Sexual Abuse Therapists in Smyrna, GA

Photo of Katherine Kessler - Cumberland Counseling Centers - Lawrenceville, LCSW, LPC, AMFT, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cumberland Counseling Centers - Lawrenceville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, AMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Join our community! We focus on: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult Life Transitions, Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships and Codependency.
Our mental health is the foundation for how we view everything: ourselves, the world around us, even God. Cumberland Counseling Services is a professional counseling center providing quality mental health care and education, to bring about transforming change to the communities that we serve. Our focus areas include couples, adults, and adolescents aged 10+. And as licensed professionals, we are committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. Our counselors will draw upon their clinical training and formal education to address each unique need.
Join our community! We focus on: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult Life Transitions, Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships and Codependency.
Our mental health is the foundation for how we view everything: ourselves, the world around us, even God. Cumberland Counseling Services is a professional counseling center providing quality mental health care and education, to bring about transforming change to the communities that we serve. Our focus areas include couples, adults, and adolescents aged 10+. And as licensed professionals, we are committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. Our counselors will draw upon their clinical training and formal education to address each unique need.
(470) 232-0349 View (470) 232-0349
Photo of Counseling Services Of Atlanta - Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30082
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, 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, and family 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, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, 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, and family 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, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 394-3719 View (678) 394-3719
Photo of Elaine A Thomas, PsyD, Psychologist
Elaine A Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Anxiety conditions I work with include: separation anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress disorder, child traumatic grief, distress following single incident traumas such as car accidents and natural disasters, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
Anxiety conditions I work with include: separation anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress disorder, child traumatic grief, distress following single incident traumas such as car accidents and natural disasters, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
(770) 790-0773 View (770) 790-0773
Photo of Daron Dominguez Elam - Summit's Edge Counseling, MS, NCC, LPC, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Summit's Edge Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
We are an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities. We serve children (3+), teens, and adults, individuals, couples (all structures), families. We create treatment plans that utilize evidence-based treatments while considering the unique experiences and identifies of our clients. Our clients want to feel safe to explore their needs with a therapist that understands them.
We are an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities. We serve children (3+), teens, and adults, individuals, couples (all structures), families. We create treatment plans that utilize evidence-based treatments while considering the unique experiences and identifies of our clients. Our clients want to feel safe to explore their needs with a therapist that understands them.
(404) 348-0715 View (404) 348-0715
Photo of Liz Diaz - Sprigs Counseling Collaborative, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sprigs Counseling Collaborative
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Talking to a perfect stranger about personal things doesn't exactly make a person feel warm and fuzzy. Realistically though, life is just hard! Sometimes we just need to share our thoughts with someone who can be trusted not to judge how life's toughest blows may have affected us. Sometimes we just need to be able to talk honestly about things we wouldn't share with just anyone. This doesn't make us broken, it makes us 'Human.'
Talking to a perfect stranger about personal things doesn't exactly make a person feel warm and fuzzy. Realistically though, life is just hard! Sometimes we just need to share our thoughts with someone who can be trusted not to judge how life's toughest blows may have affected us. Sometimes we just need to be able to talk honestly about things we wouldn't share with just anyone. This doesn't make us broken, it makes us 'Human.'
(678) 621-2560 View (678) 621-2560
Photo of Christi Bartolomucci, PhD, LPC, CPCS, Psychologist
Christi Bartolomucci
Psychologist, PhD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
With a therapeutic relationship filled with nurturing and collaboration, along with a bit of humor and playfulness, we can explore dynamics, improve skills, and overcome barriers. Together, we identify and utilize strengths in the process of facing more challenging emotional and relational struggles. My clients, which include children, adolescents, and adults, frequently address issues such as anxieties, OCD, ADHD, trauma, negative self-worth, school/work-based challenges, perfectionism, emotional regulation, preparation/adjustment to divorce, parenting, bullying, and the overall desire to improve key relationships.
With a therapeutic relationship filled with nurturing and collaboration, along with a bit of humor and playfulness, we can explore dynamics, improve skills, and overcome barriers. Together, we identify and utilize strengths in the process of facing more challenging emotional and relational struggles. My clients, which include children, adolescents, and adults, frequently address issues such as anxieties, OCD, ADHD, trauma, negative self-worth, school/work-based challenges, perfectionism, emotional regulation, preparation/adjustment to divorce, parenting, bullying, and the overall desire to improve key relationships.
