Sexual Abuse Therapists in Springfield, TN

Photo of Lori Dickson, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Dickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Springfield, TN 37172  (Online Only)
Initially, I went into this field because I came from an unstable background and have struggled with mental health myself. I know seeking help is not easy. With a background in providing therapy and prescribing medications, I have a unique perspective on mental health. I have learned from my clients that there is NO "magic pill" that works alone without therapy. Everyone deserves compassion, open-mindedness, and respect. You deserve to be seen as a person of value no matter what you tell me. Each of us are individual and has a right to be treated as such.
Initially, I went into this field because I came from an unstable background and have struggled with mental health myself. I know seeking help is not easy. With a background in providing therapy and prescribing medications, I have a unique perspective on mental health. I have learned from my clients that there is NO "magic pill" that works alone without therapy. Everyone deserves compassion, open-mindedness, and respect. You deserve to be seen as a person of value no matter what you tell me. Each of us are individual and has a right to be treated as such.
(629) 280-4651 View (629) 280-4651
Photo of Janet Weismark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Weismark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, TN 37172
Counseling provides you the opportunity to improve your life and derive more enjoyment from it. I can help you work through childhood issues or deal with problems that are occurring in your life at the present time. Sadness, anxiety and anger are feelings which I can help you effectively learn to deal with.
Counseling provides you the opportunity to improve your life and derive more enjoyment from it. I can help you work through childhood issues or deal with problems that are occurring in your life at the present time. Sadness, anxiety and anger are feelings which I can help you effectively learn to deal with.
(629) 230-7517 View (629) 230-7517
Photo of Betsy Abrams, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Abrams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Springfield, TN 37172
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self esteem, depression or relationship issues? Does life seem overwhelming to you? Emotional pain and stress can affect our lives in many ways, negatively contributing to our emotional, physical and spiritual health. I view each client as a unique person and develop the best therapeutic approach for their needs. My passion is to help individuals identify healthy coping skills and beliefs to deal with everyday life issues or past difficulties that impact their lives today.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self esteem, depression or relationship issues? Does life seem overwhelming to you? Emotional pain and stress can affect our lives in many ways, negatively contributing to our emotional, physical and spiritual health. I view each client as a unique person and develop the best therapeutic approach for their needs. My passion is to help individuals identify healthy coping skills and beliefs to deal with everyday life issues or past difficulties that impact their lives today.
(931) 227-4212 View (931) 227-4212
Photo of Joanna Dixon - Matters of the Heart Counseling, 2 & Jinny Glasco, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matters of the Heart Counseling, 2 & Jinny Glasco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, TN 37172
STOP GUESSING! Let us help connect you with the counselor who best meets your emotional, financial, and scheduling needs! We have everything from masters level interns to licensed providers ranging in all areas of expertise! We have our Goodlettsville/Davidson Co location and our Hendersonville location to better serve the Middle TN area. VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY to look through all of our counselor profiles and EMAIL US your preference & we can connect you to one of our providers here at MATTERS OF THE HEART COUNSELING. We have also been very intentional to create a warm, inviting space at both 100+ yr old Craftsman buildings!
STOP GUESSING! Let us help connect you with the counselor who best meets your emotional, financial, and scheduling needs! We have everything from masters level interns to licensed providers ranging in all areas of expertise! We have our Goodlettsville/Davidson Co location and our Hendersonville location to better serve the Middle TN area. VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY to look through all of our counselor profiles and EMAIL US your preference & we can connect you to one of our providers here at MATTERS OF THE HEART COUNSELING. We have also been very intentional to create a warm, inviting space at both 100+ yr old Craftsman buildings!
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Photo of Rebecca Horn, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Horn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, TN 37172  (Online Only)
Life is hard, and sometimes overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Let me help you process and develop the skills you need to begin living the life you desire and deserve. I specialize with the unique culture & needs of First Responders: Police, Fire, EMS, Dispatch, Corrections, Medical personnel & families. I work with individuals, 16 years +, couples, and families who are facing challenges, struggling with conflict, anxiety, OCD, or who want help recovering from trauma or PTSD. I currently only see clients via Telehealth -available for all Tennessee.
