Sexual Abuse Therapists in New Jersey
![Photo of Elaine A Young - A Journey Walked Together Counseling and Wellness, LPC, CCTP, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52e6ddc4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Journey Walked Together Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, DBTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Neptune City, NJ 07753
I am EMDR trained and am certified in DBT and have experience working with survivors of childhood abuse and sexual assault.
"How did I get here?" It's a question many of us have asked ourselves in the course of our lives. Sometimes "here" is a frustrating, sad, or even scary place. The question we may ask ourselves is, "How do I get to where I want to be?" Sometimes the answer lies in a place where we can receive nonjudgmental feedback and guidance to help us on our journey. I am passionate about helping people get to the place they want to be in their lives-wherever that might be.
I am EMDR trained and am certified in DBT and have experience working with survivors of childhood abuse and sexual assault.
"How did I get here?" It's a question many of us have asked ourselves in the course of our lives. Sometimes "here" is a frustrating, sad, or even scary place. The question we may ask ourselves is, "How do I get to where I want to be?" Sometimes the answer lies in a place where we can receive nonjudgmental feedback and guidance to help us on our journey. I am passionate about helping people get to the place they want to be in their lives-wherever that might be.
![Photo of Susana Pestana-Szwarc, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85404e88-6069-4858-b295-07c07f49a4a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susana Pestana-Szwarc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Branch, NJ 07740
I have specialized training in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, family/relationships issues, grief and life transitions.
Every person has the potential to create positive change in their life. Often many things get in way to achieve those goals, such trauma, depression, anxiety and fear. Far too often we struggle internally and not knowing where to turn. When life gets hard it is always wonderful to have someone there to help walk alongside with you through the hardships in life. My goal is to make this therapeutic experience as pleasing and positive for you. I am here to guide you through those hard patches along the way based on your needs.
I have specialized training in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic violence, family/relationships issues, grief and life transitions.
Every person has the potential to create positive change in their life. Often many things get in way to achieve those goals, such trauma, depression, anxiety and fear. Far too often we struggle internally and not knowing where to turn. When life gets hard it is always wonderful to have someone there to help walk alongside with you through the hardships in life. My goal is to make this therapeutic experience as pleasing and positive for you. I am here to guide you through those hard patches along the way based on your needs.
![Photo of Jill DePeri, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3b271cd-917d-4d45-aa7e-c83b109866c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jill DePeri
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
My specialties are in the area of trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and grief.
I offer individual, couples and family counseling. Do you want a breakthrough in your life? Are you tired of living in the same pattern and desire healing and restoration? If you are reading this than you have made the choice for change and through therapy, I can help you get there. When you surrender yourself in therapy, you will see a transformation that leads to hope and reaching your goals. I am trained and experienced to lead you through this journey toward healing and wholeness. If you are facing anxiety, depression or have past or present wounds from sexual abuse, it is never hopeless. Therapy works, this is your time.
My specialties are in the area of trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and grief.
I offer individual, couples and family counseling. Do you want a breakthrough in your life? Are you tired of living in the same pattern and desire healing and restoration? If you are reading this than you have made the choice for change and through therapy, I can help you get there. When you surrender yourself in therapy, you will see a transformation that leads to hope and reaching your goals. I am trained and experienced to lead you through this journey toward healing and wholeness. If you are facing anxiety, depression or have past or present wounds from sexual abuse, it is never hopeless. Therapy works, this is your time.
![Photo of Julianna Calleo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91f7c667-534a-4dd0-a1dc-cb6c82b84d77/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julianna Calleo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724 (Online Only)
I specialize working with trauma, sexual abuse, women's issues, and domestic violence, particularly in immigrant populations.
Honestly, you've probably looked through many provider profiles by now and are wondering who to pick. It can be a tough decision and so I offer a 30 minute screening phone call to help decide if we would be a good fit for each other. I'll answer any questions that you may have and will refer you to another provider if I believe that they will be better suited to meet your mental health needs. I am person-centered and will be happy to serve you along this journey, making sure that your wants and needs are heard and making sure that you are the priority in your own treatment.
I specialize working with trauma, sexual abuse, women's issues, and domestic violence, particularly in immigrant populations.
Honestly, you've probably looked through many provider profiles by now and are wondering who to pick. It can be a tough decision and so I offer a 30 minute screening phone call to help decide if we would be a good fit for each other. I'll answer any questions that you may have and will refer you to another provider if I believe that they will be better suited to meet your mental health needs. I am person-centered and will be happy to serve you along this journey, making sure that your wants and needs are heard and making sure that you are the priority in your own treatment.
