Sexual Abuse Therapists in Youngsville, NC
![Photo of Jody (Jonathan) Youmans, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/943a1adc-7b00-4138-b985-a72b9a620846/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jody (Jonathan) Youmans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, NC 27596
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
![Photo of Teresa Tinklenberg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eebf817a-32d9-4ed6-88bb-c09337fec4e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Tinklenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Youngsville, NC 27596 (Online Only)
I believe in providing an unconditionally accepting environment with the triad of empathy, warmth, and genuineness as the foundation for healing. I will collaborate and dialogue with you to develop a unique treatment plan that will meet your specific needs. I understand that it is a courageous step to share your personal life and concerns with a trusted professional. I will make every effort to facilitate and validate your healing process and your journey toward personal empowerment. I look forward to meeting and working with you.
I believe in providing an unconditionally accepting environment with the triad of empathy, warmth, and genuineness as the foundation for healing. I will collaborate and dialogue with you to develop a unique treatment plan that will meet your specific needs. I understand that it is a courageous step to share your personal life and concerns with a trusted professional. I will make every effort to facilitate and validate your healing process and your journey toward personal empowerment. I look forward to meeting and working with you.
![Photo of Elizabeth A Mitchell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41d1856e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety and trauma can consume your life and energy. Often people want to get help but are unsure where to go or who to see. Managing anxiety is, in my opinion, is a multi-disciplinary and holistic approach to developing cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and self-care skills while cultivating important aspects of your life and letting go of others that don't serve you. Managing anxiety is also the process of developing an intense curiousity about what life would be like without worry and fear and developing a healthy sense of humor. I know...because I walked this path myself.
Anxiety and trauma can consume your life and energy. Often people want to get help but are unsure where to go or who to see. Managing anxiety is, in my opinion, is a multi-disciplinary and holistic approach to developing cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and self-care skills while cultivating important aspects of your life and letting go of others that don't serve you. Managing anxiety is also the process of developing an intense curiousity about what life would be like without worry and fear and developing a healthy sense of humor. I know...because I walked this path myself.
![Photo of Frank Paul Green - Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation), DMin, MA, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9e8eff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation)
DMin, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Youngsville, NC 27596
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
![Photo of Thomas Costello - Costello Solutions PLLC, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ddca3c7-1f75-4ced-8fc3-76068d4dd35d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Costello Solutions PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Youngsville, NC 27596
Therapy is more than conversation; it's about change. Fast forward to a life where you feel relaxed, focused, happy and more or less free of anxiety and depression. How will you get there? I have twenty five years of training and experience working with many different people across a wide spectrum of issues. I will give you the space to be yourself and collaborate with you to reach your goals in life.
Therapy is more than conversation; it's about change. Fast forward to a life where you feel relaxed, focused, happy and more or less free of anxiety and depression. How will you get there? I have twenty five years of training and experience working with many different people across a wide spectrum of issues. I will give you the space to be yourself and collaborate with you to reach your goals in life.
![Photo of Crystal Hotchkin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53f065d0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I was in NY for the past 20 years and working at Columbia. I have transitioned to NC within the past few months in hopes to enjoy the slower pace and the sunshine. I believe reaching out to a therapist is one of the hardest things to do because of the stigma. My goal is to provide a caring, nonjudgmental space for you to express your true feelings of anger, depression, anxiety or even addiction. I believe your past unconsciously impacts your future and with a little patience, empathy and understanding can lead to a happier you!
I was in NY for the past 20 years and working at Columbia. I have transitioned to NC within the past few months in hopes to enjoy the slower pace and the sunshine. I believe reaching out to a therapist is one of the hardest things to do because of the stigma. My goal is to provide a caring, nonjudgmental space for you to express your true feelings of anger, depression, anxiety or even addiction. I believe your past unconsciously impacts your future and with a little patience, empathy and understanding can lead to a happier you!
![Photo of Meghan Sabba Hall Rauen, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91586db7-2f17-419b-9feb-d44692bd7a19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan Sabba Hall Rauen
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, NC 27596
Waitlist for new clients
I have clinical experience working with children, teens, adults, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ population struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, behavioral issues, academic/school problems, ADD/ADHD, sexual/gender identity issues, personality issues, domestic issues, adjustment issues, and health/medical issues. I also have expertise working multiculturally and with individuals of the Abrahamic traditions, folks from Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith traditions, and counseling for these faiths.
I have clinical experience working with children, teens, adults, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ population struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, behavioral issues, academic/school problems, ADD/ADHD, sexual/gender identity issues, personality issues, domestic issues, adjustment issues, and health/medical issues. I also have expertise working multiculturally and with individuals of the Abrahamic traditions, folks from Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith traditions, and counseling for these faiths.
![Photo of Erin Benjamin, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a12042-7154-44c3-a53b-ee1557ad1539/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, In therapy we have a unique opportunity to hold space for a season of time in which you can process your relationships and life experiences. Are you feeling plagued with anxiety or depression? Are you at a crossroads because of a major life event or perhaps just a growing restlessness? Have you experienced trauma that keeps you bound or making choices you’d like to change?