Life is hard, and sometimes overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Let me help you process and develop the skills you need to begin living the life you desire and deserve. I specialize with the unique culture & needs of First Responders: Police, Fire, EMS, Dispatch, Corrections, Medical personnel & families. I work with individuals, 16 years +, couples, and families who are facing challenges, struggling with conflict, anxiety, OCD, or who want help recovering from trauma or PTSD. I currently only see clients via Telehealth -available for all Tennessee.
(931) 233-9499 View (931) 233-9499
Photo of Kristen Watson - All About Counseling and Wellness Center, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
All About Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, TN 37172
Not accepting new clients
“When we finally let go of what no longer serves us, what we’re holding, what we know, we make room to invite new wisdom, new choices, new freedom” Tamara Levitt. Letting go of the past and opening ourselves up to new things and new possibilities can be challenging and intimidating. Holding onto past hurts and disappointments takes up so much emotional space and leaves little room for us to grow in our relationships with ourselves and those around us. I would be honored to join you on your discovery to a new you, helping you to let go of past and present struggles, and opening yourself to the possibility of something different.
“When we finally let go of what no longer serves us, what we’re holding, what we know, we make room to invite new wisdom, new choices, new freedom” Tamara Levitt. Letting go of the past and opening ourselves up to new things and new possibilities can be challenging and intimidating. Holding onto past hurts and disappointments takes up so much emotional space and leaves little room for us to grow in our relationships with ourselves and those around us. I would be honored to join you on your discovery to a new you, helping you to let go of past and present struggles, and opening yourself to the possibility of something different.
(931) 340-9602 View (931) 340-9602

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chad Hughes, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chad Hughes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Greenbrier, TN 37073  (Online Only)
I work best with individuals who are seeking help and support to navigate through challenging times in their lives. My ideal client is ready to address and move beyond the challenges in life whether that is addiction, depression, anxiety, or a history of traumatic experiences. They are committed to personal growth and healing, and they aspire to cultivate healthier and more fulfilling relationships. I am here to support you every step of the way.
I work best with individuals who are seeking help and support to navigate through challenging times in their lives. My ideal client is ready to address and move beyond the challenges in life whether that is addiction, depression, anxiety, or a history of traumatic experiences. They are committed to personal growth and healing, and they aspire to cultivate healthier and more fulfilling relationships. I am here to support you every step of the way.
(629) 249-5080 View (629) 249-5080
Photo of Julianne Reed, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julianne Reed
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbrier, TN 37073
Growth requires a willingness to be vulnerable and honest, both with ourselves and others. True healing can only occur when we are brave enough to shine a light on the darkest corners of our inner world. My professional experience includes working with previously incarcerated individuals, those facing addiction, and clients dealing with trauma and relational issues. Therapy works when clients bring their courage, openness, and honesty into session. The work is not always a pleasant stroll in the park; rather, it's a challenging trek that requires resilience and determination.
Growth requires a willingness to be vulnerable and honest, both with ourselves and others. True healing can only occur when we are brave enough to shine a light on the darkest corners of our inner world. My professional experience includes working with previously incarcerated individuals, those facing addiction, and clients dealing with trauma and relational issues. Therapy works when clients bring their courage, openness, and honesty into session. The work is not always a pleasant stroll in the park; rather, it's a challenging trek that requires resilience and determination.
(615) 488-5239 View (615) 488-5239
Photo of Jana Moon, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jana Moon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
White House, TN 37188  (Online Only)
Undergoing lasting change outside of our comfort zone can be a vulnerable process. I strive to provide a safe place for individuals to come and to be able to embrace healing. It can be an even more difficult process if one is not in a safe environment. Providing this safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere is crucial, in addition to working collaboratively with a supportive therapist. My goal is to help individuals cultivate healthiness in every area of an their lives, physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Undergoing lasting change outside of our comfort zone can be a vulnerable process. I strive to provide a safe place for individuals to come and to be able to embrace healing. It can be an even more difficult process if one is not in a safe environment. Providing this safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere is crucial, in addition to working collaboratively with a supportive therapist. My goal is to help individuals cultivate healthiness in every area of an their lives, physically, emotionally, and mentally.
