Sexual Abuse Therapists in Fife, WA

Photo of Kelly Peck, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kelly Peck
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fife, WA 98424
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. I believe that children, adolescents, adults, couples and families can and deserve symptom relief, peace, harmony and greater satisfaction in their personal life, marriage, job, school, and interpersonal relationships. I provide a safe, warm and confidential therapeutic environment to achieve these goals with you.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. I believe that children, adolescents, adults, couples and families can and deserve symptom relief, peace, harmony and greater satisfaction in their personal life, marriage, job, school, and interpersonal relationships. I provide a safe, warm and confidential therapeutic environment to achieve these goals with you.
(253) 292-5139 View (253) 292-5139
Photo of Lindsay Arbanas, MSW, LICSW, LMHC, Counselor
Lindsay Arbanas
Counselor, MSW, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fife, WA 98424
I am passionate about being present with individuals as they experience disappointment, pain, despair, and joy in life and relationships. Sometimes, we need help navigating. I believe together we will discover the power and insight already within you. We undergo a process of examining your inner life, dreams, fantasies, and imagination to discover the inspiration that will allow you to live an authentic life. My approach is individually-focused and relationship-driven. Whatever challenges you are facing; that with a bit of goodwill and openness, much can be uncovered in a relatively short period of time.
I am passionate about being present with individuals as they experience disappointment, pain, despair, and joy in life and relationships. Sometimes, we need help navigating. I believe together we will discover the power and insight already within you. We undergo a process of examining your inner life, dreams, fantasies, and imagination to discover the inspiration that will allow you to live an authentic life. My approach is individually-focused and relationship-driven. Whatever challenges you are facing; that with a bit of goodwill and openness, much can be uncovered in a relatively short period of time.
(253) 271-4570 View (253) 271-4570
Photo of Elizabeth Wedington - Center for Healing and Recovery, Counselor
Center for Healing and Recovery
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fife, WA 98424
Remove the obstacles that keep you from living your life fully. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and abuse, sexual addiction, love addiction, codependency, and relationship issues, depression, anxiety and other road blocks to living a full life. I have been trained in Post Induction Therapy ("PIT") by Pia Mellody at the Meadows in Arizona. This model focuses on the origins of adult dysfunctional behaviors by exploring early childhood issues that have fueled various additions, codependency, depression and painful relationships.
Remove the obstacles that keep you from living your life fully. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and abuse, sexual addiction, love addiction, codependency, and relationship issues, depression, anxiety and other road blocks to living a full life. I have been trained in Post Induction Therapy ("PIT") by Pia Mellody at the Meadows in Arizona. This model focuses on the origins of adult dysfunctional behaviors by exploring early childhood issues that have fueled various additions, codependency, depression and painful relationships.
(253) 271-4925 View (253) 271-4925
Photo of Andrea C Miller - Andrea Miller Counseling, MA, LMHC, CMHS, MHP, Counselor
Andrea Miller Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fife, WA 98424  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping young adults who are having difficulty with stress, transitioning to adulthood, anxiety and ADHD. Change begins with building a strong therapeutic relationship and continues through working together towards your unique goals. I believe in authenticity, real world ideas, practical tips, and warmth.
I specialize in helping young adults who are having difficulty with stress, transitioning to adulthood, anxiety and ADHD. Change begins with building a strong therapeutic relationship and continues through working together towards your unique goals. I believe in authenticity, real world ideas, practical tips, and warmth.
(253) 444-4214 View (253) 444-4214
Photo of Ruth Currah, PhD, Counselor
Ruth Currah
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Fife, WA 98424
Not accepting new clients
I use an interdisciplinary approach, which means I use different styles of counseling to meet the different needs and personalities of clients. I always allow their feedback so they remain comfortable. I try and meet their perceptual needs, emotional needs, cognitive needs, situational needs, and respect their individual personalities. I have worked with all ages, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds (including the Middle and Far East), and social economic backgrounds.
I use an interdisciplinary approach, which means I use different styles of counseling to meet the different needs and personalities of clients. I always allow their feedback so they remain comfortable. I try and meet their perceptual needs, emotional needs, cognitive needs, situational needs, and respect their individual personalities. I have worked with all ages, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds (including the Middle and Far East), and social economic backgrounds.