(770) 450-5288 x104 View (770) 450-5288 x104
Photo of Stella D. Cruz Rodriguez, PsyD, CCTP-II, Psychologist
Stella D. Cruz Rodriguez
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30082  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
During my years of practice, I realized that many mental health issues are rooted from past negative or traumatic experiences. This is why I decided to specialize in working with trauma, PTSD, dual diagnoses, and other related issues. We can work together to help you understand why you are experiencing distress and develop strategies to manage it.
During my years of practice, I realized that many mental health issues are rooted from past negative or traumatic experiences. This is why I decided to specialize in working with trauma, PTSD, dual diagnoses, and other related issues. We can work together to help you understand why you are experiencing distress and develop strategies to manage it.
(404) 662-4106 View (404) 662-4106
Photo of Simona Cohen, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Simona Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Hi. I am so glad you are here. Life’s circumstances and challenges can really wear on our resiliency and ability to cope effectively. Our past can also shape our current beliefs about the world and how we show up in it. Many clients who come to work with me often struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, and interpersonal challenges. I use different modalities to help clients explore emotions, gain understanding and self compassion, build courage, and learn & apply new skills to make positive desired changes. My goal is to help empower clients to create a more meaningful life aligned with their personal values.
Hi. I am so glad you are here. Life’s circumstances and challenges can really wear on our resiliency and ability to cope effectively. Our past can also shape our current beliefs about the world and how we show up in it. Many clients who come to work with me often struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, and interpersonal challenges. I use different modalities to help clients explore emotions, gain understanding and self compassion, build courage, and learn & apply new skills to make positive desired changes. My goal is to help empower clients to create a more meaningful life aligned with their personal values.
(470) 339-4199 x109 View (470) 339-4199 x109
Photo of Anne Moss, LPC, LCAS, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Moss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
Racing thoughts? Having a hard time concentrating? Zero motivation? Stress in your relationship? Overwhelmed? Scared to ask or seek help? I get it. I will listen and help you learn effective tools that will begin your journey to feeling more in control and regaining the quality of life that is important to you. I have over 18 years of experience with mental health issues as well as substance abuse. I am available for a free phone consultation. We can work together to help you find the control and quality of life you are looking for. Please give me a call, it's the first step to feeling better! (+ EMDR for trauma related symptoms).
Racing thoughts? Having a hard time concentrating? Zero motivation? Stress in your relationship? Overwhelmed? Scared to ask or seek help? I get it. I will listen and help you learn effective tools that will begin your journey to feeling more in control and regaining the quality of life that is important to you. I have over 18 years of experience with mental health issues as well as substance abuse. I am available for a free phone consultation. We can work together to help you find the control and quality of life you are looking for. Please give me a call, it's the first step to feeling better! (+ EMDR for trauma related symptoms).
(678) 883-7340 View (678) 883-7340
Photo of Jamie Fernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Fernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
I wholeheartedly believe that because the majority of our wounds occur inside relationship, healing will come through relationship as well. In our work, I can offer you warmth and empathy as we gently explore the ‘why’ behind what you do while uncovering your strength and resilience. My work with clients focuses on grief and loss, trauma, relational discord, anxiety, depression, body image, life-transitions, adoption-related issues, parenthood and the intersection of faith and spirituality with day to day living.
I wholeheartedly believe that because the majority of our wounds occur inside relationship, healing will come through relationship as well. In our work, I can offer you warmth and empathy as we gently explore the ‘why’ behind what you do while uncovering your strength and resilience. My work with clients focuses on grief and loss, trauma, relational discord, anxiety, depression, body image, life-transitions, adoption-related issues, parenthood and the intersection of faith and spirituality with day to day living.
