Sexual Abuse Therapists in Houston, TX

Photo of Heidi Reddin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Reddin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Heidi. My calling for the past 7 years has been to help teens and young adults who have experienced child abuse, dating violence & sexual assault. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and self-esteem.
Hello there, I'm Heidi. My calling for the past 7 years has been to help teens and young adults who have experienced child abuse, dating violence & sexual assault. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and self-esteem.
(713) 512-5727 View (713) 512-5727
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.
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, SA & DV 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.
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, SA & DV 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 Brent Dyer, LPP, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brent Dyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPP, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Specializing in trauma, sexual abuse, men’s issues, and PTSD, I work with adults, couples, and adolescents. I have a passion to see people find hope and healing. It is important for you as the client to know that I am for you and with you every step of the way. Imagine you have a tool belt with various tools to help you navigate life…counseling is simply the process of helping you add additional tools to your belt so you know how to handle anything that may come your way.
Specializing in trauma, sexual abuse, men’s issues, and PTSD, I work with adults, couples, and adolescents. I have a passion to see people find hope and healing. It is important for you as the client to know that I am for you and with you every step of the way. Imagine you have a tool belt with various tools to help you navigate life…counseling is simply the process of helping you add additional tools to your belt so you know how to handle anything that may come your way.
(346) 275-2887 View (346) 275-2887
Photo of Donica L Jones - Houston Transitions to Wellness & Counseling, Inc., MA, LPC-S, LSOTP-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Houston Transitions to Wellness & Counseling, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LSOTP-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working in social services, rape crisis, Attorney General of TX Sexual Assault Prevention, with an offending population as Specialized Juvenile and LSOTP-S.
I assist in risk assessments, forensic counseling and Chaperone training. I specialize with children and adults experiencing inappropriate sexual behaviors and abuse. The agency clinicians have passion for changing the world-one family at a time. We work with trauma both specific and ambiguous. We believe clients have power not yet realized and work along side with curiosity offering potential insight and skills for personal change. HTWC is the only Houston office certified for the MEGA age 4-19.99 years/ male/female sexual improprieties, sexual/reactive, or sexual/abusive.
I have experience working in social services, rape crisis, Attorney General of TX Sexual Assault Prevention, with an offending population as Specialized Juvenile and LSOTP-S.
I assist in risk assessments, forensic counseling and Chaperone training. I specialize with children and adults experiencing inappropriate sexual behaviors and abuse. The agency clinicians have passion for changing the world-one family at a time. We work with trauma both specific and ambiguous. We believe clients have power not yet realized and work along side with curiosity offering potential insight and skills for personal change. HTWC is the only Houston office certified for the MEGA age 4-19.99 years/ male/female sexual improprieties, sexual/reactive, or sexual/abusive.
(281) 920-9500 x1 View (281) 920-9500 x1
Photo of Arthena Peavy, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arthena Peavy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77095
We all have a story to tell. Maybe your story is one that includes traumatic experiences such as manipulation, sexual abuse, or sexual assault. Maybe you are experiencing loneliness, depression, or anxiety. You might be struggling at school, work, or in your relationships. Maybe you want to leave a relationship and do not know how. Or maybe, just maybe, you feel like life is okay, but really could be better. You do not have to figure things out on your own. Talking helps. Therapy is not just for certain kinds of people. It can be beneficial for anyone, including you.
We all have a story to tell. Maybe your story is one that includes traumatic experiences such as manipulation, sexual abuse, or sexual assault. Maybe you are experiencing loneliness, depression, or anxiety. You might be struggling at school, work, or in your relationships. Maybe you want to leave a relationship and do not know how. Or maybe, just maybe, you feel like life is okay, but really could be better. You do not have to figure things out on your own. Talking helps. Therapy is not just for certain kinds of people. It can be beneficial for anyone, including you.
(281) 249-9506 View (281) 249-9506
Photo of Julia A Cedeño - Julia's Counseling & Play Therapy Group, PLLC, LCSW-S, RPT, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia's Counseling & Play Therapy Group, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT, CTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Our child and teen therapists have specialized training and interest in treating children who have been through trauma or sexual abuse, attachment concerns, anxiety, depression, gifted & sensitive personalities, behavior problems, ADHD assessments, and school problems.
