Sexual Abuse Therapists in Cary, NC

Photo of Heather Bergida Thurston, PhD, Psychologist
Heather Bergida Thurston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in Cary, NC providing individual (ages 18-85+) and marital therapy. I have extensive experience working with survivors of traumatic events (combat, sexual assault, childhood abuse, domestic violence, car accidents, and natural disasters) and aiding them in their recovery. I am often inspired by the resilience and fortitude amongst this population. My areas of expertise are PTSD, depression, panic, anxiety, OCD, grief and loss, and emotion regulation. I also specialize in working with couples to improve communication, decrease conflict, enhance intimacy, and address infidelity.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in Cary, NC providing individual (ages 18-85+) and marital therapy. I have extensive experience working with survivors of traumatic events (combat, sexual assault, childhood abuse, domestic violence, car accidents, and natural disasters) and aiding them in their recovery. I am often inspired by the resilience and fortitude amongst this population. My areas of expertise are PTSD, depression, panic, anxiety, OCD, grief and loss, and emotion regulation. I also specialize in working with couples to improve communication, decrease conflict, enhance intimacy, and address infidelity.
(919) 729-5189 View (919) 729-5189
Photo of Brandie Lewton, LCMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brandie Lewton
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
Meet Brandie Lewton, LCMHCA specializing in anxiety, depression, basic adjustment disorders, narcissistic abuse recovery, sexual abuse and C-PTSD. I am EMDR trained and utilize CBT in my sessions. My counseling journey began when I recognized my passion for helping others, I embarked on a path to merge to heal not just the mind, but the soul as well. I have dedicated my time to volunteering at a battered women's shelter and a substance abuse program for women and children. This has deepened my understanding of trauma and resilience, fueling my commitment to supporting those affected by domestic violence, trauma, and life changes.
Meet Brandie Lewton, LCMHCA specializing in anxiety, depression, basic adjustment disorders, narcissistic abuse recovery, sexual abuse and C-PTSD. I am EMDR trained and utilize CBT in my sessions. My counseling journey began when I recognized my passion for helping others, I embarked on a path to merge to heal not just the mind, but the soul as well. I have dedicated my time to volunteering at a battered women's shelter and a substance abuse program for women and children. This has deepened my understanding of trauma and resilience, fueling my commitment to supporting those affected by domestic violence, trauma, and life changes.
(919) 769-6831 View (919) 769-6831
Photo of Mary L Affee - Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC, LCSW, CTP, RTP, CFSW, CHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTP, RTP, CFSW, CHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
Horizon's Play Therapy Center- We have welcoming and culturally sensitive playroom to address all childhood challenges from anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, aggression, ODD, ADHD, and other behavioral issues.
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC was developed with the idea that peoples' struggles and challenges are not a reflection of them having failed in their lives, but rather, an array of experiences, exchanges, and relationships the individual has in the context of some or all of them. We offer a unique approach that considers people's relationships, families, work/career, and the implications/barriers they may have on an individual's well-being, resilience, empowerment, their happiness, and ultimately their self-acceptance/self-love.
Horizon's Play Therapy Center- We have welcoming and culturally sensitive playroom to address all childhood challenges from anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, aggression, ODD, ADHD, and other behavioral issues.
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC was developed with the idea that peoples' struggles and challenges are not a reflection of them having failed in their lives, but rather, an array of experiences, exchanges, and relationships the individual has in the context of some or all of them. We offer a unique approach that considers people's relationships, families, work/career, and the implications/barriers they may have on an individual's well-being, resilience, empowerment, their happiness, and ultimately their self-acceptance/self-love.
(984) 205-4778 View (984) 205-4778
Photo of Nicole Imbraguglio, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Imbraguglio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
I provide therapy and assessment services to individuals of all ages, having worked with children from age 6 through adults into their 60s. I am committed to making therapy or evaluation a positive and helpful experience for all of my clients. My work with adults has included: depression, anxiety, couple's issues, physical symptoms of stress, family and peer relationships, assertiveness, weight issues, life transitions, and parent coaching. In addition, I have extensive experience working with survivors of trauma, to include adult sexual trauma, adult survivors of child sexual abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder in both veterans and non-veterans.
I provide therapy and assessment services to individuals of all ages, having worked with children from age 6 through adults into their 60s. I am committed to making therapy or evaluation a positive and helpful experience for all of my clients. My work with adults has included: depression, anxiety, couple's issues, physical symptoms of stress, family and peer relationships, assertiveness, weight issues, life transitions, and parent coaching. In addition, I have extensive experience working with survivors of trauma, to include adult sexual trauma, adult survivors of child sexual abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder in both veterans and non-veterans.
(919) 361-6800 View (919) 361-6800
Photo of Merya V. Wolfe,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merya V. Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
: sexual abuse, rape, emotional abuse or domestic violence.
