Sexual Abuse Therapists in Melbourne, FL
![Photo of Kimberly Perez, MS , LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d2afab7-fa68-499d-abde-df95db451560/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
![Photo of Peggy Freeman, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459e88cc-90bc-4a7a-ad8b-a93f281d5e2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Shetress Woods, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d9b3436-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Ilene A Scharf - Ilene A. Scharf, MSW, LCSW, Child Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c501f5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sue Kiley, PhD, LMHC, QS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a9e3a04-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide individual and couples counseling for ages 13 to adult, specializing in working with those who struggle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, poor self-esteem, relationship challenges or who have experienced trauma, abuse, controlling partners, domestic or dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
Struggling with trauma, specific challenges, mental health or life issues? I look forward to working with you. Whether past trauma, a serious recent incident, or a general life struggle; counseling can help you resolve, heal, and empower you to find your best self and to create your best life. Additionally, having earned a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in marriage and family therapy and, as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 35 years of clinical experience, I also enjoy working with all couples- married or not, LGBTQ or straight, to problem-solve, and address conflict & disconnection.
I provide individual and couples counseling for ages 13 to adult, specializing in working with those who struggle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, poor self-esteem, relationship challenges or who have experienced trauma, abuse, controlling partners, domestic or dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
Struggling with trauma, specific challenges, mental health or life issues? I look forward to working with you. Whether past trauma, a serious recent incident, or a general life struggle; counseling can help you resolve, heal, and empower you to find your best self and to create your best life. Additionally, having earned a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in marriage and family therapy and, as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 35 years of clinical experience, I also enjoy working with all couples- married or not, LGBTQ or straight, to problem-solve, and address conflict & disconnection.
![Photo of Jessica Valencia, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6391de29-a9dc-4afb-b0c7-976c25a1c414/1/320x400.jpeg)
As your therapist, I specialize in providing support to individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly sexual assault, and are grappling with high functioning anxiety and depression.
My ideal client is seeking a therapist who can provide trauma-informed support, help them manage their anxiety and depression, and guide them on their journey towards healing and self-empowerment. They want a therapist who can offer validation, understanding, and practical tools to navigate the complexities of their trauma and mental health challenges. Their ultimate desire is to regain a sense of control, resilience, and fulfillment in their life.
As your therapist, I specialize in providing support to individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly sexual assault, and are grappling with high functioning anxiety and depression.
My ideal client is seeking a therapist who can provide trauma-informed support, help them manage their anxiety and depression, and guide them on their journey towards healing and self-empowerment. They want a therapist who can offer validation, understanding, and practical tools to navigate the complexities of their trauma and mental health challenges. Their ultimate desire is to regain a sense of control, resilience, and fulfillment in their life.
![Photo of Laura Thomas, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9fc977d-7b27-4b64-9eb3-e9f7d9bb2868/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32951 (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR to eliminate symptoms and triggers from PTSD, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, sexual abuse, and relationship issues.
I am passionate about healing past trauma, attachment wounds, and self-esteem issues that stem from what you've been through. I am strength-focused, goal-oriented, and believe that the best outcomes occur when the client works together with the therapist to make progress. We establish trust and then make a team effort on the journey of healing.
I specialize in EMDR to eliminate symptoms and triggers from PTSD, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, sexual abuse, and relationship issues.
I am passionate about healing past trauma, attachment wounds, and self-esteem issues that stem from what you've been through. I am strength-focused, goal-oriented, and believe that the best outcomes occur when the client works together with the therapist to make progress. We establish trust and then make a team effort on the journey of healing.
![Photo of Anne Rothenberg, PhD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83283083-0b94-403a-b0f5-d778c3e9c631/1/320x400.jpeg)
Low Sexual Desire? Sexual Incompatibility? Sexual Dysfunction? Porn Addiction? Cheating Partner? Cheating Spouse? Sexual Abuse Survivor? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist Dr. Anne Rothenberg specializes in counseling and therapy related to sexuality and sexual behavior. Areas covered include: female sexual dysfunction, male sexual dysfunction, Gay, Lesbian, LGBT, coming out, child sexuality, adolescent sexuality, gender identity, sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual abuse (male and female), desire, arousal, orgasm, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, incompatibility, relationship issues, cheating, infidelity, anger, honesty, trust, loneliness, self esteem, body image, sadness, worry, anxiety, depression.
Please visit:
www.AnneRothenberg.com.
I look forward to speaking with you!
