Sexual Abuse Therapists in Waco, TX
![Photo of Colby Walters, PhD, LPC, EMDRIA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92e4a750-296f-48d1-bfb9-c0914c8165a0/3/320x400.jpeg)
The majority of my cases have been centered around depression, PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, and emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
My name is Dr. Colby Walters. I received a BA from Baylor University in psychology, with a minor in sociology, and a MS with a specialization in Marital, Couple, and Family Therapy. Along with this degree, I also obtained post-baccalaureate certificates in Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Service and Contemporary Theory in Couple and Family Systems. In 2017, I completed my PhD in Advanced Studies of Human Behavior. I am an active member of the counseling honor society, Chi Sigma Iota, Chi Upsilon Chapter as well as a member of the Capella University Marriage and Family Therapy Advisory Board.
The majority of my cases have been centered around depression, PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, and emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
My name is Dr. Colby Walters. I received a BA from Baylor University in psychology, with a minor in sociology, and a MS with a specialization in Marital, Couple, and Family Therapy. Along with this degree, I also obtained post-baccalaureate certificates in Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Service and Contemporary Theory in Couple and Family Systems. In 2017, I completed my PhD in Advanced Studies of Human Behavior. I am an active member of the counseling honor society, Chi Sigma Iota, Chi Upsilon Chapter as well as a member of the Capella University Marriage and Family Therapy Advisory Board.
![Photo of Meridith Moffatt, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57e2a1ee-cd2f-4472-8284-b81d64145f41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meridith Moffatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76710
Waitlist for new clients
Meridith is a Licensed Professional Counselor and specializes in child and adolescent mental health, sexual assault, trauma, anxiety, self-harm, suicide prevention and intervention, and identity and gender issues. She is internationally published in collegiate and at-risk adolescent mental health. In addition to her international publications she has published research in gender and identity development, suicide intervention and at-risk adolescent positive psychology development.
Meridith is a Licensed Professional Counselor and specializes in child and adolescent mental health, sexual assault, trauma, anxiety, self-harm, suicide prevention and intervention, and identity and gender issues. She is internationally published in collegiate and at-risk adolescent mental health. In addition to her international publications she has published research in gender and identity development, suicide intervention and at-risk adolescent positive psychology development.
![Photo of Sierra J Eary, MA, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac541477-79c5-425b-8dfc-ea200da25eaa/4/320x400.png)
I aim to assist clients in improving symptoms related to anxiety disorders, depression, suicidal ideations, grief, family and relationship issues, personality disorders, career concerns, school concerns, fear of death and dying in elderly clients, stress management relating to school, trauma history, domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex education. My goal is to develop a treatment plan for the client to reach their goals to improve their interpersonal relationships, self-love, emotional language, communication skills, and more.
I aim to assist clients in improving symptoms related to anxiety disorders, depression, suicidal ideations, grief, family and relationship issues, personality disorders, career concerns, school concerns, fear of death and dying in elderly clients, stress management relating to school, trauma history, domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex education. My goal is to develop a treatment plan for the client to reach their goals to improve their interpersonal relationships, self-love, emotional language, communication skills, and more.
![Photo of Laura Whisman Abbruzzese, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e69ee4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Whisman Abbruzzese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701
My areas of specialty include first responder PTSD, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship discord, and mindfulness. I am EMDR trained and have extensive experience utilizing EMDR to resolve trauma associated with first responder experiences, accidents, grief/loss, military combat, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and more. My work, as well as my personal life, is grounded in mindfulness. When we train our attention to stay in the present moment, we become much more aware of the stories we tell ourselves and how much suffering we experience as a result.
My areas of specialty include first responder PTSD, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship discord, and mindfulness. I am EMDR trained and have extensive experience utilizing EMDR to resolve trauma associated with first responder experiences, accidents, grief/loss, military combat, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and more. My work, as well as my personal life, is grounded in mindfulness. When we train our attention to stay in the present moment, we become much more aware of the stories we tell ourselves and how much suffering we experience as a result.
