Sexual Abuse Therapists in East Elmhurst, NY
![Photo of Shirley Hensford, LMSW, MDiv](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/176eb88e-4b99-4fee-9b45-70eec9b0c8b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shirley Hensford
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Elmhurst, NY 11369 (Online Only)
If you are tired of hurting and in need of healing and transformation, I am the person you are looking for. I am passionate about providing therapy services for individuals, couples and families. I am dedicated to fostering a safe, sacred and nonjudgmental holding space for your personal exploration and growth. My therapeutic focus encompasses a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss (which includes a myriad of losses), and the profound impact of childhood sexual abuse. I understand the delicate nature of these experiences and approach each individual with empathy and compassion.
If you are tired of hurting and in need of healing and transformation, I am the person you are looking for. I am passionate about providing therapy services for individuals, couples and families. I am dedicated to fostering a safe, sacred and nonjudgmental holding space for your personal exploration and growth. My therapeutic focus encompasses a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss (which includes a myriad of losses), and the profound impact of childhood sexual abuse. I understand the delicate nature of these experiences and approach each individual with empathy and compassion.
![Photo of Jennifer T Richards - It's yours Creative healing,, MA, LCAT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bf16b16-c6dd-4397-be65-b0f7bb742474/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel unheard, misunderstood, or stuck in a rut? You're not alone. Many people struggle to express themselves, build self-esteem, and find healthy ways to cope with life's challenges. That's where I come in. Hi, I'm Jennifer Richards, a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT) and founder of It's Yours Creative Healing. We can do talk therapy or maybe you've tried traditional therapy, or maybe the idea of talking on and on about your past trauma just doesn't work for you. Creative Arts Therapy offers a unique approach that can help you own your healing journey, unlock your inner voice.
Do you feel unheard, misunderstood, or stuck in a rut? You're not alone. Many people struggle to express themselves, build self-esteem, and find healthy ways to cope with life's challenges. That's where I come in. Hi, I'm Jennifer Richards, a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT) and founder of It's Yours Creative Healing. We can do talk therapy or maybe you've tried traditional therapy, or maybe the idea of talking on and on about your past trauma just doesn't work for you. Creative Arts Therapy offers a unique approach that can help you own your healing journey, unlock your inner voice.
![Photo of Catherine Walsh, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94964b0d-8229-4225-86ce-466a491c2c51/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe people find they have more success towards improving themselves when they are in a safe place. I am here to help work through and discuss any uncomfortable feelings or issues you may be having both face to face and virtually. In my approach to therapy, I create a safe supportive environment to assist exploration of emerging relationship patterns and themes. It's important to help every individual develop an appreciation for their story and to work on acceptance in order to move forward without feeling alone.
I believe people find they have more success towards improving themselves when they are in a safe place. I am here to help work through and discuss any uncomfortable feelings or issues you may be having both face to face and virtually. In my approach to therapy, I create a safe supportive environment to assist exploration of emerging relationship patterns and themes. It's important to help every individual develop an appreciation for their story and to work on acceptance in order to move forward without feeling alone.
![Photo of Stephanie Tolli-Abraham - Integral Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, CASAC, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83b35794-5ac0-4bc5-ad38-70e607beefac/3/320x400.jpeg)
Integral Mental Health Counseling
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Elmhurst, NY 11369
We are a private psychotherapy practice in Corona, Queens. We have extensive experience successfully assessing, counseling and supporting varying client populations in multiple settings, We have multiple bilingual specialized professionals for your service and care. We specialize in all types of psychological disorders, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety to name a few. We provide parenting classes, marriage counseling, psychotherapy for adolescents, group family therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy for children, students with academic and behavioral problems, response prevention and more.
We are a private psychotherapy practice in Corona, Queens. We have extensive experience successfully assessing, counseling and supporting varying client populations in multiple settings, We have multiple bilingual specialized professionals for your service and care. We specialize in all types of psychological disorders, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety to name a few. We provide parenting classes, marriage counseling, psychotherapy for adolescents, group family therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy for children, students with academic and behavioral problems, response prevention and more.
