Sexual Abuse Therapists in Bedford, VA

Photo of Shannon Soto, MA, LPC-R
Shannon Soto
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Bedford, VA 24523
I am an outpatient therapist in private practice taking new clients at this time. I specialize in working with survivors, women and people who are learning to know their voice, their thoughts, their emotions as life enhancers, and discovering what they need to flourish. I aim to offer clients space to process emotions in a safe place and to come to know themselves and their needs for improved self-efficacy and empowerment.
I am an outpatient therapist in private practice taking new clients at this time. I specialize in working with survivors, women and people who are learning to know their voice, their thoughts, their emotions as life enhancers, and discovering what they need to flourish. I aim to offer clients space to process emotions in a safe place and to come to know themselves and their needs for improved self-efficacy and empowerment.
(434) 505-8433 View (434) 505-8433
Photo of Heather H Massey, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather H Massey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Bedford, VA 24523
To put it bluntly, I am here for you. I want to hear about what is hurting you and stopping you from moving forward in a happy and positive way in your life. I want your input on what the problem is and what plan will work with you personally. We will gather all our information and decide on a plan of action to get you back to where you want to be as quickly as possible and develop a way to keep you there.
To put it bluntly, I am here for you. I want to hear about what is hurting you and stopping you from moving forward in a happy and positive way in your life. I want your input on what the problem is and what plan will work with you personally. We will gather all our information and decide on a plan of action to get you back to where you want to be as quickly as possible and develop a way to keep you there.
(540) 425-4565 View (540) 425-4565
Photo of Marsha Divers-Wiggs, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marsha Divers-Wiggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, VA 24523
I feel clients grow through challenges best in a non-judgmental, nurturing atmosphere. This quote is so true: "To the world you may be one person, but to one person, you may be the world." You matter. Your feelings matter. If you feel you need someone to talk to, don't hesitate to call me...
I feel clients grow through challenges best in a non-judgmental, nurturing atmosphere. This quote is so true: "To the world you may be one person, but to one person, you may be the world." You matter. Your feelings matter. If you feel you need someone to talk to, don't hesitate to call me...
(434) 738-2101 View (434) 738-2101
Photo of Mandy Jensen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Jensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, VA 24523
Mandy is a licensed professional counselor in the Commonwealth of Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. She has completed her Bachelors degree in Psychology, along with her Master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. She has had the honor with working with a variety of populations including children, adolescents, adults and couples for over the past five years. Mandy has experience working with different mental and behavioral needs such as trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce, aggression and others. Mandy utilizes a variety of clinical approaches in her practice. Each
Mandy is a licensed professional counselor in the Commonwealth of Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. She has completed her Bachelors degree in Psychology, along with her Master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. She has had the honor with working with a variety of populations including children, adolescents, adults and couples for over the past five years. Mandy has experience working with different mental and behavioral needs such as trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce, aggression and others. Mandy utilizes a variety of clinical approaches in her practice. Each
(434) 406-4951 View (434) 406-4951
Photo of Jon Winder, LPC, LSATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jon Winder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Bedford, VA 24523
The two most important factors in effective psychotherapy are finding the right person with whom you can connect and knowing that the therapy is geared to your unique needs. My 45 years of counseling have taught me therapy is most effective when we work together. Therapy is a cooperative effort. I want to identify your strengths and apply them to your problems. If you have a history of trauma, I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective way to treat trauma and am excited to offer this therapy.
The two most important factors in effective psychotherapy are finding the right person with whom you can connect and knowing that the therapy is geared to your unique needs. My 45 years of counseling have taught me therapy is most effective when we work together. Therapy is a cooperative effort. I want to identify your strengths and apply them to your problems. If you have a history of trauma, I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective way to treat trauma and am excited to offer this therapy.
(434) 201-4388 View (434) 201-4388
Photo of Ted Campbell, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ted Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, VA 24523
Not accepting new clients
I help clients sufferring from Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Agoraphobia, Emotional Disturbance, Bipolar, PTSD, Anger and all types of Personality Disorders and Eating Disorders. I treat Co-occurring Disorders and have extensive training in Substance Abuse. I trained with Marsha Linehan in Seattle Washington's Intensive DBT Training and specialize in working with Borderline Personility Disorders. I help individuals regulate their emotions and decrease their emotional sufferring by learning new coping skills in order to build a life worth living. I have had excellent results in reducing self harm, suicide ideations and other emotional disturbances of the clients I serve.
I help clients sufferring from Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Agoraphobia, Emotional Disturbance, Bipolar, PTSD, Anger and all types of Personality Disorders and Eating Disorders. I treat Co-occurring Disorders and have extensive training in Substance Abuse. I trained with Marsha Linehan in Seattle Washington's Intensive DBT Training and specialize in working with Borderline Personility Disorders. I help individuals regulate their emotions and decrease their emotional sufferring by learning new coping skills in order to build a life worth living. I have had excellent results in reducing self harm, suicide ideations and other emotional disturbances of the clients I serve.
