Sexual Abuse Therapists in Anderson, IN

Photo of Nytisha L White, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nytisha L White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Anderson, IN 46011  (Online Only)
My name is Nytisha White and I have over twenty years of experience working with clients who need help in addressing problematic behaviors that tend to impair their ability to function. I have treated individuals, from childhood to adulthood, who struggle with ways to manage emotions, mood, impulsivity, and addictive behaviors. In addition to this, as a behavioral specialist, I have also worked closely with parents seeking help in managing the behaviors of their special needs children. My life's motto is "Live an Intentional Life"! My strengths-based approach helps others to tap into their own innate ability to overcome challenge
My name is Nytisha White and I have over twenty years of experience working with clients who need help in addressing problematic behaviors that tend to impair their ability to function. I have treated individuals, from childhood to adulthood, who struggle with ways to manage emotions, mood, impulsivity, and addictive behaviors. In addition to this, as a behavioral specialist, I have also worked closely with parents seeking help in managing the behaviors of their special needs children. My life's motto is "Live an Intentional Life"! My strengths-based approach helps others to tap into their own innate ability to overcome challenge
(765) 523-4480 View (765) 523-4480
Photo of Tamra L Rigdon, LSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamra L Rigdon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Anderson, IN 46016
I believe that you, the client are the driving force in therapy. I strive to collaborate with each individual, utilize client feedback throughout our sessions and focus on making connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Most importantly I focus on ensuring that my clients feel safe, respected and we are focusing on bringing new tools to the table to assist with helping individuals struggle with anxiety, relationships, PTSD, depression, and addictive behaviors. As a team working together we will empower you to find your strengths and build a stronger foundation for your new and continuing journey.
I believe that you, the client are the driving force in therapy. I strive to collaborate with each individual, utilize client feedback throughout our sessions and focus on making connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Most importantly I focus on ensuring that my clients feel safe, respected and we are focusing on bringing new tools to the table to assist with helping individuals struggle with anxiety, relationships, PTSD, depression, and addictive behaviors. As a team working together we will empower you to find your strengths and build a stronger foundation for your new and continuing journey.
(463) 263-4193 View (463) 263-4193
Photo of Eleanor Clark, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Eleanor Clark
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Anderson, IN 46013
As I once desperately needed a trustworthy therapist to navigate the most difficult seasons of my life, my dream career has been fulfilled by being that person for others. My experience began by treating eating disorders in inpatient, residential and partial hospitalization, where I observed the devastation eating disorders cause - and that it's about so much more than food and weight. Now in outpatient, I especially love treating disordered eating and body image struggles! Since my Christian faith was a central piece of my own recovery, I incorporate it into my work with clients whenever they prefer it.
As I once desperately needed a trustworthy therapist to navigate the most difficult seasons of my life, my dream career has been fulfilled by being that person for others. My experience began by treating eating disorders in inpatient, residential and partial hospitalization, where I observed the devastation eating disorders cause - and that it's about so much more than food and weight. Now in outpatient, I especially love treating disordered eating and body image struggles! Since my Christian faith was a central piece of my own recovery, I incorporate it into my work with clients whenever they prefer it.
(812) 345-8928 View (812) 345-8928
Photo of Roxanne Brunsman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roxanne Brunsman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anderson, IN 46016  (Online Only)
How can I help you? I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families struggling with interpersonal and relational issues. My experience and expertise includes issues relating to sexual dysfunctions and other intimacy issues, trauma due to domestic violence or childhood abuse, anxiety disorders especially PTSD, mood disorders and parenting issues.
How can I help you? I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families struggling with interpersonal and relational issues. My experience and expertise includes issues relating to sexual dysfunctions and other intimacy issues, trauma due to domestic violence or childhood abuse, anxiety disorders especially PTSD, mood disorders and parenting issues.
