Sexual Abuse Therapists in Union City, GA

Photo of Monica Bell-Callahan - Lighthouse Counseling Center, MA, LPC, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lighthouse Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Union City, GA 30291  (Online Only)
I've had the privilege of working in diverse settings: homeless, individual, marital, family counseling, residential settings helping women to overcome horrors of human trafficking and/or a history of sexual abuse.
Sharing your trauma/pain and challenges can be fearful and finding the right therapist matters. My practice is open to meeting people just where they are without judgment and pretense. I want you to walk away feeling heard, cared for and empowered to take back control of your life. So, let's work together to change the narrative and outcome of your story. I specialize working with Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorder, Individual/ Marital Counseling, Grief counseling, Bipolar Disorders, Family Counseling, Stress, Vocational issues, Women issues and PTSD, anger, agitation, low self-esteem issues.
I've had the privilege of working in diverse settings: homeless, individual, marital, family counseling, residential settings helping women to overcome horrors of human trafficking and/or a history of sexual abuse.
Sharing your trauma/pain and challenges can be fearful and finding the right therapist matters. My practice is open to meeting people just where they are without judgment and pretense. I want you to walk away feeling heard, cared for and empowered to take back control of your life. So, let's work together to change the narrative and outcome of your story. I specialize working with Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorder, Individual/ Marital Counseling, Grief counseling, Bipolar Disorders, Family Counseling, Stress, Vocational issues, Women issues and PTSD, anger, agitation, low self-esteem issues.
(678) 535-3173 View (678) 535-3173
Photo of Dina Delva, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dina Delva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union City, GA 30291  (Online Only)
With a focus on couples, individuals and family therapy, I can assist you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, transition, divorce, blended family dynamics, women's issues and more.
With a focus on couples, individuals and family therapy, I can assist you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, transition, divorce, blended family dynamics, women's issues and more.
(770) 629-9035 View (770) 629-9035
Photo of Stella Cruz Rodriguez, PsyD, Psychologist
Stella Cruz Rodriguez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Union City, GA 30291
My name is Dr. Cruz, but you can call me Stella. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and I've been in practice since 2014. I offer services in English and Spanish. I have extensive experience providing individual and group therapy to adults. I specialize in working with trauma, PTSD, dual diagnoses, and other related issues, and I use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. “When we nurture others from a place of fullness, we feel renewed instead of taken advantage of.” — Jennifer Louden
My name is Dr. Cruz, but you can call me Stella. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and I've been in practice since 2014. I offer services in English and Spanish. I have extensive experience providing individual and group therapy to adults. I specialize in working with trauma, PTSD, dual diagnoses, and other related issues, and I use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. “When we nurture others from a place of fullness, we feel renewed instead of taken advantage of.” — Jennifer Louden
(678) 825-8940 View (678) 825-8940
Photo of Myra Brown - Helping to Heal Counseling Services, LLC, LMHC, LPC, CPCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Helping to Heal Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union City, GA 30291
Welcome, as it takes courage for us to ask for help from others and seek therapy. I am here to tell you that it is okay to ask for help and seeking a professional therapist is the first step in your journey. Life is hard at times, with a multitude of life transitions, from graduating from high school to finishing college, starting a new job, or having feelings of being stuck either personally and/or professionally. Life is not an easy road to travel, but as we travel through different life challenges, sometimes we need help from others and it’s okay to seek help.
Welcome, as it takes courage for us to ask for help from others and seek therapy. I am here to tell you that it is okay to ask for help and seeking a professional therapist is the first step in your journey. Life is hard at times, with a multitude of life transitions, from graduating from high school to finishing college, starting a new job, or having feelings of being stuck either personally and/or professionally. Life is not an easy road to travel, but as we travel through different life challenges, sometimes we need help from others and it’s okay to seek help.
(678) 679-4534 View (678) 679-4534
Photo of Laura Elizabeth Shelton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Elizabeth Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Union City, GA 30291
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 have experience working with a wide range of areas/conditions, though most often focus on helping individuals with depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and trauma.
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 have experience working with a wide range of areas/conditions, though most often focus on helping individuals with depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and trauma.
(470) 660-3894 View (470) 660-3894
Photo of S Candee' Winfield, LPC, NCC, DCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
S Candee' Winfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
Union City, GA 30291  (Online Only)
Looking for a therapist is a big step. You want to make sure your selection is one that will meet your needs...when depression, anxiety, relationship or marital issues are your concern you can be sure your needs will be addressed and met at Suddenly! Professional Counseling. Office hours 10a-5p. and e-visits. Whether you are dealing with loss and grief, divorce, substance abuse, mood disorders, stress, or issues from childhood, you will benefit from making this call. e-visits are now available after phone intake. No special equipment needed & HIPPA compliant. Also check out the weekly group sessions that are held.
