Sexual Abuse Therapists in Bellevue, WA
Ilana Skarling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004 (Online Only)
I'm a trans woman and licensed clinical social worker in the states of Washington, Vermont, and Minnesota, with over seven years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health.
You are not too much. Nor is what you have been through too much. If you struggle with gender or sexual identity, sexual or domestic violence, feelings of isolation or rejection, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you needed to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
I'm a trans woman and licensed clinical social worker in the states of Washington, Vermont, and Minnesota, with over seven years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health.
You are not too much. Nor is what you have been through too much. If you struggle with gender or sexual identity, sexual or domestic violence, feelings of isolation or rejection, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you needed to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
I am experienced in addressing a wide range of personal challenges including: Relationship issues, depression, anxiety, physical abuse, sexual abuse, trauma, grief, addictions, parenting, academic struggles, ADHD, children coping with divorce, and aggression.
Welcome. I apply my 37 plus years of experience to assist adults, adolescents, and children who are seeking happier, better balanced lives. My approach is accepting, hopeful, creative, and sometimes humorous. I use different techniques according to my client's needs, preferences and age. I am influenced by Positive Psychology and Adlerian Psychology. Within this framework, sessions may include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, play, art, and the exploration of existential themes. I use an Adlerian approach to child / family therapy. This approach is the basis of the popular "Positive Discipline" series.
I am experienced in addressing a wide range of personal challenges including: Relationship issues, depression, anxiety, physical abuse, sexual abuse, trauma, grief, addictions, parenting, academic struggles, ADHD, children coping with divorce, and aggression.
Welcome. I apply my 37 plus years of experience to assist adults, adolescents, and children who are seeking happier, better balanced lives. My approach is accepting, hopeful, creative, and sometimes humorous. I use different techniques according to my client's needs, preferences and age. I am influenced by Positive Psychology and Adlerian Psychology. Within this framework, sessions may include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, play, art, and the exploration of existential themes. I use an Adlerian approach to child / family therapy. This approach is the basis of the popular "Positive Discipline" series.
I have extensive experience in treating trauma, sexual abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, self esteem.
Sometimes in life we face struggles that arise unexpectedly or sometimes our struggles have been long term. You deserve to live each day better than the last. I'm here to help you achieve that goal. I treat each person individually and we work together to come up with a plan to help you face your struggle.
I have extensive experience in treating trauma, sexual abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, self esteem.
Sometimes in life we face struggles that arise unexpectedly or sometimes our struggles have been long term. You deserve to live each day better than the last. I'm here to help you achieve that goal. I treat each person individually and we work together to come up with a plan to help you face your struggle.
Caitlin Bauermeister Vincent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Whether you feel deeply stuck in a dark place, or just need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I will provide focused, caring attention, utilize my expertise to respectfully offer suggestions, and make a step-by-step plan. I specialize in treating trauma (with a range of proven approaches); most commonly with sexual assault survivors, childhood abuse, and vicarious trauma. I also work with most anxiety and mood disorders, stress management, and life transitions.
Whether you feel deeply stuck in a dark place, or just need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I will provide focused, caring attention, utilize my expertise to respectfully offer suggestions, and make a step-by-step plan. I specialize in treating trauma (with a range of proven approaches); most commonly with sexual assault survivors, childhood abuse, and vicarious trauma. I also work with most anxiety and mood disorders, stress management, and life transitions.
Working with sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQ community means that I am adept at helping clients work-through attachment issues.
I have been counseling since 1981 and opened my private practice in 1988. I have expertise in working with individuals around their history of sexual victimization, people healing from trauma and LGBTQ life issues. I also specialize in working with couples whether poly, open, heterosexual and/or gay. Included within my expertise is the breadth of issues surrounding sexuality and attachment. I also specialize in helping people become aware of and channel their emotions in a healthy way. Moreover, people who are grappling with existential issues, developmental transitions or life changes find meaning in working with me as well.
Working with sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQ community means that I am adept at helping clients work-through attachment issues.
I have been counseling since 1981 and opened my private practice in 1988. I have expertise in working with individuals around their history of sexual victimization, people healing from trauma and LGBTQ life issues. I also specialize in working with couples whether poly, open, heterosexual and/or gay. Included within my expertise is the breadth of issues surrounding sexuality and attachment. I also specialize in helping people become aware of and channel their emotions in a healthy way. Moreover, people who are grappling with existential issues, developmental transitions or life changes find meaning in working with me as well.