Hello, In therapy we have a unique opportunity to hold space for a season of time in which you can process your relationships and life experiences. Are you feeling plagued with anxiety or depression? Are you at a crossroads because of a major life event or perhaps just a growing restlessness? Have you experienced trauma that keeps you bound or making choices you’d like to change?
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sharon Lynn Sheppard, MA, LMFT-S, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac47d532-1b06-4056-a7de-e1c8c7a3b794/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Lynn Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I specialize in clients with a history of childhood sexual abuse.
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
I specialize in clients with a history of childhood sexual abuse.
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
![Photo of Jessica Knox - Knox Christian Counseling, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2e22f7f-2894-4dfd-bb55-db0caeb6e410/1/320x400.jpeg)
Knox Christian Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
Knox Christian Counseling specializes in treating women ages 5 and up that are looking for trauma-informed Christian counseling. A traumatic experience can be anything that has been emotionally difficult to endure. Some examples may be physical abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, school violence, divorce, death, disruption in your living environment, homelessness, or witnessing someone else experience a trauma. These experiences can cause feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, guilt, depression, anxiety, avoidance and nightmares. Carrying on with your day to day life becomes difficult.
Knox Christian Counseling specializes in treating women ages 5 and up that are looking for trauma-informed Christian counseling. A traumatic experience can be anything that has been emotionally difficult to endure. Some examples may be physical abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, school violence, divorce, death, disruption in your living environment, homelessness, or witnessing someone else experience a trauma. These experiences can cause feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, guilt, depression, anxiety, avoidance and nightmares. Carrying on with your day to day life becomes difficult.
![Photo of Aliedjawon (Al) Peoples, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c478733-ee20-4964-a8b3-d03f94fe5d45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aliedjawon (Al) Peoples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
In addition, I've worked with individuals experiencing trauma, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, & re-entry from incarceration.
Each potential client is different and brings different values and challenges to therapy. The goals, needs, or issues of every single person are just as important to me as my own, therefore I approach each client using a client-centered or Person-Centered Approach to ensure I am putting the needs of my clients before my own. My goal as a client-centered therapist is to prioritize the well-being of the individuals I serve and who place their trust in me as a licensed counselor.
In addition, I've worked with individuals experiencing trauma, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, & re-entry from incarceration.
Each potential client is different and brings different values and challenges to therapy. The goals, needs, or issues of every single person are just as important to me as my own, therefore I approach each client using a client-centered or Person-Centered Approach to ensure I am putting the needs of my clients before my own. My goal as a client-centered therapist is to prioritize the well-being of the individuals I serve and who place their trust in me as a licensed counselor.
![Photo of Patricia Pace, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eec2b6a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
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).
![Photo of Dawn Forrest Sanders, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/316c2d5e-1973-478a-ab94-d6a05b5b2e38/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Forrest Sanders
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
Getting stuck on life's journey happens to all of us at one time or another. When you become more aware of your own story, thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and beliefs, you have an increased ability to face challenges and overcome adversity with success. My goal is to help you discover alternatives to address the challenges that you face.
Getting stuck on life's journey happens to all of us at one time or another. When you become more aware of your own story, thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and beliefs, you have an increased ability to face challenges and overcome adversity with success. My goal is to help you discover alternatives to address the challenges that you face.
![Photo of Cher-Gabrielle Lamora Pomar, MA, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e048a57-e835-4fce-8dc4-c41ab629b216/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cher-Gabrielle Lamora Pomar
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
Whether you are dealing with trauma, past experiences, grief, life transitions, poor relationships, conflict, communication difficulties, addiction, self-esteem, or identity, you can get the support and accountability you need. What would it take to be your most congruent authentic self? If you are motivated to set therapeutic goals, want to feel connected, deeply listened to, and learn ways to manage mental health symptoms, please take the time to invest in yourself. Immerse yourself in not only a safe space, but a brave space. It will be worth the outcome...being the best you.
Whether you are dealing with trauma, past experiences, grief, life transitions, poor relationships, conflict, communication difficulties, addiction, self-esteem, or identity, you can get the support and accountability you need. What would it take to be your most congruent authentic self? If you are motivated to set therapeutic goals, want to feel connected, deeply listened to, and learn ways to manage mental health symptoms, please take the time to invest in yourself. Immerse yourself in not only a safe space, but a brave space. It will be worth the outcome...being the best you.
![Photo of Nancy Brito](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66606614-c95a-4b19-a4c4-e48d40190e70/2/320x400.jpeg)
“Trauma” happens when a situation or an event overwhelms a person’s ability to cope, when the mind, the body, or the spirit shuts down or goes offline in order to get through the moment. Amazingly, while we may not have clear and whole memories of the event, the mind, the body, and the spirit have a memory of their own. Because of this, we can develop ways of seeing, relating, and experiencing the world that make life difficult. These difficulties can range from anxiety and depression to flashbacks or dissociation. They can make it harder to trust people, God or oneself. And it can leave you feeling lost or without purpose in life.