![Photo of Marjorie A Husbands, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de00d7b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marjorie A Husbands
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
Relationships and Communications Issues Mood Disorders-Depression, Bipolar Life Transitions Grief/Loss/Bereavement Anxiety/Panic Attacks/Phobias/Excessive Fears Stress Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Addictions Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders Anger Management Codependency Sexual Abuse Sexuality Issues Self Esteem/Confidence Life Adjustment Issues Personal Growth and Exploration Coping with Changes.
My journey toward a counseling career began when my first-born entered kindergarten and we found that he needed help. As a result, we were introduced to many wonderful doctors, psychologists, and counselors who were there to help and guide us. Among these was a counselor with whom I developed a strong bond. I soon realized our bond was based on the trust we developed. It is a trusting relationship like this that directly impacts the outcome of counseling. To pursue counseling is a courageous move on your part. Congratulations! I am honored to work with you.
Relationships and Communications Issues Mood Disorders-Depression, Bipolar Life Transitions Grief/Loss/Bereavement Anxiety/Panic Attacks/Phobias/Excessive Fears Stress Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Addictions Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders Anger Management Codependency Sexual Abuse Sexuality Issues Self Esteem/Confidence Life Adjustment Issues Personal Growth and Exploration Coping with Changes.
My journey toward a counseling career began when my first-born entered kindergarten and we found that he needed help. As a result, we were introduced to many wonderful doctors, psychologists, and counselors who were there to help and guide us. Among these was a counselor with whom I developed a strong bond. I soon realized our bond was based on the trust we developed. It is a trusting relationship like this that directly impacts the outcome of counseling. To pursue counseling is a courageous move on your part. Congratulations! I am honored to work with you.
![Photo of Christina Watts-Figueroa - Yellow Ribbon Counseling PLLC, MA, LMFTS, LPCS, RPTS, EMDR AC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1898e0d-dca1-4619-aaad-3cfa3229c55f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yellow Ribbon Counseling PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTS, LPCS, RPTS, EMDR AC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76712
Play Therapy is used with children, adolescents and families to address a variety of concerns to include child abuse, sexual abuse, attachment concerns, military related issues, grief and loss, traumatic experiences, anxiety, behavioral issues and ADHD.
Yellow Ribbon Counseling specializes in play therapy, family therapy, and trauma informed therapies (EMDR, TF-CBT and CPT). Our clinical team is made up of Registered Play Therapist, EMDR Certified/trained and Gottman trained clinicians. We provide treatment in a variety of areas to include: attachment ruptures, grief & loss issues, parent-child relationships, child and sexual abuse, blended family issues, domestic violence, military related transitional stress, reintegration, ADHD, PTSD, couples/marital issues, perinatal issues and inter-generational family trauma.
Play Therapy is used with children, adolescents and families to address a variety of concerns to include child abuse, sexual abuse, attachment concerns, military related issues, grief and loss, traumatic experiences, anxiety, behavioral issues and ADHD.
Yellow Ribbon Counseling specializes in play therapy, family therapy, and trauma informed therapies (EMDR, TF-CBT and CPT). Our clinical team is made up of Registered Play Therapist, EMDR Certified/trained and Gottman trained clinicians. We provide treatment in a variety of areas to include: attachment ruptures, grief & loss issues, parent-child relationships, child and sexual abuse, blended family issues, domestic violence, military related transitional stress, reintegration, ADHD, PTSD, couples/marital issues, perinatal issues and inter-generational family trauma.
![Photo of Shannon Higgins, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4da1f0a2-595c-4f6f-b0a8-5f01d42ed1cb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Higgins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
I have worked in a youth and family clinic, a domestic violence & sexual abuse outreach center & provided in-home crisis counseling for at-risk youth and their families.
Welcome to the first and most courageous step of therapy - looking for help and support. I consider myself a compass helping adolescents, adults, families and parents by guiding them in the direction of health and well-being. People are already whole and complete. Sometimes life experiences, circumstances, illness and relationships can impose clouded judgment, maladaptive behavior, poor self esteem and obstacles from achieving what we truly desire and deserve. My approach is educative, supportive, trusting, safe, evidenced based and healing. Most importantly, I customize treatment plans unique to each client and at their pace..
I have worked in a youth and family clinic, a domestic violence & sexual abuse outreach center & provided in-home crisis counseling for at-risk youth and their families.