(404) 924-4456 View (404) 924-4456
Photo of Dr. Shenithia S Arnold, EdD, LPC, ACS, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Shenithia S Arnold
Counselor, EdD, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
"If you are ready to embark upon a journey that will ultimately lead to a greater you, consider beginning your Journey 2 Greatness with me. I am Shenithia Arnold, a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia specializing in behavioral and emotional disorders. As your therapist, I will provide an emotionally comfortable environment allowing you to discuss your most difficult issues, uncover your fears and limitations, and/or change any destructive behaviors that may impede your growth. Together we will work to challenge any self defeating thoughts and implement effective behavioral and communication skills to aid in your journey".
"If you are ready to embark upon a journey that will ultimately lead to a greater you, consider beginning your Journey 2 Greatness with me. I am Shenithia Arnold, a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia specializing in behavioral and emotional disorders. As your therapist, I will provide an emotionally comfortable environment allowing you to discuss your most difficult issues, uncover your fears and limitations, and/or change any destructive behaviors that may impede your growth. Together we will work to challenge any self defeating thoughts and implement effective behavioral and communication skills to aid in your journey".
(678) 974-1035 View (678) 974-1035
Photo of Lisa Salyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Salyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
Lisa Salyer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Louisville. She has extensive experience providing individual and group therapy for a diverse population. Her work has involved counseling survivors of domestic violence, those struggling with substance abuse, adults with relationship issues, and those struggling with grief or childhood trauma along with other mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
Lisa Salyer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Louisville. She has extensive experience providing individual and group therapy for a diverse population. Her work has involved counseling survivors of domestic violence, those struggling with substance abuse, adults with relationship issues, and those struggling with grief or childhood trauma along with other mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
(678) 783-8967 View (678) 783-8967
Photo of Lauren Skelton Baird - Wellness Without Walls, LLC, MS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wellness Without Walls, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I meet every individual where they are in their personal journey to improve their mental health. My goal is to help my clients meet their goals by focusing on developing a relationship and creating personalized treatment plans. There is not a one size fits all approach to mental health care. I look forward to meeting and learning about each and every individual I work with.
I meet every individual where they are in their personal journey to improve their mental health. My goal is to help my clients meet their goals by focusing on developing a relationship and creating personalized treatment plans. There is not a one size fits all approach to mental health care. I look forward to meeting and learning about each and every individual I work with.
(404) 738-8781 View (404) 738-8781
Photo of Aminta Osejo, MA, LPC, CADC II, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aminta Osejo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC II, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
"I believe that empowerment is the key to success." I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and I have worked in the addictions field for over six years. I also work with children and families who struggle with traumas, domestic violence, behavioral, emotional and communication issues. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) clinical evaluator and treatment provider approved by the Department of Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). I can perform alcohol and drug clinical evaluations for pretrial, DUI convictions and license reinstatement.
"I believe that empowerment is the key to success." I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and I have worked in the addictions field for over six years. I also work with children and families who struggle with traumas, domestic violence, behavioral, emotional and communication issues. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) clinical evaluator and treatment provider approved by the Department of Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). I can perform alcohol and drug clinical evaluations for pretrial, DUI convictions and license reinstatement.
(678) 929-6249 View (678) 929-6249
Photo of Jessica Perez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I provide an authentic therapeutic alliance with my clients. We work together to transform painful emotions into empowering energy needed for healing and balance. My manner is warm, positive and direct. I believe healing is always possible when we are allied with the right support system. I provide a safe and judgement-free experience for all!
I provide an authentic therapeutic alliance with my clients. We work together to transform painful emotions into empowering energy needed for healing and balance. My manner is warm, positive and direct. I believe healing is always possible when we are allied with the right support system. I provide a safe and judgement-free experience for all!
(470) 467-8751 View (470) 467-8751
Photo of Amber Spezzano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Spezzano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Sometimes we come to a place where we realize the life we are living is not aligned with our personal values, purpose, or desires. There may be patterns that have served a purpose in the past, helping us manage fear when we have felt unsafe and haven't had the resources to effectively cope. While these strategies may have helped you survive, they may now be holding your body and mind hostage to the past. Together we can explore these patterns with the goal to help you develop personal insight, learn new coping strategies, and heal into a fulfilled life.
Sometimes we come to a place where we realize the life we are living is not aligned with our personal values, purpose, or desires. There may be patterns that have served a purpose in the past, helping us manage fear when we have felt unsafe and haven't had the resources to effectively cope. While these strategies may have helped you survive, they may now be holding your body and mind hostage to the past. Together we can explore these patterns with the goal to help you develop personal insight, learn new coping strategies, and heal into a fulfilled life.