(765) 313-8836 View (765) 313-8836
Photo of Erica Kane, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Erica Kane
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anderson, IN 46011  (Online Only)
I am a very down to earth, “let’s get real” type of human and trauma therapist. I work with clients ages 15+ to overcome thoughts, behaviors and feelings related to trauma from experiencing physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, financial, infidelity, and military trauma among others. My style tends to be very real. I don’t shy away from anger, cursing, or sensitive subjects. I believe therapy sessions make more progress if we have a great rapport so that you can be your authentic self without feeling like you have to sensor yourself. I specialize in EMDR, prolonged exposure, narrative, and other trauma-specific therapies.
I am a very down to earth, “let’s get real” type of human and trauma therapist. I work with clients ages 15+ to overcome thoughts, behaviors and feelings related to trauma from experiencing physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, financial, infidelity, and military trauma among others. My style tends to be very real. I don’t shy away from anger, cursing, or sensitive subjects. I believe therapy sessions make more progress if we have a great rapport so that you can be your authentic self without feeling like you have to sensor yourself. I specialize in EMDR, prolonged exposure, narrative, and other trauma-specific therapies.
(765) 253-5278 View (765) 253-5278
Photo of Katelin Wagoner, MA, LMHC, NCC, CSAYC, Counselor
Katelin Wagoner
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CSAYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anderson, IN 46012
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to counseling is client-centered; I work with you to create the best-fit treatment to your needs. I work with adults, adolescents, and children on a variety of issues. Our goal together will be to help you feel more in tune with yourself and navigate life with a healthy perspective. I have been providing therapy services since 2017. Prior to private practice, I worked with families involved in the child welfare system who have experienced abuse, neglect, addiction, sexual trauma and community violence. I am proud of you for starting this journey for yourself, whether that is with me or another provider.
My approach to counseling is client-centered; I work with you to create the best-fit treatment to your needs. I work with adults, adolescents, and children on a variety of issues. Our goal together will be to help you feel more in tune with yourself and navigate life with a healthy perspective. I have been providing therapy services since 2017. Prior to private practice, I worked with families involved in the child welfare system who have experienced abuse, neglect, addiction, sexual trauma and community violence. I am proud of you for starting this journey for yourself, whether that is with me or another provider.
(317) 751-2642 View (317) 751-2642
Photo of Sarah E Hewitt, CMHC, NCC, Counselor
Sarah E Hewitt
Counselor, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anderson, IN 46012  (Online Only)
As we go through life we face challenges, from these challenges we may experience pain and suffering. As this pain becomes stored within us it creates burdens that may sometimes be too heavy to bear. As a result many may turn to temporary solutions. As I work with clients to explore and resolve pain and trauma more permanent solutions are often discovered and the burden of pain is reduced.
As we go through life we face challenges, from these challenges we may experience pain and suffering. As this pain becomes stored within us it creates burdens that may sometimes be too heavy to bear. As a result many may turn to temporary solutions. As I work with clients to explore and resolve pain and trauma more permanent solutions are often discovered and the burden of pain is reduced.
(765) 275-9880 View (765) 275-9880
Photo of Tom Tirman, LMHC, LCAC, NCC, PC, DMin, Counselor
Tom Tirman
Counselor, LMHC, LCAC, NCC, PC, DMin
Verified Verified
Anderson, IN 46016
Not accepting new clients
I am an Anglican priest of over 30 years with degrees in the revitalization of organizations in conflict and in need of transition. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist as well as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Therapist. I also have the experience of my own journey in addiction in addition to my education. I work with adults who suffer from a variety of areas to develop workable and attainable goals to live life without distress to themselves or their support system.
I am an Anglican priest of over 30 years with degrees in the revitalization of organizations in conflict and in need of transition. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist as well as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Therapist. I also have the experience of my own journey in addiction in addition to my education. I work with adults who suffer from a variety of areas to develop workable and attainable goals to live life without distress to themselves or their support system.
(765) 204-6263 View (765) 204-6263

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Deb Havill, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb Havill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markleville, IN 46056  (Online Only)
My role is to help you figure out what you want, what gets in the way, and how to get there. Lack of focus in life often is at the heart of peoples' problems. If you have concerns with depression, anxiety, fear, confusion, relationship, identity, spirituality, career options, personality, sadness, hopelessness, a sense of aimlessness, loss, even anger and irritability--all of these concerns can be helped by learning how to direct yourself.
