Sexual Abuse Therapists in Sandy Springs, GA

Photo of Danielle Levy, PsyD, Psychologist
Danielle Levy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Presentations on sexual abuse, divorce, etc.
Entering psychotherapy doesn't need to be intimidating or scary! It does require a trusting and open relationship. I use my own experiences and education along with everything you bring to sessions to create a trusting,engaging and warm environment. I specialize in dynamics related to child sexual abuse and trauma, family issues, divorce, depression and anxiety, difficulty with anger management, coping skills, low self-esteem, social skills deficits, relationship problems, and other general family concerns. I enjoy meeting with entire families when appropriate. I believe you have a story to tell and I want to hear it!
Presentations on sexual abuse, divorce, etc.
Entering psychotherapy doesn't need to be intimidating or scary! It does require a trusting and open relationship. I use my own experiences and education along with everything you bring to sessions to create a trusting,engaging and warm environment. I specialize in dynamics related to child sexual abuse and trauma, family issues, divorce, depression and anxiety, difficulty with anger management, coping skills, low self-esteem, social skills deficits, relationship problems, and other general family concerns. I enjoy meeting with entire families when appropriate. I believe you have a story to tell and I want to hear it!
(404) 369-7854 View (404) 369-7854
Photo of Courtney Hintermeyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Hintermeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30319
I specialize in complex trauma, survivors of childhood sexual abuse, sexual, physical, & emotional abuse at any age, PTSD, commercial sexual exploitation & human trafficking, sex addiction, eating disorders, family of origin issues, co-dependency, life transitions, artists & other creatives.
Hi, I'm Courtney. I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and am EMDR trained. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, and helping them to heal the effect trauma has in a person's nervous system and life. I have served in a wide range of clinical settings, working on an inpatient unit for trauma and eating disorders, in residential programs for sexual exploitation, human trafficking, and addictions, as well as the private practice setting.
I specialize in complex trauma, survivors of childhood sexual abuse, sexual, physical, & emotional abuse at any age, PTSD, commercial sexual exploitation & human trafficking, sex addiction, eating disorders, family of origin issues, co-dependency, life transitions, artists & other creatives.
Hi, I'm Courtney. I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and am EMDR trained. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, and helping them to heal the effect trauma has in a person's nervous system and life. I have served in a wide range of clinical settings, working on an inpatient unit for trauma and eating disorders, in residential programs for sexual exploitation, human trafficking, and addictions, as well as the private practice setting.
(470) 435-8881 View (470) 435-8881
Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta - Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30350
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 771-6943 View (678) 771-6943
Photo of Ashley Rhys, MS, LMFT, EMDR-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Rhys
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30327  (Online Only)
I specialize in all Trauma/PTSD (sexual assault, domestic violence, childhood, loss, car accident, etc), depression, stress, anxiety, racial issues, and family issues.
Therapy with me looks like support, growth, gaining strength, and insight along the way. You don't have to take the struggles of life alone. I have been a therapist for 12 years and I am truly passionate about providing a safe space for all my clients. I enjoy creating a calm, non-judgmental, and peaceful environment for clients to be their full and true selves as they evolve, while accomplishing their goals. I teach clients how to empower and heal themselves. I provide services for individuals (adults & adolescents) and families. I work with people between the ages of 18- 65+. Including all demographics, and backgrounds.
I specialize in all Trauma/PTSD (sexual assault, domestic violence, childhood, loss, car accident, etc), depression, stress, anxiety, racial issues, and family issues.
Therapy with me looks like support, growth, gaining strength, and insight along the way. You don't have to take the struggles of life alone. I have been a therapist for 12 years and I am truly passionate about providing a safe space for all my clients. I enjoy creating a calm, non-judgmental, and peaceful environment for clients to be their full and true selves as they evolve, while accomplishing their goals. I teach clients how to empower and heal themselves. I provide services for individuals (adults & adolescents) and families. I work with people between the ages of 18- 65+. Including all demographics, and backgrounds.
(229) 280-3629 View (229) 280-3629
Photo of Svetlana Markova, PhD, Psychologist
Svetlana Markova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist with 20 years of clinical experience, and I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults. I work with people who are struggling with the effects of trauma and stressful events, depression, anxiety, and behavior problems, including sexual behavior problems. I also help people with impulse control difficulties, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and eating problems.
I am a psychologist with 20 years of clinical experience, and I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults. I work with people who are struggling with the effects of trauma and stressful events, depression, anxiety, and behavior problems, including sexual behavior problems. I also help people with impulse control difficulties, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and eating problems.