(434) 480-3987 View (434) 480-3987
Photo of Karly VanHorn, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karly VanHorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, VA 24523
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, teens, young adults and families struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues, mood disorders, daily life stressors, self-esteem, identity development and self-concept issues. Additionally, enjoy working with at-risk youth and children and adolescents in foster care.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, teens, young adults and families struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues, mood disorders, daily life stressors, self-esteem, identity development and self-concept issues. Additionally, enjoy working with at-risk youth and children and adolescents in foster care.
(434) 278-6107 View (434) 278-6107

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Edica Gonzalez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Edica Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thaxton, VA 24174
My name is Edica Gonzalez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach is client-centered; together, we determine the best intervention to support this journey. I treat a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, anger, self-esteem, and familial/relationship issues. I currently work with active duty military personnel, adults, and adolescents 16+. I am comfortable with treating clients with PTSD, complex trauma, relational issues, depression, anxiety, phobias, domestic violence/sexual assault survivors, anger, and self-esteem issues.
My name is Edica Gonzalez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach is client-centered; together, we determine the best intervention to support this journey. I treat a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, anger, self-esteem, and familial/relationship issues. I currently work with active duty military personnel, adults, and adolescents 16+. I am comfortable with treating clients with PTSD, complex trauma, relational issues, depression, anxiety, phobias, domestic violence/sexual assault survivors, anger, and self-esteem issues.
(804) 626-5488 View (804) 626-5488

Online Therapists

Photo of Cynthia Starnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Starnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmyra, VA 22963  (Online Only)
I have over 17 years of experience supporting clients who suffer from trauma-related disorders, including intimate partner violence, childhood abuse/sexual abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and loss and grief issues. As a former EMT, I have a unique perspective and training for working with EMS/First Responders as well. We will work together as partners in your treatment, developing a plan to process your trauma and move from the role of victim to that of a strong and successful survivor. I offer online sessions via a HIPAA compliant, secure, easy to use platform with easy online scheduling.
I have over 17 years of experience supporting clients who suffer from trauma-related disorders, including intimate partner violence, childhood abuse/sexual abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and loss and grief issues. As a former EMT, I have a unique perspective and training for working with EMS/First Responders as well. We will work together as partners in your treatment, developing a plan to process your trauma and move from the role of victim to that of a strong and successful survivor. I offer online sessions via a HIPAA compliant, secure, easy to use platform with easy online scheduling.
(434) 264-5326 View (434) 264-5326
Photo of Megan White, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan White
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Life can deal out a variety of circumstances that we have to learn how to navigate, but you don’t have to do that alone. We can walk through those complex situations together in a way where you feel comfortable and supported. I am passionate about racial, cultural, and sexual orientation diversity as well as church/religion related trauma. Your counseling journey with me will be LBGTQ+ affirming. I have experience working with individuals concerning depression, anxiety, stress management, work life balance, sexual abuse, and coping with life transition.
Life can deal out a variety of circumstances that we have to learn how to navigate, but you don’t have to do that alone. We can walk through those complex situations together in a way where you feel comfortable and supported. I am passionate about racial, cultural, and sexual orientation diversity as well as church/religion related trauma. Your counseling journey with me will be LBGTQ+ affirming. I have experience working with individuals concerning depression, anxiety, stress management, work life balance, sexual abuse, and coping with life transition.
(540) 516-4542 View (540) 516-4542
Photo of Andrea Dilley-Frame, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Dilley-Frame
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Andrea Dilley-Frame is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SSAC-C) and a former Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (RC-C). She has over 17 years of experience working with adult clients who are dealing with the effects of grief, Life transitional issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, family conflict, and more. Andrea obtained a Master’s of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, VA.
Andrea Dilley-Frame is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SSAC-C) and a former Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (RC-C). She has over 17 years of experience working with adult clients who are dealing with the effects of grief, Life transitional issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, family conflict, and more. Andrea obtained a Master’s of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, VA.
(434) 597-3757 View (434) 597-3757
Photo of Dawn Lanaville, PhD, Psychologist
Dawn Lanaville
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I specialize in Intimate Partner Violence/Coercive Control cases, child physical/sexual abuse, trauma, testimony, and assessments. I have lived and survived some of your experiences and understand your fear and your needs to protect you and your children from your perpetrator. I know the many obstacles you face. Your case needs early intervention with knowledge, real-life statistics, and current serious issues in family courts. You make decisions every hour of every day. My testimony informs courts on Intimate Partner Violence/Coercive Control, ACEs for children and victims. We will shift the spotlight from you to your perpetrator.
