Sexual Abuse Therapists in Hawaii

Photo of Stephanie Dixon - Aspire Psychological Services, LLC, PhD, LMHC, CSOTP, CCTP, CBT, Counselor
Aspire Psychological Services, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CSOTP, CCTP, CBT
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707  (Online Only)
Aspire Psychological Services offers online video or phone sessions with clients via Simple Practice, Zoom or other Telehealth services in a professional, clinical approach to provide therapeutic services for individuals, couples and families. We are experienced in working with culturally diverse populations from various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. We assist individuals who need to complete and fulfill legal requirements of psychological therapy. Certified in CBT, treatment of trauma and sexual abuse (victims and offenders) Aspire provides a safe and nonjudgmental environment for individuals to openly process life issues.
Aspire Psychological Services offers online video or phone sessions with clients via Simple Practice, Zoom or other Telehealth services in a professional, clinical approach to provide therapeutic services for individuals, couples and families. We are experienced in working with culturally diverse populations from various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. We assist individuals who need to complete and fulfill legal requirements of psychological therapy. Certified in CBT, treatment of trauma and sexual abuse (victims and offenders) Aspire provides a safe and nonjudgmental environment for individuals to openly process life issues.
(808) 427-3339 View (808) 427-3339
Photo of Karl Jacobs, PsyD, Psychologist
Karl Jacobs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Haiku, HI 96708
I am particularly effective with old traumas, such as adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
My primary training for being a psychologist was growing up in my own dysfunctional family. After many spiritual groups and a couple years in India with Ram Dass, I finally returned to school to finish my doctorate. I have trained in a number of mind/body therapies (EMDR, Brainspotting, Bioenergetics, Process Acupressure, Somatic Experiencing), since it is my experience that just talking about one’s problems do not usually allow one to make a deep shift. And yes, I do take QUEST plans (except Kaiser)
I am particularly effective with old traumas, such as adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
My primary training for being a psychologist was growing up in my own dysfunctional family. After many spiritual groups and a couple years in India with Ram Dass, I finally returned to school to finish my doctorate. I have trained in a number of mind/body therapies (EMDR, Brainspotting, Bioenergetics, Process Acupressure, Somatic Experiencing), since it is my experience that just talking about one’s problems do not usually allow one to make a deep shift. And yes, I do take QUEST plans (except Kaiser)
(808) 215-5911 View (808) 215-5911
Photo of Kiri Siu, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kiri Siu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kaneohe, HI 96744  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adult women experiencing challenges with recovery from Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault/Abuse/Trauma, life transitions and pet loss. Asian-American, Latina and Pacific Islanders are clients who have found a positive connection with me. I am a lifelong pet owner. Clients who prefer a trauma-informed approach, with feminist, eclectic, EMDR, person-centered influences would likely find working with me to be a good fit. I do deeper work, not surface fixes. I am currently accepting telehealth clients in Hawai’i or California. I offer a limited number of sliding scale appointments and am available for new clients.
I enjoy working with adult women experiencing challenges with recovery from Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault/Abuse/Trauma, life transitions and pet loss. Asian-American, Latina and Pacific Islanders are clients who have found a positive connection with me. I am a lifelong pet owner. Clients who prefer a trauma-informed approach, with feminist, eclectic, EMDR, person-centered influences would likely find working with me to be a good fit. I do deeper work, not surface fixes. I am currently accepting telehealth clients in Hawai’i or California. I offer a limited number of sliding scale appointments and am available for new clients.
(808) 353-4411 View (808) 353-4411
Photo of Amanda Silvey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Silvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lahaina, HI 96761  (Online Only)
Life can be full of challenges and unexpected events. I can help assist you in processing the things you can't control, while simultaneously taking charge of the things you can control. Whether you are suffering from PTSD, sexual abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, chronic illness, cancer, work issues, addiction, depression, or anxiety, you do not need to navigate those challenges alone. Every day life (and a pandemic!) can also be reason enough to want additional support. Together, we can explore and identify the patterns in your life that are no longer helpful so you can become your best self!
Life can be full of challenges and unexpected events. I can help assist you in processing the things you can't control, while simultaneously taking charge of the things you can control. Whether you are suffering from PTSD, sexual abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, chronic illness, cancer, work issues, addiction, depression, or anxiety, you do not need to navigate those challenges alone. Every day life (and a pandemic!) can also be reason enough to want additional support. Together, we can explore and identify the patterns in your life that are no longer helpful so you can become your best self!
