A. Scharf, MSW, LCSW, Child Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilene A. Scharf, MSW, LCSW, Child Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940
I work exclusively with children aging 18 months to 18 years. I have been treating children in private practice for over 24 years. I treat ADHD, ADD, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression, Grief/Loss due to death, separation/divorce or deployment, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), verbal, physical, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have extensive training and experience in treating children of separating & divorcing parents. I work with divorcing parents and their children in the Collaborative Divorce process. I provide them with insight and the tools to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
I work exclusively with children aging 18 months to 18 years. I have been treating children in private practice for over 24 years. I treat ADHD, ADD, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression, Grief/Loss due to death, separation/divorce or deployment, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), verbal, physical, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have extensive training and experience in treating children of separating & divorcing parents. I work with divorcing parents and their children in the Collaborative Divorce process. I provide them with insight and the tools to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
(321) 574-6353 View (321) 574-6353
Photo of Judy Schrader, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Judy Schrader
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Satellite Beach, FL 32937
I am a compassionate therapist with extensive experience with divorce, blended families and trauma. My goal is to guide people to their own solutions, based on individual needs, in a safe, confidential and caring environment. I work with children over 12, individuals, adults, couples and families. My specialties include Couples Connections, Blended Families, Adolescent Issues, Parenting, Eating Disorders, Sexual Abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder and lifting Depression and Anxiety. Please call me for a free consult to discuss your individual needs and goals. I'm here to help and currently accepting new clients.
I am a compassionate therapist with extensive experience with divorce, blended families and trauma. My goal is to guide people to their own solutions, based on individual needs, in a safe, confidential and caring environment. I work with children over 12, individuals, adults, couples and families. My specialties include Couples Connections, Blended Families, Adolescent Issues, Parenting, Eating Disorders, Sexual Abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder and lifting Depression and Anxiety. Please call me for a free consult to discuss your individual needs and goals. I'm here to help and currently accepting new clients.
(321) 250-5515 View (321) 250-5515
Photo of Alex Oropallo, RMHCI
Alex Oropallo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockledge, FL 32955
Greetings! I'm Alex Oropallo, a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to providing support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of their emotional well-being. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of complex trauma and sexual abuse, those who have faced ritualized abuse, and adolescents. I aim to foster a safe and confidential space for those seeking healing, growth, and understanding. My mission is to empower clients to overcome challenges, explore their identities, and build resilience.
Greetings! I'm Alex Oropallo, a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to providing support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of their emotional well-being. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of complex trauma and sexual abuse, those who have faced ritualized abuse, and adolescents. I aim to foster a safe and confidential space for those seeking healing, growth, and understanding. My mission is to empower clients to overcome challenges, explore their identities, and build resilience.
(321) 577-0118 View (321) 577-0118
Photo of Brianna Stallings, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Brianna Stallings
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Viera, FL 32940  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with clients that have been survivors of trauma. The effects of any kind of traumatic experience can be devastating and often is accompanied by a myriad of symptoms that can greatly impact daily life. My first priority will be to help you cope with the symptoms your trauma has caused in your life. I will not end our session without providing a coping skill to get you through the next week! My second step will be to help you heal the underlying issues, thoughts, and patterns that may be contributing to the traumatic reaction as well. EMDR therapy is my most often used modality to heal trauma and symptoms
I have a passion for working with clients that have been survivors of trauma. The effects of any kind of traumatic experience can be devastating and often is accompanied by a myriad of symptoms that can greatly impact daily life. My first priority will be to help you cope with the symptoms your trauma has caused in your life. I will not end our session without providing a coping skill to get you through the next week! My second step will be to help you heal the underlying issues, thoughts, and patterns that may be contributing to the traumatic reaction as well. EMDR therapy is my most often used modality to heal trauma and symptoms
(321) 257-3516 View (321) 257-3516
Photo of Valarie Golombeski - Our Generation Counseling, PLLC, LPC-A
Our Generation Counseling, PLLC
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling hopeless or withdrawn in your day to day life? Have simple things like showering or brushing your teeth become an obstacle for you? Give me a call or text today so that we can get you the relief you deserve. My name is Valarie Golombeski and I am the proud owner of Our Generation Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Dr. Gina Gagen, Ed.D., LPC-S, LMHC, LMHC-S, CCHP, CCE. I specialize in helping clients with symptoms associated with anxiety, depression and trauma.
