Photo of Andrea Addie, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Addie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
Have you found yourself overwhelmed by the weight of past trauma either from childhood abuse, intergenerational trauma, or sexual assault & feeling stuck with the memories playing out in your head? Or maybe you’ve been saying “I need to get back to my old self,” or “I’ve been dealing with a lot lately” & hoping for the insight or tools to change that? I work with adults & LGBTQIA folks just like you: ones that have it within them to thrive again after trauma & life challenges, but just need the support to tap into their strengths to get there or support gathering & sorting pieces of life to make sense of everything.
Have you found yourself overwhelmed by the weight of past trauma either from childhood abuse, intergenerational trauma, or sexual assault & feeling stuck with the memories playing out in your head? Or maybe you’ve been saying “I need to get back to my old self,” or “I’ve been dealing with a lot lately” & hoping for the insight or tools to change that? I work with adults & LGBTQIA folks just like you: ones that have it within them to thrive again after trauma & life challenges, but just need the support to tap into their strengths to get there or support gathering & sorting pieces of life to make sense of everything.
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Photo of Dr. Marilyn Caylor, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Marilyn Caylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78260
Accepting new clients. I specialize in combat or sexual assault related PTSD, childhood physical/ sexual abuse, sexual identity, depression, anxiety, blended families and phase of life issues. I assist U.S. Veterans and First Responders with concerns related to service/deployment. I also have experience working with LGBTQIA2S+ concerns. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, supportive, safe environment that protects and respects your privacy.
Accepting new clients. I specialize in combat or sexual assault related PTSD, childhood physical/ sexual abuse, sexual identity, depression, anxiety, blended families and phase of life issues. I assist U.S. Veterans and First Responders with concerns related to service/deployment. I also have experience working with LGBTQIA2S+ concerns. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, supportive, safe environment that protects and respects your privacy.
(210) 741-8127 View (210) 741-8127
Photo of Nicole Holmes, PhD, Psychologist
Nicole Holmes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Your emotional safety and our therapeutic relationship are important to me. I prioritize creating an environment that is safe, confidential, free of judgment, genuine, empathetic, and compassionate. I believe that it is important that we connect and you feel safe. My educational training is as a generalist, which provides me the skills to implement many different evidence based interventions and treat most issues that bring people to therapy. My expertise is in working with adults who have experienced trauma, particularly interpersonal abuse such as sexual abuse/ assault, relationship abuse, etc.
Your emotional safety and our therapeutic relationship are important to me. I prioritize creating an environment that is safe, confidential, free of judgment, genuine, empathetic, and compassionate. I believe that it is important that we connect and you feel safe. My educational training is as a generalist, which provides me the skills to implement many different evidence based interventions and treat most issues that bring people to therapy. My expertise is in working with adults who have experienced trauma, particularly interpersonal abuse such as sexual abuse/ assault, relationship abuse, etc.
(214) 974-4528 View (214) 974-4528
Photo of N. Juliana Dewitt, MS, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
N. Juliana Dewitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Greenville, TX 75402  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 11 years of professional experience. My specialties include trauma and abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault, family conflicts, stress and anxiety, depression, identity development, multicultural concerns, compassion fatigue, and coping with life changes.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 11 years of professional experience. My specialties include trauma and abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault, family conflicts, stress and anxiety, depression, identity development, multicultural concerns, compassion fatigue, and coping with life changes.
(903) 347-5799 View (903) 347-5799
Photo of Dr. Angelica Ramos, PhD, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Angelica Ramos
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
I have extensive experience working with sexual assault and domestic violence survivors.
Next day or same day appointments. Email or Call. Are you struggling with things in life? Let’s talk about it! My office space is a completely judgement free zone! Do you feel like you can’t be open about your life struggles and are trying to figure out an open space to go through this journey? I am here for you to hold the space and listen. I support and welcome with open arms kids, pre-teens, teens, Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Survivors, Trauma survivors & LGBTQIA+ Community. My goal is to create a space to help heal. I am an LPC and hold a PhD in Philosophy with emphasis in Clinical Sexology and a MS in Counseling.
I have extensive experience working with sexual assault and domestic violence survivors.