If you are on the fence about starting therapy, we completely understand, and that is why we are committed to providing a positive and comfortable experience here. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, your child, or your family, coming in to start therapy can be a vulnerable experience. Therefore, therapy always goes at your pace, and we value interactive feedback while setting goals and coming up with a plan. Every single person, child, couple and family is unique; therefore, we design a custom treatment plan based on your unique needs and desires.
Our child and teen therapists have specialized training and interest in treating children who have been through trauma or sexual abuse, attachment concerns, anxiety, depression, gifted & sensitive personalities, behavior problems, ADHD assessments, and school problems.
If you are on the fence about starting therapy, we completely understand, and that is why we are committed to providing a positive and comfortable experience here. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, your child, or your family, coming in to start therapy can be a vulnerable experience. Therefore, therapy always goes at your pace, and we value interactive feedback while setting goals and coming up with a plan. Every single person, child, couple and family is unique; therefore, we design a custom treatment plan based on your unique needs and desires.
(832) 462-7475 View (832) 462-7475
Photo of Bernadette Martell - Soul Recovery-Mobile Counseling & Coaching, MS, LC, TRC
Soul Recovery-Mobile Counseling & Coaching
MS, LC, TRC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77029
As a survivor of childhood sexual assault, physical and mental abuse, and rape, I understand how important it is to feel safe in your environment, which is why I offer Mobile Counseling. I come to you, in an environment of your choosing, because unless you feel safe and comfortable, your healing will not progress the way you need it to. I customize each treatment plan according to your needs, and adjust accordingly. I do not believe in cookie cutter counseling/therapy, as rape and violence is not cookie cutter. If you are ready to stop surviving your life and start living your life, then I am the counselor for you.
As a survivor of childhood sexual assault, physical and mental abuse, and rape, I understand how important it is to feel safe in your environment, which is why I offer Mobile Counseling. I come to you, in an environment of your choosing, because unless you feel safe and comfortable, your healing will not progress the way you need it to. I customize each treatment plan according to your needs, and adjust accordingly. I do not believe in cookie cutter counseling/therapy, as rape and violence is not cookie cutter. If you are ready to stop surviving your life and start living your life, then I am the counselor for you.
(713) 574-7690 View (713) 574-7690
Photo of Andrea Addie, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Addie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027
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.
View
Photo of Tara Camille Sheffield, M Ed, PSC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Camille Sheffield
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, PSC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
My passion lies in supporting those who have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.
I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space where we can explore your truth and navigate through any emotional barriers that may be hindering your growth. My goal is to support you in processing traumatic experiences and uncovering your authentic self. Utilizing modalities such as Mindfulness, Solution-Focused therapy, and Crisis Intervention, I tailor my approach to suit your specific needs.
My passion lies in supporting those who have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.
I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space where we can explore your truth and navigate through any emotional barriers that may be hindering your growth. My goal is to support you in processing traumatic experiences and uncovering your authentic self. Utilizing modalities such as Mindfulness, Solution-Focused therapy, and Crisis Intervention, I tailor my approach to suit your specific needs.
(940) 204-5194 View (940) 204-5194
Photo of Carrie J Visger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie J Visger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77070  (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 Eleny Guerrero Pena Lpc Lcdc - Courage 2 Overcome Counseling, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, trained, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleny Guerrero Pena Lpc Lcdc - Courage 2 Overcome Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, trained
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
Do anxiety, generation trauma ("what happens at home stays home" and never resolved), sexual abuse, addiction and insecurities run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As challenging as those experiences were for the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings.
Do anxiety, generation trauma ("what happens at home stays home" and never resolved), sexual abuse, addiction and insecurities run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As challenging as those experiences were for the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings.
(512) 890-2730 View (512) 890-2730
Photo of Corrie Pleska, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrie Pleska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical social worker offering virtual therapy to individuals in Texas and Louisiana. My specialities lie in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and assault, LGBTQIA+ adults and teens, and those experiencing chronic illness. As a queer person myself, I value knowing I can access therapy from a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. My job is to meet you where you are and assess how your feelings, experiences, and the systems we live in impact how you make sense of the world. Learning about ourselves in such a way impacts the way we navigate our lives, for the better.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical social worker offering virtual therapy to individuals in Texas and Louisiana. My specialities lie in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and assault, LGBTQIA+ adults and teens, and those experiencing chronic illness. As a queer person myself, I value knowing I can access therapy from a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. My job is to meet you where you are and assess how your feelings, experiences, and the systems we live in impact how you make sense of the world. Learning about ourselves in such a way impacts the way we navigate our lives, for the better.