![Photo of Stephanie R. Lee, LPC, CSAC, CCTS-I, EMDR-T, CNAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ed5dbd-172b-4c83-a8cd-ca1956cce004/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie R. Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, CCTS-I, EMDR-T, CNAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753 (Online Only)
She treats clients with trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse or sexual assault backgrounds, substance abuse, domestic violence backgrounds, and narcissism abuse.
Stephanie's ideal client is someone who is willing to come to session and put in the hard work that therapy requires. Her ideal client’s issues and needs would stem from something personal or even an external circumstance from outside of their lives. What matters here is having courage and how her clients decide to deal with those issues and needs, because life can throw curveballs. She she hopes to bring a sense of compassion, kindness, trust, and empathy when working with these clients.
She treats clients with trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse or sexual assault backgrounds, substance abuse, domestic violence backgrounds, and narcissism abuse.
Stephanie's ideal client is someone who is willing to come to session and put in the hard work that therapy requires. Her ideal client’s issues and needs would stem from something personal or even an external circumstance from outside of their lives. What matters here is having courage and how her clients decide to deal with those issues and needs, because life can throw curveballs. She she hopes to bring a sense of compassion, kindness, trust, and empathy when working with these clients.
![Photo of Julia Hochstadt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/491e8b7a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Hochstadt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland Park, NJ 07432
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.
![Photo of Jennifer Weiskott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d87796d6-5a5e-4db3-80ba-555bb7f8e265/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Weiskott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bordentown, NJ 08505 (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience working with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors.
My goal as a therapist is to offer compassionate and non-judgmental therapy to those struggling with mental health issues. I feel that it is important for my clients to feel that they are in a safe environment where they can share their feelings. It is important to me to address each client's specific issues, needs and goals. I believe every person is an individual and has their own unique experiences.
I have over 20 years of experience working with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors.
My goal as a therapist is to offer compassionate and non-judgmental therapy to those struggling with mental health issues. I feel that it is important for my clients to feel that they are in a safe environment where they can share their feelings. It is important to me to address each client's specific issues, needs and goals. I believe every person is an individual and has their own unique experiences.
![Photo of Karen Heffernan, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bfb5b26-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, or difficulties in their relationships, I have worked for many years with women and men who have experienced childhood sexual, physical or emotional abuse, or adult sexual assault. I have learned from listening to their stories that recurring thoughts and images about the trauma, or less conscious feelings such as fear and worthlessness, or difficulties letting anyone get close, can persist, even if it happened long ago. My focus in therapy is to help you work through these experiences so they no longer prevent you from living more fully in your present life.
In addition to working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, or difficulties in their relationships, I have worked for many years with women and men who have experienced childhood sexual, physical or emotional abuse, or adult sexual assault. I have learned from listening to their stories that recurring thoughts and images about the trauma, or less conscious feelings such as fear and worthlessness, or difficulties letting anyone get close, can persist, even if it happened long ago. My focus in therapy is to help you work through these experiences so they no longer prevent you from living more fully in your present life.
![Photo of Kristen Veith, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01c30525-1a23-4bc7-b5a5-c8cd40810a95/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also have experience working with survivors of sexual assault/abuse.
Being positive does not mean you have to be happy all the time and ignore reality, it means trusting that even on the hard days, you know that better ones are coming. Having hope is such an important part of getting through the hard times. I offer a safe space for you to come and take some time to take care of yourself. I think we can all benefit from a neutral support and perspective, so we can continue to grow into who we desire to be, no matter how old we are.
I also have experience working with survivors of sexual assault/abuse.
Being positive does not mean you have to be happy all the time and ignore reality, it means trusting that even on the hard days, you know that better ones are coming. Having hope is such an important part of getting through the hard times. I offer a safe space for you to come and take some time to take care of yourself. I think we can all benefit from a neutral support and perspective, so we can continue to grow into who we desire to be, no matter how old we are.
![Photo of Emily K Ryzuk, MA, EdS, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1677f46-1489-4e72-8d1f-e677b7ae6f6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily K Ryzuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in trauma, sexuality and infertility issues. With my background of running the Sexual Assault Center for Morris County, I am also specialized in working with sexual assault survivors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in trauma, sexuality and infertility issues. With my background of running the Sexual Assault Center for Morris County, I am also specialized in working with sexual assault survivors.