Next day or same day appointments. Email or Call. Are you struggling with things in life? Let’s talk about it! My office space is a completely judgement free zone! Do you feel like you can’t be open about your life struggles and are trying to figure out an open space to go through this journey? I am here for you to hold the space and listen. I support and welcome with open arms kids, pre-teens, teens, Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Survivors, Trauma survivors & LGBTQIA+ Community. My goal is to create a space to help heal. I am an LPC and hold a PhD in Philosophy with emphasis in Clinical Sexology and a MS in Counseling.
(281) 519-3560 View (281) 519-3560
Photo of Tere Pamela Ortega, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tere Pamela Ortega
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lufkin, TX 75904
I am most experienced in working with sexual assault and abusive relationships, though I can help you with other traumas and other concerns, as well.
You are here reading this because you're ready to begin the most important journey of your life: the road to healing and self-love. You've realized you deserve the chance to heal from what you've had to experience and that you deserve a chance at a peaceful life. If you're ready to begin that journey then I am ready to walk alongside you and offer you support. I can offer you relaxed, non-judgemental support in Lufkin, Texas or through video calls anywhere in Texas. También hablo español!
I am most experienced in working with sexual assault and abusive relationships, though I can help you with other traumas and other concerns, as well.
You are here reading this because you're ready to begin the most important journey of your life: the road to healing and self-love. You've realized you deserve the chance to heal from what you've had to experience and that you deserve a chance at a peaceful life. If you're ready to begin that journey then I am ready to walk alongside you and offer you support. I can offer you relaxed, non-judgemental support in Lufkin, Texas or through video calls anywhere in Texas. También hablo español!
(430) 204-2037 View (430) 204-2037
Photo of Ebony Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ebony Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aubrey, TX 76227
I have specialized training working with trauma survivors, including sexual assault, molestation, and intimate partner violence.
I consider it an honor and privilege to bear witness to your therapeutic process. I understand that therapy can be one of the most vulnerable times in your life. Even though you may feel frightened and unsure, allow me to rest your mind at ease as I facilitate your healing journey. No matter the issue that you face, I believe in the restorative power of a safe, non-judgmental space individualized to your particular needs. You deserve to be supported and cared for, and to know that you don't have to walk your path alone.
I have specialized training working with trauma survivors, including sexual assault, molestation, and intimate partner violence.
I consider it an honor and privilege to bear witness to your therapeutic process. I understand that therapy can be one of the most vulnerable times in your life. Even though you may feel frightened and unsure, allow me to rest your mind at ease as I facilitate your healing journey. No matter the issue that you face, I believe in the restorative power of a safe, non-judgmental space individualized to your particular needs. You deserve to be supported and cared for, and to know that you don't have to walk your path alone.
(940) 488-2730 x702 View (940) 488-2730 x702
Photo of Rachel Diane Rouse, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Diane Rouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Weatherford, TX 76086
I have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues, but I have special training in dealing with sexual abuse, as well as depression and anxiety.
Making the decision to contact a therapist is not always easy. There may be fear of judgment or of the unknown. I applaud those who take the first step to seek help for issues they are struggling with. Anxiety, depression and self-harm, to name a few, have become such common struggles in our society. Therapy can be a place to explore your life, take a look at your experiences and build skills to help improve your future. Sometimes, everyone needs help weeding through those difficult times when things can become confusing or overwhelming. My goal is to walk with clients through this process and toward their goals.
I have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues, but I have special training in dealing with sexual abuse, as well as depression and anxiety.
Making the decision to contact a therapist is not always easy. There may be fear of judgment or of the unknown. I applaud those who take the first step to seek help for issues they are struggling with. Anxiety, depression and self-harm, to name a few, have become such common struggles in our society. Therapy can be a place to explore your life, take a look at your experiences and build skills to help improve your future. Sometimes, everyone needs help weeding through those difficult times when things can become confusing or overwhelming. My goal is to walk with clients through this process and toward their goals.
(682) 299-6173 View (682) 299-6173
Photo of Katherine Barrera, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Barrera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Longview, TX 75601
My clinical experience includes working with survivors of violent crimes, child abuse, sexual abuse/ assault.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, and call East Texas home. As a therapist specializing in trauma, I understand the immense courage it takes to seek support. My journey in this field has been deeply rooted in compassion, empathy, and a commitment to helping individuals navigate through their pain towards healing and empowerment. Together, we will create a safe space where you can explore your emotions, life experiences, and challenges without judgment. I'm honored to accompany you on your journey towards healing and growth.