I offer psychotherapy for children over 14 years of age, couples and adults. A typical client may have Bipolar Disorder or other depressive or anxiety disorders or behavioral issues, such as anger outbursts Or they may struggle with grief or other difficult life situations and need support and guidance. I specialize in treatment of trauma related disorders, such as PTSD., and also in treatment of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. My approach to treatment is gentle but direct. I respond to your unique needs, drawing from your strengths and encourage you to be open and move towards positive life changes.
: sexual abuse, rape, emotional abuse or domestic violence.
I offer psychotherapy for children over 14 years of age, couples and adults. A typical client may have Bipolar Disorder or other depressive or anxiety disorders or behavioral issues, such as anger outbursts Or they may struggle with grief or other difficult life situations and need support and guidance. I specialize in treatment of trauma related disorders, such as PTSD., and also in treatment of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. My approach to treatment is gentle but direct. I respond to your unique needs, drawing from your strengths and encourage you to be open and move towards positive life changes.
(919) 635-5795 View (919) 635-5795
Photo of Melissa Yarborough, PsyD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Melissa Yarborough
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or relationship concerns? You don't have to do it alone. I can help. My primary specialty areas include survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault, other trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQIA community. I also greatly enjoy working with those who struggle with family-related concerns and life transitions including grief and loss, pregnancy & postpartum, marriage & divorce, adjusting to college or a new career, etc.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or relationship concerns? You don't have to do it alone. I can help. My primary specialty areas include survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault, other trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQIA community. I also greatly enjoy working with those who struggle with family-related concerns and life transitions including grief and loss, pregnancy & postpartum, marriage & divorce, adjusting to college or a new career, etc.
(919) 600-4906 View (919) 600-4906
Photo of Rachel Kane, MS, LCMHC
Rachel Kane
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
I have significant experience working with survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina currently under the supervision of Kristin Linton, LCMHCS. I provide counseling services to children and adults from age 8 into their 70s. I take great care in creating a therapy environment where clients feel safe to show up as their authentic selves. I've assisted clients from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. My empathetic approach, combined with evidence-based techniques, allows me to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can grow.
I have significant experience working with survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina currently under the supervision of Kristin Linton, LCMHCS. I provide counseling services to children and adults from age 8 into their 70s. I take great care in creating a therapy environment where clients feel safe to show up as their authentic selves. I've assisted clients from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. My empathetic approach, combined with evidence-based techniques, allows me to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can grow.
(984) 231-8078 View (984) 231-8078
Photo of Patricia Pace, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
Patricia Pace is a Licensed Professional Counselor, with expertise in helping clients recover from Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Grief, Addictions and Trauma. She excels in helping individuals and families move through life transitions (major and minor), rebound from setbacks (large and small) and work through the everyday challenges of work and life. She also offers pre-marital, marriage and family counseling (for traditional, non-traditional and alternative couple and family structures). Additionally, Patricia is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCASA), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
Patricia Pace is a Licensed Professional Counselor, with expertise in helping clients recover from Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Grief, Addictions and Trauma. She excels in helping individuals and families move through life transitions (major and minor), rebound from setbacks (large and small) and work through the everyday challenges of work and life. She also offers pre-marital, marriage and family counseling (for traditional, non-traditional and alternative couple and family structures). Additionally, Patricia is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCASA), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
(919) 307-7540 View (919) 307-7540
Photo of Karen M Erikson, PhD, Psychologist
Karen M Erikson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist, and I have expertise in the use of mindfulness-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and the treatment of trauma. I see a wide variety of clients in my practice, including individuals struggling with symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD), depression, and anxiety disorders. I also work with survivors of trauma, including physical and sexual abuse and assault. I believe that effective treatment begins with a collaborative relationship with my clients.
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist, and I have expertise in the use of mindfulness-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and the treatment of trauma. I see a wide variety of clients in my practice, including individuals struggling with symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD), depression, and anxiety disorders. I also work with survivors of trauma, including physical and sexual abuse and assault. I believe that effective treatment begins with a collaborative relationship with my clients.
(919) 351-1569 View (919) 351-1569
Photo of Alison Sappie, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Alison Sappie
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
She has a passion for working with clients on personal growth, body image, sexual assault trauma, college counseling, anxiety and depression, life and career transitions, and incorporating social justice into her work.
Dr. Alison Sappie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with a doctorate in counseling and counselor education from North Carolina State University. During her education and counseling experience she has served a diverse range of clients in both community mental health and university settings.
She has a passion for working with clients on personal growth, body image, sexual assault trauma, college counseling, anxiety and depression, life and career transitions, and incorporating social justice into her work.
Dr. Alison Sappie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with a doctorate in counseling and counselor education from North Carolina State University. During her education and counseling experience she has served a diverse range of clients in both community mental health and university settings.