(678) 940-7887 View (678) 940-7887
Photo of Kelly Cave, MA, LMFT, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Cave
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Is your life and your behavior impacted by events from the past? That's a very common side effect of trauma. Trauma impacts the ways in which we respond to every day stimulation and can shape our choices in healthy and unhealthy ways. According to research, more than half of men and women have experienced a trauma in their life time and 2 out of 5 women and 1 out of 6 men have experienced sexual trauma. You're not alone in this pain and I would love to help you through it. Using talk therapy combined with EMDR, we will build a safe place for you to process your hurt and be able to unwind what the brain has been holding on to.
Is your life and your behavior impacted by events from the past? That's a very common side effect of trauma. Trauma impacts the ways in which we respond to every day stimulation and can shape our choices in healthy and unhealthy ways. According to research, more than half of men and women have experienced a trauma in their life time and 2 out of 5 women and 1 out of 6 men have experienced sexual trauma. You're not alone in this pain and I would love to help you through it. Using talk therapy combined with EMDR, we will build a safe place for you to process your hurt and be able to unwind what the brain has been holding on to.
(404) 814-5041 View (404) 814-5041
Photo of Elizabeth Coe, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Coe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
I believe in creating a nurturing, trustworthy environment to enhance my ability to truly see and hear my clients. My goal is to provide a judgment-free and safe space for my clients to openly share their troubles while connecting on a deeper level to evoke positive change in their circumstances. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered. I strive to meet my client’s where they are and help support them in their therapeutic journey.
I believe in creating a nurturing, trustworthy environment to enhance my ability to truly see and hear my clients. My goal is to provide a judgment-free and safe space for my clients to openly share their troubles while connecting on a deeper level to evoke positive change in their circumstances. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered. I strive to meet my client’s where they are and help support them in their therapeutic journey.
(404) 689-2505 View (404) 689-2505
Photo of Mary Kate Ulshafer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Kate Ulshafer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30327
I’m Mary Kate Ulshafer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience. I specialize in helping children (ages 5-10), preteens (11-13), teens (13-18), and young adults (18-20) of any gender identity or sexual orientation navigate life changes, anxiety, depression, mood and behavior difficulties, trauma, identity issues, and low self-esteem. I offer both individual and family counseling and have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community.
I’m Mary Kate Ulshafer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience. I specialize in helping children (ages 5-10), preteens (11-13), teens (13-18), and young adults (18-20) of any gender identity or sexual orientation navigate life changes, anxiety, depression, mood and behavior difficulties, trauma, identity issues, and low self-esteem. I offer both individual and family counseling and have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of L Elizabeth Shelton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
L Elizabeth Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328  (Online Only)
I am L. Elizabeth Shelton, GA LPC 008242, and have been fully licensed since 2012, originally in Virginia and since 2015 in Georgia. My theoretical orientation to therapy is CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) as I believe it is critical to understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and drive most of the problems people struggle to overcome.
I am L. Elizabeth Shelton, GA LPC 008242, and have been fully licensed since 2012, originally in Virginia and since 2015 in Georgia. My theoretical orientation to therapy is CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) as I believe it is critical to understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and drive most of the problems people struggle to overcome.
(470) 828-3024 View (470) 828-3024
Photo of Melinda Paige, PhD, LPC, CPCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Paige
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30350
Melinda’s person-centered approach to trauma recovery honors the strength and resilience of survivors. She views her clients as experts of their experiences and believes in the body’s natural capacity to heal from trauma & stress-related conditions. She uses approaches including EMDR and clinical hypnosis to ensure her clients remain present and grounded throughout the therapeutic session. Traumatic memory is painlessly reprocessed and stored in the “done file.” Negative thoughts, behaviors, and emotions are eliminated since they are no longer necessary for survival. What remains is increased presence, self-compassion and growth.
Melinda’s person-centered approach to trauma recovery honors the strength and resilience of survivors. She views her clients as experts of their experiences and believes in the body’s natural capacity to heal from trauma & stress-related conditions. She uses approaches including EMDR and clinical hypnosis to ensure her clients remain present and grounded throughout the therapeutic session. Traumatic memory is painlessly reprocessed and stored in the “done file.” Negative thoughts, behaviors, and emotions are eliminated since they are no longer necessary for survival. What remains is increased presence, self-compassion and growth.
(678) 607-8717 View (678) 607-8717
Photo of Regina Zabel, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regina Zabel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30319
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize working with high-achieving women plagued with the pressure to do more, do the right thing, people-please, and avoid being upset with those she loves the most. These women are leaders, compassionate, forgiving of others and admired by many. However she carries a secret, a revving internal engine that's says she has to keep going, don't stop, and set rigid rules that only apply to her. She's anxious about the future and fixated on the past. She finds it difficult to turn off her thinking. Painful histories, depression, anxiety and poor boundaries are normally the culprits with her strong, "I have it together" exterior.
