Sexual Abuse Therapists in Utah County, UT

Photo of Carla Catmull, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla Catmull
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Utah Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of clinical experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in trauma, and helping with the lasting symptoms caused by trauma. Ie- addiction, mental health, eating disorders, poor coping skills, toxic relationships, poor boundaries, and much more. I have experience with childhood sexual abuse survivors and was the clinical manager at the Saprea retreat. You can look up the retreat at saprea.org for more information.
I am a Utah Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of clinical experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in trauma, and helping with the lasting symptoms caused by trauma. Ie- addiction, mental health, eating disorders, poor coping skills, toxic relationships, poor boundaries, and much more. I have experience with childhood sexual abuse survivors and was the clinical manager at the Saprea retreat. You can look up the retreat at saprea.org for more information.
(385) 404-6334 View (385) 404-6334
Photo of Jennifer Howard, MS, CMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Howard
Counselor, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
I have seen remarkable success in working with these issues and others: Substance abuse including alcoholism and prescription drug addiction, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, Adult Children of Alcoholics, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, rape, military trauma, family and marital issues, religious issues, and more.
Whatever life challenges you may be facing, a crucial step toward resolution and healing is to find a compassionate, listening ear, and a safe place where you can be yourself. Whether you are searching for healing for yourself or a loved one, I can help. I value and respect diversity. I believe each person has the power to heal his or her life. I care about what you are going through and I want to hear your story.
I have seen remarkable success in working with these issues and others: Substance abuse including alcoholism and prescription drug addiction, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, Adult Children of Alcoholics, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, rape, military trauma, family and marital issues, religious issues, and more.
Whatever life challenges you may be facing, a crucial step toward resolution and healing is to find a compassionate, listening ear, and a safe place where you can be yourself. Whether you are searching for healing for yourself or a loved one, I can help. I value and respect diversity. I believe each person has the power to heal his or her life. I care about what you are going through and I want to hear your story.
(801) 948-3855 View (801) 948-3855
Photo of Bonnie Hatch - Timpanogos Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Timpanogos Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
My areas of expertise include: trauma recovery, relationship difficulties, depression/anxiety, sexual assault/abuse, self-esteem, adults abused as children, and victims of domestic violence.
Through personal and professional experience, I have developed a passion for the therapeutic process and the healing power that it holds. I believe that every individual's experience is unique to him/her. I offer clients a safe, non-judgmental environment, as a clinician who will listen and honor their experiences.
My areas of expertise include: trauma recovery, relationship difficulties, depression/anxiety, sexual assault/abuse, self-esteem, adults abused as children, and victims of domestic violence.
Through personal and professional experience, I have developed a passion for the therapeutic process and the healing power that it holds. I believe that every individual's experience is unique to him/her. I offer clients a safe, non-judgmental environment, as a clinician who will listen and honor their experiences.
(801) 921-4597 View (801) 921-4597
Photo of Jacqueline R Howden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline R Howden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alpine, UT 84004
I use mindfulness-based therapy methods and have training to help adults who have experienced recent trauma as well as childhood trauma especially sexual abuse; also, current issues with self-harm, dissociation, obsessive and suicidal thoughts. Education is part of the process of change and I hope to give you materials and information to help you through the healing process. I look forward to sharing many helpful tools to help with anxiety and depression, regulate emotions, and increase awareness in order to find a healthy balance and improve well-being.
I use mindfulness-based therapy methods and have training to help adults who have experienced recent trauma as well as childhood trauma especially sexual abuse; also, current issues with self-harm, dissociation, obsessive and suicidal thoughts. Education is part of the process of change and I hope to give you materials and information to help you through the healing process. I look forward to sharing many helpful tools to help with anxiety and depression, regulate emotions, and increase awareness in order to find a healthy balance and improve well-being.
(801) 980-1977 View (801) 980-1977
Photo of Shahar Lawrence, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shahar Lawrence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, UT 84003  (Online Only)
Healing from trauma is not easy. I don't believe sugarcoating how difficult this process may be, is beneficial to anyone. But you don't have to go through it alone. I have been working with survivors of trauma for the last 6 years. I've specialized in working with survivors of sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, intimate partner violence and abuse. I know picking the right therapist for this process may be difficult, so I encourage having a free phone consultation with me, to see if it feels like a good fit! I'm excited that you've begun this process of healing, and look forward to playing a role in your healing journey.