(504) 294-8473 View (504) 294-8473
Photo of Connie Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connie Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77001  (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 Brenda W Carlisle, MS, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda W Carlisle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77012
I am a Clinically Certified Trauma Therapist and have extensive experience with domestic violence and sexual assault.
As a client reflects over their lives, their relationships, and their choices, they sometimes want MORE from life! I encourage clients to find their ideal life and not to live it as others want them to . I’m my practice, clients are able to learn to trust in themselves by looking deeper into their soul and recognizing the things that bring them more happiness and peace. Let’s take this journey to restore happiness and peace in your life and your relationships, so you can have MORE in this lifetime!
I am a Clinically Certified Trauma Therapist and have extensive experience with domestic violence and sexual assault.
As a client reflects over their lives, their relationships, and their choices, they sometimes want MORE from life! I encourage clients to find their ideal life and not to live it as others want them to . I’m my practice, clients are able to learn to trust in themselves by looking deeper into their soul and recognizing the things that bring them more happiness and peace. Let’s take this journey to restore happiness and peace in your life and your relationships, so you can have MORE in this lifetime!
(361) 204-4733 View (361) 204-4733
Photo of Taralynn Robinson, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taralynn Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007
It’s my fault. I should have known better. I could have stopped it. If you are here you may have experienced sexual abuse as a child or someone has forced, tricked, or pressured you into something sexual. Your mind screamed no, but your voice remained silent. Fear paralyzed you. Memories are foggy, but haunting. You feel dirty, used and ashamed. You hate your body. Anxiety and sadness consume you. It feels like you have been torn to pieces and your power taken. Every decision and feeling is followed by confusion and doubt. Can I ever trust my instincts again? All you want is to forget it happened and move on with your life.
It’s my fault. I should have known better. I could have stopped it. If you are here you may have experienced sexual abuse as a child or someone has forced, tricked, or pressured you into something sexual. Your mind screamed no, but your voice remained silent. Fear paralyzed you. Memories are foggy, but haunting. You feel dirty, used and ashamed. You hate your body. Anxiety and sadness consume you. It feels like you have been torn to pieces and your power taken. Every decision and feeling is followed by confusion and doubt. Can I ever trust my instincts again? All you want is to forget it happened and move on with your life.
(737) 204-5990 View (737) 204-5990
Photo of Kristen A. Berglund, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen A. Berglund
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027  (Online Only)
I have experience treating mood disorders and anxiety disorders and I have specialized training in several areas, including sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD and general trauma recovery, and sexual and gender identity.
I have over 15 years of experience working with teens and adults. My passions include treating sexual and other trauma (including complex PTSD) and providing affirming care to the transgender and nonbinary community (ages 14+). Practicing with an eclectic approach, I borrow techniques and theory from several different areas (DBT, IFS, EMDR, Humanism and psychoeducation). My clients are partners in therapy; we work together to find what works best for each person. My clients tell me that they feel safe and valued in our sessions. I am dually licensed in both Texas and Oregon.
I have experience treating mood disorders and anxiety disorders and I have specialized training in several areas, including sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD and general trauma recovery, and sexual and gender identity.
I have over 15 years of experience working with teens and adults. My passions include treating sexual and other trauma (including complex PTSD) and providing affirming care to the transgender and nonbinary community (ages 14+). Practicing with an eclectic approach, I borrow techniques and theory from several different areas (DBT, IFS, EMDR, Humanism and psychoeducation). My clients are partners in therapy; we work together to find what works best for each person. My clients tell me that they feel safe and valued in our sessions. I am dually licensed in both Texas and Oregon.
(971) 298-9340 View (971) 298-9340
Photo of Bethany Kulp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Kulp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77040  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Bethany Kulp and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with over 26 years of experience. Though I have worked with a variety of issues throughout my career, my primary focus is working with adult clients who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a trauma specialist, and I have a great deal of experience working with survivors of childhood abuse/neglect, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Along with mindfulness and cognitive approaches, I use somatic therapies that help you access your body's intrinsic healing capabilities.
