Sexual Abuse Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Shawnece Teague, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Shawnece Teague
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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?
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Photo of LaVreen Hall I - Just Words, MAMHC, MDiv, Counselor
Just Words
Counselor, MAMHC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
You are my ideal client if you are ready to change your life, relationships, or to maintain an mental illness. I work with those who have experienced /experiencing grief or loss, chronic illness, pain, marriage issues, divorce, anger, anxiety, depression, insomnia, post traumatic stress, or sexual abuse. (male or female) I also enjoy working with those who want to discover who they are, and identify what they are feeling. If you desire someone to assist you with the above concerns please allow me to help you identify, understand and create the change you desire.
You are my ideal client if you are ready to change your life, relationships, or to maintain an mental illness. I work with those who have experienced /experiencing grief or loss, chronic illness, pain, marriage issues, divorce, anger, anxiety, depression, insomnia, post traumatic stress, or sexual abuse. (male or female) I also enjoy working with those who want to discover who they are, and identify what they are feeling. If you desire someone to assist you with the above concerns please allow me to help you identify, understand and create the change you desire.
(317) 942-3322 View (317) 942-3322
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 Keri Nuske - Keri Nuske, LCSW, MSW, EMDR Therapist, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keri Nuske, LCSW, MSW, EMDR Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, grief and loss.
Hi I’m Keri Nuske. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy in Indiana and treat kids, teens and adults of all ages. I specialize in helping my clients navigate through life changes and stressors.
I specialize in trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, grief and loss.
Hi I’m Keri Nuske. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy in Indiana and treat kids, teens and adults of all ages. I specialize in helping my clients navigate through life changes and stressors.
(317) 973-6398 View (317) 973-6398
Photo of Heather N. Henley, PhD, LMHC, CSAYC, RBC, Counselor
Heather N. Henley
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CSAYC, RBC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46241
I am a licensed clinician in the state of Indiana and South Carolina with over 22 years of experience working as a , Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Sexual Abuse Youth Clinician and Registered Crisis Behavior Clinician stablizing the most difficult clients.
I am a licensed clinician in the state of Indiana and South Carolina with over 22 years of experience working as a , Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Sexual Abuse Youth Clinician and Registered Crisis Behavior Clinician stablizing the most difficult clients.
(317) 342-5383 View (317) 342-5383
Photo of Katie Ayres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Ayres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I am certified in TF-CBT (see below) and specialize in sexual abuse.
Hello! My name is Katie Ayres and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Indiana and have been in practice for the past 20 years. I have been told the following through client feedback, and I hope the same for you! "Thank you, Katie... I felt very connected ..and "heard" today... So grateful for you and your way of counseling..it is so kind...You have helped me so much..and continue to do that for me."
I am certified in TF-CBT (see below) and specialize in sexual abuse.
Hello! My name is Katie Ayres and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Indiana and have been in practice for the past 20 years. I have been told the following through client feedback, and I hope the same for you! "Thank you, Katie... I felt very connected ..and "heard" today... So grateful for you and your way of counseling..it is so kind...You have helped me so much..and continue to do that for me."
(463) 263-4631 View (463) 263-4631
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
Photo of Tracy R. McDaniel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy R. McDaniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I specialize in complex trauma, Commercial Child Sexual Exploitation, sexual assault, shame resiliency, healthy relationships, PTSD & C-PTSD as well as anxiety, depression, couples, life transitions, boundaries & spirituality.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been serving and advocating for children, adolescents, & women for over 10 years. I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degree from Indiana University. I am a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator (CDWF). I facilitate BOLD™, a courage building curriculum specifically designed for mature adolescents and young adults based on the research and books of Brené Brown. I utilize the work of Brené Brown in Daring Way™ & Rising Strong™ designed to help individuals explore areas related to their own relationship to vulnerability, shame, and wholeheartedness.