Looking for a therapist is a big step. You want to make sure your selection is one that will meet your needs...when depression, anxiety, relationship or marital issues are your concern you can be sure your needs will be addressed and met at Suddenly! Professional Counseling. Office hours 10a-5p. and e-visits. Whether you are dealing with loss and grief, divorce, substance abuse, mood disorders, stress, or issues from childhood, you will benefit from making this call. e-visits are now available after phone intake. No special equipment needed & HIPPA compliant. Also check out the weekly group sessions that are held.
(678) 253-4724 View (678) 253-4724
Photo of Nak Union Behavioral Health - Nak Union Behavioral Health, MSW, LCSW, MAC, DR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nak Union Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MAC, DR
Verified Verified
Union City, GA 30291
Often when people are faced with life's challenges, they do not realize how strong they can be. We work with Children, Families and Adults who find they are struggling with chronic mental health illness, substance recovery, divorce, loss, grief or trauma. Transitions can be difficult but they can also lead us to new emotional growth. Our strength-based approach will help you heal emotionally and find your inner resiliency.
Often when people are faced with life's challenges, they do not realize how strong they can be. We work with Children, Families and Adults who find they are struggling with chronic mental health illness, substance recovery, divorce, loss, grief or trauma. Transitions can be difficult but they can also lead us to new emotional growth. Our strength-based approach will help you heal emotionally and find your inner resiliency.
(678) 951-8812 View (678) 951-8812
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turnmeika Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Union City, GA 30291
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
(470) 468-2837 View (470) 468-2837
Photo of Ryan T. Day - The Healing Center for Change, LLC., PhD, LPC, CPCS, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Healing Center for Change, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Union City, GA 30291
We are only accepting self-pay adult clients aged 18 and older. Our rates are very affordable for outpatient treatment. Please email us here or call our office to make an appointment today at (678) 827-9977. We aim to prioritize our client's needs, and their challenges are our priority. We believe that no matter what anyone has experienced, your healing can come through mental, behavioral, and interpersonal change. This is why the Healing Center for Change strives to provide therapeutic counseling and quality educational program services that bring healing through change one step at a time. Our objective is to ensure you feel your best and stay that way. We provide counseling services to all consumers starting at 18 years old and older, regardless of race, gender, or religion. Our programs and services at a glance include individual counseling, trauma stabilization & therapy, career counseling & coaching, professional training, and community outreach. We do not provide substance abuse and drug detox treatment or any clinical services for severe patients who may need in-patient or PHP.
We are only accepting self-pay adult clients aged 18 and older. Our rates are very affordable for outpatient treatment. Please email us here or call our office to make an appointment today at (678) 827-9977. We aim to prioritize our client's needs, and their challenges are our priority. We believe that no matter what anyone has experienced, your healing can come through mental, behavioral, and interpersonal change. This is why the Healing Center for Change strives to provide therapeutic counseling and quality educational program services that bring healing through change one step at a time. Our objective is to ensure you feel your best and stay that way. We provide counseling services to all consumers starting at 18 years old and older, regardless of race, gender, or religion. Our programs and services at a glance include individual counseling, trauma stabilization & therapy, career counseling & coaching, professional training, and community outreach. We do not provide substance abuse and drug detox treatment or any clinical services for severe patients who may need in-patient or PHP.
(470) 536-1980 View (470) 536-1980
Photo of Venus S Thomas, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Venus S Thomas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union City, GA 30291
Not accepting new clients
"Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives." (Unknown) I have had the privilege of working with individuals across the spectrum in terms of age, gender, ethnicity and presenting challenges. I am particularly passionate about working with teens and adults. Offering a holistic approach by helping you live a more impactful and purpose-driven life. Working with you along the journey is two-fold. I am here to empower my clients to promote and uplift their own well being, and while doing so, to perpetuate healing both individually and across generations.
"Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives." (Unknown) I have had the privilege of working with individuals across the spectrum in terms of age, gender, ethnicity and presenting challenges. I am particularly passionate about working with teens and adults. Offering a holistic approach by helping you live a more impactful and purpose-driven life. Working with you along the journey is two-fold. I am here to empower my clients to promote and uplift their own well being, and while doing so, to perpetuate healing both individually and across generations.