Low Sexual Desire? Sexual Incompatibility? Sexual Dysfunction? Porn Addiction? Cheating Partner? Cheating Spouse? Sexual Abuse Survivor? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist Dr. Anne Rothenberg specializes in counseling and therapy related to sexuality and sexual behavior. Areas covered include: female sexual dysfunction, male sexual dysfunction, Gay, Lesbian, LGBT, coming out, child sexuality, adolescent sexuality, gender identity, sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual abuse (male and female), desire, arousal, orgasm, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, incompatibility, relationship issues, cheating, infidelity, anger, honesty, trust, loneliness, self esteem, body image, sadness, worry, anxiety, depression.
Please visit:
www.AnneRothenberg.com.
I look forward to speaking with you!
![Photo of James Victor Eaton, LMHC, MBA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/820bd975-9019-41ef-a799-9cb1f078cac9/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jasmine Foster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eda09d5-a3fc-4f61-993f-eb418bcc1609/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32934 (Online Only)
I have collaborated to assist many individuals to meet their personal goals and address their concerns that are hindering them from living their most healthy and optimum lives. I am trained in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) and am passionate about assisting individuals to reprocess their traumatic and distressing memories and experiences so they can recover and take control of their lives once again. I am also passionate about supporting individuals to explore healthier ways to cope with depression, stress, anxiety, phobias, and PTSD.
I have collaborated to assist many individuals to meet their personal goals and address their concerns that are hindering them from living their most healthy and optimum lives. I am trained in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) and am passionate about assisting individuals to reprocess their traumatic and distressing memories and experiences so they can recover and take control of their lives once again. I am also passionate about supporting individuals to explore healthier ways to cope with depression, stress, anxiety, phobias, and PTSD.
![Photo of Christopher Maniscalco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d195c23c-e507-4b6b-9123-751ba0934c3a/1/320x400.png)
Do you struggle with past or present traumatic life experiences, be that from combat, sexual trauma, childhood trauma, natural disasters, or other emotionally disturbing experiences? Are you willing to embrace connection over protection and open up about your struggles? I will provide you with the tools & support needed to reduce the frequency, intensity & duration of your presenting symptoms or increase your ability to manage them healthily. If you want to learn how your past may be negatively impacting your present & learn tools to manage or replace maladaptive behaviors, then I'm the clinician for you!
Do you struggle with past or present traumatic life experiences, be that from combat, sexual trauma, childhood trauma, natural disasters, or other emotionally disturbing experiences? Are you willing to embrace connection over protection and open up about your struggles? I will provide you with the tools & support needed to reduce the frequency, intensity & duration of your presenting symptoms or increase your ability to manage them healthily. If you want to learn how your past may be negatively impacting your present & learn tools to manage or replace maladaptive behaviors, then I'm the clinician for you!
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![Photo of Brianna Stallings, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9e3deb7-b2c4-4033-8f62-048f98db858f/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Valarie Golombeski - Our Generation Counseling, PLLC, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7f191ee-426d-4c66-964b-614a6b1c3975/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our Generation Counseling, PLLC
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901 (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.
![Photo of Jessica Singh, PhD, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8222aa3-43de-4750-b3a7-b9769a7f21db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Singh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32904
You feel like the odd one out, even though you try your hardest to fit in with everyone else. You feel depressed or anxious and try to suppress it, pretending everything is fine while you are suffering. No matter how many people you talk to, you just can't seem to make a genuine connection. You may have many friends but still feel emotionally lonely. Despite your best efforts, you cannot form meaningful relationships with other people. You find it impossible to trust others enough to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Maybe you've already had years of therapy, and while some symptoms have subsided, something is still missing.
You feel like the odd one out, even though you try your hardest to fit in with everyone else. You feel depressed or anxious and try to suppress it, pretending everything is fine while you are suffering. No matter how many people you talk to, you just can't seem to make a genuine connection. You may have many friends but still feel emotionally lonely. Despite your best efforts, you cannot form meaningful relationships with other people. You find it impossible to trust others enough to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Maybe you've already had years of therapy, and while some symptoms have subsided, something is still missing.
![Photo of Michelle Bundrum - Better Tomorrow FL, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5db356df-bc03-458e-99f0-3eaea692bb4d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Better Tomorrow FL
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32902 (Online Only)
Are you finding yourself getting up in the morning wondering why you are getting out of bed? As you go through your day are you feeling empty or overwhelmed? Life can be difficult and we find ourselves being overwhelmed by our stressors and our past. We want to feel safe but often times we feel like we don't belong and no one understands what we are experiencing. At the end of the day most of us just want to find someone to depend on, and the ability to find a space where we can catch some air. If you feel this way reach out to me. Together we can work on processing your feelings and creating a safe space where you can heal.
