Photo of Saadia Parvez - Saadia Parvez, MPS,  LPAT , MPS, LPAT, Art Therapist
Saadia Parvez, MPS, LPAT
Art Therapist, MPS, LPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
Welcome to the beginning of therapy. You have made an important choice for yourself—starting the process of exploring what brings you distress and wanting relief. Together, with your therapist, you will have a private space to wonder out loud and make connections between your past, present and important relationships. If this is your first time in therapy, then this beginning may bring up a lot of questions. If you are coming back to therapy remind yourself what worked for you. Each person is unique with their presenting problem and their story. You are the expert on your situation and you can find the right help for you.
Welcome to the beginning of therapy. You have made an important choice for yourself—starting the process of exploring what brings you distress and wanting relief. Together, with your therapist, you will have a private space to wonder out loud and make connections between your past, present and important relationships. If this is your first time in therapy, then this beginning may bring up a lot of questions. If you are coming back to therapy remind yourself what worked for you. Each person is unique with their presenting problem and their story. You are the expert on your situation and you can find the right help for you.
(973) 821-3909 View (973) 821-3909

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nance K Agresta - Agresta Psychotherapy Group, LCSW, CASAC, NCAC, II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Agresta Psychotherapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC, NCAC, II
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I seek to help you acheive a sense of balance in your life by creating a safe, caring space to explore your feelings and overcome your issues. The Agresta Psychotherapy Group has been serving the needs of the Metropolitan area for over 30 years by providing psychotherapeutic services to individuals, couples and families. I have experience dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sexual abuse, addictions, gender and relationship issues. Treatment plans are individually tailored to you and your needs. I believe with proper treatment and care all people can overcome their issues and lead a happy fulfilling life.
I seek to help you acheive a sense of balance in your life by creating a safe, caring space to explore your feelings and overcome your issues. The Agresta Psychotherapy Group has been serving the needs of the Metropolitan area for over 30 years by providing psychotherapeutic services to individuals, couples and families. I have experience dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sexual abuse, addictions, gender and relationship issues. Treatment plans are individually tailored to you and your needs. I believe with proper treatment and care all people can overcome their issues and lead a happy fulfilling life.
(201) 784-6718 View (201) 784-6718
Photo of Carol Ann Cilona, MA, NCC, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Ann Cilona
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
My specialties include (but are not limited to) anxiety, career issues, mild/moderate depression, bereavement/grief, existential crises, phobias, multicultural concerns, mild to moderate OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, sexual abuse (experienced in childhood/adult survivors), along with individual identity and/or sexual orientation concerns.
I am accepting new clients at this time (However, I Do Not Take Medicaid or Medicare). I have long-term/significant experience working with various ethnic demographics, cultures, religions, including LGBTQIA and Polyamorous clientele. I offer compassion, empathy, and understanding to each and every person. I will custom-tailor your treatment plan to address your concerns. Moreover, I practice an egalitarian approach; meaning you will be respected as an equal partner in our work together. As my client, you can look forward to my undivided attention, flexibility in scheduling, and a warm and welcoming environment.
My specialties include (but are not limited to) anxiety, career issues, mild/moderate depression, bereavement/grief, existential crises, phobias, multicultural concerns, mild to moderate OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, sexual abuse (experienced in childhood/adult survivors), along with individual identity and/or sexual orientation concerns.
I am accepting new clients at this time (However, I Do Not Take Medicaid or Medicare). I have long-term/significant experience working with various ethnic demographics, cultures, religions, including LGBTQIA and Polyamorous clientele. I offer compassion, empathy, and understanding to each and every person. I will custom-tailor your treatment plan to address your concerns. Moreover, I practice an egalitarian approach; meaning you will be respected as an equal partner in our work together. As my client, you can look forward to my undivided attention, flexibility in scheduling, and a warm and welcoming environment.
(973) 620-2276 View (973) 620-2276
Photo of Linda Centeno, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Centeno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/Lesbian issues.
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/Lesbian issues.
(201) 820-0937 View (201) 820-0937
Photo of Michele Davis Dryerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Davis Dryerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am an experienced licensed Psychotherapist who works with adults of all ages in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. Some areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, domestic violence, infertility, and loss. I view the therapy experience as a collaborative effort. I am your partner and we will work towards a better understanding of your experiences as well as any negative patterns that seem to get in your way. I believe we are destined to repeat negative patterns unless we are able to uncover what is fueling them. The goal is always for you to be able to live the satisfying and productive life you deserve.