Welcome! My name is Bethany Kulp and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with over 26 years of experience. Though I have worked with a variety of issues throughout my career, my primary focus is working with adult clients who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a trauma specialist, and I have a great deal of experience working with survivors of childhood abuse/neglect, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Along with mindfulness and cognitive approaches, I use somatic therapies that help you access your body's intrinsic healing capabilities.
(346) 480-2105 View (346) 480-2105
Photo of Catalina Eljure, LPC-S, LMFT-S, LSOTP-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catalina Eljure
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT-S, LSOTP-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Couples' and family relationships; nervousness and/or depression; school and/or work performance; sexual abuse-- victim, offender, and families.
Será un gusto ayudarle en Ciudad de México y Houston, Texas. Trabajo con niños, adolescentes, adultos, familias, parejas, adultos mayores y sus cuidadores. Trato problemas de relación, conducta, escolares y emocionales; prevención y superación personal. Cartas de Sufrimiento para obtención residencia Estadounidense. I will be pleased to work with you in Mexico City and Houston, Texas. I see children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, the elderly and their caregivers. I treat relational, behavioral, emotional and school problems; prevention, self-improvement. I produce Hardship Letters for those seeking U.S. residence.
Couples' and family relationships; nervousness and/or depression; school and/or work performance; sexual abuse-- victim, offender, and families.
Será un gusto ayudarle en Ciudad de México y Houston, Texas. Trabajo con niños, adolescentes, adultos, familias, parejas, adultos mayores y sus cuidadores. Trato problemas de relación, conducta, escolares y emocionales; prevención y superación personal. Cartas de Sufrimiento para obtención residencia Estadounidense. I will be pleased to work with you in Mexico City and Houston, Texas. I see children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, the elderly and their caregivers. I treat relational, behavioral, emotional and school problems; prevention, self-improvement. I produce Hardship Letters for those seeking U.S. residence.
(832) 400-6684 View (832) 400-6684
Photo of Jennifer Varela, MSW, LCSWs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Varela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWs
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77292  (Online Only)
I want to get to know you, wherever you'd like to start. Together, we can explore ways to increase your ability to manage and cope and find more happiness and calmness. I've got 30 years of experience helping people navigate through the impact of traumatic situations and serious grief and loss, including sexual assault, domestic violence, abusive childhoods, chronic illness, and tragic death. I understand the crushing weight of hopelessness and thoughts that things will never be better or even different. I know that things can and do change and I strongly believe that we are not simply what happened to us.
I want to get to know you, wherever you'd like to start. Together, we can explore ways to increase your ability to manage and cope and find more happiness and calmness. I've got 30 years of experience helping people navigate through the impact of traumatic situations and serious grief and loss, including sexual assault, domestic violence, abusive childhoods, chronic illness, and tragic death. I understand the crushing weight of hopelessness and thoughts that things will never be better or even different. I know that things can and do change and I strongly believe that we are not simply what happened to us.
(281) 306-1378 View (281) 306-1378
Photo of Ivy Ickes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ivy Ickes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007
I specialize in mindfulness-based therapies to help ease the pain and suffering experienced in the midst of depression, anxiety, work and/or life stressors, trauma, post-deployment reintegration, and by survivors of sexual-assault and domestic violence.
No one deserves to suffer alone and it takes great courage to ask for help when one is struggling. I am truly honored when someone allows me to be part of their journey towards becoming their best, healthiest self. I use an integrated, strength-based approach in my therapeutic practice to help clients gain insight and feel empowered to make changes because they are worth the effort it takes to truly stretch and grow.
I specialize in mindfulness-based therapies to help ease the pain and suffering experienced in the midst of depression, anxiety, work and/or life stressors, trauma, post-deployment reintegration, and by survivors of sexual-assault and domestic violence.
No one deserves to suffer alone and it takes great courage to ask for help when one is struggling. I am truly honored when someone allows me to be part of their journey towards becoming their best, healthiest self. I use an integrated, strength-based approach in my therapeutic practice to help clients gain insight and feel empowered to make changes because they are worth the effort it takes to truly stretch and grow.
(832) 219-1031 View (832) 219-1031
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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.