![Photo of Dr. Frank J. Matone - NJ Center for Sex Therapy, PhD, DHS, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf3e335-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In this highly specialized field of sex therapy, our certified and credentialed professionals with many years of combined experience provide treatment for sexual dysfunction, impulsive and compulsive sexual behaviors, survivors of trauma and sexual abuse, intimacy issues.
Sexuality is an important part of people's lives. When there is a sexual challenge or difficulty, it often spills over into other aspects of our lives. Ignoring it or trying to figure it out on our own is rarely effective. The professionals at The New Jersey Center for Sex Therapy are here to offer solutions. Our caring and compassionate professionals are ready to help you and to support your search for answers. We offer the key skills which you can acquire in order to attain confidence and gain insight into your sexual issues.
In this highly specialized field of sex therapy, our certified and credentialed professionals with many years of combined experience provide treatment for sexual dysfunction, impulsive and compulsive sexual behaviors, survivors of trauma and sexual abuse, intimacy issues.
Sexuality is an important part of people's lives. When there is a sexual challenge or difficulty, it often spills over into other aspects of our lives. Ignoring it or trying to figure it out on our own is rarely effective. The professionals at The New Jersey Center for Sex Therapy are here to offer solutions. Our caring and compassionate professionals are ready to help you and to support your search for answers. We offer the key skills which you can acquire in order to attain confidence and gain insight into your sexual issues.
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![Photo of Rebecca Davis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8650e309-7752-4f81-ac94-058858fe3764/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108 (Online Only)
I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and innermost experiences. By fostering a collaborative relationship, I aim to empower you to gain insights into your challenges, develop new skills, and process your past in order to feel more grounded in your present and future. My clinical strengths include depression, adult ADHD, trauma, social anxiety, childhood sexual assault, as well as relational & transitional issues, including pregnancy and parenthood. She is knowledgeable in a wide range of techniques, including Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and innermost experiences. By fostering a collaborative relationship, I aim to empower you to gain insights into your challenges, develop new skills, and process your past in order to feel more grounded in your present and future. My clinical strengths include depression, adult ADHD, trauma, social anxiety, childhood sexual assault, as well as relational & transitional issues, including pregnancy and parenthood. She is knowledgeable in a wide range of techniques, including Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
![Photo of James P Cassidy, PsyD, MBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f7139cc-e46e-42ea-b87c-14775290b91a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have specialties in three areas - couples therapy, divorce issues, and the treatment of trauma. I have extensive court-related experience in these areas and I have functioned as both a treatment provider and court-appointed forensic evaluator for sexual abuse victims and in divorce/child custody proceedings.
I have specialties in three areas - couples therapy, divorce issues, and the treatment of trauma. I have extensive court-related experience in these areas and I have functioned as both a treatment provider and court-appointed forensic evaluator for sexual abuse victims and in divorce/child custody proceedings.
![Photo of Lisa Sanders, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405a193c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kendall Park, NJ 08824 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist with over 20 years experience, my area of specialization include treating adolescents and adult survivors of sexual abuse.
I created Balancing Life Counseling Center out of a desire to provide support and restoration of balance to the lives of children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing psychological distress.
As a therapist with over 20 years experience, my area of specialization include treating adolescents and adult survivors of sexual abuse.
I created Balancing Life Counseling Center out of a desire to provide support and restoration of balance to the lives of children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing psychological distress.
![Photo of Kaitlyn Marie Goff, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c653a2-cfda-4d3b-851c-1259c0ba13ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have continued work in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which was fostered by working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
An ideal client is one ready for change and exploration, whether they know what they want to change or are in the stages of contemplating. A client who wants to show up and do the work is described as engaged, willing to ask and answer hard questions, and reflect on their growth.
I have continued work in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which was fostered by working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
An ideal client is one ready for change and exploration, whether they know what they want to change or are in the stages of contemplating. A client who wants to show up and do the work is described as engaged, willing to ask and answer hard questions, and reflect on their growth.
![Photo of Tara Devine, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f00165eb-6205-4444-bea9-a36e316e4340/2/320x400.jpeg)
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event such as an accident, assault, natural disaster, or loss.
Trauma specialist dedicated to helping individuals and families cope with trauma symptoms. I am driven to help heal the mind and body from trauma responses.
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event such as an accident, assault, natural disaster, or loss.