I specialize in Intimate Partner Violence/Coercive Control cases, child physical/sexual abuse, trauma, testimony, and assessments. I have lived and survived some of your experiences and understand your fear and your needs to protect you and your children from your perpetrator. I know the many obstacles you face. Your case needs early intervention with knowledge, real-life statistics, and current serious issues in family courts. You make decisions every hour of every day. My testimony informs courts on Intimate Partner Violence/Coercive Control, ACEs for children and victims. We will shift the spotlight from you to your perpetrator.
(540) 730-1921 x1 View (540) 730-1921 x1
Photo of Robert Anderson - Anderson Counseling Services , LPC, LPC-R, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anderson Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-R, QMHP
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Treatment focuses include: Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Parenting Concerns, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Struggles, Racial Trauma, Stress Management, Struggles with Emotional Regulation, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Life Coaching, Divorce, Life Transitions, LGBTQ Concerns, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Trauma.
Anderson Counseling is committed to providing high quality community mental health support and therapy. Our strength-based clinical approach helps individuals and families achieve their full potential by using interventions that address trauma, promote resilience, worth, and dignity, in a safe and caring environment. We adhere to the professional values of the American Counseling Association which strives to honor diversity, embrace a multicultural approach, and support the uniqueness of all people within their social and cultural context. We also provide community based mental health to individuals & families with Medicaid.
Treatment focuses include: Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Parenting Concerns, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Struggles, Racial Trauma, Stress Management, Struggles with Emotional Regulation, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Life Coaching, Divorce, Life Transitions, LGBTQ Concerns, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Trauma.
Anderson Counseling is committed to providing high quality community mental health support and therapy. Our strength-based clinical approach helps individuals and families achieve their full potential by using interventions that address trauma, promote resilience, worth, and dignity, in a safe and caring environment. We adhere to the professional values of the American Counseling Association which strives to honor diversity, embrace a multicultural approach, and support the uniqueness of all people within their social and cultural context. We also provide community based mental health to individuals & families with Medicaid.
(434) 201-3922 View (434) 201-3922
Photo of Sunday Rae Towles, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sunday Rae Towles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, S
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Waitlist for new clients
I volunteered with SARP (Sexual Assault Response Program), trained in direct care for trauma victims through Livingwell Spring Institute in Atlanta.
My experiences ranges from working with married couples, single adults, and adolescents. My particular training has focused on women who have experienced sexual trauma, with adjacent issues of depression, body image, self worth, and healthy relationships.
I volunteered with SARP (Sexual Assault Response Program), trained in direct care for trauma victims through Livingwell Spring Institute in Atlanta.
My experiences ranges from working with married couples, single adults, and adolescents. My particular training has focused on women who have experienced sexual trauma, with adjacent issues of depression, body image, self worth, and healthy relationships.
(434) 595-3752 View (434) 595-3752
Photo of Lisa C Westmoreland - Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; grief and loss; self-esteem; chronic pain and stress management.
Counseling and Clinical Supervision: Would you like to improve your overall life satisfaction? Counseling helps people to improve their overall life satisfaction by supporting them in making changes. These changes can improve mood, sleep, relationships, work productivity, physical health and more according to your individual goals. I work with people 18 years old and up to support them in effectively making positive changes in their lives. My focus is on developing a trust-based relationship with clients to support them in reaching their goals that improve their overall life satisfaction and wellbeing.
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; grief and loss; self-esteem; chronic pain and stress management.
Counseling and Clinical Supervision: Would you like to improve your overall life satisfaction? Counseling helps people to improve their overall life satisfaction by supporting them in making changes. These changes can improve mood, sleep, relationships, work productivity, physical health and more according to your individual goals. I work with people 18 years old and up to support them in effectively making positive changes in their lives. My focus is on developing a trust-based relationship with clients to support them in reaching their goals that improve their overall life satisfaction and wellbeing.
(540) 709-7530 View (540) 709-7530
Photo of April Annette Cordell - Allied Transformations LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allied Transformations LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980
This is a safe, judgment free, environment. We offer counseling to those ready to take the next step in self discovery and fulfillment. We look at therapy as guidance to those that are or have struggled with life’s journey. This could be due to a difficult childhood, abuse, assault, grief, extreme disappointment, or just too many responsibilities. We are ready to meet you where you are on life’s journey, as you are. That includes in person or telehealth therapy. If you are ready to walk with us, schedule an appointment today!
This is a safe, judgment free, environment. We offer counseling to those ready to take the next step in self discovery and fulfillment. We look at therapy as guidance to those that are or have struggled with life’s journey. This could be due to a difficult childhood, abuse, assault, grief, extreme disappointment, or just too many responsibilities. We are ready to meet you where you are on life’s journey, as you are. That includes in person or telehealth therapy. If you are ready to walk with us, schedule an appointment today!