(615) 326-6303 View (615) 326-6303

Online Therapists

Photo of Drea Pryor, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Drea Pryor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
It's my belief that within relationships we are both hurt and healed. I practice from a relational approach, specifically Attachment Theory. Attachment shapes how we view ourselves and others, and influences how we "do" close relationships. We may unconsciously carry feelings of anxiety, pain, humiliation, or even abandonment from our relationships. For example, early childhood experiences of sexual abuse, neglect, grief, loss, or vicarious trauma impact one's perception of safety and security. As a result, we may find it difficult to form satisfactory relationships in adulthood. Navigating through this process alone can be hard.Thankfully, you don't have to do it alone.
It's my belief that within relationships we are both hurt and healed. I practice from a relational approach, specifically Attachment Theory. Attachment shapes how we view ourselves and others, and influences how we "do" close relationships. We may unconsciously carry feelings of anxiety, pain, humiliation, or even abandonment from our relationships. For example, early childhood experiences of sexual abuse, neglect, grief, loss, or vicarious trauma impact one's perception of safety and security. As a result, we may find it difficult to form satisfactory relationships in adulthood. Navigating through this process alone can be hard.Thankfully, you don't have to do it alone.
(615) 903-0735 View (615) 903-0735
Photo of Lisa Corbin, LPC, MHSP, LADAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Corbin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LADAC
Verified Verified
Old Hickory, TN 37138  (Online Only)
I'm trained in EMDR trauma therapy and have experience with survivors of combat trauma, and sexual assault.
What an honor it is to share space with folks who want to enjoy their lives to the fullest! I'm here to help you improve relationships, regulate emotions, overcome past hurts, and plan for living your best life. I'll work with you to move past barriers so that you can achieve your goals. I am passionate about empowering you to be the greatest version of yourself. If you measure yourself as a "human doing" instead of a "human being”, if you have difficulty setting boundaries with friends and family, if you find yourself repeating the same patterns that are no longer serving you, I'd love to talk with you.
I'm trained in EMDR trauma therapy and have experience with survivors of combat trauma, and sexual assault.
What an honor it is to share space with folks who want to enjoy their lives to the fullest! I'm here to help you improve relationships, regulate emotions, overcome past hurts, and plan for living your best life. I'll work with you to move past barriers so that you can achieve your goals. I am passionate about empowering you to be the greatest version of yourself. If you measure yourself as a "human doing" instead of a "human being”, if you have difficulty setting boundaries with friends and family, if you find yourself repeating the same patterns that are no longer serving you, I'd love to talk with you.
(615) 703-8239 View (615) 703-8239
Photo of Candi R Kaatz, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Candi R Kaatz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
It can be embarrassing, painful and debilitating to have intimacy or sexual problems. It may be due to physical problems, aging, sexual abuse, strict upbringing, assault or for an unknown reason. You or someone you love may live with out of control pornography or sexual behavior or addiction. You may have difficulty forming a long term intimate relationship with someone and not understand why. You may be looking for solutions and believe no one will understand or you may believe your situation is hopeless. You are looking for healthy intimacy and sexuality in your relationship and may not be sure why this is so difficult.
It can be embarrassing, painful and debilitating to have intimacy or sexual problems. It may be due to physical problems, aging, sexual abuse, strict upbringing, assault or for an unknown reason. You or someone you love may live with out of control pornography or sexual behavior or addiction. You may have difficulty forming a long term intimate relationship with someone and not understand why. You may be looking for solutions and believe no one will understand or you may believe your situation is hopeless. You are looking for healthy intimacy and sexuality in your relationship and may not be sure why this is so difficult.