My clinical experience includes working with survivors of violent crimes, child abuse, sexual abuse/ assault.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, and call East Texas home. As a therapist specializing in trauma, I understand the immense courage it takes to seek support. My journey in this field has been deeply rooted in compassion, empathy, and a commitment to helping individuals navigate through their pain towards healing and empowerment. Together, we will create a safe space where you can explore your emotions, life experiences, and challenges without judgment. I'm honored to accompany you on your journey towards healing and growth.
(903) 296-3046 View (903) 296-3046
Photo of Carrie J Visger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie J Visger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with families that have experienced domestic violence and survivors of sexual assault.
Life can be so challenging. Even when "good" things happen to us, it can bring stress and grief. Deciding to work with a counselor is a bold and brave step toward coping with whatever life is giving you. Having a person to help you process issues is liberating. By learning about your strengths and by learning how to use them effectively, you can begin to heal and transform into the person you were meant to be. I have worked with many different presenting issues including anxiety, depression, lgbtqia+ issues, family and parenting issues, school related issues/microaggressions, and many more.
I have extensive experience working with families that have experienced domestic violence and survivors of sexual assault.
Life can be so challenging. Even when "good" things happen to us, it can bring stress and grief. Deciding to work with a counselor is a bold and brave step toward coping with whatever life is giving you. Having a person to help you process issues is liberating. By learning about your strengths and by learning how to use them effectively, you can begin to heal and transform into the person you were meant to be. I have worked with many different presenting issues including anxiety, depression, lgbtqia+ issues, family and parenting issues, school related issues/microaggressions, and many more.
(210) 879-1342 View (210) 879-1342
Photo of Lacey Castilleja Fisher - Open Heart Counseling of Austin/Trauma & Grief , LPC-S, RPT-S, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Open Heart Counseling of Austin/Trauma & Grief
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
This includes: trauma, sexual abuse, grief & loss, fertility treatments, donor recipient consultations, TFMR, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, body image, family of origin, addictions, anxiety, depression and so much more.
Immediate Openings! Open Heart Counseling of Austin (OHC) is a group practice founded by Lacey Castilleja Fisher. Lacey wanted to create a practice that is all inclusive so the community can have a safe space to come and share their stories as they find healing after they have experienced trauma. Survivors of trauma often feel worried that they cannot share their experiences with others because it is too difficult to hear. Our therapists are able to sit with you to hear your story as many times as you need to tell it. When you are ready, we are here to hold hope for you as you begin your healing journey, with an Open Heart.
This includes: trauma, sexual abuse, grief & loss, fertility treatments, donor recipient consultations, TFMR, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, body image, family of origin, addictions, anxiety, depression and so much more.
Immediate Openings! Open Heart Counseling of Austin (OHC) is a group practice founded by Lacey Castilleja Fisher. Lacey wanted to create a practice that is all inclusive so the community can have a safe space to come and share their stories as they find healing after they have experienced trauma. Survivors of trauma often feel worried that they cannot share their experiences with others because it is too difficult to hear. Our therapists are able to sit with you to hear your story as many times as you need to tell it. When you are ready, we are here to hold hope for you as you begin your healing journey, with an Open Heart.
(512) 399-4584 View (512) 399-4584
Photo of Dr. Evelyn Jagpat, PsyD, CCTP, CDMHRS, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Evelyn Jagpat
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP, CDMHRS, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I'm a Psychologist and Author with over 25 years of experience. I believe that healing from deep wounds is possible & negative emotions, life experiences, thoughts & behavior patterns don't have to define or limit you. I'm committed to providing compassionate & supportive care in an accepting & safe space. Specialties: Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Grief/loss & integrating Christian faith into everyday life/problems. I help you to Thrive. I was the featured Psychologist in "Our Journey Alive Documentary" about the healing journey of abuse survivors. Get ready to Hope-Love-Live
I'm a Psychologist and Author with over 25 years of experience. I believe that healing from deep wounds is possible & negative emotions, life experiences, thoughts & behavior patterns don't have to define or limit you. I'm committed to providing compassionate & supportive care in an accepting & safe space. Specialties: Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Grief/loss & integrating Christian faith into everyday life/problems. I help you to Thrive. I was the featured Psychologist in "Our Journey Alive Documentary" about the healing journey of abuse survivors. Get ready to Hope-Love-Live
(512) 549-2704 View (512) 549-2704
Photo of Nakia Hanson Trauma Recovery Coach Advanced, MA, CTRC, A
Nakia Hanson Trauma Recovery Coach Advanced
MA, CTRC, A
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77386  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I AM A WARRIOR! I AM A FIGHTER! I AM A CONQUEROR! I AM A SURVIVOR of RAPE, NARCISSISTIC ABUSE and CANCER! My purpose in life is to help, assist, and advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse, rape, dating/domestic violence, and narcissistic abuse. I am determined to change the narrative of survivors. There are so many survivors that will not ask for help because it is a sign of weakness. We need to change that mindset. You have to make the first step, and when you do, I will be there to help you start and get through your healing and recovery journey.