I am an experienced licensed Psychotherapist who works with adults of all ages in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. Some areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, domestic violence, infertility, and loss. I view the therapy experience as a collaborative effort. I am your partner and we will work towards a better understanding of your experiences as well as any negative patterns that seem to get in your way. I believe we are destined to repeat negative patterns unless we are able to uncover what is fueling them. The goal is always for you to be able to live the satisfying and productive life you deserve.
(201) 419-6411 View (201) 419-6411
Photo of Dr. Kahlen Kim, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Kahlen Kim
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in New York and New Jersey who provides individual psychotherapy to adults in English and Korean. I specialize in treating relational difficulties, depression, anxiety, trauma (emotional, physical, and sexual abuse and neglect), as well as stress and trauma related to immigration, racial and ethnic identity, as well as other identity issues. My approach to therapy is integrative, utilizing elements from various modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in New York and New Jersey who provides individual psychotherapy to adults in English and Korean. I specialize in treating relational difficulties, depression, anxiety, trauma (emotional, physical, and sexual abuse and neglect), as well as stress and trauma related to immigration, racial and ethnic identity, as well as other identity issues. My approach to therapy is integrative, utilizing elements from various modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
(646) 859-1337 View (646) 859-1337
Photo of Jucelia Pitt, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jucelia Pitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
We will navigate the process together, trusting in your resilience and inner resources while maintaining the support you need as challenges arise, exploring and resolving your trauma history, especially survivors of neglect, physical and sexual abuse.
I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. My training and experience includes individual, families and couples psychotherapy. If you're suffering from issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem, self-harm, loss, grief, couples issues, domestic abuse (male and female), divorce and addiction, you'll find a safe environment to uncover meaningful insights, move through challenging emotions, recover and flourish.
We will navigate the process together, trusting in your resilience and inner resources while maintaining the support you need as challenges arise, exploring and resolving your trauma history, especially survivors of neglect, physical and sexual abuse.
I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. My training and experience includes individual, families and couples psychotherapy. If you're suffering from issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem, self-harm, loss, grief, couples issues, domestic abuse (male and female), divorce and addiction, you'll find a safe environment to uncover meaningful insights, move through challenging emotions, recover and flourish.
(201) 790-5235 View (201) 790-5235
Photo of Assaf Amos, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Assaf Amos
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS, CCS
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I deal with a variety of issues including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Personality disorders, Mood disorders, Sexual Abuse, Trauma and PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, and LGBTQ and Sexual Development Issues.
I am dually licensed LCSW, LCADC and a graduate of Rutgers University where I obtained my Masters in Social Work along with specialized training and a certificate in Addictions Counseling. I am a firm believer in building a therapeutic relationship which is based upon providing positive and client centered empathy and care in a nonrestrictive and culturally safe environment. My primary objective is to provide a comfortable and life changing experience through the change process of mental health wellness and/or addictions recovery.
I deal with a variety of issues including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Personality disorders, Mood disorders, Sexual Abuse, Trauma and PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, and LGBTQ and Sexual Development Issues.
I am dually licensed LCSW, LCADC and a graduate of Rutgers University where I obtained my Masters in Social Work along with specialized training and a certificate in Addictions Counseling. I am a firm believer in building a therapeutic relationship which is based upon providing positive and client centered empathy and care in a nonrestrictive and culturally safe environment. My primary objective is to provide a comfortable and life changing experience through the change process of mental health wellness and/or addictions recovery.
(201) 419-6441 View (201) 419-6441
Photo of Stephen J. Oreski - Dr. Stephen J. Oreski & Associates, MSW, LCSW, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Stephen J. Oreski & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr Stephen J. Oreski is a doctoral-level psychotherapist specializing in individual, couples and family therapy, with a private practice in Paramus, New Jersey. With over 25+ years experience in counseling and psychotherapy, and specializing in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, he is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Dr. Oreski has presented at National conferences and to general audiences speaking on the topics of mental illness and trauma.
Dr Stephen J. Oreski is a doctoral-level psychotherapist specializing in individual, couples and family therapy, with a private practice in Paramus, New Jersey. With over 25+ years experience in counseling and psychotherapy, and specializing in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, he is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Dr. Oreski has presented at National conferences and to general audiences speaking on the topics of mental illness and trauma.