(540) 609-2570 View (540) 609-2570
Photo of Selina Kelly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Selina Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
It is designed to reduce negative emotional and behavioral responses following child sexual abuse, domestic violence, traumatic loss, and other traumatic events.
My therapeutic approach is strengths based and tailored for each client, situation, and goal to find what works best for that individual. I believe you are the expert in your life and embrace a person-centered philosophy to best meet my client's needs. I have experience providing therapy in outpatient, school based, and in-home settings working with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, personality disorders, dual diagnosis, anger management, substance use and abuse, parenting issues, and more. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and further certified to provide Trauma Focused CBT in the state of VA.
It is designed to reduce negative emotional and behavioral responses following child sexual abuse, domestic violence, traumatic loss, and other traumatic events.
My therapeutic approach is strengths based and tailored for each client, situation, and goal to find what works best for that individual. I believe you are the expert in your life and embrace a person-centered philosophy to best meet my client's needs. I have experience providing therapy in outpatient, school based, and in-home settings working with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, personality disorders, dual diagnosis, anger management, substance use and abuse, parenting issues, and more. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and further certified to provide Trauma Focused CBT in the state of VA.
(540) 779-8826 View (540) 779-8826
Photo of Hannah Pocock, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Pocock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, and specialize in working with women and teens dealing with the impact of sexual assault, childhood abuse, or other trauma. Other areas of clinical interest include relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, and identity questions. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that allows us to be deeply seen and heard, and to see ourselves in new and transformative ways. It can build self-esteem and strengthen our sense of who we are and how we fit into the world. As we understand ourselves more fully, relationships with others become richer and more fulfilling. Therapy can strengthen our ability to adapt and adjust to the changing circumstances of our lives, freeing us up to respond more flexibly to the world around us and to experience a more enlivened way of being. For trauma survivors who experience overwhelming waves of shame and fear, a lurking sense of unease, or confusing physical sensations, therapy can help calm the mind and the nervous system, allowing you to move from reliving the past to feeling grounded, present, and whole in mind and body.
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, and specialize in working with women and teens dealing with the impact of sexual assault, childhood abuse, or other trauma. Other areas of clinical interest include relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, and identity questions. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that allows us to be deeply seen and heard, and to see ourselves in new and transformative ways. It can build self-esteem and strengthen our sense of who we are and how we fit into the world. As we understand ourselves more fully, relationships with others become richer and more fulfilling. Therapy can strengthen our ability to adapt and adjust to the changing circumstances of our lives, freeing us up to respond more flexibly to the world around us and to experience a more enlivened way of being. For trauma survivors who experience overwhelming waves of shame and fear, a lurking sense of unease, or confusing physical sensations, therapy can help calm the mind and the nervous system, allowing you to move from reliving the past to feeling grounded, present, and whole in mind and body.
(434) 248-3836 View (434) 248-3836
Photo of Lisa Columbo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Columbo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staunton, VA 24401  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of working with foster, adoption, kinship, and birth families, I have special knowledge about child development, effects of trauma, separation and loss, sexual abuse, and more.
Things seem to have gone a bit haywire these last few years. Most of us who had been getting along well enough may find ourselves or our children struggling more lately. We don't have to wait for the world to change in order to feel better or to help our children. Let's work together toward managing your mind, body, soul, and relationships harmoniously.
With over 30 years of working with foster, adoption, kinship, and birth families, I have special knowledge about child development, effects of trauma, separation and loss, sexual abuse, and more.
Things seem to have gone a bit haywire these last few years. Most of us who had been getting along well enough may find ourselves or our children struggling more lately. We don't have to wait for the world to change in order to feel better or to help our children. Let's work together toward managing your mind, body, soul, and relationships harmoniously.
(540) 405-8877 View (540) 405-8877
Photo of Edica Gonzalez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Edica Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
My name is Edica Gonzalez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach is client-centered; together, we determine the best intervention to support this journey. I treat a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, anger, self-esteem, and familial/relationship issues. I currently work with active duty military personnel, adults, and adolescents 16+. I am comfortable with treating clients with PTSD, complex trauma, relational issues, depression, anxiety, phobias, domestic violence/sexual assault survivors, anger, and self-esteem issues.
My name is Edica Gonzalez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach is client-centered; together, we determine the best intervention to support this journey. I treat a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, anger, self-esteem, and familial/relationship issues. I currently work with active duty military personnel, adults, and adolescents 16+. I am comfortable with treating clients with PTSD, complex trauma, relational issues, depression, anxiety, phobias, domestic violence/sexual assault survivors, anger, and self-esteem issues.
(757) 906-7014 View (757) 906-7014

See more therapy options for Bedford

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.