(919) 823-5493 View (919) 823-5493
Photo of Toshanika Kennington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toshanika Kennington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
I also work with trauma survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual abuse.
I am Toshanika M. Kennington, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with twenty years of practice. My unwavering commitment lies in empowering individuals, families, and adolescents, drawing from my experience working with military service men and their families. With an empathetic approach, I offer compassionate care, guiding clients through their mental health journey with resilience and strength.
I also work with trauma survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual abuse.
I am Toshanika M. Kennington, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with twenty years of practice. My unwavering commitment lies in empowering individuals, families, and adolescents, drawing from my experience working with military service men and their families. With an empathetic approach, I offer compassionate care, guiding clients through their mental health journey with resilience and strength.
(980) 990-4003 View (980) 990-4003
Photo of Wendy Lehnertz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Lehnertz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Therapist in both Arizona and North Carolina, I provide residents of both states the convenience of telehealth services from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
As a Licensed Therapist in both Arizona and North Carolina, I provide residents of both states the convenience of telehealth services from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
(919) 343-9011 View (919) 343-9011
Photo of Stephanie Adams-Gilmer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Adams-Gilmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
It's time: time to deal with the trauma and triggers that are holding you back. Life feels hectic, but taking care of yourself is important. You have to live with you the rest of your life and you're ready to make it better. You're determined now; you've made the decision to take care of yourself...AND you know you want some help doing it. What if you could connect to someone who could truly see how you're doing and not pass judgment? And what if having someone wisely walk with you will help your life improve?
It's time: time to deal with the trauma and triggers that are holding you back. Life feels hectic, but taking care of yourself is important. You have to live with you the rest of your life and you're ready to make it better. You're determined now; you've made the decision to take care of yourself...AND you know you want some help doing it. What if you could connect to someone who could truly see how you're doing and not pass judgment? And what if having someone wisely walk with you will help your life improve?
(919) 752-3056 View (919) 752-3056
Photo of Katelyn Kivett, LCMHC
Katelyn Kivett
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
Typically, those who are drawn to working with me have felt invalidated or unsafe when trying to explore trauma in the past, they’re navigating life after a childhood or relationship filled with toxicity or abuse, they’re feeling unfulfilled due to events or beliefs from their past, or they’re feeling like there’s no “after” of their traumatic experiences. Using EMDR and Flash processing, I’ll guide you towards relief from your pain. You deserve to wake up feeling safe and joyful. My goal is to help you create sustainable safety after abuse or trauma. Together, we’ll collaborate on your healing journey.
Typically, those who are drawn to working with me have felt invalidated or unsafe when trying to explore trauma in the past, they’re navigating life after a childhood or relationship filled with toxicity or abuse, they’re feeling unfulfilled due to events or beliefs from their past, or they’re feeling like there’s no “after” of their traumatic experiences. Using EMDR and Flash processing, I’ll guide you towards relief from your pain. You deserve to wake up feeling safe and joyful. My goal is to help you create sustainable safety after abuse or trauma. Together, we’ll collaborate on your healing journey.
(980) 350-9454 View (980) 350-9454
Photo of Melissa Lancaster McCurry, MAMHC, LCMHC, LCASA
Melissa Lancaster McCurry
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMHC, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27512
Accepting Clients! Do you struggle with feeling happy, communicating clearly, or building fulfilling relationships? Do you wonder how past trauma is still affecting you? Understanding your past can be the key to your future! Together, we will explore issues such as survival of interpersonal violence, an addicted parent, witnessing a violent event, natural disasters and other traumatic events that have contributed to your addictive behaviors, mental illness, or unhealthy relationships. With this knowledge we will discuss healthy coping skills, building a support network, and planning for safety in the face of your triggers.
Accepting Clients! Do you struggle with feeling happy, communicating clearly, or building fulfilling relationships? Do you wonder how past trauma is still affecting you? Understanding your past can be the key to your future! Together, we will explore issues such as survival of interpersonal violence, an addicted parent, witnessing a violent event, natural disasters and other traumatic events that have contributed to your addictive behaviors, mental illness, or unhealthy relationships. With this knowledge we will discuss healthy coping skills, building a support network, and planning for safety in the face of your triggers.
(984) 205-9133 View (984) 205-9133
Photo of Christine Butler, LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC, LPC
Christine Butler
LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27519  (Online Only)
If you're dealing with intense emotional swings, impulsive actions, or self-harming behaviors, you might feel like you're always on the edge, looking for stability. Our DBT program is designed for individuals like you, who need more than what typical community services offer and are seeking effective ways to manage life's complexities. You deserve a life beyond crisis management. We can teach you to stabilize your emotions, reduce harmful behaviors, and build fulfilling relationships. It takes courage to seek help, and we’re here to support you each step of the way towards a more balanced and rewarding life. Ready to make a change?