(201) 632-3907 View (201) 632-3907
Photo of Domini D Oreski, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Domini D Oreski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Has a recent traumatic experience turned your world upside down? Do you struggle with the aftermath of childhood abuse and don't yet know how to heal and move forward? Do others see you as successful but inside you feel anxious and uncertain of your worth? Are you struggling in your relationships? Therapy can help. No matter how difficult the traumatic event, it can be healed. There is a way through.
Has a recent traumatic experience turned your world upside down? Do you struggle with the aftermath of childhood abuse and don't yet know how to heal and move forward? Do others see you as successful but inside you feel anxious and uncertain of your worth? Are you struggling in your relationships? Therapy can help. No matter how difficult the traumatic event, it can be healed. There is a way through.
(201) 331-9246 View (201) 331-9246
Photo of Leidy Quispe, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leidy Quispe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Feeling unfulfilled with Therapy? Discover the Approach gets you Results! You have tried therapy but did not see the desired results, you're not alone. Many struggle to find a therapist who truly grasps the complexities of your anxiety and trauma. My expertise lies in uncovering how painful childhood experiences shapes our adult lives, often in ways we don't realize! It's time for an innovative type of therapy that resonates with your unique experiences and offers true healing, transformative change and results!
Feeling unfulfilled with Therapy? Discover the Approach gets you Results! You have tried therapy but did not see the desired results, you're not alone. Many struggle to find a therapist who truly grasps the complexities of your anxiety and trauma. My expertise lies in uncovering how painful childhood experiences shapes our adult lives, often in ways we don't realize! It's time for an innovative type of therapy that resonates with your unique experiences and offers true healing, transformative change and results!
(862) 256-5473 View (862) 256-5473
Photo of Anna Baldassari, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Baldassari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oradell, NJ 07649
Anna Baldassari is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey certified in trauma work with women and children. She has over 4 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome symptoms of many different mental health issues. These include trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and issues in self esteem. Anna received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ramapo College and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University.
Anna Baldassari is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey certified in trauma work with women and children. She has over 4 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome symptoms of many different mental health issues. These include trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and issues in self esteem. Anna received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ramapo College and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University.
(201) 720-3758 View (201) 720-3758
Photo of Courtney Angeles, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Angeles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Licensed Social Worker and Psychotherapist with experience working with a broad range of client populations. Creating a safe & welcoming space, as well as, developing a relationship and building rapport with my clients before beginning treatment is extremely important to me.
I am a Licensed Social Worker and Psychotherapist with experience working with a broad range of client populations. Creating a safe & welcoming space, as well as, developing a relationship and building rapport with my clients before beginning treatment is extremely important to me.
(201) 932-2458 View (201) 932-2458
Photo of Josefina Morales Jimenez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josefina Morales Jimenez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Since I began practicing psychotherapy in 1999, I have accompanied individuals particularly experiencing difficulty with life stress, process of acculturation, depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, issues stemming from childhood, as well as recent or unresolved trauma/PTSD. For individuals interested, I am able to incorporate as well as spiritual components into the psychotherapy treatment. I am trained in the use of (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing.
Since I began practicing psychotherapy in 1999, I have accompanied individuals particularly experiencing difficulty with life stress, process of acculturation, depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, issues stemming from childhood, as well as recent or unresolved trauma/PTSD. For individuals interested, I am able to incorporate as well as spiritual components into the psychotherapy treatment. I am trained in the use of (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing.
(973) 750-9747 View (973) 750-9747
Photo of Maria Stone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bergenfield, NJ 07621
Therapy can open the door to so many positive changes in our lives. Working together we can discover new ways to create a healthy mind, body and spirit, and move forward on our personal pathway to growth. My services include psychotherapy for children, adolescents and young adults, as well as working with families, couples and individuals. My goal with each client is to develop a collaborative and trusting relationship. Through therapeutic techniques we can ease stress, depression and anxiety, work to resolve conflict, build self-esteem, and address other concerns that are interfering with day-to-day life.
Therapy can open the door to so many positive changes in our lives. Working together we can discover new ways to create a healthy mind, body and spirit, and move forward on our personal pathway to growth. My services include psychotherapy for children, adolescents and young adults, as well as working with families, couples and individuals. My goal with each client is to develop a collaborative and trusting relationship. Through therapeutic techniques we can ease stress, depression and anxiety, work to resolve conflict, build self-esteem, and address other concerns that are interfering with day-to-day life.
(201) 478-8284 View (201) 478-8284
Photo of Joseph Galasso - Baker Street Behavioral Health, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD, Psychologist
Baker Street Behavioral Health, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
In Person Sessions Available - We are a practice of high-quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Occupational Therapy Appointments are now available. Multiple offices are located throughout NJ with virtual appointments also available.