Mary West Brandenburg
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005 (Online Only)
I am well acquainted with the issues of depression/bipolar, anxieties and fears, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, LGBTQ issues, empty nest, life transitions, grief and loss, recovery, addiction and the brain, codependency, cancer (survivor!), inner child work, conflict and communication issues, divorce, blended and intact families.
When I was a girl there was no one to tell my deepest darkest secrets. My life's work is to be a trusted, healing person to those in pain. My therapy room is many things: a confessional, a delivery room, a crucible, a place of radical honesty with a whole lot of grace. Most of all it is a safe place for you to tell your story, to find strength and hope, to cry, and to heal. I embrace a holistic approach which considers your spirit, mind, body, & community.
I am well acquainted with the issues of depression/bipolar, anxieties and fears, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, LGBTQ issues, empty nest, life transitions, grief and loss, recovery, addiction and the brain, codependency, cancer (survivor!), inner child work, conflict and communication issues, divorce, blended and intact families.
When I was a girl there was no one to tell my deepest darkest secrets. My life's work is to be a trusted, healing person to those in pain. My therapy room is many things: a confessional, a delivery room, a crucible, a place of radical honesty with a whole lot of grace. Most of all it is a safe place for you to tell your story, to find strength and hope, to cry, and to heal. I embrace a holistic approach which considers your spirit, mind, body, & community.
Welcome! For some, seeking help from a mental health professional can feel overwhelming, intimidating. Finding an understanding therapist who is best suited to your needs can be the first step towards a happier and more meaningful life. I work with adults and adolescents from a place of respect and compassion and believe that real transformation happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship. I value approaches that have been researched and proven to be effective, and tailor treatment to meet the needs of each individual. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, and gender dysphoria.
Welcome! For some, seeking help from a mental health professional can feel overwhelming, intimidating. Finding an understanding therapist who is best suited to your needs can be the first step towards a happier and more meaningful life. I work with adults and adolescents from a place of respect and compassion and believe that real transformation happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship. I value approaches that have been researched and proven to be effective, and tailor treatment to meet the needs of each individual. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, and gender dysphoria.
I have over 20 years of trauma focused therapy training which is helpful in understanding/treating wounds caused by trauma, including childhood sexual abuse and neglect.
My client profile consists of 1/3 children/adolescents, 1/3 trauma focused therapy due to sexual assault and/or sexual addiction impact, and 1/3 females over 40 who would like to explore making changes in life. I enjoy the diversity of my practice as all the above mentioned areas enable me to work with both childhood disorders and relational challenges into adulthood. My focus on sexual addiction/trauma and family of origin issues is to provide supportive and therapeutic space for partners and children/teens who have been impacted by someone who has either a confirmed or suspected sexual addiction.
I have over 20 years of trauma focused therapy training which is helpful in understanding/treating wounds caused by trauma, including childhood sexual abuse and neglect.
My client profile consists of 1/3 children/adolescents, 1/3 trauma focused therapy due to sexual assault and/or sexual addiction impact, and 1/3 females over 40 who would like to explore making changes in life. I enjoy the diversity of my practice as all the above mentioned areas enable me to work with both childhood disorders and relational challenges into adulthood. My focus on sexual addiction/trauma and family of origin issues is to provide supportive and therapeutic space for partners and children/teens who have been impacted by someone who has either a confirmed or suspected sexual addiction.
Monica Lynne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Waitlist for new clients
I am continually seeking to grow as a therapist and expand in my knowledge and capacity to care for the diverse clients I serve. I approach my work with clients as a scaffolding experience of combining our knowledge, lived experiences and ability to navigate collaboratively with compassion, non-judgement, cultural awareness and empowerment. I work best with individuals and couples who lead with openness, curiosity and a true desire for personal growth. I feel most effective at working with those who have experienced infidelity/relationship ruptures, sexual assault/trauma, emotional stuck points related to sexuality and relationship.
I am continually seeking to grow as a therapist and expand in my knowledge and capacity to care for the diverse clients I serve. I approach my work with clients as a scaffolding experience of combining our knowledge, lived experiences and ability to navigate collaboratively with compassion, non-judgement, cultural awareness and empowerment. I work best with individuals and couples who lead with openness, curiosity and a true desire for personal growth. I feel most effective at working with those who have experienced infidelity/relationship ruptures, sexual assault/trauma, emotional stuck points related to sexuality and relationship.
Michael Yu
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS, EMMHS, CIMC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004 (Online Only)
Michael has unique experience working with clients on a variety of difficult issues: sexual abuse, traumatic experiences, and complex family dynamics.
With over seventeen years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, Michael has successfully helped many clients with complex issues that negatively impact their lives and their families in significant ways. He believes in treating clients holistically (mind, body, and spirit) and that the work clients do outside of therapy is as important as the work they do in session. The priorities are helping clients develop skills and providing resources that will support them to make lasting change.