Welcome to the first and most courageous step of therapy - looking for help and support. I consider myself a compass helping adolescents, adults, families and parents by guiding them in the direction of health and well-being. People are already whole and complete. Sometimes life experiences, circumstances, illness and relationships can impose clouded judgment, maladaptive behavior, poor self esteem and obstacles from achieving what we truly desire and deserve. My approach is educative, supportive, trusting, safe, evidenced based and healing. Most importantly, I customize treatment plans unique to each client and at their pace..
![Photo of Nicole Davis-Burch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cf4b30a-1f73-4fbc-8be5-548fa6509f2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Davis-Burch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76710 (Online Only)
I also treat women’s issues, sexual abuse, domestic violence, suicidal thoughts, depression, self-harm, bipolar disorder, hoarding disorder, life transitions, autism, work stress, and self-esteem.
I have a genuine love for people. I understand that seeking therapy may sometimes feel intimidating, but I try to create a safe, supportive space for people to explore opportunities for growth and change in their lives.
I also treat women’s issues, sexual abuse, domestic violence, suicidal thoughts, depression, self-harm, bipolar disorder, hoarding disorder, life transitions, autism, work stress, and self-esteem.
I have a genuine love for people. I understand that seeking therapy may sometimes feel intimidating, but I try to create a safe, supportive space for people to explore opportunities for growth and change in their lives.
![Photo of George Smiledge, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df34c6ef-817c-4468-a9b1-759e54607aa1/3/320x400.jpeg)
There are times in life where people feel stuck. There are many reasons for these situations. For adolescents, it can be mainly attempting to establish identity or a voice and the resulting anxiety from trying to navigate their world. For older teens, some are left with the confusion and fear of how to transition to adulthood and the question of failing. For adults, of course, we are supposed to have it all figured out. The truth is people may not be living true to their values or believe the mistakes made are too great to overcome. Maybe there was an anxiety or trauma so great it governs the choices made; Even from caregivers.
There are times in life where people feel stuck. There are many reasons for these situations. For adolescents, it can be mainly attempting to establish identity or a voice and the resulting anxiety from trying to navigate their world. For older teens, some are left with the confusion and fear of how to transition to adulthood and the question of failing. For adults, of course, we are supposed to have it all figured out. The truth is people may not be living true to their values or believe the mistakes made are too great to overcome. Maybe there was an anxiety or trauma so great it governs the choices made; Even from caregivers.
![Photo of Amber K Kitavi - Amber Kitavi Counseling, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82ca1a70-e469-4def-a449-b5b369ea4b40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Kitavi Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Amber Kitavi, a dedicated and empathetic licensed professional counselor-associate supervised by Kendra Bennett, LPC-Supervisor. With a passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys, I believe in the potential for growth and healing within everyone. I am here to support you in achieving your mental health goals.
Welcome! I’m Amber Kitavi, a dedicated and empathetic licensed professional counselor-associate supervised by Kendra Bennett, LPC-Supervisor. With a passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys, I believe in the potential for growth and healing within everyone. I am here to support you in achieving your mental health goals.
![Photo of Lindsey Kidd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6ef3bb1-5e09-4e88-b501-b3c0e0812a20/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice I serve children 12 and up! I have a passion for children, teens and adults who suffer with anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders and trauma. I specialize in helping children and young adults in their journey toward empowerment, independence and self discovery. I have a specific insight for children of addicts/alcoholics. I have experience working with diverse populations to include: LGBTQI, children in the foster care system, the elderly, victims of abuse, families and couples. In therapy, I take a person-centered approach to healing that focuses on the client as the expert in their own life.
In my practice I serve children 12 and up! I have a passion for children, teens and adults who suffer with anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders and trauma. I specialize in helping children and young adults in their journey toward empowerment, independence and self discovery. I have a specific insight for children of addicts/alcoholics. I have experience working with diverse populations to include: LGBTQI, children in the foster care system, the elderly, victims of abuse, families and couples. In therapy, I take a person-centered approach to healing that focuses on the client as the expert in their own life.