I AM A WARRIOR! I AM A FIGHTER! I AM A CONQUEROR! I AM A SURVIVOR of RAPE, NARCISSISTIC ABUSE and CANCER! My purpose in life is to help, assist, and advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse, rape, dating/domestic violence, and narcissistic abuse. I am determined to change the narrative of survivors. There are so many survivors that will not ask for help because it is a sign of weakness. We need to change that mindset. You have to make the first step, and when you do, I will be there to help you start and get through your healing and recovery journey.
(281) 944-4814 View (281) 944-4814
Photo of Erika Esquivel, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Esquivel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Buda, TX 78610  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I support people of diverse backgrounds seeking to manage stress, depression/anxiety and heal from experiences of trauma, sexual abuse, and/or domestic violence.
Counseling is a space where you don’t have to pretend everything is okay or hide what you’re going through. You do that enough in other areas of your life. You do not have to repeat those patterns here. In counseling, all parts of you are welcome and all the things you have gone through can be talked about. My goal is to work together to reclaim your life through talk and connection by affirming your needs, identity and beliefs while urging you to make informed decisions about therapy.
I support people of diverse backgrounds seeking to manage stress, depression/anxiety and heal from experiences of trauma, sexual abuse, and/or domestic violence.
Counseling is a space where you don’t have to pretend everything is okay or hide what you’re going through. You do that enough in other areas of your life. You do not have to repeat those patterns here. In counseling, all parts of you are welcome and all the things you have gone through can be talked about. My goal is to work together to reclaim your life through talk and connection by affirming your needs, identity and beliefs while urging you to make informed decisions about therapy.
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Photo of Carol Hernandez, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with managing their emotions, anxiety, depression, stress, single parents, neurodivergent individuals (ADHD), are part of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, immigrant population, and survivors of trauma, specifically sexual assault and intergenerational trauma.
Hi! I am a bilingual Latina therapist, hablo español, and utilize trauma-informed care and cultural awareness in my work with individuals. I consider myself someone who is driven and motivated to provide support, guidance, and tools to improve one's goals within their own personal life journey. I also think of myself and my client as a team, where we work together so that you may heal, learn, grow, and thrive.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with managing their emotions, anxiety, depression, stress, single parents, neurodivergent individuals (ADHD), are part of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, immigrant population, and survivors of trauma, specifically sexual assault and intergenerational trauma.
Hi! I am a bilingual Latina therapist, hablo español, and utilize trauma-informed care and cultural awareness in my work with individuals. I consider myself someone who is driven and motivated to provide support, guidance, and tools to improve one's goals within their own personal life journey. I also think of myself and my client as a team, where we work together so that you may heal, learn, grow, and thrive.
(737) 252-4139 View (737) 252-4139
Photo of Sherry Lynn Fancher - Burleson Counseling, PLLC | Trauma Specialist, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Burleson Counseling, PLLC | Trauma Specialist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
I have supported individuals from various backgrounds in navigating through anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, domestic violence, grief, spiritual abuse, intergenerational trauma, financial fraud, codependency, life transitions, & self-esteem.
My name is Sherry Fancher and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a passion for helping adults and children who have been through traumatic experiences. Burleson Counseling was created to serve the local community, provide in-person and virtual counseling in a safe and authentic space, and raise awareness of mental health in Burleson and surrounding cities. People are incredibly resilient, and when provided with the right resources, can find healing even in the darkest moments. My goal is to create a therapeutic environment built on trust and integrity, where you can openly explore and process life’s challenges.