Michael has unique experience working with clients on a variety of difficult issues: sexual abuse, traumatic experiences, and complex family dynamics.
With over seventeen years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, Michael has successfully helped many clients with complex issues that negatively impact their lives and their families in significant ways. He believes in treating clients holistically (mind, body, and spirit) and that the work clients do outside of therapy is as important as the work they do in session. The priorities are helping clients develop skills and providing resources that will support them to make lasting change.
Heidi Hust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am glad that you’re choosing to prioritize yourself by looking for ways to create the change that you desire and deserve. It would be my pleasure to partner with you in your journey and assist in finding the path to change that is fitting for you. My experience includes work with individuals, children, and families in a variety of settings. I have also been trained as a sexual assault advocate, in domestic violence/relationship issues, and co-parenting.
Welcome! I am glad that you’re choosing to prioritize yourself by looking for ways to create the change that you desire and deserve. It would be my pleasure to partner with you in your journey and assist in finding the path to change that is fitting for you. My experience includes work with individuals, children, and families in a variety of settings. I have also been trained as a sexual assault advocate, in domestic violence/relationship issues, and co-parenting.
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There are two types of trauma I can help with, single event such as an accident or assault, and attachment/preverbal trauma that can cause complex symptoms.
Painful emotions and thoughts, and sometimes physical pain, are symptoms of events that have happened in your life. With a fresh, body based approach to therapy, we will work as a team to help your body and mind know that these experiences are over. I have been practicing Lifespan Integration trauma clearing for 14 years and am confident that I can help anyone ready to do the work move forward. I would also like you to know, whether we work together or not, that old methods of talk therapy can be retraumatizing, so please don't persist in a healing method that continues to make you feel bad.
There are two types of trauma I can help with, single event such as an accident or assault, and attachment/preverbal trauma that can cause complex symptoms.
Painful emotions and thoughts, and sometimes physical pain, are symptoms of events that have happened in your life. With a fresh, body based approach to therapy, we will work as a team to help your body and mind know that these experiences are over. I have been practicing Lifespan Integration trauma clearing for 14 years and am confident that I can help anyone ready to do the work move forward. I would also like you to know, whether we work together or not, that old methods of talk therapy can be retraumatizing, so please don't persist in a healing method that continues to make you feel bad.
It can feel daunting to take the first step. You may feel weighed down by your past or feel like a part of you inside has been missing for some time. You may have identified that you wish to restart or continue the journey you are on. Wherever you are on your individual path, opening up to a professional can oftentimes be intimidating and a little scary. The wonderful part is that I am human too. Through personal experience, I understand what courage it takes to ask for support. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process built on earned trust and safety. I also believe that YOU have essential worth and wholeheartedness.
It can feel daunting to take the first step. You may feel weighed down by your past or feel like a part of you inside has been missing for some time. You may have identified that you wish to restart or continue the journey you are on. Wherever you are on your individual path, opening up to a professional can oftentimes be intimidating and a little scary. The wonderful part is that I am human too. Through personal experience, I understand what courage it takes to ask for support. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process built on earned trust and safety. I also believe that YOU have essential worth and wholeheartedness.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a psychotherapist for And Still We Rise under the supervision of Dr. Natasha Holmes. I hold a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman's University. in Denton, Texas, I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and that we all deserve to have a space to learn about ourselves and our relationships. I believe my clients are experts on themselves, and feel honored each time a client chooses to work with me as they grow and heal. I have a strong passion for sexual violence prevention and survivor support.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a psychotherapist for And Still We Rise under the supervision of Dr. Natasha Holmes. I hold a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman's University. in Denton, Texas, I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and that we all deserve to have a space to learn about ourselves and our relationships. I believe my clients are experts on themselves, and feel honored each time a client chooses to work with me as they grow and heal. I have a strong passion for sexual violence prevention and survivor support.
M.Pinedo,PhD & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT, SOTP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am dedicated to providing supportive, healthy, and professional services. I understand that betrayal, trauma, abandonment create a deep emotional wound that is distressing to confront. It is possible to heal by engaging your integrity and finding peace. Servicios por gente que hablan Espanol que preferian obtener ayuda de personas Latinas. Creo que cual quier persona deben de ser tradados con respect.
I am dedicated to providing supportive, healthy, and professional services. I understand that betrayal, trauma, abandonment create a deep emotional wound that is distressing to confront. It is possible to heal by engaging your integrity and finding peace. Servicios por gente que hablan Espanol que preferian obtener ayuda de personas Latinas. Creo que cual quier persona deben de ser tradados con respect.