My role is to help you figure out what you want, what gets in the way, and how to get there. Lack of focus in life often is at the heart of peoples' problems. If you have concerns with depression, anxiety, fear, confusion, relationship, identity, spirituality, career options, personality, sadness, hopelessness, a sense of aimlessness, loss, even anger and irritability--all of these concerns can be helped by learning how to direct yourself.
(317) 480-1664 View (317) 480-1664

Online Therapists

Photo of Janet Bazzell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Bazzell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I have also engaged in advocacy on-behalf of, and worked specifically with, individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, and sexual abuse/violence.
Hello! I work with older adolescents, college aged students, and adults in addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, relational/marital conflicts, and general life transitions/stressors. In my practice, I center the individual story, and believe that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of respect and attention. I utilize tenants of trauma-informed care, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to provide a comprehensive and individualized approach to healing. By integrating mindfulness and coping strategies, we will work to enhance feelings of empowerment and self-confidence.
I have also engaged in advocacy on-behalf of, and worked specifically with, individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, and sexual abuse/violence.
Hello! I work with older adolescents, college aged students, and adults in addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, relational/marital conflicts, and general life transitions/stressors. In my practice, I center the individual story, and believe that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of respect and attention. I utilize tenants of trauma-informed care, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to provide a comprehensive and individualized approach to healing. By integrating mindfulness and coping strategies, we will work to enhance feelings of empowerment and self-confidence.
(765) 300-4462 View (765) 300-4462
Photo of Shawnece Teague, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Shawnece Teague
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46278  (Online Only)
As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, I offer not only "textbook teachings," but I also empathize with those who have experienced hardships.
The road to self discovery and growth can get overwhelming when tackling it alone. Finding faults in others tends to be easy, but what happens when we look at our own lives? How do we change something that we don't quite understand? What if our actions are tied to childhood traumas or unresolved issues from the past? How can we break free from the mental bondage that has been tainting how we engage in relationships?
As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, I offer not only "textbook teachings," but I also empathize with those who have experienced hardships.
The road to self discovery and growth can get overwhelming when tackling it alone. Finding faults in others tends to be easy, but what happens when we look at our own lives? How do we change something that we don't quite understand? What if our actions are tied to childhood traumas or unresolved issues from the past? How can we break free from the mental bondage that has been tainting how we engage in relationships?
View
Photo of Malyssa May, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Malyssa May
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Muncie, IN 47304
I enjoy working with clients to help identify and progress towards their individual goals. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults who have a history of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and actions, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I utilize various interventions (based on the client's preferences) such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, art therapy, etc.
I enjoy working with clients to help identify and progress towards their individual goals. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults who have a history of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and actions, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I utilize various interventions (based on the client's preferences) such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, art therapy, etc.
(765) 885-6541 View (765) 885-6541
Photo of Katie Simpson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Franklin, IN 46131
I have extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families that have experienced severe trauma (physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect), grief and loss, individuals with mental health diagnoses, conflict resolution, stress (personal and work), and behavioral issues.
Do you struggle with symptoms related to trauma from your childhood or as an adult? Do you find yourself constantly on edge or feeling like you have an overwhelming amount of emotions? I believe every person has the power to change their current situation for the better, no matter what obstacles they may be facing. My goal is to collaborate with each person, as each individual is the expert in their own life, to help them develop healthy coping strategies, learn new skills, gain insight, and find purpose and meaning in their life. Therapy is a place to create hope that things can get better, to empower change, and encourage healing.
I have extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families that have experienced severe trauma (physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect), grief and loss, individuals with mental health diagnoses, conflict resolution, stress (personal and work), and behavioral issues.
Do you struggle with symptoms related to trauma from your childhood or as an adult? Do you find yourself constantly on edge or feeling like you have an overwhelming amount of emotions? I believe every person has the power to change their current situation for the better, no matter what obstacles they may be facing. My goal is to collaborate with each person, as each individual is the expert in their own life, to help them develop healthy coping strategies, learn new skills, gain insight, and find purpose and meaning in their life. Therapy is a place to create hope that things can get better, to empower change, and encourage healing.