Are you finding yourself getting up in the morning wondering why you are getting out of bed? As you go through your day are you feeling empty or overwhelmed? Life can be difficult and we find ourselves being overwhelmed by our stressors and our past. We want to feel safe but often times we feel like we don't belong and no one understands what we are experiencing. At the end of the day most of us just want to find someone to depend on, and the ability to find a space where we can catch some air. If you feel this way reach out to me. Together we can work on processing your feelings and creating a safe space where you can heal.
![Photo of Karlysse Mcmillon, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/522d0e2c-84f9-459d-9828-047d1d7ebc9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Do feel that you are caught in a never ending cycle of disappointment and/or stress. Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and develop a plan for how to find balance and get back on track. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, deep breathing and other expressive techniques to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Do feel that you are caught in a never ending cycle of disappointment and/or stress. Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and develop a plan for how to find balance and get back on track. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, deep breathing and other expressive techniques to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
![Photo of Glorimar Borges, MA, LMHC, CAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04051e34-aa65-4e6e-ac44-76bf4f111daf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a State of Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor & have over 13 years of experience. I work with a wide variety of individuals, but specialize in trauma and abuse, mood disorders, parents of children with special needs, & victims of domestic violence. I have a passion for working with parents of children with special needs, addressing issues such as burnout & stress management, and helping survivors of domestic violence, dating violence & sexual violence heal.
I'm a State of Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor & have over 13 years of experience. I work with a wide variety of individuals, but specialize in trauma and abuse, mood disorders, parents of children with special needs, & victims of domestic violence. I have a passion for working with parents of children with special needs, addressing issues such as burnout & stress management, and helping survivors of domestic violence, dating violence & sexual violence heal.
![Photo of Lori A Berk, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fb71665-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing symptoms of stress? anxiety? depression? grief? relationship problems? Are you unsure about how to choose your path or reach your goals? Reaching out for help with these and other common problems can often feel difficult and scary to do. Whether you just need a safe place to be heard or you want to learn new ways of thinking, acting or being; my goal as a therapist is to work together with you to discover where you are and help you get to where you want to be, while at the same time leaving you feeling cared for and understood.
Are you experiencing symptoms of stress? anxiety? depression? grief? relationship problems? Are you unsure about how to choose your path or reach your goals? Reaching out for help with these and other common problems can often feel difficult and scary to do. Whether you just need a safe place to be heard or you want to learn new ways of thinking, acting or being; my goal as a therapist is to work together with you to discover where you are and help you get to where you want to be, while at the same time leaving you feeling cared for and understood.
![Photo of Audrey Jean Jones, MS, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/369c3e76-c914-4429-999a-77471721923f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Audrey Jean Jones
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
As a mindfulness-based clinician, I serve individuals, couples, families, and children. It is my intention to guide clients in growing beyond the conflicts that initiated therapy. Often times, people embark on therapy, unknowing why problems persist. Therapy is a journey in which I intend to assist clients in uncovering the unknowns to create a more meaningful life, to better navigate life stressors/unexpected events, and increase confidence in decision making. With intervention and therapeutic alliance, we will work together to reduce the internal conflicts that may contribute to the external problems.
As a mindfulness-based clinician, I serve individuals, couples, families, and children. It is my intention to guide clients in growing beyond the conflicts that initiated therapy. Often times, people embark on therapy, unknowing why problems persist. Therapy is a journey in which I intend to assist clients in uncovering the unknowns to create a more meaningful life, to better navigate life stressors/unexpected events, and increase confidence in decision making. With intervention and therapeutic alliance, we will work together to reduce the internal conflicts that may contribute to the external problems.
![Photo of Lori Michelle Jones, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3a41f5-7185-4405-b23a-996f8fa0d061/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Michelle Jones
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940
Human beings were not meant to struggle alone! It can sometimes feel like happiness and peace of mind are elusive leaving one feeling stuck, isolated, and afraid. I passionately believe people possess the power to transform their lives given a safe space to share, unconditional acceptance, and tools to enhance emotional well being. It would be my honor to provide you each of these things in your healing journey.
Human beings were not meant to struggle alone! It can sometimes feel like happiness and peace of mind are elusive leaving one feeling stuck, isolated, and afraid. I passionately believe people possess the power to transform their lives given a safe space to share, unconditional acceptance, and tools to enhance emotional well being. It would be my honor to provide you each of these things in your healing journey.
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Sexual Abuse Therapists
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.
Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?
Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.
How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?
Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.
Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?
As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.