Sexual Abuse Therapists in Chicago, IL
![Photo of Kelsey Gao, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf666a0f-ed0f-465c-81aa-1a01b4330a0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm drawn to working with individuals who have experienced trauma, childhood abuse, sexual abuse or domestic violence. Oftentimes, those who have endured these types of traumas end up struggling with setting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships. I’m also passionate about working with people who are religious/spiritual or who feel their religion/spirituality may have been affected by trauma. I enjoy working with mothers to help navigate the identity shift as well as manage past childhood traumas that may come to the forefront as a result of having children.
I'm drawn to working with individuals who have experienced trauma, childhood abuse, sexual abuse or domestic violence. Oftentimes, those who have endured these types of traumas end up struggling with setting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships. I’m also passionate about working with people who are religious/spiritual or who feel their religion/spirituality may have been affected by trauma. I enjoy working with mothers to help navigate the identity shift as well as manage past childhood traumas that may come to the forefront as a result of having children.
![Photo of Clair Miller, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a921f6e5-6e32-46f9-a7e8-bb92b64c60a6/3/320x400.jpeg)
There is hope and healing; even though it might not feel like it. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with everything from anxiety and relationship issues to trauma and sexual abuse. It would be a privilege to work with you or your child towards healing, tailoring the counseling process to best fit your needs.
There is hope and healing; even though it might not feel like it. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with everything from anxiety and relationship issues to trauma and sexual abuse. It would be a privilege to work with you or your child towards healing, tailoring the counseling process to best fit your needs.
![Photo of Michelle A Gilliard, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96a9c2ab-3cbe-4475-af6c-05500448465d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle A Gilliard
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605 (Online Only)
My research and treatment has a heavy emphasis on childhood sexual abuse and trauma within the African American community.
Hello! Therapy should be a safe space in which you are able to be transparent, vulnerable and the driver to the change you would like to see in your life. As an experienced clinician, I am dedicated to collaborating with you to heal from past relationships, understand, recognize and heal from trauma and remove the barriers that may be negatively impacting your progress.
My research and treatment has a heavy emphasis on childhood sexual abuse and trauma within the African American community.
Hello! Therapy should be a safe space in which you are able to be transparent, vulnerable and the driver to the change you would like to see in your life. As an experienced clinician, I am dedicated to collaborating with you to heal from past relationships, understand, recognize and heal from trauma and remove the barriers that may be negatively impacting your progress.
![Photo of Rachel Rubenstein - SFC Searching For Change, LCSW, CSAT-S, SE-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ebf418-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
SFC Searching For Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT-S, SE-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
We specialize in Addiction and Trauma, particularly Sex Addiction and Sexual Abuse.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
We specialize in Addiction and Trauma, particularly Sex Addiction and Sexual Abuse.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
![Photo of Morgan Vance, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ade68a52-c3da-4e8b-b578-0d6d387106d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Vance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
My practice focus and experience includes survivors of sexual abuse and assault, domestic violence, medical trauma and other traumas, anxiety and depression, attachment and grief and loss.
The decision to begin therapy is a big one, and often filled with a range of emotions and questions. There are many paths a therapeutic process can take in moving toward healing, processing painful issues, and working toward positive, integrated change. Each person enters therapy with specific individual challenges and goals for treatment. I work from a perspective of respect for my clients and utilize an eclectic, collaborative treatment approach based on your individual needs. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment that will enable us to work collaboratively and objectively toward those goals.
My practice focus and experience includes survivors of sexual abuse and assault, domestic violence, medical trauma and other traumas, anxiety and depression, attachment and grief and loss.
The decision to begin therapy is a big one, and often filled with a range of emotions and questions. There are many paths a therapeutic process can take in moving toward healing, processing painful issues, and working toward positive, integrated change. Each person enters therapy with specific individual challenges and goals for treatment. I work from a perspective of respect for my clients and utilize an eclectic, collaborative treatment approach based on your individual needs. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment that will enable us to work collaboratively and objectively toward those goals.
![Photo of Kamita Clark](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51fdd6fa-56bf-4cac-a751-b70d75271656/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have assisted individuals with overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, identity issues, depression, sexual offenses, and complex grief.
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.
I have assisted individuals with overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, identity issues, depression, sexual offenses, and complex grief.