(678) 919-3913 View (678) 919-3913

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tamekia Meko Howard, LPC, NCC, ICAADC, MAC, DOT-SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamekia Meko Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ICAADC, MAC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Point, GA 30344  (Online Only)
My specialties include suicide prevention for combat Veterans, sexual assault survivors, conflicts, and dual diagnosis.
Thank you for taking time to review my profile. I am licensed to address severe, persistent and general mental health needs in Georgia. I hold international, national and dual local board approved advanced drug and alcohol certifications. I am a Qualified DOT-SAP. As the primary therapist and owner of Mind Elevation Keys for Overcomers, my services focus on aiding individuals, couples, and families in overcoming the effects of abuse, chemical addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and trauma. I offer tele-mental health services (video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and telephone). Eves/Weekends are available
My specialties include suicide prevention for combat Veterans, sexual assault survivors, conflicts, and dual diagnosis.
Thank you for taking time to review my profile. I am licensed to address severe, persistent and general mental health needs in Georgia. I hold international, national and dual local board approved advanced drug and alcohol certifications. I am a Qualified DOT-SAP. As the primary therapist and owner of Mind Elevation Keys for Overcomers, my services focus on aiding individuals, couples, and families in overcoming the effects of abuse, chemical addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and trauma. I offer tele-mental health services (video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and telephone). Eves/Weekends are available
(404) 800-3901 View (404) 800-3901
Photo of Brittany Mosley - Genesis of Life Inc, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Genesis of Life Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
Offering Mental Health Counseling Services: Anxiety, Anger Management, Depression Dissociative Disorders, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Grief Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Issues, Sexual Abuse, Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Women's Issues.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan for your individual needs.
Offering Mental Health Counseling Services: Anxiety, Anger Management, Depression Dissociative Disorders, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Grief Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Issues, Sexual Abuse, Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Women's Issues.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan for your individual needs.
(678) 498-1071 View (678) 498-1071
Photo of Amber Gonzalez, MEd, LPC, Counselor
Amber Gonzalez
Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Park, GA 30337  (Online Only)
Are you seeking an expert trauma therapist and influential guide for teens, adults, and couples? Imagine finding a compassionate professional who understands your deepest struggles, whether it's healing from past trauma, navigating complex relationships, or fostering personal growth. Our ideal clients are those who desire transformative change, aiming to overcome emotional hurdles, improve their mental health, and build stronger connections. They want a trusted partner in their journey, someone who not only provides expert therapy but also inspires and empowers them to achieve their goals and live their best lives.
Are you seeking an expert trauma therapist and influential guide for teens, adults, and couples? Imagine finding a compassionate professional who understands your deepest struggles, whether it's healing from past trauma, navigating complex relationships, or fostering personal growth. Our ideal clients are those who desire transformative change, aiming to overcome emotional hurdles, improve their mental health, and build stronger connections. They want a trusted partner in their journey, someone who not only provides expert therapy but also inspires and empowers them to achieve their goals and live their best lives.
(609) 853-5342 View (609) 853-5342
Photo of Ariana Reeves, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ariana Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed across different areas of your life? Does it feel like the smallest things are strongly affecting you? Are you noticing patterns when it comes to relationships that are negatively impacting you? Are experiences from your past negatively influencing your present and potential future? Is talking to your friends and family no longer helpful? Good news, you’re not alone in these feelings! Many people experience this cycle of emotional, mental and even physical exhaustion. More good news, you don’t have to stay in it or battle it alone!
Are you feeling overwhelmed across different areas of your life? Does it feel like the smallest things are strongly affecting you? Are you noticing patterns when it comes to relationships that are negatively impacting you? Are experiences from your past negatively influencing your present and potential future? Is talking to your friends and family no longer helpful? Good news, you’re not alone in these feelings! Many people experience this cycle of emotional, mental and even physical exhaustion. More good news, you don’t have to stay in it or battle it alone!
(678) 672-4076 View (678) 672-4076
Photo of Darleen Claire Wodzenski, MA-ESE, MA-CMHC, QPPE, PhD LPC, NCC ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-ESE, MA-CMHC, QPPE, PhD LPC, NCC ACS
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337
I love children of all ages - from 0 to 99 - and I am truly here to help. Are you dealing with Relationship issues? Mental health? Learning? Development? Getting along with siblings, peers, spouse? We know that humans must learn a precise set of skills & developmental capacities to thrive. When people experience an interruption in healthy social, emotional, moral, and attachment development, serious problems can arise throughout their lives. We provide integrated support for clients of all ages in a compassionate, loving, & safe environment.