![Photo of Elizabeth M Crum, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bf90438-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
There are many different reasons to seek treatment including the obvious ones-depression, anxiety, a life crisis, loss of loved one, work issues & so on. For other individuals, it may be less clear-cut--maybe you seek to better understand yourself, change your relationship patterns or learn new ways of dealing with situations without repeating self-destructive behaviors. Or maybe you are struggling with a difficult pregnancy or loss of one or the life-changing world of becoming a mother and “baby blues” that don’t seem to go away.
There are many different reasons to seek treatment including the obvious ones-depression, anxiety, a life crisis, loss of loved one, work issues & so on. For other individuals, it may be less clear-cut--maybe you seek to better understand yourself, change your relationship patterns or learn new ways of dealing with situations without repeating self-destructive behaviors. Or maybe you are struggling with a difficult pregnancy or loss of one or the life-changing world of becoming a mother and “baby blues” that don’t seem to go away.
![Photo of Caitriona MacDonald, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36047a40-11ea-4745-91c3-40c16d77f582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caitriona MacDonald
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Elmhurst, NY 11370 (Online Only)
Whether seeking relief from anxiety and depression, coping with trauma, or working to develop a better sense of who we are and what we want, we all seek therapy because we desire change. And change is difficult. It involves coming to terms with the past, shedding unhelpful habits and learning to function more effectively in the present.
Whether seeking relief from anxiety and depression, coping with trauma, or working to develop a better sense of who we are and what we want, we all seek therapy because we desire change. And change is difficult. It involves coming to terms with the past, shedding unhelpful habits and learning to function more effectively in the present.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Elizabeth J. Carroll, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb841332-0ae9-4b75-ac4e-ee523843414b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I'm a warm and relational provider who specializes in working with emerging adults, high-achieving women, members of the LGBT+ community, anxiety and depression, a history of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, current or historical family conflict, and relationship exploration. I also do work with couples seeking to learn how to better understand their relationship, communicate in healthier ways with each other, and build more emotional intimacy.
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I'm a warm and relational provider who specializes in working with emerging adults, high-achieving women, members of the LGBT+ community, anxiety and depression, a history of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, current or historical family conflict, and relationship exploration. I also do work with couples seeking to learn how to better understand their relationship, communicate in healthier ways with each other, and build more emotional intimacy.
![Photo of Kylie Cunningham - Kylie Cunningham, Firefly Therapy, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ea1d36f-648e-45ba-95a8-997ed29b99c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kylie Cunningham, Firefly Therapy
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rego Park, NY 11374 (Online Only)
I offer individual and group sessions, including a group for adult survivors of child sexual abuse.
I am so happy you are here! Seeking support can be intimidating, but it is an integral step in your healing journey. I believe in the importance of a collaborative therapeutic relationship and act as a partner to individuals seeking to heal from past experiences, process difficult emotions, and create a life full of joy and purpose. I will work alongside my clients to tailor unique interventions to meet their specific needs while fostering a sense of empowerment and self-discovery.
I offer individual and group sessions, including a group for adult survivors of child sexual abuse.
I am so happy you are here! Seeking support can be intimidating, but it is an integral step in your healing journey. I believe in the importance of a collaborative therapeutic relationship and act as a partner to individuals seeking to heal from past experiences, process difficult emotions, and create a life full of joy and purpose. I will work alongside my clients to tailor unique interventions to meet their specific needs while fostering a sense of empowerment and self-discovery.
![Photo of Jessica Hazard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ab9e91c-201f-4f76-aeaa-5d5d850249df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Hazard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11102 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with young people with trauma or complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, and I have worked with many who have experienced sexual exploitation, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and familial abuse.
I am a caring, eclectic, and nonjudgmental therapist who specializes in working with adolescents, ages 12-24. I come from a place of empowerment and am trained in CBT, DBT, talk therapy, motivational interviewing, and superhero therapy. I am also in the process of getting certified in TF-CBT. I start where the person I am working with is and get to know them! I try different things with clients and see what they like and don't like, and we go from there. I don't believe therapy is one-size-fits-all. I love helping young people work toward their goals and feel better about themselves!