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.
![Photo of Amanda Aguilera, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12b37aaa-eb4e-480e-84df-458fde9319f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Aguilera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I specialize in sexual abuse, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, post-partum depression, racial identity, domestic abuse, LGBTQ+, relationships/ attachment, and other issues.
It is essential to look at past relationships and experiences to work through what is bringing you into therapy now, including relationship issues, difficulty pinpointing or expressing emotions, or experiencing distressing symptoms. Our experiences from the past shape how we view the world, engage with others, and often speak to how we feel about ourselves.
I specialize in sexual abuse, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, post-partum depression, racial identity, domestic abuse, LGBTQ+, relationships/ attachment, and other issues.
It is essential to look at past relationships and experiences to work through what is bringing you into therapy now, including relationship issues, difficulty pinpointing or expressing emotions, or experiencing distressing symptoms. Our experiences from the past shape how we view the world, engage with others, and often speak to how we feel about ourselves.
![Photo of Shawnte Jenkins-Alexander - Shawnte Jenkins-Alexander, Ed.D., LCPC, Ltd., EdD, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e87ab71-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawnte Jenkins-Alexander, Ed.D., LCPC, Ltd.
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Do you ever feel like the support of your family and friends is not enough? You don't have to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder to benefit from therapy. Many people turn to therapy for help with everyday life issues: relationship problems, anxiety, and self-doubt. Others seek therapy during difficult times such as sexual abuse and grief. In order to reap the benefits of therapy it's important that you choose the right therapist- someone you can trust, who makes you feel valued with the experience to help you overcome emotional challenges and make changes for the better in your life.
Do you ever feel like the support of your family and friends is not enough? You don't have to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder to benefit from therapy. Many people turn to therapy for help with everyday life issues: relationship problems, anxiety, and self-doubt. Others seek therapy during difficult times such as sexual abuse and grief. In order to reap the benefits of therapy it's important that you choose the right therapist- someone you can trust, who makes you feel valued with the experience to help you overcome emotional challenges and make changes for the better in your life.
![Photo of Andrea Gaspar Gonzalez, PsyD, PsyPact, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bc23e5c-214d-47ef-9337-43d039f79043/1/320x400.png)
While I am a generalist and work with a variety of presenting issues, my specialties include complex trauma, sexual abuse/assault, self-harm, pregnancy/miscarriage/abortion/postpartum care, relationship concerns, and cultural dynamics.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
While I am a generalist and work with a variety of presenting issues, my specialties include complex trauma, sexual abuse/assault, self-harm, pregnancy/miscarriage/abortion/postpartum care, relationship concerns, and cultural dynamics.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
![Photo of Maryellen Armour, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5cda064-6762-47ff-86ee-ec895f2deea7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about providing anti-racist counseling to survivors of sexual assault/abuse, domestic violence, and complex trauma from childhood abuse and neglect.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where clients who have been traumatized and marginalized are allowed to share their stories and feelings. My therapy office is a judgment free zone where you will receive validation, support, and practical ways to manage difficult thoughts and experiences. I have had success counseling survivors of complex trauma, girls and women of all ages, and those that have felt marginalized and invalidated by their experience in the world. I am real and love to use humor in session when appropriate!
I am passionate about providing anti-racist counseling to survivors of sexual assault/abuse, domestic violence, and complex trauma from childhood abuse and neglect.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where clients who have been traumatized and marginalized are allowed to share their stories and feelings. My therapy office is a judgment free zone where you will receive validation, support, and practical ways to manage difficult thoughts and experiences. I have had success counseling survivors of complex trauma, girls and women of all ages, and those that have felt marginalized and invalidated by their experience in the world. I am real and love to use humor in session when appropriate!
![Photo of Anne Harlan Strohm, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c526b00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
A positive, trusting relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. My goal is to help you discover your strengths, cope with stress, improve relationships, heal past trauma, and attain a happier, more fulfilled life. As a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I am dedicated to offering compassionate, solution-focused therapy, and helping you make positive, lasting life changes. I have helped individuals and families to resolve a range of problems including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting and other family issues, grief and loss, substance abuse, and the effects of sexual abuse and other traumas.
