Sexual Abuse Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of Will Higdon-Sudow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Will Higdon-Sudow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a queer therapist, I believe that therapy is different for every individual. My passion for understanding people and relationships has always been driven by curiosity. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and have experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As a career changer, my previous career in advertising and fashion informs my extensive experience working with clients in the performing arts and other creative fields.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a queer therapist, I believe that therapy is different for every individual. My passion for understanding people and relationships has always been driven by curiosity. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and have experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As a career changer, my previous career in advertising and fashion informs my extensive experience working with clients in the performing arts and other creative fields.
(347) 227-1963 View (347) 227-1963
Photo of Dayle M Kramer, LCSW, LP, NyPsyA, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Dayle M Kramer
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LCSW, LP, NyPsyA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I have treated numerous people who have been abused ranging: from sexual abuse to childhood abandonment; often prompting depressions and self-esteem issues.
Sometimes it is a struggle to face thoughts and feelings that you are having. Various events have happened to us in our life that continue to haunt us causing harmful and troubling feelings. These troubling feelings can feel shameful and unforgiveable. It helps to have a safe environment to talk.
I have treated numerous people who have been abused ranging: from sexual abuse to childhood abandonment; often prompting depressions and self-esteem issues.
Sometimes it is a struggle to face thoughts and feelings that you are having. Various events have happened to us in our life that continue to haunt us causing harmful and troubling feelings. These troubling feelings can feel shameful and unforgiveable. It helps to have a safe environment to talk.
(917) 652-6823 View (917) 652-6823
Photo of Jessica Muñoz, LMHC-LP
Jessica Muñoz
LMHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I am a gender-based violence expert completing doctoral studies with a clinical focus on sexual assault survivors.
I love to work with any adult who is ready to show up and work, just as I am. I enjoy working with clients in person, the walk you take to my office is part of our clinical focus on setting routines and making space for ourselves. That said, some of my most loyal clients see me on zoom, we work together to get therapy in.
I am a gender-based violence expert completing doctoral studies with a clinical focus on sexual assault survivors.
I love to work with any adult who is ready to show up and work, just as I am. I enjoy working with clients in person, the walk you take to my office is part of our clinical focus on setting routines and making space for ourselves. That said, some of my most loyal clients see me on zoom, we work together to get therapy in.
(646) 791-3755 View (646) 791-3755
Photo of Shelby Catherine Harvey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
My practice is dedicated to serving those who have endured the profound impacts of trauma, particularly intimate partner violence or sexual assault, as well as those grieving a loss. They are individuals who, despite their challenges, are motivated to initiate therapy, and may be grappling with mood changes, or troubling symptoms, with or without a diagnosis. Together, we will explore and develop healthy coping skills, paving the way toward healing and rediscovery of hope. They are determined to work towards a brighter, more resilient future with therapy.
My practice is dedicated to serving those who have endured the profound impacts of trauma, particularly intimate partner violence or sexual assault, as well as those grieving a loss. They are individuals who, despite their challenges, are motivated to initiate therapy, and may be grappling with mood changes, or troubling symptoms, with or without a diagnosis. Together, we will explore and develop healthy coping skills, paving the way toward healing and rediscovery of hope. They are determined to work towards a brighter, more resilient future with therapy.
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Photo of Rachel Elaine Winckel, LMSW
Rachel Elaine Winckel
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, particularly childhood sexual abuse, in techniques that reach the whole self, such as EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), and will work together to heal the past so that you can live fully in the present as a whole and empowered self.
Even at the hardest moments in life, everything you need for happiness is already inside you. My goal as a therapist is to work together with you in whatever struggles you currently face, to uncover your naturally occurring strengths in order to live a full and meaningful life. Perhaps you’re not living the life you want to be living. You’re unhappy, but you’re not sure why. At times, we can feel lost, numb, and disconnected from ourselves. There can be many reasons for this, and through our work together, we will understand what these are and how to reconnect, to live a vibrant, fully embodied life.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, particularly childhood sexual abuse, in techniques that reach the whole self, such as EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), and will work together to heal the past so that you can live fully in the present as a whole and empowered self.
Even at the hardest moments in life, everything you need for happiness is already inside you. My goal as a therapist is to work together with you in whatever struggles you currently face, to uncover your naturally occurring strengths in order to live a full and meaningful life. Perhaps you’re not living the life you want to be living. You’re unhappy, but you’re not sure why. At times, we can feel lost, numb, and disconnected from ourselves. There can be many reasons for this, and through our work together, we will understand what these are and how to reconnect, to live a vibrant, fully embodied life.
(929) 284-2574 View (929) 284-2574
Photo of Daniel Blausey, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, ATCS, Art Therapist
Daniel Blausey
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014
Stress reduction, sexuality, grief and loss, sadness, and childhood sexual abuse are just a few common areas of focus for my clients.
Welcome to my art therapy and psychotherapy practice page. For over 25 years I have successfully worked with adults and young people seeking change. I am equally at ease with traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or an integration of the two and collaborate with my clients to establish the safest approach to realize personal intentions. My engagement style is gentle and encouraging, yet more thought-provoking and compassionately challenging when it is advantageous to the therapy.