I specialize in working with young people with trauma or complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, and I have worked with many who have experienced sexual exploitation, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and familial abuse.
I am a caring, eclectic, and nonjudgmental therapist who specializes in working with adolescents, ages 12-24. I come from a place of empowerment and am trained in CBT, DBT, talk therapy, motivational interviewing, and superhero therapy. I am also in the process of getting certified in TF-CBT. I start where the person I am working with is and get to know them! I try different things with clients and see what they like and don't like, and we go from there. I don't believe therapy is one-size-fits-all. I love helping young people work toward their goals and feel better about themselves!
![Photo of Nyx Melody, MA, EdM, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f50151f6-8e4e-41b3-bc3e-074a20ce3da3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experienced the loss of my brother, childhood physical/sexual abuse, and I am a cancer survivor.
Are you exploring your gender, sexuality, alternative sexual practices and/or relationship dynamics? Have you tried to heal from your past trauma and been unable to feel more embodied and liberated? Do you find yourself feeling hopeless that you will ever find a sense of belonging or connection with others because your way of engaging in the world or an identity you possess is labeled as “other”? Would you like to live life with greater authenticity, self-compassion, empathy, and self-confidence? Are you looking to dismantle internalized oppression or privilege to be a more accountable partner in creating a more just society?
I have experienced the loss of my brother, childhood physical/sexual abuse, and I am a cancer survivor.
Are you exploring your gender, sexuality, alternative sexual practices and/or relationship dynamics? Have you tried to heal from your past trauma and been unable to feel more embodied and liberated? Do you find yourself feeling hopeless that you will ever find a sense of belonging or connection with others because your way of engaging in the world or an identity you possess is labeled as “other”? Would you like to live life with greater authenticity, self-compassion, empathy, and self-confidence? Are you looking to dismantle internalized oppression or privilege to be a more accountable partner in creating a more just society?
![Photo of Kiranjit Bali - Uprise Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, PhD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f4b02b5-614c-45ea-b7a6-c34cec005439/2/320x400.jpeg)
Uprise Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My group practice specializes in the treatment of trauma spectrum disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, dissociative disorders, trauma-related pain, and trauma-related somatic symptoms. Ongoing experiences of verbal, physical, or sexual abuse, neglect, and bullying can lead to these symptoms. Sometimes people suffer these effects because they have experienced chronic invalidation. We treat couples, people in non-traditional partnerships, and adolescents who struggle with emotional and behavioral problems. We also treat survivors of sexual violence and targets of workplace bullying.
My group practice specializes in the treatment of trauma spectrum disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, dissociative disorders, trauma-related pain, and trauma-related somatic symptoms. Ongoing experiences of verbal, physical, or sexual abuse, neglect, and bullying can lead to these symptoms. Sometimes people suffer these effects because they have experienced chronic invalidation. We treat couples, people in non-traditional partnerships, and adolescents who struggle with emotional and behavioral problems. We also treat survivors of sexual violence and targets of workplace bullying.
![Photo of Kimberly Mintzer, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d98cbcef-9b94-4865-8ca4-2cb3d1b2a582/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise are: 1st generation Americans, BIPOC, Acculturation stress, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault, Grief/Loss, LGBTQIA+, Multicultural Issues, Racial identity issues, Panic Disorder, Phobias, PTSD, Trauma, Underserved, and marginalized communites, and Women's issues.
Are you experiencing emotional unrest? Have you been dealing with negative self-talk or low self-worth? Is intense and persistent fear keeping you from a blissful life? Traumatic memories may still be alive in you. You might struggle with ripples of despair and hopelessness without a clear reason. And despite your best efforts, you can’t seem to find the ease or motivation to carry on. I’m here to help you recognize and process these challenging thoughts, emotions, and unresolved events to embrace your journey with acceptance and compassion.
My areas of expertise are: 1st generation Americans, BIPOC, Acculturation stress, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault, Grief/Loss, LGBTQIA+, Multicultural Issues, Racial identity issues, Panic Disorder, Phobias, PTSD, Trauma, Underserved, and marginalized communites, and Women's issues.