I have supported individuals from various backgrounds in navigating through anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, domestic violence, grief, spiritual abuse, intergenerational trauma, financial fraud, codependency, life transitions, & self-esteem.
My name is Sherry Fancher and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a passion for helping adults and children who have been through traumatic experiences. Burleson Counseling was created to serve the local community, provide in-person and virtual counseling in a safe and authentic space, and raise awareness of mental health in Burleson and surrounding cities. People are incredibly resilient, and when provided with the right resources, can find healing even in the darkest moments. My goal is to create a therapeutic environment built on trust and integrity, where you can openly explore and process life’s challenges.
(817) 592-9770 View (817) 592-9770
Photo of Andrea Earle, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Earle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Denton, TX 76201
I specialize in sexual assault & abuse, trauma, physical, mental, & emotional abuse, relationship & family issues, couple’s therapy, PTSD, ADHD & Anxiety.
I have been in practice 16-years and have opened my service area thanks to Google Meet & Facetime. I became a therapist (I have a dual degree in both individual & family therapy) after beginning my own work over 2 decades ago. I see therapy as a tool, a valuable asset that helps us to pull from our history and present the things that work so our future can be everything we want.
I specialize in sexual assault & abuse, trauma, physical, mental, & emotional abuse, relationship & family issues, couple’s therapy, PTSD, ADHD & Anxiety.
I have been in practice 16-years and have opened my service area thanks to Google Meet & Facetime. I became a therapist (I have a dual degree in both individual & family therapy) after beginning my own work over 2 decades ago. I see therapy as a tool, a valuable asset that helps us to pull from our history and present the things that work so our future can be everything we want.
(817) 369-3645 View (817) 369-3645
Photo of Connie Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connie Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rosenberg, TX 77469  (Online Only)
Do you suffer from trauma due to sexual abuse, abusive relationships, unresolved childhood trauma, and/or generational trauma? We hold on to that trauma in their Physical bodies without knowing. This and the emotional trauma an individual endures show up in our lives even when the action is over. Every relationship is affected as well as how we show up in our lives with work and other activities. This can show up in an abundance of ways. Deep down, we know something is off and want to heal and show up differently; however, we don't know how.
Do you suffer from trauma due to sexual abuse, abusive relationships, unresolved childhood trauma, and/or generational trauma? We hold on to that trauma in their Physical bodies without knowing. This and the emotional trauma an individual endures show up in our lives even when the action is over. Every relationship is affected as well as how we show up in our lives with work and other activities. This can show up in an abundance of ways. Deep down, we know something is off and want to heal and show up differently; however, we don't know how.
(512) 894-8122 View (512) 894-8122
Photo of Tonya Leigh Carson, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tonya Leigh Carson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ingram, TX 78025  (Online Only)
I specialize in PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Substance Abuse. Many of these centers of pain are common in women who are suffering from domestic violence, sexual assault and abuse, or addiction. Whether your pain is from a lifetime of trauma, or from a single, life-changing event, the tools I can give you will help you get to moving forward. If you feel like you’re losing the battle, and you don’t know where to go next, I can help you find peace and relief!
I specialize in PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Substance Abuse. Many of these centers of pain are common in women who are suffering from domestic violence, sexual assault and abuse, or addiction. Whether your pain is from a lifetime of trauma, or from a single, life-changing event, the tools I can give you will help you get to moving forward. If you feel like you’re losing the battle, and you don’t know where to go next, I can help you find peace and relief!
(830) 293-5703 View (830) 293-5703
Photo of Regina S deLeon, MEd, LPC, CTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina S deLeon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CTS
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109  (Online Only)
I have specialized in working with sexual assault/ sexual abuse survivors.
Now Accepting New Clients There are times when life can just be a struggle. Taking the first step can many times be the hardest. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a safe environment and the support needed to begin the process of healing. Therapy requires trust, and the relationship that emerges between us will hopefully be significant and meaningful in your life. My ultimate goal with each client is to enhance self awareness and empower each individual.
I have specialized in working with sexual assault/ sexual abuse survivors.
Now Accepting New Clients There are times when life can just be a struggle. Taking the first step can many times be the hardest. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a safe environment and the support needed to begin the process of healing. Therapy requires trust, and the relationship that emerges between us will hopefully be significant and meaningful in your life. My ultimate goal with each client is to enhance self awareness and empower each individual.
(214) 974-4011 View (214) 974-4011
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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.