Stress reduction, sexuality, grief and loss, sadness, and childhood sexual abuse are just a few common areas of focus for my clients.
Welcome to my art therapy and psychotherapy practice page. For over 25 years I have successfully worked with adults and young people seeking change. I am equally at ease with traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or an integration of the two and collaborate with my clients to establish the safest approach to realize personal intentions. My engagement style is gentle and encouraging, yet more thought-provoking and compassionately challenging when it is advantageous to the therapy.
(646) 480-7303 View (646) 480-7303
Photo of Elizabeth J. Carroll, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth J. Carroll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
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.
(347) 427-9165 View (347) 427-9165
Photo of Zoe Nelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoe Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
(347) 514-6386 View (347) 514-6386
Photo of Roberta Shafter, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roberta Shafter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Some of the groups with which I have had especially extensive experience are: survivors of sexual abuse and abusive relationships; creative and performing artists; mental health professionals and students; individuals facing the challenges of midlife and beyond; adolescents and their families; and couples at all stages of the life cycle.
People most often contact me when a critical life event has occurred. They may be feeling anxious or depressed, or have become newly aware of a need to make changes in the way they handle their relationships, emotions, and self-esteem. For some, this is the beginning of a long journey of self-exploration. Others prefer to seek new, more effective tools to address the immediate situation. I think that a good clinician should be able to tailor the treatment to fit the needs and preferences of the client. Too often it is the other way around.
Some of the groups with which I have had especially extensive experience are: survivors of sexual abuse and abusive relationships; creative and performing artists; mental health professionals and students; individuals facing the challenges of midlife and beyond; adolescents and their families; and couples at all stages of the life cycle.
People most often contact me when a critical life event has occurred. They may be feeling anxious or depressed, or have become newly aware of a need to make changes in the way they handle their relationships, emotions, and self-esteem. For some, this is the beginning of a long journey of self-exploration. Others prefer to seek new, more effective tools to address the immediate situation. I think that a good clinician should be able to tailor the treatment to fit the needs and preferences of the client. Too often it is the other way around.
(646) 600-9240 View (646) 600-9240
Photo of Nia Millington, MHC-LP
Nia Millington
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
And I have experience treating anxiety, burnout, depression, crisis/trauma, sexual abuse, transitions, relationship issues, and grief.
Let me start by commending you on taking the first step in seeking support and working towards your healing. I'm a compassionate therapist with experience working with diverse and at-risk populations. I'm here to offer you support and be your advocate as you transform your life. I believe in the importance of developing instant connections, understanding different perspectives, assessing your needs and handling crises while fostering a safe and nurturing environment. I believe all people have the innate inward ability to change and heal themselves.
And I have experience treating anxiety, burnout, depression, crisis/trauma, sexual abuse, transitions, relationship issues, and grief.
Let me start by commending you on taking the first step in seeking support and working towards your healing. I'm a compassionate therapist with experience working with diverse and at-risk populations. I'm here to offer you support and be your advocate as you transform your life. I believe in the importance of developing instant connections, understanding different perspectives, assessing your needs and handling crises while fostering a safe and nurturing environment. I believe all people have the innate inward ability to change and heal themselves.
(332) 248-1558 View (332) 248-1558
Photo of Hayley Caddes, MS, CPC
Hayley Caddes
MS, CPC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014
Some things I've personally had to work through in my 20s - anxiety, major depression, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, self-harm, rock bottom self-esteem, resurfaced childhood trauma, intimate image abuse, ADHD, moving to a new city, school transfers & (many) career transitions, NYC dating, workplace sexism, & building supportive friendships as an adult.
Maybe you haven’t found a therapist who gets you. Maybe you aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for. We’ve all been there. I started my coaching business to provide young adults with a unique experience and realness you don't get with most clinical approaches: day-to-day guidance and mentorship from someone relatable who has overcome similar challenges. I specialize in helping you get unstuck and create a life you're excited about living using a process rooted in lived experience. Together, we'll set achievable goals, develop personalized coping skills, and build a support system within your real-world environment.
Some things I've personally had to work through in my 20s - anxiety, major depression, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, self-harm, rock bottom self-esteem, resurfaced childhood trauma, intimate image abuse, ADHD, moving to a new city, school transfers & (many) career transitions, NYC dating, workplace sexism, & building supportive friendships as an adult.
Maybe you haven’t found a therapist who gets you. Maybe you aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for. We’ve all been there. I started my coaching business to provide young adults with a unique experience and realness you don't get with most clinical approaches: day-to-day guidance and mentorship from someone relatable who has overcome similar challenges. I specialize in helping you get unstuck and create a life you're excited about living using a process rooted in lived experience. Together, we'll set achievable goals, develop personalized coping skills, and build a support system within your real-world environment.