Are you experiencing emotional unrest? Have you been dealing with negative self-talk or low self-worth? Is intense and persistent fear keeping you from a blissful life? Traumatic memories may still be alive in you. You might struggle with ripples of despair and hopelessness without a clear reason. And despite your best efforts, you can’t seem to find the ease or motivation to carry on. I’m here to help you recognize and process these challenging thoughts, emotions, and unresolved events to embrace your journey with acceptance and compassion.
![Photo of Abbie Loveland Tuller, PhD, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6955dfda-342c-4eef-acaa-f85e122120f7/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have specialized in addressing interpersonal traumas including childhood, domestic violence, and sexual assault.
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
I have specialized in addressing interpersonal traumas including childhood, domestic violence, and sexual assault.
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
![Photo of Jean Carlos Osorio - Minds Together, LCSWPC, LCSW-R, CDBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64b890d1-b53b-4377-9f80-5edcb670c2d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Minds Together, LCSWPC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CDBT
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11102
Hola Hola. My name is Jean Carlos Osorio and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of professional experience and I am also the Founder/Clinical Director of Minds Together, LCSW.P.C. A private group outpatient mental health clinic that provides individual/couple and group therapeutic services in three different locations in Queens, Ny. We have our offices in Astoria, Forest Hills and Jackson Heights. We accept most Medicaid/Commercial insurance plans and provide out of network services. We provide face to face and Telehealth services.
Hola Hola. My name is Jean Carlos Osorio and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of professional experience and I am also the Founder/Clinical Director of Minds Together, LCSW.P.C. A private group outpatient mental health clinic that provides individual/couple and group therapeutic services in three different locations in Queens, Ny. We have our offices in Astoria, Forest Hills and Jackson Heights. We accept most Medicaid/Commercial insurance plans and provide out of network services. We provide face to face and Telehealth services.
![Photo of Nelida Betancourt-Rodriguez - Aviv Mental Health Counseling Services PLLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2f06b94-3b1f-4d4b-a299-dfb879b014d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aviv Mental Health Counseling Services PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middle Village, NY 11379 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Neli Betancourt-Rodriguez. I'm a Christian bilingual (Spanish/English) licensed trauma therapist in New York City. Whatever brought you here, I'm so glad you're here. Your story deserves to be heard, uncovered, and transformed into purpose. Your life matters. My hope is to walk alongside you in the aftermath of what can feel like the weight of the world. Sometimes, that aftermath looks like learning to trust again after abuse, or to feel joy after years of depression and sadness, or to unlearn patterns that no longer serve you. It may be hard to believe freedom is accessible. But here, I know it's possible. . .
Hi! I'm Neli Betancourt-Rodriguez. I'm a Christian bilingual (Spanish/English) licensed trauma therapist in New York City. Whatever brought you here, I'm so glad you're here. Your story deserves to be heard, uncovered, and transformed into purpose. Your life matters. My hope is to walk alongside you in the aftermath of what can feel like the weight of the world. Sometimes, that aftermath looks like learning to trust again after abuse, or to feel joy after years of depression and sadness, or to unlearn patterns that no longer serve you. It may be hard to believe freedom is accessible. But here, I know it's possible. . .
![Photo of Myra Friedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51abc109-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for greater joy and satisfaction in your personal relationships and professional achievements? I am a psychotherapist with over 40 years of experience. I am a graduate of The Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Yeshiva University. I am a graduate of the Washington Square Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, The Group Therapy Training Program of the Post Graduate Center for Mental Health, and the Family Therapy Training Program of the Post Graduate Center. I am a certified instructor for the National Guild of Hypnotists. I am an EMDR therapist, trained in 1993/1994 by its founder, Dr. Francine Shapiro.
Are you looking for greater joy and satisfaction in your personal relationships and professional achievements? I am a psychotherapist with over 40 years of experience. I am a graduate of The Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Yeshiva University. I am a graduate of the Washington Square Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, The Group Therapy Training Program of the Post Graduate Center for Mental Health, and the Family Therapy Training Program of the Post Graduate Center. I am a certified instructor for the National Guild of Hypnotists. I am an EMDR therapist, trained in 1993/1994 by its founder, Dr. Francine Shapiro.
