Sexual Abuse Therapists in Prosper, TX

Photo of Julie A Orsak, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie A Orsak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
I work with ages 14 and up in the areas of chemical dependency, codependency, love addiction, anxiety, depression, physical and sexual abuse, unresolved childhood issues, Christian counseling.
I was once told, "Everyone has problems, but those who are successful in life are the ones who got help." I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor with a Masters degree from the University of North Texas. I truly enjoy helping others find personal success and healing. Prior to being in private practice, I spent four years as a counselor at Grapevine Valley Hope, a residential chemical dependency treatment center, helping adults begin to overcome their addictions to drugs and alcohol. My personal style is down-to-earth, non-judgmental & accepting but also direct.
I work with ages 14 and up in the areas of chemical dependency, codependency, love addiction, anxiety, depression, physical and sexual abuse, unresolved childhood issues, Christian counseling.
I was once told, "Everyone has problems, but those who are successful in life are the ones who got help." I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor with a Masters degree from the University of North Texas. I truly enjoy helping others find personal success and healing. Prior to being in private practice, I spent four years as a counselor at Grapevine Valley Hope, a residential chemical dependency treatment center, helping adults begin to overcome their addictions to drugs and alcohol. My personal style is down-to-earth, non-judgmental & accepting but also direct.
(214) 225-7492 View (214) 225-7492
Photo of Jennifer Sexton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Sexton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Services provided include: individual/couples, play therapy, job stress, women's issues, postpartum depression, neonatal morbidity/infertility, grief, sexual abuse/trauma, emotional and/or domestic violence support, adult children of alcoholics, mood disorders and divorce.
I am a Yale Medical School trained clinician who has devoted to my work for over 25 years. I use my experience in private practice, schools, hospitals, and psychiatric facilities to contribute to my ability to assist others. My goal is to partner with people to reach their goals. I am a supportive therapist who believes that we both are required to be active participants in the process. After receiving my Master's I was chosen for a fellowship program at Yale Medical School. This training has aided significantly in my ability to provide treatment to my clients & develop/work collaboratively with other professionals.
Services provided include: individual/couples, play therapy, job stress, women's issues, postpartum depression, neonatal morbidity/infertility, grief, sexual abuse/trauma, emotional and/or domestic violence support, adult children of alcoholics, mood disorders and divorce.
I am a Yale Medical School trained clinician who has devoted to my work for over 25 years. I use my experience in private practice, schools, hospitals, and psychiatric facilities to contribute to my ability to assist others. My goal is to partner with people to reach their goals. I am a supportive therapist who believes that we both are required to be active participants in the process. After receiving my Master's I was chosen for a fellowship program at Yale Medical School. This training has aided significantly in my ability to provide treatment to my clients & develop/work collaboratively with other professionals.
(469) 278-5934 View (469) 278-5934
Photo of Anne Jensen-Smith - Anne Jensen Counseling Services, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Jensen Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently offering in-person and virtual appointments. I view therapy as a collaborative effort, and enjoy connecting with each of my clients. I work with adults and adolescents and have experience in eating disorders and body image, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress, grief and loss, domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, PTSD, parenting, divorce, SOGI, and working with creative and artistic people. I work with clients on identifying goals and refining those goals as they progress or change. "Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen"- Brené Brown.
I am currently offering in-person and virtual appointments. I view therapy as a collaborative effort, and enjoy connecting with each of my clients. I work with adults and adolescents and have experience in eating disorders and body image, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress, grief and loss, domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, PTSD, parenting, divorce, SOGI, and working with creative and artistic people. I work with clients on identifying goals and refining those goals as they progress or change. "Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen"- Brené Brown.
(469) 771-1074 View (469) 771-1074
Photo of Brittany Lashua, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Lashua
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Prosper, TX 75078
I primarily work with adolescents, teens, adults, families and couples on a wide range of counseling issues like: Depression, Anxiety, Self-harm, PTSD, Marital Issues or Affairs, Rape, Grief/Loss, Divorce, Infertility/Miscarriage, and Child or Adult physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Each person is unique and so is what they come in with. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. In fact, I pull from different treatment protocols to find what best fits you. This isn't a place where I tell you what to do or give advice, but a place where I join in with you in your process and we collaborate together to meet your needs. My goal is for therapy to be as efficient as possible, working through what we need to each session and maximizing a felt connection by undoing aloneness.