(805) 424-5270 View (805) 424-5270
Photo of Cherezade Aanya - Cherezade Aanya, MA
Cherezade Aanya
MA
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96821  (Online Only)
Women have a complex and multi-layered relationship to their bodies - layers of shaming and conditioning around our body image, self-worth, sexuality, pleasure, menstruation, menopause, pregnancy, ageing, motherhood, and so much more. Women also carry immense pain within their wombs related to infertility, pregnancy loss through miscarriage and abortion, sexual violation and assault, medical procedures, and through internalized misogyny- all of which have a great impact on our body, minds, and souls. Feeling safe, vital, and connected to both yourself and others is your birthright. Deeply loving your body and womanhood is possible.
Women have a complex and multi-layered relationship to their bodies - layers of shaming and conditioning around our body image, self-worth, sexuality, pleasure, menstruation, menopause, pregnancy, ageing, motherhood, and so much more. Women also carry immense pain within their wombs related to infertility, pregnancy loss through miscarriage and abortion, sexual violation and assault, medical procedures, and through internalized misogyny- all of which have a great impact on our body, minds, and souls. Feeling safe, vital, and connected to both yourself and others is your birthright. Deeply loving your body and womanhood is possible.
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Photo of Barbara Mullen, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Mullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waimanalo, HI 96795
I think therapy is a process, a journey. It's important to have a comfortable traveling companion, one who listens carefully without judgment and with whom you feel safe and nurtured as you explore those issues that are keeping you from being your whole, authentic, and joyful self. I work with individuals, couples and families who are seeking growth and connection in both their inner lives and in relationships. I have extensive experience treating sexual abuse, loss, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I think therapy is a process, a journey. It's important to have a comfortable traveling companion, one who listens carefully without judgment and with whom you feel safe and nurtured as you explore those issues that are keeping you from being your whole, authentic, and joyful self. I work with individuals, couples and families who are seeking growth and connection in both their inner lives and in relationships. I have extensive experience treating sexual abuse, loss, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(808) 419-7269 View (808) 419-7269
Photo of Isaac Tarik, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Isaac Tarik
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Volcano, HI 96785
I have worked with victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse among other types of trauma.
Sometimes we experience changes or events that disrupt our lives and ignite a series of overwhelming emotions. During these times, it is important to seek support to help guide you through this process. If you are experiencing anxiety, anger, stress, sadness or a sense of hopelessness, then I support your efforts in reaching out. If you have experienced a traumatic event or are currently in an abusive relationship and are looking to make a change, then I also encourage you to begin the process of initiating a “one to one” meeting with me. I am committed to providing the support you may need to encourage healing and change.
I have worked with victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse among other types of trauma.
Sometimes we experience changes or events that disrupt our lives and ignite a series of overwhelming emotions. During these times, it is important to seek support to help guide you through this process. If you are experiencing anxiety, anger, stress, sadness or a sense of hopelessness, then I support your efforts in reaching out. If you have experienced a traumatic event or are currently in an abusive relationship and are looking to make a change, then I also encourage you to begin the process of initiating a “one to one” meeting with me. I am committed to providing the support you may need to encourage healing and change.
(808) 746-2239 View (808) 746-2239
Photo of Mark Dichner, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Dichner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
I serve adults 18 and over who want to address anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, work and personal relationship issues, anger management, pain management, insomnia, sexual abuse victimization, and academic motivation.
I believe the goal of therapy is "To Be True to Yourself". Knowing yourself more fully is a key step. I provide a safe, accepting setting where you can set goals, get information and skills to work towards those goals, and lovingly confront yourself as you identify and overcome barriers. The therapist/client relationship is special. Finding a therapist is similar to selecting shoes. Beyond the shoe's quality, it needs to fit your unique feet. Please call me, to discuss your wants and needs in therapy, and discover if it feels like a good fit.
I serve adults 18 and over who want to address anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, work and personal relationship issues, anger management, pain management, insomnia, sexual abuse victimization, and academic motivation.