Healing from trauma is not easy. I don't believe sugarcoating how difficult this process may be, is beneficial to anyone. But you don't have to go through it alone. I have been working with survivors of trauma for the last 6 years. I've specialized in working with survivors of sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, intimate partner violence and abuse. I know picking the right therapist for this process may be difficult, so I encourage having a free phone consultation with me, to see if it feels like a good fit! I'm excited that you've begun this process of healing, and look forward to playing a role in your healing journey.
(385) 247-8287 View (385) 247-8287
Photo of Brynn Peterson, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brynn Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
I have experience working in crisis situations, with PTSD, ASD, survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
Hello, I'm Brynn, and I'm so happy you found me. I know you may feel like you’re ready to commit to giving therapy a try. But perhaps there is some fear as well. Maybe you’ve had a bad experience with therapy in the past. Or maybe you were raised to think negatively about seeking mental health help. I would love the opportunity to get to know you and make you feel heard. My goal is to help those I work with feel empowered and hopeful. To do that we may use EMDR, and other ways to help connect those parts of you that may feel disconnected. So let’s talk through some of the things you’ve been feeling and come up with a plan together.
I have experience working in crisis situations, with PTSD, ASD, survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
Hello, I'm Brynn, and I'm so happy you found me. I know you may feel like you’re ready to commit to giving therapy a try. But perhaps there is some fear as well. Maybe you’ve had a bad experience with therapy in the past. Or maybe you were raised to think negatively about seeking mental health help. I would love the opportunity to get to know you and make you feel heard. My goal is to help those I work with feel empowered and hopeful. To do that we may use EMDR, and other ways to help connect those parts of you that may feel disconnected. So let’s talk through some of the things you’ve been feeling and come up with a plan together.
(385) 417-6716 View (385) 417-6716
Photo of Carol Lundwall, MS, CMHC, Counselor
Carol Lundwall
Counselor, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults and those who have experienced any type of trauma. I have worked extensively with individuals and families who are healing from the impact of sexual abuse. I see the resilience of families every day and help them navigate the healing process. I have experience treating suicidal ideation, self-harm, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, adjustment issues, transition to adulthood and grief/loss.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults and those who have experienced any type of trauma. I have worked extensively with individuals and families who are healing from the impact of sexual abuse. I see the resilience of families every day and help them navigate the healing process. I have experience treating suicidal ideation, self-harm, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, adjustment issues, transition to adulthood and grief/loss.
(385) 336-0107 View (385) 336-0107
Photo of Shaylee Thompson, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shaylee Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I specialize in addressing concerns like sexual assault, perfectionism, body image, disordered eating, domestic violence, sports performance, relationships, parenting, and faith exploration.
Hi, I'm Shaylee and I absolutely love my role as a therapist! I believe finding a therapist you vibe with is essential for healing. During session, I offer a compassionate, and solution-focused approach for individuals who have experienced trauma/complex trauma. I’m an active participant in your journey, offering insight, feedback, and direction. While I may pose challenging questions, we'll always progress at your pace. We will work together to navigate your life, connecting the dots and exploring your inner workings. I'm passionately dedicated to providing a safe sanctuary for self-discovery.
I specialize in addressing concerns like sexual assault, perfectionism, body image, disordered eating, domestic violence, sports performance, relationships, parenting, and faith exploration.
Hi, I'm Shaylee and I absolutely love my role as a therapist! I believe finding a therapist you vibe with is essential for healing. During session, I offer a compassionate, and solution-focused approach for individuals who have experienced trauma/complex trauma. I’m an active participant in your journey, offering insight, feedback, and direction. While I may pose challenging questions, we'll always progress at your pace. We will work together to navigate your life, connecting the dots and exploring your inner workings. I'm passionately dedicated to providing a safe sanctuary for self-discovery.
(385) 284-0768 View (385) 284-0768
Photo of Katie McCurdy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie McCurdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting, step-families, sexual abuse, or other past traumas their is help through the therapeutic process.