(615) 235-6066 View (615) 235-6066
Photo of Landra Orr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Landra Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, TN 37167
I enjoy working with a variety of different people. I appreciate all the complexities of being human. Through a trusting and compassionate relationship there can be healing from many of life’s problems from childhood sexual abuse to recreating life after a divorce to recovering from an affair. Many of my clients both couples and individuals state their relationships and their life is better after therapy. They appreciate the time to pause and reflect. Sometimes they want to make changes or continue what is working.
I enjoy working with a variety of different people. I appreciate all the complexities of being human. Through a trusting and compassionate relationship there can be healing from many of life’s problems from childhood sexual abuse to recreating life after a divorce to recovering from an affair. Many of my clients both couples and individuals state their relationships and their life is better after therapy. They appreciate the time to pause and reflect. Sometimes they want to make changes or continue what is working.
(615) 358-5922 View (615) 358-5922
Photo of Janelle Urban, MA, LPCMHSP, (Temp), Pre-Licensed Professional
Janelle Urban
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCMHSP, (Temp)
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37040
It is my passion to work alongside individuals on issues related to the pervasive impacts of trauma. This includes childhood sexual abuse, attachment wounds, anxiety, panic, depression, self-esteem concerns, relational discord, infidelity, and grief. I am also drawn to offering support for those effected by the gaps in our systems related to military/families, as well as those struggling with postpartum related issues. My passion for these areas has driven me to help fill in those gaps through the support and psycho education that lacks in these important populations.
It is my passion to work alongside individuals on issues related to the pervasive impacts of trauma. This includes childhood sexual abuse, attachment wounds, anxiety, panic, depression, self-esteem concerns, relational discord, infidelity, and grief. I am also drawn to offering support for those effected by the gaps in our systems related to military/families, as well as those struggling with postpartum related issues. My passion for these areas has driven me to help fill in those gaps through the support and psycho education that lacks in these important populations.
(931) 329-4346 View (931) 329-4346
Photo of Jessica Davidson, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Davidson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
I have also been specially trained to work with children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse, behavioral issues and problems controlling anger.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
I have also been specially trained to work with children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse, behavioral issues and problems controlling anger.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
(615) 434-4227 View (615) 434-4227
Photo of David Drennon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Drennon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
My areas of special clinical interest include adolescents and adults across the life cycle, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, boundary issues, communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, academic issues, premarital/marital counseling, relationship conflict, family conflict, spirituality, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma.
The joy of therapy lies in tailoring my approach to fully leverage the unique strengths and skills of each individual client. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, and hope for those whom I have the opportunity to serve. I endeavor to invite clients into a therapeutic relationship that enhances their ability to develop insight that leads to action.
My areas of special clinical interest include adolescents and adults across the life cycle, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, boundary issues, communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, academic issues, premarital/marital counseling, relationship conflict, family conflict, spirituality, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma.
The joy of therapy lies in tailoring my approach to fully leverage the unique strengths and skills of each individual client. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, and hope for those whom I have the opportunity to serve. I endeavor to invite clients into a therapeutic relationship that enhances their ability to develop insight that leads to action.
(615) 285-5202 View (615) 285-5202
Photo of Shantell Johnson-Jones, LPC, MHSP, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shantell Johnson-Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I specialize in sexual assault/abuse, trauma from alcoholic/dysfunctional childhoods, LGBTQ identity, and pre-parental counseling.
I specialize in working with the emotional internalizers of the world. Do you self-isolate? Not return text messages or calls when life gets hard? Stuffing down your feelings and wants? Avoiding conflict? Self-sabotaging? Maybe intimacy is hard for you, especially if you're a survivor of sexual trauma. You want desperately to change but aren’t sure how. Trauma (especially from dysfunctional childhoods) convinces us that we’re an anomaly, not worth loving. It feels like everyone has it “together” except you. I get it, I’ve been there. The truth is, you’re not alone. Let's help YOU get what YOU what from life, relationships, and work.
I specialize in sexual assault/abuse, trauma from alcoholic/dysfunctional childhoods, LGBTQ identity, and pre-parental counseling.