I believe the goal of therapy is "To Be True to Yourself". Knowing yourself more fully is a key step. I provide a safe, accepting setting where you can set goals, get information and skills to work towards those goals, and lovingly confront yourself as you identify and overcome barriers. The therapist/client relationship is special. Finding a therapist is similar to selecting shoes. Beyond the shoe's quality, it needs to fit your unique feet. Please call me, to discuss your wants and needs in therapy, and discover if it feels like a good fit.
(808) 465-4641 View (808) 465-4641
Photo of Tiffany Tanaka, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Tanaka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kapolei, HI 96707  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping others through their journey of self growth and healing. Through the years i've been fortunate to have worked with a very diverse group of individuals, families, and couples. My areas of specialties include anger management, substance abuse, PTSD, domestic violence, sexual abuse, behavioral issues, marital and relational counseling and treatment groups. I also work with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders.
Hello! I am a marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping others through their journey of self growth and healing. Through the years i've been fortunate to have worked with a very diverse group of individuals, families, and couples. My areas of specialties include anger management, substance abuse, PTSD, domestic violence, sexual abuse, behavioral issues, marital and relational counseling and treatment groups. I also work with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders.
(808) 445-6373 View (808) 445-6373
Photo of Tyler Ralston, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Tyler Ralston
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816  (Online Only)
Dr. Ralston provides treatment for adult women who, as children or as adults, have experienced domestic violence, physical or sexual assault (abuse, rape, molestation), sexual harassment, motor vehicle accidents, or other serious and threatening events. Experiencing these events sometimes leads to trauma-related problems such as increased fear, avoidance, irritability, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, and changes in how one views herself, others and the world. Dr. Ralston regularly treats all of these symptoms.
Dr. Ralston provides treatment for adult women who, as children or as adults, have experienced domestic violence, physical or sexual assault (abuse, rape, molestation), sexual harassment, motor vehicle accidents, or other serious and threatening events. Experiencing these events sometimes leads to trauma-related problems such as increased fear, avoidance, irritability, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, and changes in how one views herself, others and the world. Dr. Ralston regularly treats all of these symptoms.
(808) 358-2982 View (808) 358-2982
Photo of Shannon N Hayes - Aspects of Life Counseling Services LLC, PsyD, MHC, Counselor
Aspects of Life Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, PsyD, MHC
Verified Verified
Pearl City, HI 96782
We use best practice models and provide quality mental health service in the following areas: Addictions, ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Mental Health Assessments, Co-Dependency, Marriage and Family, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Domestic Violence, Grief/Trauma, Sexual Assault Victims/Sexual Offending, SuicidaI Ideations and other psychological issues.
www.hawaiicounselingtherapy.com We Answer Your Phone Call! Aspects of Life Counseling Services LLC focuses on assisting individuals and families in restoring and obtaining a sense of mental balance. Our services are designed to provide clients an integrated solution for their mind, body, and spirit.
We use best practice models and provide quality mental health service in the following areas: Addictions, ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Mental Health Assessments, Co-Dependency, Marriage and Family, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Domestic Violence, Grief/Trauma, Sexual Assault Victims/Sexual Offending, SuicidaI Ideations and other psychological issues.
www.hawaiicounselingtherapy.com We Answer Your Phone Call! Aspects of Life Counseling Services LLC focuses on assisting individuals and families in restoring and obtaining a sense of mental balance. Our services are designed to provide clients an integrated solution for their mind, body, and spirit.
(808) 400-9099 View (808) 400-9099
Photo of Michael Youngling, LMFT, MA,  Ed, USAF , (Ret), Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Youngling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, Ed, USAF , (Ret)
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Aloha! I'm here to help with the stresses of island-living and military life on individuals, relationships and careers. If you feel overwhelmed, I offer brief, practical, solution-based therapies to better cope. Many people are angry; with themselves, their partner or family. Anger can stem from trauma of infidelity, combat, sexual assault or feeling powerless to change. Getting past anger and healing can transform our lives forever. My goal is to help clients heal, live, laugh and love again by tailoring therapy to your unique needs and strengths.
Aloha! I'm here to help with the stresses of island-living and military life on individuals, relationships and careers. If you feel overwhelmed, I offer brief, practical, solution-based therapies to better cope. Many people are angry; with themselves, their partner or family. Anger can stem from trauma of infidelity, combat, sexual assault or feeling powerless to change. Getting past anger and healing can transform our lives forever. My goal is to help clients heal, live, laugh and love again by tailoring therapy to your unique needs and strengths.