I primarily work with adolescents, teens, adults, families and couples on a wide range of counseling issues like: Depression, Anxiety, Self-harm, PTSD, Marital Issues or Affairs, Rape, Grief/Loss, Divorce, Infertility/Miscarriage, and Child or Adult physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Each person is unique and so is what they come in with. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. In fact, I pull from different treatment protocols to find what best fits you. This isn't a place where I tell you what to do or give advice, but a place where I join in with you in your process and we collaborate together to meet your needs. My goal is for therapy to be as efficient as possible, working through what we need to each session and maximizing a felt connection by undoing aloneness.
(972) 684-5016 View (972) 684-5016
Photo of Carol Lynn Jackson, MS, LPC, EMDR, SEP, SSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Lynn Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, SEP, SSP
Verified Verified
Prosper, TX 75078
As a Certified EMDR, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and Certified SSP (Safe and Sound Protocol) I treat both shock trauma and developmental trauma using a bottom up approach, chronic pain, sexual abuse, codependence, love addiction, narcissistic abuse, infidelity, anxiety, and depression.
I am passionate about assisting my clients restore a sense of balance and joy in their lives. My formal education, field experience, and personal journey of recovery have prepared me to work with adults, couples, and groups utilizing a holistic approach. I will meet you where you are on your own personal journey of healing through my extensive training and utilization of trauma healing modalities. I am trained in Post Induction Therapy, pioneered by The Meadows Treatment Center to address Family of Origin Issues. I offer 1:1 intensive retreats to help complex trauma clients get a jump start on their healing.
As a Certified EMDR, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and Certified SSP (Safe and Sound Protocol) I treat both shock trauma and developmental trauma using a bottom up approach, chronic pain, sexual abuse, codependence, love addiction, narcissistic abuse, infidelity, anxiety, and depression.
I am passionate about assisting my clients restore a sense of balance and joy in their lives. My formal education, field experience, and personal journey of recovery have prepared me to work with adults, couples, and groups utilizing a holistic approach. I will meet you where you are on your own personal journey of healing through my extensive training and utilization of trauma healing modalities. I am trained in Post Induction Therapy, pioneered by The Meadows Treatment Center to address Family of Origin Issues. I offer 1:1 intensive retreats to help complex trauma clients get a jump start on their healing.
(940) 240-3849 View (940) 240-3849
Photo of Tara Trimble Lpc Associate Supervised By Brittany Lashua Lpc-S, MS, LPC-A
Tara Trimble Lpc Associate Supervised By Brittany Lashua Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Prosper, TX 75078
I primarily work with teens, adults, and couples on a wide range of counseling issues like: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Eating Disorders, Self-harm, PTSD, Marital Issues or Affairs, Sexual trauma, Grief/Loss, Divorce, Infertility/Miscarriage, and Child or Adult physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Every person has a unique perspective and lived experience when coming into therapy. In understanding just how different each individual situation can be, I use a variety of treatment protocols to tailor a treatment plan that best fits your situation. My goal is to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for clients to explore and navigate their challenges. I believe that relief can often be found in processing your thoughts and by understanding what keeps you bound in unhealthy cycles.
I primarily work with teens, adults, and couples on a wide range of counseling issues like: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Eating Disorders, Self-harm, PTSD, Marital Issues or Affairs, Sexual trauma, Grief/Loss, Divorce, Infertility/Miscarriage, and Child or Adult physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Every person has a unique perspective and lived experience when coming into therapy. In understanding just how different each individual situation can be, I use a variety of treatment protocols to tailor a treatment plan that best fits your situation. My goal is to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for clients to explore and navigate their challenges. I believe that relief can often be found in processing your thoughts and by understanding what keeps you bound in unhealthy cycles.
(469) 949-1235 View (469) 949-1235
Photo of Lisa Lee Besch, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Lee Besch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Hi, I'm Lisa Besch, therapist, and owner of Renew Therapy and Wellness, PLLC. I understand that the struggle in life is real. I am passionate about walking alongside others, helping them find healing, and pursue growth. Trauma survivors are my specialty. I have worked alongside those who have experienced many traumas in their life. I understand what it is like to get triggered by something and react in a way you don't like. That is called a trauma response, and I can help you with those responses. Together we will process your trauma and find healing so that life won't be as stressful for you.