(404) 620-5017 View (404) 620-5017
Photo of Brenda Maureen Romanchik, LCSW, ACSW, CTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Maureen Romanchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I also work with adults. While post-graduate training, and teaching, have increased my skills, what makes me a good therapist are the beliefs I hold dear. I believe in people and their ability to heal and thrive. I believe that the connection I have with my clients not only allows them to open up to me, but others as well. Most importantly, I believe that working with others is a tremendous responsibility and a sacred trust. It is an honor I never take lightly.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I also work with adults. While post-graduate training, and teaching, have increased my skills, what makes me a good therapist are the beliefs I hold dear. I believe in people and their ability to heal and thrive. I believe that the connection I have with my clients not only allows them to open up to me, but others as well. Most importantly, I believe that working with others is a tremendous responsibility and a sacred trust. It is an honor I never take lightly.
(469) 203-4030 View (469) 203-4030
Photo of Angela R Richardson - ReConnect Therapeutic Associates, LLC, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
ReConnect Therapeutic Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
“WE take an eclectic approach to providing therapeutic services. Our objective in therapy is "Facilitating Good Mental Health". We believe good mental health is a journey not a destination. Life can be challenging but it is our choices that increase the level of difficulty. Therapy provides the support and tools needed to navigate life's challenges. Achieving good mental health requires a collaborative relationship, which begins with building a trusting therapeutic environment. In practice, We utilize a variety of theoretical approaches such as Reality/Choice Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Family Systems.”
“WE take an eclectic approach to providing therapeutic services. Our objective in therapy is "Facilitating Good Mental Health". We believe good mental health is a journey not a destination. Life can be challenging but it is our choices that increase the level of difficulty. Therapy provides the support and tools needed to navigate life's challenges. Achieving good mental health requires a collaborative relationship, which begins with building a trusting therapeutic environment. In practice, We utilize a variety of theoretical approaches such as Reality/Choice Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Family Systems.”
(404) 476-8347 View (404) 476-8347
Photo of Isom Eugene White, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isom Eugene White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
A person cannot be truly understood without a consideration of various aspects of their social, familial, temporal, spiritual, economic, and physical environment. It is through this compassionate lens that my work begins. If you are someone who has suffered through trauma, or is struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger, or going through a big life change, I would love to help. I specialize in working with men's issues, with professionals & athletes who struggle with performance pressures, & with those with attachment trauma. I use EMDR to target traumatic memories and help you process then in a safe way.
A person cannot be truly understood without a consideration of various aspects of their social, familial, temporal, spiritual, economic, and physical environment. It is through this compassionate lens that my work begins. If you are someone who has suffered through trauma, or is struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger, or going through a big life change, I would love to help. I specialize in working with men's issues, with professionals & athletes who struggle with performance pressures, & with those with attachment trauma. I use EMDR to target traumatic memories and help you process then in a safe way.
(706) 425-8900 x719 View (706) 425-8900 x719
Photo of Katlyn Elizabeth Chambers, LAPC, NCC, MA, Counselor
Katlyn Elizabeth Chambers
Counselor, LAPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Imagine you grew up in a house filled with ghosts. Their presence was palpable and they inconsistently, yet consistently, came out to scare you. You worry they followed you out of your childhood and into your adult world because you just can't stop trying to find them before they get you first. You still see them sometimes, but you can't name them, and you fear no one else will believe you if you tell them they exist. If your stomach just dropped or you felt vaguely seen in this analogy, you may know the experience of living with complex trauma. If you are looking for a ghostbuster, I am your clinician.
Imagine you grew up in a house filled with ghosts. Their presence was palpable and they inconsistently, yet consistently, came out to scare you. You worry they followed you out of your childhood and into your adult world because you just can't stop trying to find them before they get you first. You still see them sometimes, but you can't name them, and you fear no one else will believe you if you tell them they exist. If your stomach just dropped or you felt vaguely seen in this analogy, you may know the experience of living with complex trauma. If you are looking for a ghostbuster, I am your clinician.
(404) 738-9623 View (404) 738-9623
1
Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.