(808) 793-4523 View (808) 793-4523
Photo of Amanda A Courter, MSW, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda A Courter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
Eating Disorders, Bariatric Surgery, Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, Mental Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Criminal Behavior, Legal/Court Experience.
Accepting Bariatric and Eating Disorder Clients Only Hi, I'm Amanda, and I have 22 years of experience in Clinical Social Work. I specialize in several areas. Eating disorders on a spectrum from Bariatric patients to Anorexia Nervosa, Abuse (verbal, physical, and sexual), Anxiety, Depression, and Criminal Behavior. We work in the Mental Health field with adolescents and adults. I also have extensive legal and court experience. Many of these areas overlap, and I would happily speak with you about your needs.
Eating Disorders, Bariatric Surgery, Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, Mental Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Criminal Behavior, Legal/Court Experience.
Accepting Bariatric and Eating Disorder Clients Only Hi, I'm Amanda, and I have 22 years of experience in Clinical Social Work. I specialize in several areas. Eating disorders on a spectrum from Bariatric patients to Anorexia Nervosa, Abuse (verbal, physical, and sexual), Anxiety, Depression, and Criminal Behavior. We work in the Mental Health field with adolescents and adults. I also have extensive legal and court experience. Many of these areas overlap, and I would happily speak with you about your needs.
(808) 518-3726 View (808) 518-3726
Photo of Laura Moidel Acevedo, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Moidel Acevedo
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
I have particular compassion and knowledge for those with transgender and sexual orientation issues and with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault. I am familiar with the social stigma and trauma that can result from being a person with these issues and have helped many overcome the resulting emotional and psychological distress.
I have particular compassion and knowledge for those with transgender and sexual orientation issues and with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault. I am familiar with the social stigma and trauma that can result from being a person with these issues and have helped many overcome the resulting emotional and psychological distress.
(808) 419-7277 View (808) 419-7277
Photo of Jan Fradenburg, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan Fradenburg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96745
The clients I work with the best are adults who want to work on themselves and are open to personal growth and change. I encourage clients to clarify their life goals, and whether the choices they are making will get them to those goals. I specialize in working with clients who have issues in the areas of relationships, spirituality, work, gender roles, grief/loss, trauma, and sexual abuse. I use my expertise to support clients in finding their own answers to create their "personal best" life, while giving professional guidance and sharing personal wisdom to facilitate them in that success.
The clients I work with the best are adults who want to work on themselves and are open to personal growth and change. I encourage clients to clarify their life goals, and whether the choices they are making will get them to those goals. I specialize in working with clients who have issues in the areas of relationships, spirituality, work, gender roles, grief/loss, trauma, and sexual abuse. I use my expertise to support clients in finding their own answers to create their "personal best" life, while giving professional guidance and sharing personal wisdom to facilitate them in that success.
(808) 480-7937 View (808) 480-7937
Photo of Lauren Ashley Oiye, LMHC, MFT, MSCP, RYT200, Counselor
Lauren Ashley Oiye
Counselor, LMHC, MFT, MSCP, RYT200
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
Waitlist for new clients
In this current time of my practice I am especially passionate about working with women and children who struggle with anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse, and supporting women in postpartum.
The healing process is one that is infinite and the beauty of that rests in the fact that there are an abundance of healing methods and forms of healing. Sourcing the appropriate path is contingent upon our present state and what we need in that particular life moment. I believe that a holistic approach to psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues is the most effective way to reaching the source of our distress. Throughout treatment an individual or family is provided with various coping tools and skills to manage symptoms.
In this current time of my practice I am especially passionate about working with women and children who struggle with anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse, and supporting women in postpartum.
The healing process is one that is infinite and the beauty of that rests in the fact that there are an abundance of healing methods and forms of healing. Sourcing the appropriate path is contingent upon our present state and what we need in that particular life moment. I believe that a holistic approach to psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues is the most effective way to reaching the source of our distress. Throughout treatment an individual or family is provided with various coping tools and skills to manage symptoms.
(808) 202-2762 View (808) 202-2762
Photo of Cathy Hembd, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Hembd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
I also specialize in working with adults struggling with issues stemming from unresolved emotional injury, including childhood abuse/neglect, violence, sexual abuse, death/loss, and/or other traumatic events.