Hi, I'm Lisa Besch, therapist, and owner of Renew Therapy and Wellness, PLLC. I understand that the struggle in life is real. I am passionate about walking alongside others, helping them find healing, and pursue growth. Trauma survivors are my specialty. I have worked alongside those who have experienced many traumas in their life. I understand what it is like to get triggered by something and react in a way you don't like. That is called a trauma response, and I can help you with those responses. Together we will process your trauma and find healing so that life won't be as stressful for you.
(972) 736-9586 View (972) 736-9586
Photo of Susan S Hill, MS, LMFT, CAMS-I, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan S Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
You don't have to struggle alone. Let's work together to identify and understand what may be blocking you from enjoying life. Acquire the tools needed for a fulfilling quality of life and for healthier relationships. Often, past and current issues can get in your way or cause excruciating internal conflict. I listen with empathy, non-judgement, and help to empower individuals in areas where they feel stuck, exhausted, or defeated. You deserve to enjoy life! Give me a call, and we'll work through the blocks together. (Finding a therapist can seem overwhelming. Let's talk to see if your search ends here!)
You don't have to struggle alone. Let's work together to identify and understand what may be blocking you from enjoying life. Acquire the tools needed for a fulfilling quality of life and for healthier relationships. Often, past and current issues can get in your way or cause excruciating internal conflict. I listen with empathy, non-judgement, and help to empower individuals in areas where they feel stuck, exhausted, or defeated. You deserve to enjoy life! Give me a call, and we'll work through the blocks together. (Finding a therapist can seem overwhelming. Let's talk to see if your search ends here!)
(469) 336-6118 View (469) 336-6118
Photo of Monique M Thompson, MA, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monique M Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
You might be able to get reimbursed for out-of-network therapy! Check here: mentaya.co/b/thompsonlpc Seasoned therapist and life coach with 23 years experience. Clients who work with me report finding relief from anxiety, improved handling of depression, and better management of PTSD. I am the author of "The Infidelity Recovery Workbook for Couples." which has sold over 10,000 copies. Couples who work with me report better communication and improved emotional intimacy.
You might be able to get reimbursed for out-of-network therapy! Check here: mentaya.co/b/thompsonlpc Seasoned therapist and life coach with 23 years experience. Clients who work with me report finding relief from anxiety, improved handling of depression, and better management of PTSD. I am the author of "The Infidelity Recovery Workbook for Couples." which has sold over 10,000 copies. Couples who work with me report better communication and improved emotional intimacy.
(972) 820-9965 View (972) 820-9965
Photo of Mikayla Downs, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mikayla Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Prosper, TX 75078
Within us there can be pockets of hurt, resentment, fear, and grief. These vulnerable parts coexist uneasily with another side — the one determined to keep moving forward. Therapy can act as a bridge, carefully navigating between these opposing sides. By acknowledging these experiences, we can gradually move forward with more clarity and peace. My goal as your therapist is to create a space that is warm, affirming, and compassionate — a place where you can freely explore your authentic self, dive into the root causes of your suffering, and develop insight into what you are truly searching for.
Within us there can be pockets of hurt, resentment, fear, and grief. These vulnerable parts coexist uneasily with another side — the one determined to keep moving forward. Therapy can act as a bridge, carefully navigating between these opposing sides. By acknowledging these experiences, we can gradually move forward with more clarity and peace. My goal as your therapist is to create a space that is warm, affirming, and compassionate — a place where you can freely explore your authentic self, dive into the root causes of your suffering, and develop insight into what you are truly searching for.
(469) 765-3163 View (469) 765-3163
Photo of Marcey Mettica - Prosper Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Prosper Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Welcome to Prosper Counseling - Where the pieces of life come together! We are a group practice meeting the needs of all ages. If you are looking for help for yourself, your child, your teen, your relationship/marriage, or your family, you have come to the right place. Are you struggling to see life more clearly and move in a better direction? Do you wish you had more parenting tools, discipline techniques, or a better relationship with your child? Is your marriage or relationship struggling? Are you feeling anxious, sad, or lonely? Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, or difficulties with peers? We can help.