Suffering and difficult times can be catalysts for profound change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, or feeling stuck, you can experience a greater capacity for change, curiosity, connection, and life satisfaction. In therapy we'll address the symptoms you're experiencing, develop coping skills and tools for better living, and work to understand how you ended up where you are today. Additionally, we'll explore the root of your struggles in order to understand why you do the things you do, feel the way you do, and think the way you do as a way to create lasting change and transformation in your life.
Suffering and difficult times can be catalysts for profound change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, or feeling stuck, you can experience a greater capacity for change, curiosity, connection, and life satisfaction. In therapy we'll address the symptoms you're experiencing, develop coping skills and tools for better living, and work to understand how you ended up where you are today. Additionally, we'll explore the root of your struggles in order to understand why you do the things you do, feel the way you do, and think the way you do as a way to create lasting change and transformation in your life.
Dr. Jeff Cook
Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005 (Online Only)
I help individuals struggling with feelings of emptiness and despair to make sense of destructive decisions and to repair broken relationships. Whether we were hurt in our younger years, in our marriage or other relationships, we all experience heartache. At times we may find ourselves stuck, unable to move through or past certain experiences and it is in these phases of life that feelings of emptiness, or the experience of shame, or the quiet desperation to feel alive again, consume us. When these experiences are not understood and cared for, they often lead to poor decisions and ruptured relationships.
I help individuals struggling with feelings of emptiness and despair to make sense of destructive decisions and to repair broken relationships. Whether we were hurt in our younger years, in our marriage or other relationships, we all experience heartache. At times we may find ourselves stuck, unable to move through or past certain experiences and it is in these phases of life that feelings of emptiness, or the experience of shame, or the quiet desperation to feel alive again, consume us. When these experiences are not understood and cared for, they often lead to poor decisions and ruptured relationships.
Hannah Boyd
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004 (Online Only)
People are multifaceted, therefore I take a holistic, trauma informed approach to treating clients and look at the various symptoms and challenges one may be experiencing. Talk therapy is often beneficial on its own, but I enjoy bringing in other elements such as humor, and collaboration to enhance the expression and understanding of one’s feelings and experiences. I welcome clients’ ideas and creativity as we work together. I believe with empowerment and exploration people can use internal resources to notice patterns within themselves, solve problems and cope with life's challenges.
People are multifaceted, therefore I take a holistic, trauma informed approach to treating clients and look at the various symptoms and challenges one may be experiencing. Talk therapy is often beneficial on its own, but I enjoy bringing in other elements such as humor, and collaboration to enhance the expression and understanding of one’s feelings and experiences. I welcome clients’ ideas and creativity as we work together. I believe with empowerment and exploration people can use internal resources to notice patterns within themselves, solve problems and cope with life's challenges.
It takes courage to seek help. Whether you are trying to make an important decision, facing a crisis, or in the middle of a major transition in your life, it makes sense to seek counsel. Sometime we’re feeling stuck and isolated while longing for more community and personal growth. Unresolved childhood issues, grief, and/or trauma can negatively impact your understanding of self and your view of others. It can lead to anxiety, depression and negatively affect your ability to develop healthy relationships.
It takes courage to seek help. Whether you are trying to make an important decision, facing a crisis, or in the middle of a major transition in your life, it makes sense to seek counsel. Sometime we’re feeling stuck and isolated while longing for more community and personal growth. Unresolved childhood issues, grief, and/or trauma can negatively impact your understanding of self and your view of others. It can lead to anxiety, depression and negatively affect your ability to develop healthy relationships.
[My schedule is full. Please contact my group practice's Get In Touch form to see if other clinicians may have openings] You may be considering therapy because you feel stuck or dissatisfied about some parts of your life. You might be aware of the person you want to be and can be, but something is getting in the way of that and you would like to understand what. Or, you might need a place to talk about difficult experiences so you can make sense of them. As someone who truly believes in the healing power of therapy, I am glad you are considering it as a way of reaching your potential, regardless of whom you choose as your therapist.
[My schedule is full. Please contact my group practice's Get In Touch form to see if other clinicians may have openings] You may be considering therapy because you feel stuck or dissatisfied about some parts of your life. You might be aware of the person you want to be and can be, but something is getting in the way of that and you would like to understand what. Or, you might need a place to talk about difficult experiences so you can make sense of them. As someone who truly believes in the healing power of therapy, I am glad you are considering it as a way of reaching your potential, regardless of whom you choose as your therapist.
See more therapy options for Bellevue
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.