Are you feeling lonely, depressed, anxious, angry or just dissatisfied with your relationships, your work, or your life? We all are conditioned by our experiences and impacted by genetics, but with awareness and compassion you can begin to make choices that are more fulfilling, satisfying and meaningful. The more we are able to meet the full range of our emotions and all aspects of our internal dialogue, the more freedom we have to be our genuine selves.
I also specialize in working with adults struggling with issues stemming from unresolved emotional injury, including childhood abuse/neglect, violence, sexual abuse, death/loss, and/or other traumatic events.
Are you feeling lonely, depressed, anxious, angry or just dissatisfied with your relationships, your work, or your life? We all are conditioned by our experiences and impacted by genetics, but with awareness and compassion you can begin to make choices that are more fulfilling, satisfying and meaningful. The more we are able to meet the full range of our emotions and all aspects of our internal dialogue, the more freedom we have to be our genuine selves.
(808) 518-2587 View (808) 518-2587
Photo of Sarah Slater Snyder, LCSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Slater Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, sexual assault, body image, grief, bullying, trauma, or domestic abuse, you might need a safe space to share, to cry, to laugh, to heal, and to learn healthy strategies for coping with life’s challenges. I use a variety of cognitive-behavioral techniques, as well as humility, non-judgment, compassion, humor, and neuro-education as therapeutic tools for helping teens and adults to build a greater sense of self-awareness, trust, acceptance, confidence, and well-being in living their best life.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, sexual assault, body image, grief, bullying, trauma, or domestic abuse, you might need a safe space to share, to cry, to laugh, to heal, and to learn healthy strategies for coping with life’s challenges. I use a variety of cognitive-behavioral techniques, as well as humility, non-judgment, compassion, humor, and neuro-education as therapeutic tools for helping teens and adults to build a greater sense of self-awareness, trust, acceptance, confidence, and well-being in living their best life.
(808) 670-1752 View (808) 670-1752
Photo of Jennifer Depry, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Depry
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825
My approach to therapy with adults is based upon the belief that everyone has the power to heal oneself. My role is to serve as a guide, a facilitator or a conduit depending on the needs of my clients. The longer I practice, the more I realize that the key to "treat" human conditions is through light, love and compassion. I have a lot of success working with people who suffer from trauma (e.g., sexual abuse), anxiety, severe depression and life changing events (e.g., severe illness, loss of a love one). Therapy process includes inner child work, shadow work and energy healing.
My approach to therapy with adults is based upon the belief that everyone has the power to heal oneself. My role is to serve as a guide, a facilitator or a conduit depending on the needs of my clients. The longer I practice, the more I realize that the key to "treat" human conditions is through light, love and compassion. I have a lot of success working with people who suffer from trauma (e.g., sexual abuse), anxiety, severe depression and life changing events (e.g., severe illness, loss of a love one). Therapy process includes inner child work, shadow work and energy healing.
(808) 427-1127 View (808) 427-1127
Photo of Linda Anaya, MA, MHC, AMFT, LPC, Counselor
Linda Anaya
Counselor, MA, MHC, AMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
In addition to being a Couples and Family Therapist I am a Certified Pre-marital therapist My experience includes: * Helping engaged couples resolve conflict, * Providing parenting coaching * Providing therapy for children, teenagers, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, bereavement, anger issues, and personality disorders.
Aloha, I am a Couples and Family Therapist. My approach emphasizes the importance of working with a couple and family as a system that influence one another. To restructure healthy relationships, I use therapies that promote positive interactions between individuals. My methods include trans-generational, structural family therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and Gottman Therapy. I use exercises such as enactments to help clients set new appropriate boundaries, build love maps to improve interactions and establish loving communication.
In addition to being a Couples and Family Therapist I am a Certified Pre-marital therapist My experience includes: * Helping engaged couples resolve conflict, * Providing parenting coaching * Providing therapy for children, teenagers, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, bereavement, anger issues, and personality disorders.
Aloha, I am a Couples and Family Therapist. My approach emphasizes the importance of working with a couple and family as a system that influence one another. To restructure healthy relationships, I use therapies that promote positive interactions between individuals. My methods include trans-generational, structural family therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and Gottman Therapy. I use exercises such as enactments to help clients set new appropriate boundaries, build love maps to improve interactions and establish loving communication.
(630) 478-8548 x3 View (630) 478-8548 x3
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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.