I specialize working with high-achieving women plagued with the pressure to do more, do the right thing, people-please, and avoid being upset with those she loves the most. These women are leaders, compassionate, forgiving of others and admired by many. However she carries a secret, a revving internal engine that's says she has to keep going, don't stop, and set rigid rules that only apply to her. She's anxious about the future and fixated on the past. She finds it difficult to turn off her thinking. Painful histories, depression, anxiety and poor boundaries are normally the culprits with her strong, "I have it together" exterior.
(404) 737-7833 View (404) 737-7833
Photo of Hector A. Pereles, MA, LPC, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hector A. Pereles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328  (Online Only)
Licensed to practice telehealth with people located in Georgia or Florida. You are too familiar with stress, worry, and anxiety - even overthinking. Are you feeling lonely, inadequate, socially anxious, even panicky? Sick and tired of living constantly anxious and fearful? You can be helped to grow and expand into a state of self-confidence and empowerment to live a life worth living. Avoidance and self-medicating with alcohol/drugs can leave you high and dry - even feeling worse! You can learn how to make your fears and worries smaller and manageable, and practice the steps toward leading a satisfying life. This is too important.
Licensed to practice telehealth with people located in Georgia or Florida. You are too familiar with stress, worry, and anxiety - even overthinking. Are you feeling lonely, inadequate, socially anxious, even panicky? Sick and tired of living constantly anxious and fearful? You can be helped to grow and expand into a state of self-confidence and empowerment to live a life worth living. Avoidance and self-medicating with alcohol/drugs can leave you high and dry - even feeling worse! You can learn how to make your fears and worries smaller and manageable, and practice the steps toward leading a satisfying life. This is too important.
(404) 476-7560 View (404) 476-7560
Photo of Walena Bryant, ICADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Walena Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I am an LCSW and certified addiction counselor with over 25 years of providing behavioral health and addiction services. I began my career in behavioral health while serving in the United States Air Force. I have experience working with various populations including veterans, children, and the LGBTQ community. I assist in the management of trauma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. I am currently providing child, adolescent, adult, and substance abuse assessments, I am a former case manager and can make referrals for services in the community. I accept referrals from Gwinnett, Fulton, and Dekalb.
I am an LCSW and certified addiction counselor with over 25 years of providing behavioral health and addiction services. I began my career in behavioral health while serving in the United States Air Force. I have experience working with various populations including veterans, children, and the LGBTQ community. I assist in the management of trauma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. I am currently providing child, adolescent, adult, and substance abuse assessments, I am a former case manager and can make referrals for services in the community. I accept referrals from Gwinnett, Fulton, and Dekalb.
(404) 948-5102 View (404) 948-5102
Photo of Stephanie Townsend, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Townsend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Trauma can leave us feeling broken, waiting for the next shoe to drop, and even out of control at times. You're likely tired of wondering when you'll start to feel better or when life is going to stop fighting against you. You may not even remember a time when you didn't feel like this but you know you're ready for a change. You probably describe yourself as "highly self-aware" and even pinpoint where problems can come from, but you're looking to make an impactful and long-lasting transformation. You find yourself excited about the idea of change and relief, enjoying life and relationships once again or maybe for the first time.
Trauma can leave us feeling broken, waiting for the next shoe to drop, and even out of control at times. You're likely tired of wondering when you'll start to feel better or when life is going to stop fighting against you. You may not even remember a time when you didn't feel like this but you know you're ready for a change. You probably describe yourself as "highly self-aware" and even pinpoint where problems can come from, but you're looking to make an impactful and long-lasting transformation. You find yourself excited about the idea of change and relief, enjoying life and relationships once again or maybe for the first time.
(470) 686-7445 View (470) 686-7445
Photo of Dr. Crystal Burwell, PhD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Crystal Burwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Burwell, and I can help you find your voice. Your voice is all you have. Are you struggling to cope with life? You're not alone. We're all struggling in an uncertain world. Life is messy, but I can help you clean it up. Therapy improves emotional wellness, relationships, and connectivity to your higher power. It's time to prepare for soul surgery! Your wellness is critical to every aspect of life. Your health is connected to your wealth. This process yields dividends with a high return on your investment. Begin your work today!
I'm Dr. Burwell, and I can help you find your voice. Your voice is all you have. Are you struggling to cope with life? You're not alone. We're all struggling in an uncertain world. Life is messy, but I can help you clean it up. Therapy improves emotional wellness, relationships, and connectivity to your higher power. It's time to prepare for soul surgery! Your wellness is critical to every aspect of life. Your health is connected to your wealth. This process yields dividends with a high return on your investment. Begin your work today!