I specialize in complex trauma, Commercial Child Sexual Exploitation, sexual assault, shame resiliency, healthy relationships, PTSD & C-PTSD as well as anxiety, depression, couples, life transitions, boundaries & spirituality.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been serving and advocating for children, adolescents, & women for over 10 years. I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degree from Indiana University. I am a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator (CDWF). I facilitate BOLD™, a courage building curriculum specifically designed for mature adolescents and young adults based on the research and books of Brené Brown. I utilize the work of Brené Brown in Daring Way™ & Rising Strong™ designed to help individuals explore areas related to their own relationship to vulnerability, shame, and wholeheartedness.
(463) 444-7538 View (463) 444-7538
Photo of Marcia Compton, DMin, LMHC, LAC, Counselor
Marcia Compton
Counselor, DMin, LMHC, LAC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46214
I have extensive training and experience with domestic violence and sexual abuse victims as well as couples.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I have extensive training and experience with domestic violence and sexual abuse victims as well as couples.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(317) 548-3604 View (317) 548-3604
Photo of Lana Bunner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lana Bunner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
Walking with people through life's difficulties and struggles is a privileged, honor, and part of my purpose in life. I commit my life to helping people find their way back to the right paths that they want to be on to live out their purpose. Hi! My name is Lana and I have been a LCSW since 2011. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in issues of adjustment, trauma, depression, anxiety, crisis, grief, child and adolescent behaviors, and sexual abuse.
Walking with people through life's difficulties and struggles is a privileged, honor, and part of my purpose in life. I commit my life to helping people find their way back to the right paths that they want to be on to live out their purpose. Hi! My name is Lana and I have been a LCSW since 2011. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in issues of adjustment, trauma, depression, anxiety, crisis, grief, child and adolescent behaviors, and sexual abuse.
(317) 676-7354 View (317) 676-7354
Photo of Cassandra Williams, MSW, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cassandra Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with a variety of individuals over the age of 18 who have struggled with life transitions, anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, self-esteem, domestic violence, postpartum, and financial burdens.
As we transition through life, we go through many phases. We're often faced with challenges and obstacles that can make it difficult to process and move forward. During those times, the light at the end of the tunnel is not always present. Maybe you are under a lot of stress, feel stuck, are grieving the loss of a loved one, dealing with loneliness, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, lack of self-esteem, financial burdens, past trauma, or just don't feel like yourself. Whatever the issue, therapy provides a safe and secure space to talk through your issues, create attainable goals, and begin your healing journey.
I specialize in working with a variety of individuals over the age of 18 who have struggled with life transitions, anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, self-esteem, domestic violence, postpartum, and financial burdens.
As we transition through life, we go through many phases. We're often faced with challenges and obstacles that can make it difficult to process and move forward. During those times, the light at the end of the tunnel is not always present. Maybe you are under a lot of stress, feel stuck, are grieving the loss of a loved one, dealing with loneliness, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, lack of self-esteem, financial burdens, past trauma, or just don't feel like yourself. Whatever the issue, therapy provides a safe and secure space to talk through your issues, create attainable goals, and begin your healing journey.
(317) 563-8260 View (317) 563-8260
Photo of Alexandra Swackhamer, LMHC, Counselor
Alexandra Swackhamer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience in working with PTSD, cPTSD, aspects of dissociation, and those recovering from domestic violence and sexual assault victimization.
Hello! My name is Alexandra Swackhamer. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for nearly 15 years. I work with a wide variety of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, adjustment to life changes, and grief/loss. I am client centered, open and affirming, meeting clients wherever they are at in their journey. I utilize Motivation Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR to help clients meet their unique therapy goals.
I have extensive training and experience in working with PTSD, cPTSD, aspects of dissociation, and those recovering from domestic violence and sexual assault victimization.
Hello! My name is Alexandra Swackhamer. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for nearly 15 years. I work with a wide variety of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, adjustment to life changes, and grief/loss. I am client centered, open and affirming, meeting clients wherever they are at in their journey. I utilize Motivation Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR to help clients meet their unique therapy goals.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Phillips Hwang, MA, LMHC, NCC, CST, BC-TMH, Counselor
Phillips Hwang
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CST, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268  (Online Only)
I compassionately and skillfully provide evidence based treatment to couples, adults, and adolescents struggling with sexual issues such as difficulties in marital sexuality, affair recovery, sexual addiction and sexual abuse. I also provide couples counseling, premarital counseling, and individual counseling with presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, family issues, and spiritual issues. I also integrate Christian spirituality and spiritual formation into counseling sessions for clients who request this specialty. Ultimately, my desire is to journey with those who are hurting and broken to help them find true healing and hope.