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![Photo of M'linda McGuire - Compassionate Selves Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6aef7dd-4e67-461f-9a3f-7c89c524cc26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Compassionate Selves Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76710
Clients frequently come to me suffering from traumatic experiences from their past that they can not seem to move past. You may be experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, despair, low self-esteem, intrusive thoughts or memories and you don’t know how to help yourself. I would like to help you heal from those difficulties in life. I specialize in PTSD and trauma which I describe as “things from your past that still affect your present”, as well as grief, anxiety and phobias. I’ve been helping people heal from trauma for more than 15 years and offer more than one method to address the symptoms of trauma, anxiety and grief.
Clients frequently come to me suffering from traumatic experiences from their past that they can not seem to move past. You may be experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, despair, low self-esteem, intrusive thoughts or memories and you don’t know how to help yourself. I would like to help you heal from those difficulties in life. I specialize in PTSD and trauma which I describe as “things from your past that still affect your present”, as well as grief, anxiety and phobias. I’ve been helping people heal from trauma for more than 15 years and offer more than one method to address the symptoms of trauma, anxiety and grief.
![Photo of Leslie Elizabeth Hunt, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439cf3d3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Elizabeth Hunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710
I am extremely passionate about guiding people to a better understanding of themselves and "why we do the things that we do". Our perspective dictates our emotional reactions to situations and therefore it affects our behavior; let me help you gain control of your reactions and change your thoughts! I am especially skilled with Depression/Anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, sports psychology, relationships/communication, childhood issues, improving self-esteem, grief/loss, identity development and issues related to the child-to-adult transition. Please see my website and blog for more information.
I am extremely passionate about guiding people to a better understanding of themselves and "why we do the things that we do". Our perspective dictates our emotional reactions to situations and therefore it affects our behavior; let me help you gain control of your reactions and change your thoughts! I am especially skilled with Depression/Anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, sports psychology, relationships/communication, childhood issues, improving self-esteem, grief/loss, identity development and issues related to the child-to-adult transition. Please see my website and blog for more information.
![Photo of Pi Chen, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51a1931a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Seasons change and people change. Regardless of age, gender, and status, we all encounter challenges and difficulties throughout different stages in life. I help clients re-discover who they are, reclaim their lives, rebuild relationships that are meaningful to them, restore balance and satisfaction in life, reach insight and problem solve, or get to where they want to be. You determine the nature and amount of change you wish to make. I believe that helping people recognize and hone in their strengths can create new possibilities for action and new directions in life.
Seasons change and people change. Regardless of age, gender, and status, we all encounter challenges and difficulties throughout different stages in life. I help clients re-discover who they are, reclaim their lives, rebuild relationships that are meaningful to them, restore balance and satisfaction in life, reach insight and problem solve, or get to where they want to be. You determine the nature and amount of change you wish to make. I believe that helping people recognize and hone in their strengths can create new possibilities for action and new directions in life.
![Photo of Brisa Celeste Coronado Torres, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17194fb7-a867-4630-8643-4649133e92e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brisa Celeste Coronado Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710
Now accepting new clients I am Brisa C Coronado Torres a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor. Are you struggling with anxiety, unresolved trauma, depression, fears or relationship problems that interfere in your life? I recognize firsthand the complexities of these issues and am a consistent advocate for those who seek growth and recovery.
Now accepting new clients I am Brisa C Coronado Torres a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor. Are you struggling with anxiety, unresolved trauma, depression, fears or relationship problems that interfere in your life? I recognize firsthand the complexities of these issues and am a consistent advocate for those who seek growth and recovery.
![Photo of Kimberly Mizerik, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43abd6be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now offering Therapy Intensive sessions which are an accelerated form of therapy that allows deeper healing in a shorter amount of time. Are stressful events and relationships making it impossible for you to relax? Are anxiety and depression making it hard to focus on the important things in your life and preventing you from making positive changes? There is hope and help available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice and in Community Counseling. I have helped patients in their recovery from depression, anxiety, unstable relationships, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.
Now offering Therapy Intensive sessions which are an accelerated form of therapy that allows deeper healing in a shorter amount of time. Are stressful events and relationships making it impossible for you to relax? Are anxiety and depression making it hard to focus on the important things in your life and preventing you from making positive changes? There is hope and help available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice and in Community Counseling. I have helped patients in their recovery from depression, anxiety, unstable relationships, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.