“Trauma” happens when a situation or an event overwhelms a person’s ability to cope, when the mind, the body, or the spirit shuts down or goes offline in order to get through the moment. Amazingly, while we may not have clear and whole memories of the event, the mind, the body, and the spirit have a memory of their own. Because of this, we can develop ways of seeing, relating, and experiencing the world that make life difficult. These difficulties can range from anxiety and depression to flashbacks or dissociation. They can make it harder to trust people, God or oneself. And it can leave you feeling lost or without purpose in life.
![Photo of Melissa Lancaster McCurry, MAMHC, LCMHC, LCASA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af916bb-35e7-4123-a59e-ddd0f88aac54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Lancaster McCurry
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMHC, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
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.
![Photo of Ashlie Stegemann, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7279d23d-82eb-4633-94e8-288e68d05c44/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashlie Stegemann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27690
Are you ready to begin working towards your most fulfilling and satisfying life? You may feel stressed and overwhelmed with the responsibilities of everyday life. You may struggle with really connecting with others in relationships or you may be feeling you are inadequate in some way. I practice client-centered therapy and believe you are the expert in your own life. I would like to partner with you on your journey towards healing and self-actualization. You may have experienced hurts in your life that you would like to work through or understand better. You may benefit from assistance with stress management and healthy coping.
Are you ready to begin working towards your most fulfilling and satisfying life? You may feel stressed and overwhelmed with the responsibilities of everyday life. You may struggle with really connecting with others in relationships or you may be feeling you are inadequate in some way. I practice client-centered therapy and believe you are the expert in your own life. I would like to partner with you on your journey towards healing and self-actualization. You may have experienced hurts in your life that you would like to work through or understand better. You may benefit from assistance with stress management and healthy coping.
![Photo of Spencer Vann - Keys to Recovery Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75bfbc68-0bc5-4ff7-8661-5e948d95cd26/2/320x400.jpeg)
Keys to Recovery Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Louisburg, NC 27549
Welcome to a therapeutic space where diversity is celebrated, and healing is inclusive of all identities. As a compassionate therapist specializing in mental health, LGBTQ+ issues, and substance abuse, I am dedicated to providing support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of their lives. Recognizing the interconnectedness of mental health, sexual orientation, gender identity, and substance use, I offer a holistic approach that honors the unique experiences and challenges of each individual. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, or the intersection of these issues, I can help!
Welcome to a therapeutic space where diversity is celebrated, and healing is inclusive of all identities. As a compassionate therapist specializing in mental health, LGBTQ+ issues, and substance abuse, I am dedicated to providing support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of their lives. Recognizing the interconnectedness of mental health, sexual orientation, gender identity, and substance use, I offer a holistic approach that honors the unique experiences and challenges of each individual. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, or the intersection of these issues, I can help!
![Photo of Katlyn McKinney Davis, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b5d6ee5-98e6-4907-a315-ebac4246c017/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katlyn McKinney Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
There are a lot of individuals who struggle with anxiety, relationship challenges, and depression. They spend most of their days feeling stressed out and overwhelmed by the demands of life. They may often find themselves feeling overwhelmed and drained from giving to everyone else and not having the time or skills to care for themselves. What’s really keeping them up at night is that they know something’s wrong, but they don’t know what it is and they don't know how to fix it. I’m Katlyn Davis, a licensed clinical mental health counselor, and I believe you have the power to grow and I want to support you through the journey.
There are a lot of individuals who struggle with anxiety, relationship challenges, and depression. They spend most of their days feeling stressed out and overwhelmed by the demands of life. They may often find themselves feeling overwhelmed and drained from giving to everyone else and not having the time or skills to care for themselves. What’s really keeping them up at night is that they know something’s wrong, but they don’t know what it is and they don't know how to fix it. I’m Katlyn Davis, a licensed clinical mental health counselor, and I believe you have the power to grow and I want to support you through the journey.
![Photo of Keisha Ward, MA, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52265119-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Keisha Ward
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisburg, NC 27549
One Christmas season it had rained a lot. I attempted to circle my yard with my car to slide out of my drive way, and I got stuck. The more I tried to get out the more stuck I became. Finally, I had to do what I was dreading and call a tow truck to get me out of my own yard! Well, sometimes in life, we get stuck in our own mud, and we have to call help to get us out.
One Christmas season it had rained a lot. I attempted to circle my yard with my car to slide out of my drive way, and I got stuck. The more I tried to get out the more stuck I became. Finally, I had to do what I was dreading and call a tow truck to get me out of my own yard! Well, sometimes in life, we get stuck in our own mud, and we have to call help to get us out.
See more therapy options for Youngsville
Nearby Sexual Abuse Therapists Searches for Youngsville
- Cary
- Clayton
- Durham
- Franklinton
- Garner
- Henderson
- Knightdale
- Louisburg
- Morrisville
- Raleigh
- Research Triangle Park
- Wake Forest
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.