Life can be full of unexpected challenges. Navigating those challenges alone can be overwhelming and sometimes debilitating. However, there is a way to find happiness and hope again. Through the therapy process you’ll discover the pathways that lead you to a life you can enjoy. I am trained in a variety of research based therapeutic models to best meet each individuals needs. I enjoy learning and integrating a variety of methods into treatment. Previous clients have described me as empathetic, genuine, invested, and goal oriented.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting, step-families, sexual abuse, or other past traumas their is help through the therapeutic process.
Life can be full of unexpected challenges. Navigating those challenges alone can be overwhelming and sometimes debilitating. However, there is a way to find happiness and hope again. Through the therapy process you’ll discover the pathways that lead you to a life you can enjoy. I am trained in a variety of research based therapeutic models to best meet each individuals needs. I enjoy learning and integrating a variety of methods into treatment. Previous clients have described me as empathetic, genuine, invested, and goal oriented.
(435) 254-4841 View (435) 254-4841
Photo of Michael Ruoho, LSCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Ruoho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCW
Verified Verified
Lindon, UT 84042
I have been working as a mental health therapist for 35 years. I specialize in substance abuse, sexual addiction, pornography addiction, partner betrayal, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, complex trauma, shame and sexual abuse/trauma. I am certified in EMDR, I am a certified sex and trauma therapist and certified in multiple addictions.
I have been working as a mental health therapist for 35 years. I specialize in substance abuse, sexual addiction, pornography addiction, partner betrayal, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, complex trauma, shame and sexual abuse/trauma. I am certified in EMDR, I am a certified sex and trauma therapist and certified in multiple addictions.
(385) 244-4545 View (385) 244-4545
Photo of Maggie Webb, ACMHC, Counselor
Maggie Webb
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
I am passionate about working with trauma, anxiety/depression, sexual abuse, bullying issues with children, relationship issues including sexual, OCD, LGBT+ community including Polyamory, ENM/open relationships, faith crisis/transitions, self esteem/confidence issues.
I believe there is a space for everyone in therapy. No matter what challenge you are facing, you have a place in counseling. I am a supporter of awareness, acceptance, and different perceptions. There is much power in those tools and understanding them. Bring who you are to therapy, and I will help in every way possible to get you to a place of healing, self-love, and the discovery of the power of mental health. There is something to be said about struggle and what it does to a person, what it makes a person. With the correct tools, struggle does not have to define you.
I am passionate about working with trauma, anxiety/depression, sexual abuse, bullying issues with children, relationship issues including sexual, OCD, LGBT+ community including Polyamory, ENM/open relationships, faith crisis/transitions, self esteem/confidence issues.
I believe there is a space for everyone in therapy. No matter what challenge you are facing, you have a place in counseling. I am a supporter of awareness, acceptance, and different perceptions. There is much power in those tools and understanding them. Bring who you are to therapy, and I will help in every way possible to get you to a place of healing, self-love, and the discovery of the power of mental health. There is something to be said about struggle and what it does to a person, what it makes a person. With the correct tools, struggle does not have to define you.
(385) 376-1787 View (385) 376-1787
Photo of Nancy L Belliston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy L Belliston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84058
I see clients with a variety of issues including - Women's issues, Domestic Violence, Grieving, Infertility, Couple's/marriage issues, Pre marriage counseling, Adoption issues, Anxiety/ Depression, PTSD, Sexual Abuse/Rape, Child Abuse, Trauma, Divorce Issues, Self-esteem, Single parent issues, Phobia, Encopresis/Enuresis, OCD, Co dependence and Insomnia.
Having challenges can be difficult, seeking therapy shouldn't be. Therapy is about personal growth, trials you may be going through, and giving you the tools you need to help you get through those trials. I can guide you through the process of discovering your inner strengths, and together we can expand your options so that you can make the best possible decisions. We are not here to just talk but to help you learn how to cope during that moment and all the other moments for the rest of your life. Deseret Counseling is an outpatient therapy for adults, teenagers, children and families.
I see clients with a variety of issues including - Women's issues, Domestic Violence, Grieving, Infertility, Couple's/marriage issues, Pre marriage counseling, Adoption issues, Anxiety/ Depression, PTSD, Sexual Abuse/Rape, Child Abuse, Trauma, Divorce Issues, Self-esteem, Single parent issues, Phobia, Encopresis/Enuresis, OCD, Co dependence and Insomnia.