(646) 248-6264 View (646) 248-6264
Photo of Kaylene Graffitti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaylene Graffitti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
My passion is for helping individuals heal from trauma. My clinical focus is working with clients healing from sexual abuse or assault, attachment trauma caused by abuse or neglect as a child, domestic violence, and cPTSD caused by other complex traumas throughout the lifespan. So if you're struggling with a complex trauma history, or navigating through stressful life events, I will work alongside you to help you cope with challenging experiences and manage the overwhelming emotions that typically accompany them.
My passion is for helping individuals heal from trauma. My clinical focus is working with clients healing from sexual abuse or assault, attachment trauma caused by abuse or neglect as a child, domestic violence, and cPTSD caused by other complex traumas throughout the lifespan. So if you're struggling with a complex trauma history, or navigating through stressful life events, I will work alongside you to help you cope with challenging experiences and manage the overwhelming emotions that typically accompany them.
(585) 488-4932 View (585) 488-4932
Photo of Amber Lust, LMSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Lust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Hello! Thank you for visiting my profile! You’re the expert of your experiences, and I can offer you support on your healing journey. Together we can work towards helping you manage stressors, concerns, and achieving goals. I specialize in working with people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, and abusive relationships, and can utilize EMDR to support your healing. My practice is Queer, kink, sex work and poly positive. Please see my website for additional information, and I look forward to speaking with you!
Hello! Thank you for visiting my profile! You’re the expert of your experiences, and I can offer you support on your healing journey. Together we can work towards helping you manage stressors, concerns, and achieving goals. I specialize in working with people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, and abusive relationships, and can utilize EMDR to support your healing. My practice is Queer, kink, sex work and poly positive. Please see my website for additional information, and I look forward to speaking with you!
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Photo of Jonathan Merker, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jonathan Merker
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
My ideal client identifies as a gay/bi/queer/questioning man who has survived childhood sexual abuse and/or a conversion therapy program (i.e. “ex-gay” or “pray the gay away"). The symptoms my ideal client is struggling with after surviving abuse manifest in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship & sexual dysfunction, and others. My clients come to me to become empowered in their mental health, their feelings, their relationships, and their sexuality.
My ideal client identifies as a gay/bi/queer/questioning man who has survived childhood sexual abuse and/or a conversion therapy program (i.e. “ex-gay” or “pray the gay away"). The symptoms my ideal client is struggling with after surviving abuse manifest in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship & sexual dysfunction, and others. My clients come to me to become empowered in their mental health, their feelings, their relationships, and their sexuality.
(332) 529-6933 View (332) 529-6933
Photo of Lynne Julianna Beldegreen, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist
Lynne Julianna Beldegreen
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Many of my clients have experienced sexual abuse or rape.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
Many of my clients have experienced sexual abuse or rape.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
(917) 960-3953 View (917) 960-3953
Photo of Lucien Beckford - Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
Photo of Airam Marcano, LCSW, MA
Airam Marcano
Licensed Master Social Worker, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a particular expertise working with survivors of interpersonal trauma, including sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and disrupted attachment in childhood.
I believe there is no single way of working with people who enter therapy. My goal as a therapist is to help you better understand yourself. Drawing from relational, cognitive, and trauma informed approaches, I support clients to build awareness, trust, and connection with themselves and to others. I believe that healing is deeply rooted in the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment that feels safe in order to heal.
I have a particular expertise working with survivors of interpersonal trauma, including sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and disrupted attachment in childhood.
I believe there is no single way of working with people who enter therapy. My goal as a therapist is to help you better understand yourself. Drawing from relational, cognitive, and trauma informed approaches, I support clients to build awareness, trust, and connection with themselves and to others. I believe that healing is deeply rooted in the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment that feels safe in order to heal.
(347) 697-4805 View (347) 697-4805
Photo of Antoinette Rodriguez, LMSW, SFTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antoinette Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SFTT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Previously, I worked part-time at an outpatient clinic for sexual assault and abuse survivors.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
Previously, I worked part-time at an outpatient clinic for sexual assault and abuse survivors.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
(646) 480-1874 View (646) 480-1874
Photo of Sherie L Seff, LCSWR, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherie L Seff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
(646) 600-5012 View (646) 600-5012
Photo of Julia Hochstadt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Hochstadt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I have 20 years of expertise working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, rape/sexual assault and domestic or family violence.
When people are considering therapy, often the hardest step is making a first phone call. I have deep respect for the process of choosing a therapist and value the steps one must undertake in order to find the perfect fit. My style of working is relational and psychodynamically informed and I believe that each therapeutic relationship is unique. This means that we will tailor your treatment to fit your needs and interests. The best outcomes are achieved when you feel comfortable with the person you are working with and together we will create a space that feels safe.
I have 20 years of expertise working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, rape/sexual assault and domestic or family violence.
When people are considering therapy, often the hardest step is making a first phone call. I have deep respect for the process of choosing a therapist and value the steps one must undertake in order to find the perfect fit. My style of working is relational and psychodynamically informed and I believe that each therapeutic relationship is unique. This means that we will tailor your treatment to fit your needs and interests. The best outcomes are achieved when you feel comfortable with the person you are working with and together we will create a space that feels safe.
(212) 613-6204 View (212) 613-6204
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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.