![Photo of Brittany Stallings, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8713a18e-968c-4013-9b56-77f3cfc8d869/1/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling stuck in a rut; like you're treading water; like you're caught in an endless repetitious cycle and can't break free? You're not alone! I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families work to get out break away from their current cycles. My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in my belief that my client's are the experts in their own lives. I am simply here to help clients find their own emotional freedom & build a healthy foundation. I encourage you to visit my website for more information.
Feeling stuck in a rut; like you're treading water; like you're caught in an endless repetitious cycle and can't break free? You're not alone! I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families work to get out break away from their current cycles. My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in my belief that my client's are the experts in their own lives. I am simply here to help clients find their own emotional freedom & build a healthy foundation. I encourage you to visit my website for more information.
![Photo of Melissa McClure, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdca8f6b-9161-48e3-b390-ba9f6b33a4d5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa McClure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76712
Life stressors and painful experiences can be debilitating for children, teens and young adults. The constant feeling of impending doom and being paralyzed by fear can be crippling after traumatic experiences, as well as grief and loss, often leading to seasons of anxiety and/or depression. This dark cloud in the back of your head can foster feelings of low self-esteem, impair judgement leading to poor choices and destructive behavior, cause self-doubt and distorted self-image, inhibit academic and employment goals and disrupt relationships.
Life stressors and painful experiences can be debilitating for children, teens and young adults. The constant feeling of impending doom and being paralyzed by fear can be crippling after traumatic experiences, as well as grief and loss, often leading to seasons of anxiety and/or depression. This dark cloud in the back of your head can foster feelings of low self-esteem, impair judgement leading to poor choices and destructive behavior, cause self-doubt and distorted self-image, inhibit academic and employment goals and disrupt relationships.
![Photo of Mikayla Bugh, MAPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cc7d24f-94c3-479e-8379-0cc738c7ce10/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping individuals ages 10+ with a variety of presenting issues, including: depression, anxiety, trauma, family of origin problems, communication/boundaries, issues of faith/spirituality, suicidality/self harm, and self-worth. I hope to help my clients accomplish the goals they set for themselves, and to walk with them as they establish healthy rhythms. In my work, I like to focus on holistic health - mentally, emotionally, physically, socially, and spiritually. I believe above all, my clients need a safe space to be heard and to process what they are experiencing, and it is my greatest joy to provide this.
I am passionate about helping individuals ages 10+ with a variety of presenting issues, including: depression, anxiety, trauma, family of origin problems, communication/boundaries, issues of faith/spirituality, suicidality/self harm, and self-worth. I hope to help my clients accomplish the goals they set for themselves, and to walk with them as they establish healthy rhythms. In my work, I like to focus on holistic health - mentally, emotionally, physically, socially, and spiritually. I believe above all, my clients need a safe space to be heard and to process what they are experiencing, and it is my greatest joy to provide this.
![Photo of Sara Ferguson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b10c1617-eaa8-41fb-9c7d-14dce1d3b6c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Strong Heart and Mind Counseling! No matter what has happened to you or what you feel you may have done that keeps you stuck or down, HOPE is real and HEALING is possible. There will be no judgment here, only understanding, compassion and solutions for you and your life story. As a psychotherapist, I am passionate about helping people overcome life’s hard challenges whether they be from trauma; relationship problems; addiction; depression; anxiety; grief; health issues; physical, sexual, or emotional abuse; loneliness; self-esteem issues and many other trials that life may have thrown your way.
Welcome to Strong Heart and Mind Counseling! No matter what has happened to you or what you feel you may have done that keeps you stuck or down, HOPE is real and HEALING is possible. There will be no judgment here, only understanding, compassion and solutions for you and your life story. As a psychotherapist, I am passionate about helping people overcome life’s hard challenges whether they be from trauma; relationship problems; addiction; depression; anxiety; grief; health issues; physical, sexual, or emotional abuse; loneliness; self-esteem issues and many other trials that life may have thrown your way.
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Nearby Sexual Abuse Therapists Searches for Waco
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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.