![Photo of Arianna Argotte, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6bc8dc-e79d-4bbd-86e1-c3c155a2f37d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Past, painful experiences are a regular part of the human experience. When those experiences are unexplored and unresolved, they can feel overwhelmingly heavy. They can also be a part of your present; informing your relationships, unhealthy habits, and influencing the way you cope with difficult situations. This can leave you feeling alone, unfulfilled, and disconnected from your life. Therapy is a place where it is safe to unpack these painful experiences and process them in a non-judgmental, compassionate environment.
Past, painful experiences are a regular part of the human experience. When those experiences are unexplored and unresolved, they can feel overwhelmingly heavy. They can also be a part of your present; informing your relationships, unhealthy habits, and influencing the way you cope with difficult situations. This can leave you feeling alone, unfulfilled, and disconnected from your life. Therapy is a place where it is safe to unpack these painful experiences and process them in a non-judgmental, compassionate environment.
![Photo of Olivia Tursi - Olivia Tursi, Firefly Therapy, LCSW-R, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbf04d70-d766-427e-afbd-828a51b5c5b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Olivia Tursi, Firefly Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rego Park, NY 11374 (Online Only)
You've just taken the first step towards advancing your own personal growth. It can be difficult to address the painful or uncomfortable matters in our lives, but it is the only way to propel ourselves forward; to make the future stronger than the past. While the past will always play a role in shaping our future, it doesn't define it. Through counseling, we will work together to identify and overcome whatever obstacles may be in your path. With a clear mind and an empowered spirit, you'll be on your way to living a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
You've just taken the first step towards advancing your own personal growth. It can be difficult to address the painful or uncomfortable matters in our lives, but it is the only way to propel ourselves forward; to make the future stronger than the past. While the past will always play a role in shaping our future, it doesn't define it. Through counseling, we will work together to identify and overcome whatever obstacles may be in your path. With a clear mind and an empowered spirit, you'll be on your way to living a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Ashley Duquette, LPC, LMHC, BC-DMT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5641aec5-e43e-4c23-9366-e369ff2e54a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are feeling lost, unfulfilled or overwhelmed, you can find relief. Facing emotions with support can bridge the gap from where we are stuck to where we want to be. Unresolved shame can keep us spiraling in fear and frozen in old patterns. Within the container of our therapeutic relationship, we can integrate pain from the past and access connection in the present. Healing can happen in a safe, nonjudgemental space where we can replace confusion and self-blame with curiosity and compassion.
If you are feeling lost, unfulfilled or overwhelmed, you can find relief. Facing emotions with support can bridge the gap from where we are stuck to where we want to be. Unresolved shame can keep us spiraling in fear and frozen in old patterns. Within the container of our therapeutic relationship, we can integrate pain from the past and access connection in the present. Healing can happen in a safe, nonjudgemental space where we can replace confusion and self-blame with curiosity and compassion.
![Photo of Margia Shiriti, MHC, LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f1ca1ae-7f10-415c-9583-a65c98378906/1/320x400.jpeg)
In life, facing times of distress and confusion may be inevitable. During tough times, guidance from a professional may prove invaluable. Many of my clients come in with a specific concern in mind while others simply want to feel better. I enjoy working collaboratively to create a warm, safe, and inviting space for personal growth. I help people with varying mental health concerns including: depression, anxiety, family and personal relationships, eating disorders, identity issues, trauma and complex PTSD.
In life, facing times of distress and confusion may be inevitable. During tough times, guidance from a professional may prove invaluable. Many of my clients come in with a specific concern in mind while others simply want to feel better. I enjoy working collaboratively to create a warm, safe, and inviting space for personal growth. I help people with varying mental health concerns including: depression, anxiety, family and personal relationships, eating disorders, identity issues, trauma and complex PTSD.
See more therapy options for East Elmhurst
Nearby Sexual Abuse Therapists Searches for East Elmhurst
- Astoria
- Corona
- Elmhurst
- Flushing
- Jackson Heights
- Long Island City
- Maspeth
- Middle Village
- Rego Park
- Ridgewood
- Sunnyside
- Woodside
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.