In Person Sessions Available - We are a practice of high-quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Occupational Therapy Appointments are now available. Multiple offices are located throughout NJ with virtual appointments also available.
(201) 297-9710 View (201) 297-9710
Photo of Monica Scoville - Analytical Psychology @jungandthecity, BSc(P), MA
Monica Scoville - Analytical Psychology @jungandthecity
BSc(P), MA
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Now that our paths have crossed, allow me to introduce myself in a few words, and if you feel I can help you, then it will be my honor to do so. I have been interested in philosophy, the love of wisdom, since a very early age. I felt called to understand the psyche and as soon as I read my first book written by C G Jung when I was sixteen, I knew I had found my spiritual father and my vocation, psychotherapy, which really means the care of the soul. Everything clicked into place, and I started formally training to guide and support the precious people around me on their life journeys.
Now that our paths have crossed, allow me to introduce myself in a few words, and if you feel I can help you, then it will be my honor to do so. I have been interested in philosophy, the love of wisdom, since a very early age. I felt called to understand the psyche and as soon as I read my first book written by C G Jung when I was sixteen, I knew I had found my spiritual father and my vocation, psychotherapy, which really means the care of the soul. Everything clicked into place, and I started formally training to guide and support the precious people around me on their life journeys.
(551) 305-4498 View (551) 305-4498
Photo of Rosemarie Vala Stewart, PhD, NJ lic, NY lic, Psychologist
Rosemarie Vala Stewart
Psychologist, PhD, NJ lic, NY lic
Verified Verified
Oradell, NJ 07649
I am a licensed psychologist in NJ and NY and I have been working as a clinical psychologist for 13 years to improve my patients' quality of life, strengthen their relationships, and develop self awareness, emotional stability, and a positive sense of self. I welcome individuals, couples, and families, as well as young adults and adults. My patients often come to me seeking relief from stress, anxiety, and depression; I help them to develop better coping skills, mindfulness, and improved adjustment and communication skills. At times in life, many of us will require guidance in various areas to navigate interpersonal challenges:
I am a licensed psychologist in NJ and NY and I have been working as a clinical psychologist for 13 years to improve my patients' quality of life, strengthen their relationships, and develop self awareness, emotional stability, and a positive sense of self. I welcome individuals, couples, and families, as well as young adults and adults. My patients often come to me seeking relief from stress, anxiety, and depression; I help them to develop better coping skills, mindfulness, and improved adjustment and communication skills. At times in life, many of us will require guidance in various areas to navigate interpersonal challenges:
(201) 730-4953 View (201) 730-4953
Photo of Bianca De Bellis, PhD ABD, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca De Bellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD ABD, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Welcome! I specialize in trauma, relationship issues, and anxiety though I have experience with an array of diagnoses. I practice with the belief that the foundation of effective therapy lies in the strength of the therapeutic alliance – the collaborative and trusting relationship between you and I, where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace, and where we work together to explore pathways to healing. Once this is established, I use an integrative approach, pulling mainly from trauma-informed psychodynamic theory and CBT.
Welcome! I specialize in trauma, relationship issues, and anxiety though I have experience with an array of diagnoses. I practice with the belief that the foundation of effective therapy lies in the strength of the therapeutic alliance – the collaborative and trusting relationship between you and I, where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace, and where we work together to explore pathways to healing. Once this is established, I use an integrative approach, pulling mainly from trauma-informed psychodynamic theory and CBT.
(551) 383-2808 View (551) 383-2808
Photo of Olivia Hann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Hann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
“All problems are relational problems”. I believe that the quality of our relationships determines the quality of our life - especially the relationship we have with ourselves. I am here to walk with you on your journey to deepening your understanding and improving the quality of your relationships with yourself and with others. The focus of my work is the healing dynamic of the therapeutic relationship you and I will create together. I create a warm, nurturing, and non-judgmental space where you feel safe enough to heal at your own pace and challenged enough to grow!
“All problems are relational problems”. I believe that the quality of our relationships determines the quality of our life - especially the relationship we have with ourselves. I am here to walk with you on your journey to deepening your understanding and improving the quality of your relationships with yourself and with others. The focus of my work is the healing dynamic of the therapeutic relationship you and I will create together. I create a warm, nurturing, and non-judgmental space where you feel safe enough to heal at your own pace and challenged enough to grow!
(201) 751-1549 View (201) 751-1549
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.