Welcome to Prosper Counseling - Where the pieces of life come together! We are a group practice meeting the needs of all ages. If you are looking for help for yourself, your child, your teen, your relationship/marriage, or your family, you have come to the right place. Are you struggling to see life more clearly and move in a better direction? Do you wish you had more parenting tools, discipline techniques, or a better relationship with your child? Is your marriage or relationship struggling? Are you feeling anxious, sad, or lonely? Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, or difficulties with peers? We can help.
(214) 206-4374 View (214) 206-4374
Photo of Karina B. Samaniego Estrada, PhD, Psychologist
Karina B. Samaniego Estrada
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Prosper, TX 75078
Intrusive thoughts and memories haunt you due to difficult childhood experiences. Challenges like depression, anxiety, and trust issues are all things you’ve been facing on a constant basis. Forming healthy relationships and maintaining self-worth has felt impossible, leaving you stuck in a cycle of negative thinking. You’re desperate for change, hoping to find emotional stability and peace. You’ve been yearning to heal from your past traumas and longing for a fulfilling and balanced life free from the burdens of your past.
Intrusive thoughts and memories haunt you due to difficult childhood experiences. Challenges like depression, anxiety, and trust issues are all things you’ve been facing on a constant basis. Forming healthy relationships and maintaining self-worth has felt impossible, leaving you stuck in a cycle of negative thinking. You’re desperate for change, hoping to find emotional stability and peace. You’ve been yearning to heal from your past traumas and longing for a fulfilling and balanced life free from the burdens of your past.
(469) 414-1034 View (469) 414-1034
Photo of Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla, DSW, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078  (Online Only)
Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla is an advanced practitioner with a Doctorate degree from the University of Southern California.
Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla is an advanced practitioner with a Doctorate degree from the University of Southern California.
(972) 845-8897 View (972) 845-8897
Photo of Sarah Feuerbacher - Counseling CARE, PhD, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling CARE
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Prosper, TX 75078  (Online Only)
Life is an adventure, but the road can be tough. We have trouble seeing our way through dark clouds to the light. We struggle to put one step forward when the mountain peak seems so high. We need a compass to point us north & a map to guide us to our destination. You are the expert carving your own trail, but my role, goal, & honor is to walk beside you to remind you how far you’ve come, highlight strengths to navigate the path ahead, find resources to lighten your load, empower goals to move from surviving to thriving, & recognize meaning in every moment & joy in the journey, because the best views come after the hardest climb.
Life is an adventure, but the road can be tough. We have trouble seeing our way through dark clouds to the light. We struggle to put one step forward when the mountain peak seems so high. We need a compass to point us north & a map to guide us to our destination. You are the expert carving your own trail, but my role, goal, & honor is to walk beside you to remind you how far you’ve come, highlight strengths to navigate the path ahead, find resources to lighten your load, empower goals to move from surviving to thriving, & recognize meaning in every moment & joy in the journey, because the best views come after the hardest climb.
(972) 787-1221 View (972) 787-1221
Photo of Julia M Wesley, MS, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia M Wesley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
You might be feeling disconnected or stuck in repetitive arguments that never seem to get resolved. Maybe trust has been broken, or you’re struggling to communicate effectively, leaving you both feeling unheard and frustrated. The closeness you once shared may feel distant, replaced by tension or emotional distance. You might be questioning where things went wrong or if your relationship can get back on track. These feelings can be overwhelming, but therapy offers a path to healing and reconnection.
You might be feeling disconnected or stuck in repetitive arguments that never seem to get resolved. Maybe trust has been broken, or you’re struggling to communicate effectively, leaving you both feeling unheard and frustrated. The closeness you once shared may feel distant, replaced by tension or emotional distance. You might be questioning where things went wrong or if your relationship can get back on track. These feelings can be overwhelming, but therapy offers a path to healing and reconnection.
(972) 847-0626 View (972) 847-0626
Photo of Gillian de La Sayette, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gillian de La Sayette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Life can throw difficult challenges our way. Counseling is a positive way to navigate through these challenges by developing the skills and tools necessary to live a more fulfilled life. Specializing in individual and couple counseling, I seek out the strengths that each person brings to the counseling room, helping women and men achieve balance and fulfillment in their lives and relationships.