If you're dealing with intense emotional swings, impulsive actions, or self-harming behaviors, you might feel like you're always on the edge, looking for stability. Our DBT program is designed for individuals like you, who need more than what typical community services offer and are seeking effective ways to manage life's complexities. You deserve a life beyond crisis management. We can teach you to stabilize your emotions, reduce harmful behaviors, and build fulfilling relationships. It takes courage to seek help, and we’re here to support you each step of the way towards a more balanced and rewarding life. Ready to make a change?
(877) 758-6328 View (877) 758-6328
Photo of Danielle Minges, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Danielle Minges
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Struggling with sex? Fighting with your partner? Hoping to heal from infidelity? Feeling broken or damaged from trauma? Difficulty with substance recovery? I see individuals and couples who are struggling with sex/intimacy, addiction, or trauma. I might be a good fit for you if: Sex is painful, frustrating or boring. You're tired of having the same argument with your partner. You want to heal from an affair. You're ready for recovery but need help with accountability. Maybe you're exploring parts of your sexual identity for the first time, or want to learn something new. You’re ready to heal from frustration, shame, or hopelessness.
Struggling with sex? Fighting with your partner? Hoping to heal from infidelity? Feeling broken or damaged from trauma? Difficulty with substance recovery? I see individuals and couples who are struggling with sex/intimacy, addiction, or trauma. I might be a good fit for you if: Sex is painful, frustrating or boring. You're tired of having the same argument with your partner. You want to heal from an affair. You're ready for recovery but need help with accountability. Maybe you're exploring parts of your sexual identity for the first time, or want to learn something new. You’re ready to heal from frustration, shame, or hopelessness.
(984) 265-8838 View (984) 265-8838
Photo of Stanley Hall - Hall Family Therapy, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hall Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Evening and weekend free sessions with our interns Isaiah and Kate for kids, couples, and families. Dr. Hall has been practicing for over 22 years with people all over the country all while caring for his own wife of 23 years and 5 kids. We have the latest treatments for your anxiety, depression, PTSD, and difficult family issues. Couples benefit from using the research based Gottman method in our clinic and have permanent positive results within weeks! With experience as a professor, supervisor and therapist in community health working with even the most severe disorders. Sign up for an online appointment at hallfamilytherapy.com
Evening and weekend free sessions with our interns Isaiah and Kate for kids, couples, and families. Dr. Hall has been practicing for over 22 years with people all over the country all while caring for his own wife of 23 years and 5 kids. We have the latest treatments for your anxiety, depression, PTSD, and difficult family issues. Couples benefit from using the research based Gottman method in our clinic and have permanent positive results within weeks! With experience as a professor, supervisor and therapist in community health working with even the most severe disorders. Sign up for an online appointment at hallfamilytherapy.com
(919) 794-3113 View (919) 794-3113
Photo of April-Autumn Y Jenkins, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April-Autumn Y Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27519
I'm April-Autumn with establisHER, empowerHIM, embraceUS: Counseling & Life Strategies. My work with women focuses on identity, self-actualization, the fulfillment of purpose & potential producing a solid foundation of self-love. My work with men focuses on holding a supportive space to examine the rigors of manhood, balancing societal expectations & creating clarity concerning stressors related to equity & inequality while devising strategies & solutions to navigating life's terrain more effectively. My work is grounded in establishing men & women mentally, emotionally, spiritually & communally to increase healthy relationships.
I'm April-Autumn with establisHER, empowerHIM, embraceUS: Counseling & Life Strategies. My work with women focuses on identity, self-actualization, the fulfillment of purpose & potential producing a solid foundation of self-love. My work with men focuses on holding a supportive space to examine the rigors of manhood, balancing societal expectations & creating clarity concerning stressors related to equity & inequality while devising strategies & solutions to navigating life's terrain more effectively. My work is grounded in establishing men & women mentally, emotionally, spiritually & communally to increase healthy relationships.
(984) 205-8810 View (984) 205-8810
Photo of Wendy Dawn Hill, MEd, LCMHC
Wendy Dawn Hill
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
Each of us plays a role in helping to make the world a happier and better place, and as a counselor I have the opportunity to do so through my work. Helping clients to feel empowered, reach their full potential, and see the beauty in themselves is how I help clients become their best selves. As a North Carolina Board Certified Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults I have had the pleasure of meeting many people of varying backgrounds. I provide individual, couples, and family-integrated counseling.
Each of us plays a role in helping to make the world a happier and better place, and as a counselor I have the opportunity to do so through my work. Helping clients to feel empowered, reach their full potential, and see the beauty in themselves is how I help clients become their best selves. As a North Carolina Board Certified Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults I have had the pleasure of meeting many people of varying backgrounds. I provide individual, couples, and family-integrated counseling.
(919) 324-3063 View (919) 324-3063
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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.