Are you tired of feeling hopeless or withdrawn in your day to day life? Have simple things like showering or brushing your teeth become an obstacle for you? Give me a call or text today so that we can get you the relief you deserve. My name is Valarie Golombeski and I am the proud owner of Our Generation Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Dr. Gina Gagen, Ed.D., LPC-S, LMHC, LMHC-S, CCHP, CCE. I specialize in helping clients with symptoms associated with anxiety, depression and trauma.
(210) 871-9356 View (210) 871-9356
Photo of James Victor Eaton, LMHC, MBA, Counselor
James Victor Eaton
Counselor, LMHC, MBA
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940
I believe "that we need to face our fears in order to heal", Individuals need to talk about their difficulties rather than act upon them. My belief in treatment is "we need to see and explore the best in each person and help them overcome barriers that impede their potential to grow. Mr. Eaton is a Partner and one of the Original Founder's of Adult and Child Counseling and Psychiatric Center, PA. He specializes in the treatment of trauma related issues, depression, forensic evaluation and treatment, impulse control, addiction treatment, anxiety and depression in adolescents and adults as well as couples counseling.
I believe "that we need to face our fears in order to heal", Individuals need to talk about their difficulties rather than act upon them. My belief in treatment is "we need to see and explore the best in each person and help them overcome barriers that impede their potential to grow. Mr. Eaton is a Partner and one of the Original Founder's of Adult and Child Counseling and Psychiatric Center, PA. He specializes in the treatment of trauma related issues, depression, forensic evaluation and treatment, impulse control, addiction treatment, anxiety and depression in adolescents and adults as well as couples counseling.
(321) 414-9736 x4 View (321) 414-9736 x4
Photo of Jennifer C Guarino, MA, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Jennifer C Guarino
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Rockledge, FL 32955
Life presents many challenges and sometimes those challenges require that we have assistance along the way. I partner with my clients on their journey toward wellness; in mind, body, and spirit. I provide compassionate care in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, and stress-related problems. My practice welcomes first responders; people of all backgrounds; and those seeking a professional environment in which they can work toward healing and wellness. Please feel free to contact me for a phone consultation to determine if I may be the best fit for you and your psychotherapy needs. Evening appts by request.
Life presents many challenges and sometimes those challenges require that we have assistance along the way. I partner with my clients on their journey toward wellness; in mind, body, and spirit. I provide compassionate care in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, and stress-related problems. My practice welcomes first responders; people of all backgrounds; and those seeking a professional environment in which they can work toward healing and wellness. Please feel free to contact me for a phone consultation to determine if I may be the best fit for you and your psychotherapy needs. Evening appts by request.
(321) 204-1608 View (321) 204-1608
Photo of Kerry Berner, BSW, MA, EdS, LMHC-QS, RPT-S, Counselor
Kerry Berner
Counselor, BSW, MA, EdS, LMHC-QS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Now accepting Counselor Supervision and Play Therapy Supervision! At Brevard Counseling, we have counselors who work with CHILDREN as young as 4 using Play Therapy in our Play Therapy Rooms, ADOLESCENTS (struggling with peer pressure, anxiety, divorce, and school issues), INDIVIDUALS (with grief, anxiety, depression, substance issues), and COUPLES/MARRIAGE utilizing the Gottman Method. We have 2 locations! Merritt Island (4 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room) Rockledge (2 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room). We offer many different rate plans including sliding fees if needed and some insurance plans.
Now accepting Counselor Supervision and Play Therapy Supervision! At Brevard Counseling, we have counselors who work with CHILDREN as young as 4 using Play Therapy in our Play Therapy Rooms, ADOLESCENTS (struggling with peer pressure, anxiety, divorce, and school issues), INDIVIDUALS (with grief, anxiety, depression, substance issues), and COUPLES/MARRIAGE utilizing the Gottman Method. We have 2 locations! Merritt Island (4 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room) Rockledge (2 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room). We offer many different rate plans including sliding fees if needed and some insurance plans.
(321) 274-4817 View (321) 274-4817
Photo of Mallory Sunstrom, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mallory Sunstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Canaveral, FL 32920  (Online Only)
Are you ready to make a positive change in your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious? I am here to help! I am a trauma therapist that uses CBT and Solution-Focused approaches, as well as Schema Therapy. I have over ten years of experience in the mental health field.
Are you ready to make a positive change in your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious? I am here to help! I am a trauma therapist that uses CBT and Solution-Focused approaches, as well as Schema Therapy. I have over ten years of experience in the mental health field.
(561) 264-5641 View (561) 264-5641

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.