I specialize in working with the emotional internalizers of the world. Do you self-isolate? Not return text messages or calls when life gets hard? Stuffing down your feelings and wants? Avoiding conflict? Self-sabotaging? Maybe intimacy is hard for you, especially if you're a survivor of sexual trauma. You want desperately to change but aren’t sure how. Trauma (especially from dysfunctional childhoods) convinces us that we’re an anomaly, not worth loving. It feels like everyone has it “together” except you. I get it, I’ve been there. The truth is, you’re not alone. Let's help YOU get what YOU what from life, relationships, and work.
(615) 205-4736 View (615) 205-4736
Photo of Renee Lackey, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP, (temp), Pre-Licensed Professional
Renee Lackey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I often use EMDR and work with children affected by divorce, grief, child sexual abuse, anxiety, and trauma.
Is your child struggling with excessive worries or fears, frequent yelling or hitting, trouble with peers, trouble sleeping, wetting the bed, clinginess, withdrawn, angry, or mean to others? As a parent, you may feel exhausted, lose patience, unsure of how to help, or want another perspective. I work with your child and family to provide a path for personal growth, learn healthy coping skills, build a stronger connection, improve communication, resolve conflicts, and have fun! Parents will learn how to co-regulate and manage challenging behaviors. I meet your child and family where you are to move toward healing and understanding.
I often use EMDR and work with children affected by divorce, grief, child sexual abuse, anxiety, and trauma.
Is your child struggling with excessive worries or fears, frequent yelling or hitting, trouble with peers, trouble sleeping, wetting the bed, clinginess, withdrawn, angry, or mean to others? As a parent, you may feel exhausted, lose patience, unsure of how to help, or want another perspective. I work with your child and family to provide a path for personal growth, learn healthy coping skills, build a stronger connection, improve communication, resolve conflicts, and have fun! Parents will learn how to co-regulate and manage challenging behaviors. I meet your child and family where you are to move toward healing and understanding.
(629) 276-6390 View (629) 276-6390
Photo of Rachel Styers Newman, LPC, MHSP, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Styers Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a therapist is to cultivate a safe and accepting space for clients to find empowerment, reclamation, and healing. Many of my clients are survivors of physical and emotional abuse, neglect, relational and attachment trauma, and sexual assault. They have suffered from deep relational wounds that have led to anxiety, depression, grief, fear, addiction, a sense of powerlessness, and disconnection. I seek to help my clients reclaim themselves through addressing core wounds, negative beliefs, and learned ways of coping.
My goal as a therapist is to cultivate a safe and accepting space for clients to find empowerment, reclamation, and healing. Many of my clients are survivors of physical and emotional abuse, neglect, relational and attachment trauma, and sexual assault. They have suffered from deep relational wounds that have led to anxiety, depression, grief, fear, addiction, a sense of powerlessness, and disconnection. I seek to help my clients reclaim themselves through addressing core wounds, negative beliefs, and learned ways of coping.
(615) 200-7242 View (615) 200-7242
Photo of Catherine Lucas, LMSW
Catherine Lucas
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37228
I have experience working in court advocacy with those impacted by domestic and intimate partner violence and sexual assault, as well as experience working in the psychiatric hospital setting (inpatient and intensive outpatient) with a wide range of issues and severity of illnesses.
I'm looking forward to supporting you. I enjoy helping others work to live more authentically while being able to enjoy life amid everyday challenges. I use a strengths-based and collaborative approach to treatment as each client is the expert in their life. I use therapeutic modalities including compassion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), expressive art, mindful movement, and yoga.
I have experience working in court advocacy with those impacted by domestic and intimate partner violence and sexual assault, as well as experience working in the psychiatric hospital setting (inpatient and intensive outpatient) with a wide range of issues and severity of illnesses.
I'm looking forward to supporting you. I enjoy helping others work to live more authentically while being able to enjoy life amid everyday challenges. I use a strengths-based and collaborative approach to treatment as each client is the expert in their life. I use therapeutic modalities including compassion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), expressive art, mindful movement, and yoga.
(615) 909-4298 View (615) 909-4298

See more therapy options for Springfield

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.