Having challenges can be difficult, seeking therapy shouldn't be. Therapy is about personal growth, trials you may be going through, and giving you the tools you need to help you get through those trials. I can guide you through the process of discovering your inner strengths, and together we can expand your options so that you can make the best possible decisions. We are not here to just talk but to help you learn how to cope during that moment and all the other moments for the rest of your life. Deseret Counseling is an outpatient therapy for adults, teenagers, children and families.
(801) 335-5498 View (801) 335-5498
Photo of Christine Horne, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Christine Horne
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604  (Online Only)
Sometimes one becomes stuck in destructive cycles or unhealthy patterns learned in childhood. Maybe it was neglect, abuse, or a chaotic environment due to a parent figure so wrapped up in their own trauma, they were unable to be there for you. Or maybe a more recent trauma (an accident, sexual assault, military experiences, etc.) is bothering you. And no matter how hard you try to numb and suppress the past, it has a way of dictating your present behaviors and affecting the way you feel about yourself and function in relationships today.
Sometimes one becomes stuck in destructive cycles or unhealthy patterns learned in childhood. Maybe it was neglect, abuse, or a chaotic environment due to a parent figure so wrapped up in their own trauma, they were unable to be there for you. Or maybe a more recent trauma (an accident, sexual assault, military experiences, etc.) is bothering you. And no matter how hard you try to numb and suppress the past, it has a way of dictating your present behaviors and affecting the way you feel about yourself and function in relationships today.
(385) 707-0550 View (385) 707-0550
Photo of Meadowbrook Counseling - Meadowbrook Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meadowbrook Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Therapists use EMDR therapy to address a wide range of challenges: anxiety, panic attacks, chronic Illness, bipolar disorders, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, grief and loss, pain, personality disorders, PTSD and other trauma, sexual assault, sleep disturbance, and substance abuse.
Meadowbrook Counseling welcomes families of all abilities, ages, gender identity, immigration status, race, religion, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. We strive to help you improve mental health and strengthen family relationships by providing competent and compassionate counseling services to individuals, couples and families. Everyone has a unique history and set of problems. We will help you navigate the challenges you face and heal your trauma.
Therapists use EMDR therapy to address a wide range of challenges: anxiety, panic attacks, chronic Illness, bipolar disorders, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, grief and loss, pain, personality disorders, PTSD and other trauma, sexual assault, sleep disturbance, and substance abuse.
Meadowbrook Counseling welcomes families of all abilities, ages, gender identity, immigration status, race, religion, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. We strive to help you improve mental health and strengthen family relationships by providing competent and compassionate counseling services to individuals, couples and families. Everyone has a unique history and set of problems. We will help you navigate the challenges you face and heal your trauma.
(385) 279-5159 View (385) 279-5159
Photo of Joy Johnson - Premiere Counseling Services, LLC, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Premiere Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062  (Online Only)
Some of the issues I see most frequently are the following: anxiety, sex addiction, domestic violence, sexual assault/rape/sex trafficking survivor, PTSD/cPTSD, personality and mood disorders, self-esteem and self harm, suicide and depression, grief, loss and abandonment, anger management, & faith crisis, among other types of life issues.
People tend to come to therapy when they realize their symptoms are overwhelming & interfering in their lives. Panic attacks, trauma responses including Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures/ conversion disorders, migraine headaches, fatigue, feeling disconnected/missing time, to name a few. It can be frightening & you might feel alone, misunderstood & even powerless to solve it. I can help you understand what is happening, how to heal & be empowered as you learn evidenced-based coping skills that we design to treat your situation. You are not broken, you're having a normal reaction to abnormal events that happened to you. Call today!
Some of the issues I see most frequently are the following: anxiety, sex addiction, domestic violence, sexual assault/rape/sex trafficking survivor, PTSD/cPTSD, personality and mood disorders, self-esteem and self harm, suicide and depression, grief, loss and abandonment, anger management, & faith crisis, among other types of life issues.
People tend to come to therapy when they realize their symptoms are overwhelming & interfering in their lives. Panic attacks, trauma responses including Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures/ conversion disorders, migraine headaches, fatigue, feeling disconnected/missing time, to name a few. It can be frightening & you might feel alone, misunderstood & even powerless to solve it. I can help you understand what is happening, how to heal & be empowered as you learn evidenced-based coping skills that we design to treat your situation. You are not broken, you're having a normal reaction to abnormal events that happened to you. Call today!