Life can throw difficult challenges our way. Counseling is a positive way to navigate through these challenges by developing the skills and tools necessary to live a more fulfilled life. Specializing in individual and couple counseling, I seek out the strengths that each person brings to the counseling room, helping women and men achieve balance and fulfillment in their lives and relationships.
(214) 810-4953 View (214) 810-4953
Photo of Hiba Khan, MSW, LMSW, LCDC, CCTP-II, CADC-II
Hiba Khan
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, LCDC, CCTP-II, CADC-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Being a trans, LGBTQIA+, poly-affirming psychotherapist, Hiba is passionate about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients where they can explore themselves and their stories. She also provides culturally competent care for BIPOC communities with a specialization in Muslim, Asian, and Middle Eastern populations. Hiba specializes in working with individuals with substance use disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, DID and other dissociative disorders, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, crisis management, and cultural/identity exploration.
Being a trans, LGBTQIA+, poly-affirming psychotherapist, Hiba is passionate about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients where they can explore themselves and their stories. She also provides culturally competent care for BIPOC communities with a specialization in Muslim, Asian, and Middle Eastern populations. Hiba specializes in working with individuals with substance use disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, DID and other dissociative disorders, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, crisis management, and cultural/identity exploration.
(512) 668-7080 View (512) 668-7080
Photo of Jessica Heinze, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Heinze
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Do you find yourself spiraling with doubt about each decision you make, no matter what you do? Maybe you find yourself relying on others’ opinions to ‘know’ how you feel, what you ‘should’ be doing, or even what your intentions are. You feel things deeply and are easily affected by the emotions of others. You are thinking “There has to be another way”. You’re ready to better understand yourself and have better relationships. Most of all, you’re ready to trust yourself and feel empowered.
Do you find yourself spiraling with doubt about each decision you make, no matter what you do? Maybe you find yourself relying on others’ opinions to ‘know’ how you feel, what you ‘should’ be doing, or even what your intentions are. You feel things deeply and are easily affected by the emotions of others. You are thinking “There has to be another way”. You’re ready to better understand yourself and have better relationships. Most of all, you’re ready to trust yourself and feel empowered.
(214) 613-0527 View (214) 613-0527
Photo of Marcey Mettica, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcey Mettica
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Life can be challenging and difficult at times, but seeking help when you, your child, or your family are struggling is admirable and takes strength, not weakness. Whether you're struggling with a life transition, parenting concerns, or other family issues, we can find solutions and improvements. I have experience working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families in a variety of settings including agencies, family clinics, universities, courts, hospitals, and private practices, providing me with a wealth of experience with numerous issues and ages. I am the founder and owner of Prosper Counseling, PLLC, with 2 locations.
Life can be challenging and difficult at times, but seeking help when you, your child, or your family are struggling is admirable and takes strength, not weakness. Whether you're struggling with a life transition, parenting concerns, or other family issues, we can find solutions and improvements. I have experience working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families in a variety of settings including agencies, family clinics, universities, courts, hospitals, and private practices, providing me with a wealth of experience with numerous issues and ages. I am the founder and owner of Prosper Counseling, PLLC, with 2 locations.
(972) 916-9252 View (972) 916-9252
Photo of Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla, DSW, LCSW, ICF-WC, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, ICF-WC, CCM
Verified Verified
Prosper, TX 75078  (Online Only)
My mission is to create a safe and nurturing space allowing our clients to process their stories, navigate difficult life challenges, and help them transition from a place of trauma to a new place of healing and transformation. I strive to provide counseling and coaching services with passion and purpose to empower clients in making lifelong changes to reach their full potential and optimal wellness of mind, body, and spirit.
My mission is to create a safe and nurturing space allowing our clients to process their stories, navigate difficult life challenges, and help them transition from a place of trauma to a new place of healing and transformation. I strive to provide counseling and coaching services with passion and purpose to empower clients in making lifelong changes to reach their full potential and optimal wellness of mind, body, and spirit.
(972) 521-4097 View (972) 521-4097
1
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.