(404) 341-7269 View (404) 341-7269
Photo of Avery Campbell, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Avery Campbell
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
We all experience times when we feel stuck in our lives. No matter how much we want to make positive changes within ourselves and relationships, it can sometimes feel that we are trying to move forward against a brick wall. Whether you are struggling with anxiety about the future, sadness or guilt about the past, or confusion on how to navigate the present, therapy should be a space where you are met with compassion, genuine curiosity, and support – exactly as you are and without judgment.
We all experience times when we feel stuck in our lives. No matter how much we want to make positive changes within ourselves and relationships, it can sometimes feel that we are trying to move forward against a brick wall. Whether you are struggling with anxiety about the future, sadness or guilt about the past, or confusion on how to navigate the present, therapy should be a space where you are met with compassion, genuine curiosity, and support – exactly as you are and without judgment.
(404) 257-6474 View (404) 257-6474
Photo of Beverly J Matthews, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beverly J Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
For 30 years, I've been helping men and women experience more clarity, feel empowered, and overcome their feelings of depression and anxiety. Whether you are struggling with past trauma, relationship issues, problems with work, or feel stuck in any area, I will support you in creating the kind of life you want. Together we will explore the negative beliefs, emotions and behaviors that have held you back and clear the emotional charge associated with them, so that you can begin to accept and love yourself and make healthy and life-enhancing choices moving forward. Trauma is my specialty.
For 30 years, I've been helping men and women experience more clarity, feel empowered, and overcome their feelings of depression and anxiety. Whether you are struggling with past trauma, relationship issues, problems with work, or feel stuck in any area, I will support you in creating the kind of life you want. Together we will explore the negative beliefs, emotions and behaviors that have held you back and clear the emotional charge associated with them, so that you can begin to accept and love yourself and make healthy and life-enhancing choices moving forward. Trauma is my specialty.
(678) 383-0375 View (678) 383-0375
Photo of Sunamita Tuple, MS, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sunamita Tuple
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I believe, in each of us, there is an inherent need to be understood and accepted and that psychotherapy involves building a caring relationship in which clients feel safe and at ease. My goal for our time together is to help you better understand yourself, understand patters behind the choices you make and equip you with coping skills that will enable you to more effectively deal with life stressors. I am passionate about couple/marriage work and restoring relationships, integrating faith into the counseling process, addressing women's issues, identity development and growth, self esteem, professional development, grief and loss.
I believe, in each of us, there is an inherent need to be understood and accepted and that psychotherapy involves building a caring relationship in which clients feel safe and at ease. My goal for our time together is to help you better understand yourself, understand patters behind the choices you make and equip you with coping skills that will enable you to more effectively deal with life stressors. I am passionate about couple/marriage work and restoring relationships, integrating faith into the counseling process, addressing women's issues, identity development and growth, self esteem, professional development, grief and loss.
(678) 929-4679 View (678) 929-4679
Photo of Pamela Hayes Malkoff, MFT, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Hayes Malkoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
As an Art Therapis and a bisexual woman, Pamela has a strong commitment to serving diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community. She is attuned to the unique challenges faced by individuals re: identity and sexuality. She provides a safe and affirming space for exploration and growth. Focused on atypical relationships (ethical non-monogamy, long distance, FWB, triads, situationships), Pamela's approach is solution-focused to help clients reduce jealousy, increase compassion, rediscover passion and make real change. There is not much that will offend or surprise her. She also enjoys hiking, biking, art and a warm bowl of Pho.
As an Art Therapis and a bisexual woman, Pamela has a strong commitment to serving diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community. She is attuned to the unique challenges faced by individuals re: identity and sexuality. She provides a safe and affirming space for exploration and growth. Focused on atypical relationships (ethical non-monogamy, long distance, FWB, triads, situationships), Pamela's approach is solution-focused to help clients reduce jealousy, increase compassion, rediscover passion and make real change. There is not much that will offend or surprise her. She also enjoys hiking, biking, art and a warm bowl of Pho.
(404) 531-7301 View (404) 531-7301
Photo of Ellen Zucrow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Zucrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
People seek therapy to address long standing challenges they would like to work on or to address specific issues or events which may have recently presented in their lives. I am a LCSW with over 20 years of experience and training working with young and older adults up through the lifespan. I have a general psychotherapy practice with a specialty in trauma, survivors of abuse, grief and loss, loss of children and survivors of suicide. My areas of practice also include helping people deal with depression and anxiety, mood disorders, relationship and family issues, and working through life transitions and challenges.
People seek therapy to address long standing challenges they would like to work on or to address specific issues or events which may have recently presented in their lives. I am a LCSW with over 20 years of experience and training working with young and older adults up through the lifespan. I have a general psychotherapy practice with a specialty in trauma, survivors of abuse, grief and loss, loss of children and survivors of suicide. My areas of practice also include helping people deal with depression and anxiety, mood disorders, relationship and family issues, and working through life transitions and challenges.
(470) 713-1964 View (470) 713-1964
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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.