(317) 868-1220 View (317) 868-1220
Photo of Robin Michelle Crawford - Ginger & Iru, LLC, LMHC, CSAYC, Counselor
Ginger & Iru, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, CSAYC
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46809
I am also a certified sexual abuse youth clinician helping individuals with identified sexual behavior problems enhance personal safety.
Hello, My name is Robin. Our Mission: “To help individuals who are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues; to learn and grow from past mistakes, overcome barriers that prevents healing, and who are willing to undergo distress with support.” I can help provide rationale for tolerating distress in hopes of changing thoughts, managing emotions, and improving behaviors
I am also a certified sexual abuse youth clinician helping individuals with identified sexual behavior problems enhance personal safety.
Hello, My name is Robin. Our Mission: “To help individuals who are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues; to learn and grow from past mistakes, overcome barriers that prevents healing, and who are willing to undergo distress with support.” I can help provide rationale for tolerating distress in hopes of changing thoughts, managing emotions, and improving behaviors
(260) 305-1203 View (260) 305-1203
Photo of Amanda l Trenta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda l Trenta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IN 46168  (Online Only)
I have a wealth of experience in working with PTSD, Sexual Assault victims, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Relational Problems and many other emotional and behavioral difficulties with Children, Adolescents, Teens, and Adults.
I am a retired US Army Social Worker. I am compassionate, flexible, accessible, and genuinely concerned for the health and welfare of those I serve. I enjoy working with adults and children alike and appreciate the courage and strength it takes to seek assistance for those difficult times in your life and strive to make that decision both easy and worthwhile. I will work with you to determine what is most important to you and define your goals. I look forward to learning your strengths and challenges, and to developing a plan that will be custom-tailored to you and you alone.
I have a wealth of experience in working with PTSD, Sexual Assault victims, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Relational Problems and many other emotional and behavioral difficulties with Children, Adolescents, Teens, and Adults.
I am a retired US Army Social Worker. I am compassionate, flexible, accessible, and genuinely concerned for the health and welfare of those I serve. I enjoy working with adults and children alike and appreciate the courage and strength it takes to seek assistance for those difficult times in your life and strive to make that decision both easy and worthwhile. I will work with you to determine what is most important to you and define your goals. I look forward to learning your strengths and challenges, and to developing a plan that will be custom-tailored to you and you alone.
(317) 707-4708 View (317) 707-4708
Photo of Audie D Whitaker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audie D Whitaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47905
I work with many people experiencing traumatic stress from abuse, assault, dysphoria, medical trauma, grief, and life changes.
If you’ve been struggling to find a therapist experienced in working with your situation I encourage you to email me. I’m currently taking in-person appointments in Indiana and online in Washington. I specialize in treating trauma, sexual and gender issues and personality disorders. I have 10 years clinical experience serving Greater Lafayette and 15 years total working with individuals and couples of all ages. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and trained in multiple approaches to treating PTSD. I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the best way that we can work together to help you overcome your stress.
I work with many people experiencing traumatic stress from abuse, assault, dysphoria, medical trauma, grief, and life changes.
If you’ve been struggling to find a therapist experienced in working with your situation I encourage you to email me. I’m currently taking in-person appointments in Indiana and online in Washington. I specialize in treating trauma, sexual and gender issues and personality disorders. I have 10 years clinical experience serving Greater Lafayette and 15 years total working with individuals and couples of all ages. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and trained in multiple approaches to treating PTSD. I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the best way that we can work together to help you overcome your stress.
(765) 345-4137 View (765) 345-4137
Photo of Crysty A Huffman - Harper Rose Counseling, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harper Rose Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
Brownsburg, IN 46112
We have a great team of therapist. I truly love my job. I will laugh with you, challenge you, and support you. I enjoy being part of the process of change. I want to help you explore, heal, and grow. I have been serving individuals, children and families for 22 years. Allow Harper Counseling to help you find your joy, light, and strength so you can lead a happier and healthier life. I am EMDR Certified, and also Certified Sexual Abuse Youth Counselor (CSAYC). I have completed all required trainings for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT). I look forward to serving you.