I love children of all ages - from 0 to 99 - and I am truly here to help. Are you dealing with Relationship issues? Mental health? Learning? Development? Getting along with siblings, peers, spouse? We know that humans must learn a precise set of skills & developmental capacities to thrive. When people experience an interruption in healthy social, emotional, moral, and attachment development, serious problems can arise throughout their lives. We provide integrated support for clients of all ages in a compassionate, loving, & safe environment.
(678) 726-5375 View (678) 726-5375
Photo of Dr. Terry Maurice Samuels, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Terry Maurice Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, GA 30236
You made a bold and courageous decision to find help for your struggle. Millions of people deal with mental health problems daily and you are not alone in deciding to face your fears and find balance in life. I am here to help you and coach you through overcoming the obstacles in your life as you reach your full potential. By committing yourself to the progression of therapy, you can acquire holistic strategies designed to help you grow mentally, emotionally, and physically, and I would love to be your guide.
You made a bold and courageous decision to find help for your struggle. Millions of people deal with mental health problems daily and you are not alone in deciding to face your fears and find balance in life. I am here to help you and coach you through overcoming the obstacles in your life as you reach your full potential. By committing yourself to the progression of therapy, you can acquire holistic strategies designed to help you grow mentally, emotionally, and physically, and I would love to be your guide.
(404) 738-9149 View (404) 738-9149
Photo of Crystal Wright- Counselor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Wright- Counselor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30349  (Online Only)
I believe in creating a safe and welcoming space for clients to process and grow with therapy based on a professional relationship characterized by trust and respect and working together on personally tailored treatment goals. I vow to meet you where you are and move along at your pace. Therapy can help you gain awareness of your emotions, thoughts, and needs while you develop coping strategies to address triggers which will empower you to take action-oriented steps to improve your life. I acknowledge the courage, investment, and motivation it takes to seek support to work towards a more fulfilling and happier life.
I believe in creating a safe and welcoming space for clients to process and grow with therapy based on a professional relationship characterized by trust and respect and working together on personally tailored treatment goals. I vow to meet you where you are and move along at your pace. Therapy can help you gain awareness of your emotions, thoughts, and needs while you develop coping strategies to address triggers which will empower you to take action-oriented steps to improve your life. I acknowledge the courage, investment, and motivation it takes to seek support to work towards a more fulfilling and happier life.
(470) 777-8565 View (470) 777-8565
Photo of Deon L Sanders - Seek Wise Counsel , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Seek Wise Counsel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
(678) 252-5351 View (678) 252-5351
Photo of Tamara Brown Payne, PhD, LPC, CRC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara Brown Payne
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CRC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30135  (Online Only)
As a holistic therapist and life strategist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential through growth in all aspects of your life. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in life. By applying eclectic therapy approaches and techniques, we will discover long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Philosophy: "It is what it is, but it doesn't have to be. Experience is a lesson and the lesson is a new experience."
As a holistic therapist and life strategist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential through growth in all aspects of your life. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in life. By applying eclectic therapy approaches and techniques, we will discover long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Philosophy: "It is what it is, but it doesn't have to be. Experience is a lesson and the lesson is a new experience."
(678) 929-6493 View (678) 929-6493
Photo of Tamekis Williams - Real Life Solutions GA, LLC, LCSW, CCTP, CIGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Real Life Solutions GA, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CIGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
Real life can come with serious issues that need real solutions! Allow me to help you or your loved one in a comfortable environment without judgment. Looking for an opportunity to find a way to deal with unexpected life changes, marital issues, stress, relational issues with your kids, depression or anxiety attacks? Yes, change can be scary but I am here to help you move forward. I naturally see my clients as someone who is worthy of respect, capable of change, and resilient. Together we will work through your barriers, until you emerge stronger, wiser, and empowered.
Real life can come with serious issues that need real solutions! Allow me to help you or your loved one in a comfortable environment without judgment. Looking for an opportunity to find a way to deal with unexpected life changes, marital issues, stress, relational issues with your kids, depression or anxiety attacks? Yes, change can be scary but I am here to help you move forward. I naturally see my clients as someone who is worthy of respect, capable of change, and resilient. Together we will work through your barriers, until you emerge stronger, wiser, and empowered.
(770) 626-7966 View (770) 626-7966

See more therapy options for Union City

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.