A positive, trusting relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. My goal is to help you discover your strengths, cope with stress, improve relationships, heal past trauma, and attain a happier, more fulfilled life. As a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I am dedicated to offering compassionate, solution-focused therapy, and helping you make positive, lasting life changes. I have helped individuals and families to resolve a range of problems including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting and other family issues, grief and loss, substance abuse, and the effects of sexual abuse and other traumas.
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![Photo of Susan Zeigler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4988023b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am particularly attuned to individuals from the LGBTQ community, persons who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse or domestic violence, and persons living with HIV/AIDS or other chronic or life-threatening diseases.
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
I am particularly attuned to individuals from the LGBTQ community, persons who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse or domestic violence, and persons living with HIV/AIDS or other chronic or life-threatening diseases.
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
![Photo of Dr. Patrick Gunderson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fa4d390-709b-4aa5-be8e-fdc6265a8d85/4/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (average age 13 to 25) who struggle with anxiety symptoms related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have extensive experience in treating survivors of sexual abuse. I utilize exposure-based interventions, which are designed to help confront fears, expand comfort zones, and extinguish avoidance behaviors. I help to achieve trauma resolution by processing traumatic incidents, reducing the associated anxiety and anger, and assisting in therapeutic corrective experiences.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (average age 13 to 25) who struggle with anxiety symptoms related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have extensive experience in treating survivors of sexual abuse. I utilize exposure-based interventions, which are designed to help confront fears, expand comfort zones, and extinguish avoidance behaviors. I help to achieve trauma resolution by processing traumatic incidents, reducing the associated anxiety and anger, and assisting in therapeutic corrective experiences.
![Photo of Anna Poss, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4706a041-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
There is something keeping you from having the happy, fulfilling life you crave. Anxiety about your career is causing performance issues at work. Is it keeping you from enjoying life outside of work? Maybe stress is keeping you from sleeping. Your anxiety is relentless and exhausting. Perhaps a past sexual assault or other trauma is making it difficult to have the healthy relationship you crave. It is making it hard to trust yourself and others. Or maybe you just can't get over that break-up. You're in a demanding career or caregiver role that has you burned out. You can't get away from low self-esteem and self-doubt.
There is something keeping you from having the happy, fulfilling life you crave. Anxiety about your career is causing performance issues at work. Is it keeping you from enjoying life outside of work? Maybe stress is keeping you from sleeping. Your anxiety is relentless and exhausting. Perhaps a past sexual assault or other trauma is making it difficult to have the healthy relationship you crave. It is making it hard to trust yourself and others. Or maybe you just can't get over that break-up. You're in a demanding career or caregiver role that has you burned out. You can't get away from low self-esteem and self-doubt.
![Photo of Elizabeth Diaz, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6571bee9-cd71-42de-b0c9-e4aa7a927d54/3/320x400.jpeg)
Currently have a waitlist of 2-3 months. I specialize in treating individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (including performance anxiety), depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). I have experience working with individuals who have experienced or been witness to severe trauma including sexual abuse, childhood abuse, traumatic loss, birth trauma, loss of a parent, etc. Additionally, I am trained in working with individuals who have adjustment disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities and disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia.
Currently have a waitlist of 2-3 months. I specialize in treating individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (including performance anxiety), depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). I have experience working with individuals who have experienced or been witness to severe trauma including sexual abuse, childhood abuse, traumatic loss, birth trauma, loss of a parent, etc. Additionally, I am trained in working with individuals who have adjustment disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities and disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia.
![Photo of Maritza Reyes, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa1b6141-f1f4-4e82-8535-ce81c87a5b3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have both state certified 40 hour trainings in sexual assault and domestic violence.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who need emotional support for a variety of reasons but have expertise in the area of sexual violence. I believe creating a safe and supportive space is so important to be able to process the full impact of trauma. I am fully bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural (Latinx) and provide services from a culturally informed lens. I identify my therapeutic style as compassionate and non- judgmental.
I have both state certified 40 hour trainings in sexual assault and domestic violence.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who need emotional support for a variety of reasons but have expertise in the area of sexual violence. I believe creating a safe and supportive space is so important to be able to process the full impact of trauma. I am fully bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural (Latinx) and provide services from a culturally informed lens. I identify my therapeutic style as compassionate and non- judgmental.