(385) 438-8034 View (385) 438-8034
Photo of Caitlin Bailey, CSW
Caitlin Bailey
Licensed Social Worker, CSW
Verified Verified
Lindon, UT 84042
Hello, I am Caitlin! I love working with individuals across the lifespan, families, adolescents, and youth, ages 5+. I am bilingual allowing for sessions in Spanish and English. I have had extensive training and experience in working with adolescents. I previously worked at three different residential treatment centers for teens 12-18 who struggled with displacement, family issues, sexual abuse trauma, emotional disorders and substance use disorders.
Hello, I am Caitlin! I love working with individuals across the lifespan, families, adolescents, and youth, ages 5+. I am bilingual allowing for sessions in Spanish and English. I have had extensive training and experience in working with adolescents. I previously worked at three different residential treatment centers for teens 12-18 who struggled with displacement, family issues, sexual abuse trauma, emotional disorders and substance use disorders.
(385) 376-2550 View (385) 376-2550
Photo of Kathy Anderson, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kathy Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindon, UT 84042
I am an attachment-based therapist specializing in PTSD and complex trauma, particularly from various forms of abuse including childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and dissociative disorders. I also work with anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, OCD, ADHD, teen issues and parent-child relational issues.
I am an attachment-based therapist specializing in PTSD and complex trauma, particularly from various forms of abuse including childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and dissociative disorders. I also work with anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, OCD, ADHD, teen issues and parent-child relational issues.
(385) 462-6069 View (385) 462-6069
Photo of Rachel Parson Stanley, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rachel Parson Stanley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604
Hi, I'm Rachel, I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT). I am here to help you and your partner navigate the challenges of life without judgement. I have helped clients with anxiety, sexual assault history, OCD, eating disorders/body image concerns, marial issues, family-of-origin issues, cultural diversity, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Hi, I'm Rachel, I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT). I am here to help you and your partner navigate the challenges of life without judgement. I have helped clients with anxiety, sexual assault history, OCD, eating disorders/body image concerns, marial issues, family-of-origin issues, cultural diversity, and LGBTQ+ issues.
(385) 355-7558 View (385) 355-7558
Photo of Rachel Ellingson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Ellingson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springville, UT 84663  (Online Only)
Over the years, I have supported survivors of trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence and human trafficking in healing, safety planning, resourcing and trauma processing.
Have you been feeling stuck? Maybe the past keeps coming to the present and messing with your life goals, daily activities or the people that matter most. You don't have to keep struggling against the emotions or the endless numbness. I want to hear your story and provide tools and skills to help you lift yourself out of the muck. I am honored by your consideration to work with me and my deepest desire is to facilitate healing, growth and hope. And maybe you can feel like yourself again!
Over the years, I have supported survivors of trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence and human trafficking in healing, safety planning, resourcing and trauma processing.
Have you been feeling stuck? Maybe the past keeps coming to the present and messing with your life goals, daily activities or the people that matter most. You don't have to keep struggling against the emotions or the endless numbness. I want to hear your story and provide tools and skills to help you lift yourself out of the muck. I am honored by your consideration to work with me and my deepest desire is to facilitate healing, growth and hope. And maybe you can feel like yourself again!
(385) 350-8623 View (385) 350-8623
Photo of Deborah Christensen - Corner Canyon Counseling & Psychological Services, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corner Canyon Counseling & Psychological Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
Our therapists specialize in: depression, anxiety, ADHS, eating disorders, relationship problems, trauma resulting from sexual abuse, rape, childhood emotional or physical abuse, bipolar, faith transitions, and selective mutism.
Appointments are available same week either in-person or telehealth! We know that it takes great courage to seek help for your problems. We seek to respect your courage to heal by providing quality therapy in a safe, warm, and comfortable setting.
Our therapists specialize in: depression, anxiety, ADHS, eating disorders, relationship problems, trauma resulting from sexual abuse, rape, childhood emotional or physical abuse, bipolar, faith transitions, and selective mutism.
Appointments are available same week either in-person or telehealth! We know that it takes great courage to seek help for your problems. We seek to respect your courage to heal by providing quality therapy in a safe, warm, and comfortable setting.
(801) 335-6349 View (801) 335-6349
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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.