Trauma specialist dedicated to helping individuals and families cope with trauma symptoms. I am driven to help heal the mind and body from trauma responses.
![Photo of Luciene (Lucy) Sant' Anna Takagi, PsyD, LLC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28809bde-cf70-4997-8bbe-08c4238e08de/3/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of interest include: documented and undocumented immigration experience, grief and loss, trauma, sexual abuse, physical abuse and/ or neglect, relationship problems, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and adjustment disorders.
I am interested in helping and in understanding. My ideal client would be someone, who is willing to take the necessary time to educate me about him or herself, and who would be willing to reflect on events involved in and outside of the therapy session. Relationships matter. I can provide advice, can problem solve, but prefer to work in a relational, psychodynamic approach, where together we can figure things out. I am an immigrant, who believes everyone can benefit from building a positive therapeutic relationship, where problems can be worked through and their meanings understood. Due to COVID, I also offer Telehealth.
My areas of interest include: documented and undocumented immigration experience, grief and loss, trauma, sexual abuse, physical abuse and/ or neglect, relationship problems, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and adjustment disorders.
I am interested in helping and in understanding. My ideal client would be someone, who is willing to take the necessary time to educate me about him or herself, and who would be willing to reflect on events involved in and outside of the therapy session. Relationships matter. I can provide advice, can problem solve, but prefer to work in a relational, psychodynamic approach, where together we can figure things out. I am an immigrant, who believes everyone can benefit from building a positive therapeutic relationship, where problems can be worked through and their meanings understood. Due to COVID, I also offer Telehealth.
![Photo of Amelia Danielle Shannon, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ff0f367-5a42-4fa0-bd14-6ef796559609/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amelia Danielle Shannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor services CT, NJ, MD, and VA. My specialties: Childhood Maltreatment, Trauma (sexual abuse), Women with Autoimmune Diseases, Christian Counseling. I work with individuals, couples, families, and allied services (schools, support specialists, extended family). In addition to working with clients in private practice, I am also a Motivational Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, and Holistic Coach.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor services CT, NJ, MD, and VA. My specialties: Childhood Maltreatment, Trauma (sexual abuse), Women with Autoimmune Diseases, Christian Counseling. I work with individuals, couples, families, and allied services (schools, support specialists, extended family). In addition to working with clients in private practice, I am also a Motivational Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, and Holistic Coach.
![Photo of Kimberley Carhart, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83de03c9-8e78-44c8-ae55-bf243f16ff5b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberley Carhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NJ 07748
I also specialize in working with survivors of sexual abuse, domestic violence and trauma.
Life is a journey. Some days the road is smooth, unobstructed and paved with optimism. Other days the path is rocky, full of twists and turns. Along the way, everyone experiences setbacks and struggles. No two people are alike because we process, experience and react to emotions and events differently. I believe in tailoring my therapy and providing each patient I see with an individualized approach and plan. Whether you are returning to therapy or just starting, know that you are taking a brave and honest first step.
I also specialize in working with survivors of sexual abuse, domestic violence and trauma.
Life is a journey. Some days the road is smooth, unobstructed and paved with optimism. Other days the path is rocky, full of twists and turns. Along the way, everyone experiences setbacks and struggles. No two people are alike because we process, experience and react to emotions and events differently. I believe in tailoring my therapy and providing each patient I see with an individualized approach and plan. Whether you are returning to therapy or just starting, know that you are taking a brave and honest first step.
![Photo of Diana Rossoni, MSW, LCSW, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee538d35-2543-4e0c-bab5-8a4124de66e1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Diana Rossoni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with Asian American adults and Children of Immigrants who struggle with unresolved trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, and depression.
Most repeated traumas are relational traumas and therefore, it is so hard to heal without relationships. Unresolved trauma can often look like anxiety, depression, anger, relationship issues, substance use, and physical pain. These issues can be extremely distressing and isolating. I believe that change is possible for anyone and the good news is that it starts with just one question: "Could there be something better?".
I specialize in working with Asian American adults and Children of Immigrants who struggle with unresolved trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, and depression.
Most repeated traumas are relational traumas and therefore, it is so hard to heal without relationships. Unresolved trauma can often look like anxiety, depression, anger, relationship issues, substance use, and physical pain. These issues can be extremely distressing and isolating. I believe that change is possible for anyone and the good news is that it starts with just one question: "Could there be something better?".
See more therapy options for New Jersey
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.