![Photo of Merari E Fernandez Castro, PhD, LCSW, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fa77294-9fc0-41e5-afc7-865cb74698c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Merari E Fernandez Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to look at your deepest fears and face them with the support of an experienced and trusted therapist. At the Healing Journey Psychotherapy, I am committed to work with you and support you through a style that is relational, inquisitive, compassionate and challenging. My areas of expertise include surviving sexual abuse, domestic violence, chronic pain and the after effects of traumatic experiences in relationships.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to look at your deepest fears and face them with the support of an experienced and trusted therapist. At the Healing Journey Psychotherapy, I am committed to work with you and support you through a style that is relational, inquisitive, compassionate and challenging. My areas of expertise include surviving sexual abuse, domestic violence, chronic pain and the after effects of traumatic experiences in relationships.
![Photo of Amanda Rivas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81178f92-9b8e-441d-b971-e66c5320a28f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have an extensive background working with survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, as well as their families.
Prioritizing mental health, now more than ever, is paramount to leading a healthy and fulfilling life. The personal and systemic traumas we encounter can lead to increased anxiety, isolation, depressive symptoms, and physical ailments. You are not alone! I have vast experience working in integrated health and understanding how stress and trauma impact us physically. I also recognize the secondary trauma that can arise from dealing with the systems meant to help us. I specialize in trauma-informed therapy and am EMDR trained. Creating a non-judgmental, safe, and reliable space is my number one priority.
I have an extensive background working with survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, as well as their families.
Prioritizing mental health, now more than ever, is paramount to leading a healthy and fulfilling life. The personal and systemic traumas we encounter can lead to increased anxiety, isolation, depressive symptoms, and physical ailments. You are not alone! I have vast experience working in integrated health and understanding how stress and trauma impact us physically. I also recognize the secondary trauma that can arise from dealing with the systems meant to help us. I specialize in trauma-informed therapy and am EMDR trained. Creating a non-judgmental, safe, and reliable space is my number one priority.
![Photo of Sergio Martinez, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451bc632-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor and have extensive experience working with alcohol and drug addiction, Men's Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Relational problems & Marital Counseling.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my degree from Loyola University. I have 20+ years of experience working with adults in different therapeutic environments. In my practice, I like to create an ambiance of empathy where clients who have suffered traumatic events in their lives may find a place of refuge and healing. In addition, I assist persons to find purpose beyond trauma and discover their own strengths to build resilience.
I'm a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor and have extensive experience working with alcohol and drug addiction, Men's Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Relational problems & Marital Counseling.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my degree from Loyola University. I have 20+ years of experience working with adults in different therapeutic environments. In my practice, I like to create an ambiance of empathy where clients who have suffered traumatic events in their lives may find a place of refuge and healing. In addition, I assist persons to find purpose beyond trauma and discover their own strengths to build resilience.
![Photo of Paula Carolina Castillo - Centro Castillo for Personal & Family Wellbeing, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc35f20-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Centro Castillo for Personal & Family Wellbeing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Our specialties are: Trauma, sexual assault and abuse, human sexuality, depression, anxiety, multigenerational family work, couple's work, Immigration experiences.
At Centro Castillo for Personal and Family Wellbeing, our therapists strongly believe that we understand a person as part of their culture and family upbringing. Together we will discover what motivates you and use this knowledge to increase self-awareness in how you feel, think and act. With this insight, the ultimate goal is make the best decisions that will leave you feeling better and live a happier life. With 14 therapist in 3 offices throughout the city (Lakeview, Pilsen, and near Oak Park) we look forward to helping you and your family.
Our specialties are: Trauma, sexual assault and abuse, human sexuality, depression, anxiety, multigenerational family work, couple's work, Immigration experiences.
At Centro Castillo for Personal and Family Wellbeing, our therapists strongly believe that we understand a person as part of their culture and family upbringing. Together we will discover what motivates you and use this knowledge to increase self-awareness in how you feel, think and act. With this insight, the ultimate goal is make the best decisions that will leave you feeling better and live a happier life. With 14 therapist in 3 offices throughout the city (Lakeview, Pilsen, and near Oak Park) we look forward to helping you and your family.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Sexual Abuse Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
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- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
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- Oak Park
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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.