I compassionately and skillfully provide evidence based treatment to couples, adults, and adolescents struggling with sexual issues such as difficulties in marital sexuality, affair recovery, sexual addiction and sexual abuse. I also provide couples counseling, premarital counseling, and individual counseling with presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, family issues, and spiritual issues. I also integrate Christian spirituality and spiritual formation into counseling sessions for clients who request this specialty. Ultimately, my desire is to journey with those who are hurting and broken to help them find true healing and hope.
(317) 451-5133 View (317) 451-5133
Photo of Alexandra Swackhamer, LMHC, Counselor
Alexandra Swackhamer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience in working with PTSD, cPTSD, aspects of dissociation, and those recovering from domestic violence and sexual assault victimization.
Hello! My name is Alexandra Swackhamer. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for nearly 15 years. I work with a wide variety of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, adjustment to life changes, and grief/loss. I am client centered, open and affirming, meeting clients wherever they are at in their journey. I utilize Motivation Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR to help clients meet their unique therapy goals.
I have extensive training and experience in working with PTSD, cPTSD, aspects of dissociation, and those recovering from domestic violence and sexual assault victimization.
Hello! My name is Alexandra Swackhamer. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for nearly 15 years. I work with a wide variety of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, adjustment to life changes, and grief/loss. I am client centered, open and affirming, meeting clients wherever they are at in their journey. I utilize Motivation Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR to help clients meet their unique therapy goals.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Maria Papachrysanthou Hanzlik, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Maria Papachrysanthou Hanzlik
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Some issues I frequently treat include sexual dissatisfaction, low desire, trouble with arousal and desire, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, vaginal pain, couples conflict, and sexual abuse.
Whether I'm working with children, adolescents, or adults, my goal is to create a safe and accepting therapeutic space. It is within the context of interpersonal safety that the healing process can freely occur. Although I work with a variety of concerns and individuals of all ages, I specialize in trauma treatment, couples therapy, perinatal mood disorders, & sex therapy, serving the Indianapolis area. I provide psychological testing to clarify diagnoses (ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, autism, & learning disorders). I also provide bilingual (Spanish) evaluations, immigration/extreme hardship evaluations, & FAA airman evaluations.
Some issues I frequently treat include sexual dissatisfaction, low desire, trouble with arousal and desire, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, vaginal pain, couples conflict, and sexual abuse.
Whether I'm working with children, adolescents, or adults, my goal is to create a safe and accepting therapeutic space. It is within the context of interpersonal safety that the healing process can freely occur. Although I work with a variety of concerns and individuals of all ages, I specialize in trauma treatment, couples therapy, perinatal mood disorders, & sex therapy, serving the Indianapolis area. I provide psychological testing to clarify diagnoses (ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, autism, & learning disorders). I also provide bilingual (Spanish) evaluations, immigration/extreme hardship evaluations, & FAA airman evaluations.
(317) 550-3221 View (317) 550-3221
Photo of Erin Cullen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Cullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204
I have specialized training in working with individuals (children and adults) who have experienced any type of trauma; including, mental, physical and sexual abuse.
My focus is designed to help individuals, couples and families realize their strengths and potential. Working individually, as a couple, or a family, my clients can, with minimal assistance, effectively address and resolve issues that hinder their well-being. My understanding nature, paired with my strong desire to see people thrive, allows my clients to grow in a safe environment conducive to the achievement of optimum life potential. What sets my practice apart from others, is that I offer my services in an office setting, as well as in the privacy and comfort of your home.
I have specialized training in working with individuals (children and adults) who have experienced any type of trauma; including, mental, physical and sexual abuse.