We have a great team of therapist. I truly love my job. I will laugh with you, challenge you, and support you. I enjoy being part of the process of change. I want to help you explore, heal, and grow. I have been serving individuals, children and families for 22 years. Allow Harper Counseling to help you find your joy, light, and strength so you can lead a happier and healthier life. I am EMDR Certified, and also Certified Sexual Abuse Youth Counselor (CSAYC). I have completed all required trainings for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT). I look forward to serving you.
(317) 204-8997 View (317) 204-8997
Photo of Rachel Rogers, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I've had the privilege of working with individuals and families on various issues, including sexual abuse and assault, other forms of trauma, LGBTQ issues, depression, anxiety, substance use and grief/loss.
There's a beautiful passage by Jacquelyn Small that sums up the way I view and practice therapy: "When therapeutic relating occurs, both parties have dissolved the boundary between the one needing help and the other offering it; they are simply two beings bouncing off each other in truth; We all just need clear people to bounce off of so we can see our own light." I strongly believe that we're the experts of our own lives and sometimes we just need a safe, non-judgmental person to see us, believe our experiences and remind us that we're deserving and healing is possible.
I've had the privilege of working with individuals and families on various issues, including sexual abuse and assault, other forms of trauma, LGBTQ issues, depression, anxiety, substance use and grief/loss.
There's a beautiful passage by Jacquelyn Small that sums up the way I view and practice therapy: "When therapeutic relating occurs, both parties have dissolved the boundary between the one needing help and the other offering it; they are simply two beings bouncing off each other in truth; We all just need clear people to bounce off of so we can see our own light." I strongly believe that we're the experts of our own lives and sometimes we just need a safe, non-judgmental person to see us, believe our experiences and remind us that we're deserving and healing is possible.
(505) 636-3438 View (505) 636-3438
Photo of Laura Symon, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Symon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, SEP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Welcome to my practice! My name is Laura, and I'm pleased to meet you. I specialize in several areas of human sexuality including medical disorders such as female inorgasmia, betrayal trauma, affair recovery, childhood sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, and consulting with churches and corporations on safe child policies. I will work with you in an understanding and compassionate manner to help transform you into a stronger individual that has survived adversity and triumphed over hurt as well as help you improve your sex life. I also offer several day intensives to shorten the duration of treatment and expedite the healing process.
Welcome to my practice! My name is Laura, and I'm pleased to meet you. I specialize in several areas of human sexuality including medical disorders such as female inorgasmia, betrayal trauma, affair recovery, childhood sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, and consulting with churches and corporations on safe child policies. I will work with you in an understanding and compassionate manner to help transform you into a stronger individual that has survived adversity and triumphed over hurt as well as help you improve your sex life. I also offer several day intensives to shorten the duration of treatment and expedite the healing process.
(812) 203-5438 View (812) 203-5438
Photo of Beverli D Mason, MS, MA, LMHCA, LCACA, CSAYC, Counselor
Beverli D Mason
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHCA, LCACA, CSAYC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46219
Waitlist for new clients
We are living in some very difficult times. At times it's hard to take it all in and find healthy ways to cope. My hope is that I'll be able to join you on your journey of healing by using therapeutic interventions and skill building. I will use a variety of therapeutic interventions (CBT, REBT, DBT) to help you understand how negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are linked. I use TF-CBT and EMDR to work specifically with those who struggle with complex trauma. My areas of specialty are Domestic Violence, Human Trafficking, Addictions, Sexual Abuse or Sexual Maladaptive Behaviors, Mood and Personality Disorders, and Hoarding,
We are living in some very difficult times. At times it's hard to take it all in and find healthy ways to cope. My hope is that I'll be able to join you on your journey of healing by using therapeutic interventions and skill building. I will use a variety of therapeutic interventions (CBT, REBT, DBT) to help you understand how negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are linked. I use TF-CBT and EMDR to work specifically with those who struggle with complex trauma. My areas of specialty are Domestic Violence, Human Trafficking, Addictions, Sexual Abuse or Sexual Maladaptive Behaviors, Mood and Personality Disorders, and Hoarding,
(317) 967-9203 View (317) 967-9203
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.