My focus is designed to help individuals, couples and families realize their strengths and potential. Working individually, as a couple, or a family, my clients can, with minimal assistance, effectively address and resolve issues that hinder their well-being. My understanding nature, paired with my strong desire to see people thrive, allows my clients to grow in a safe environment conducive to the achievement of optimum life potential. What sets my practice apart from others, is that I offer my services in an office setting, as well as in the privacy and comfort of your home.
(317) 854-4758 View (317) 854-4758
Photo of Alexandra Swackhamer, LMHC, Counselor
Alexandra Swackhamer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience in working with PTSD, cPTSD, aspects of dissociation, and those recovering from domestic violence and sexual assault victimization.
Hello! My name is Alexandra Swackhamer. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for nearly 15 years. I work with a wide variety of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, adjustment to life changes, and grief/loss. I am client centered, open and affirming, meeting clients wherever they are at in their journey. I utilize Motivation Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR to help clients meet their unique therapy goals.
I have extensive training and experience in working with PTSD, cPTSD, aspects of dissociation, and those recovering from domestic violence and sexual assault victimization.
Hello! My name is Alexandra Swackhamer. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for nearly 15 years. I work with a wide variety of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, adjustment to life changes, and grief/loss. I am client centered, open and affirming, meeting clients wherever they are at in their journey. I utilize Motivation Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR to help clients meet their unique therapy goals.
(765) 436-1283 View (765) 436-1283
Photo of Nicole C du Mont, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole C du Mont
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with 15 years of extensive clinical experience providing support to children, adults and families in Spanish and English. I have worked with a diverse client population experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, sexual abuse, physical abuse, domestic violence, chronic illness and medical trauma. Do you need emotional support while healing from past traumas? Is anxiety or depression limiting your potential to live a full life? I am here to support you in your journey towards healing and feeling good about you!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with 15 years of extensive clinical experience providing support to children, adults and families in Spanish and English. I have worked with a diverse client population experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, sexual abuse, physical abuse, domestic violence, chronic illness and medical trauma. Do you need emotional support while healing from past traumas? Is anxiety or depression limiting your potential to live a full life? I am here to support you in your journey towards healing and feeling good about you!
(773) 207-3975 View (773) 207-3975
Photo of Cassandra Kormendy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Kormendy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
Cassandra holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Social Work from Indiana University Northwest. With a focus on mental health and addictions, she brings a wide range of expertise to her practice. Cassandra specializes in working with diverse populations and is particularly skilled in supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trauma-related issues. Recognizing the uniqueness of each individual, Cassandra firmly believes in tailoring therapy to meet the specific needs of her clients. Every session is personalized to ensure the utmost effectiveness and relevance.
Cassandra holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Social Work from Indiana University Northwest. With a focus on mental health and addictions, she brings a wide range of expertise to her practice. Cassandra specializes in working with diverse populations and is particularly skilled in supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trauma-related issues. Recognizing the uniqueness of each individual, Cassandra firmly believes in tailoring therapy to meet the specific needs of her clients. Every session is personalized to ensure the utmost effectiveness and relevance.
(574) 564-5290 View (574) 564-5290
Photo of Carol L Hornbeck, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol L Hornbeck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Waitlist for new clients
I work with couples, individuals, families and children online, via teletherapy, as well as in person. I support my clients across the life span to heal from losses and improve their relationships. I have extensive experience with LGBTQ issues, child development, adoption, sexual abuse, parenting challenges, divorce, suicide, and life transitions. My specialized training includes play therapy, couples therapy, and experience in infant and pregnancy loss, complicated or unplanned pregnancies, and infant/toddler mental health.
I work with couples, individuals, families and children online, via teletherapy, as well as in person. I support my clients across the life span to heal from losses and improve their relationships. I have extensive experience with LGBTQ issues, child development, adoption, sexual abuse, parenting challenges, divorce, suicide, and life transitions. My specialized training includes play therapy, couples therapy, and experience in infant and pregnancy loss, complicated or unplanned pregnancies, and infant/toddler mental health.
(612) 444-7232 View (612) 444-7232
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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.