(253) 201-2475 View (253) 201-2475

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Heather Schilling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Schilling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
I have extensive training working with survivors of sexual abuse and Domestic Violence.
I like to view counseling from a systems and solution focused perspective. Open communication and trust are very important for me as a therapist and you as a client. It is my passion and privilege to guide individuals through their journey of finding hope, restoring balance and creating a shared meaning. I specialize in working with clients ages 12+ impacted by trauma and PTSD. I also offer supervision to clinicians seeking independent licensure in the state of WA.
I have extensive training working with survivors of sexual abuse and Domestic Violence.
I like to view counseling from a systems and solution focused perspective. Open communication and trust are very important for me as a therapist and you as a client. It is my passion and privilege to guide individuals through their journey of finding hope, restoring balance and creating a shared meaning. I specialize in working with clients ages 12+ impacted by trauma and PTSD. I also offer supervision to clinicians seeking independent licensure in the state of WA.
(253) 243-8486 View (253) 243-8486
Photo of Kourtney DeBoer, LMFT, CCTP, CSTS, MA, MSc, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kourtney DeBoer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSTS, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
Kourtney specializes in working with victims and survivors of sexual and relational violence, such as rape and sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and incest, and domestic violence.
If you're grappling with the aftermath of sexual or domestic violence, facing challenges in processing a traumatic childhood, or finding it hard to cope with daily life because of PTSD, you're not alone. Moving forward as a survivor can feel daunting, overwhelming, and confusing. With a background of nearly 20 years advocating and providing clinical support, Kourtney DeBoer, LMFT, is committed to walking with you every step of the way on your path to healing and reclaiming your voice, mind, body, and spirit. I offer personalized and collaborative therapy for victims, survivors, helpers, and healers in CA, DC, IA, ID, VA, and WA.
Kourtney specializes in working with victims and survivors of sexual and relational violence, such as rape and sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and incest, and domestic violence.
If you're grappling with the aftermath of sexual or domestic violence, facing challenges in processing a traumatic childhood, or finding it hard to cope with daily life because of PTSD, you're not alone. Moving forward as a survivor can feel daunting, overwhelming, and confusing. With a background of nearly 20 years advocating and providing clinical support, Kourtney DeBoer, LMFT, is committed to walking with you every step of the way on your path to healing and reclaiming your voice, mind, body, and spirit. I offer personalized and collaborative therapy for victims, survivors, helpers, and healers in CA, DC, IA, ID, VA, and WA.
(202) 902-8326 View (202) 902-8326
Photo of Michelle Middleton, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Middleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98422  (Online Only)
My services include working with PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Stressors, Anger Issues, Grief, Teen Related Issues and Traumatic Experiences.
I am committed to trauma informed, client centered treatment. My focus in my career has been working with survivors of abuse and other traumatic experiences. I hold a safe space for my clients to feel connected during their time with me as their counselor. We work together to find the tools that you need to live the life you envision for yourself.
My services include working with PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Stressors, Anger Issues, Grief, Teen Related Issues and Traumatic Experiences.
I am committed to trauma informed, client centered treatment. My focus in my career has been working with survivors of abuse and other traumatic experiences. I hold a safe space for my clients to feel connected during their time with me as their counselor. We work together to find the tools that you need to live the life you envision for yourself.
(360) 641-7724 View (360) 641-7724
Photo of Giselle Montemayor Solis, MA, LMFTA, MHP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Giselle Montemayor Solis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98403  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual therapist offering services in English and Spanish. I am Latinx therapist that enjoys working with people from different backgrounds through lifes challenges. I have a collaborative and empathic approach to therapy while gently challenging clients. I seek to honor the stories and goals of each of my clients. Together, we can explore narratives surrounding sex and sexuality, navigate through experiences of depression, anxiety, guilt, sexual assault, shame, and discuss matters related to gender expression. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients and provide a safe space where they can feel seen and heard.
I am a bilingual therapist offering services in English and Spanish. I am Latinx therapist that enjoys working with people from different backgrounds through lifes challenges. I have a collaborative and empathic approach to therapy while gently challenging clients. I seek to honor the stories and goals of each of my clients. Together, we can explore narratives surrounding sex and sexuality, navigate through experiences of depression, anxiety, guilt, sexual assault, shame, and discuss matters related to gender expression. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients and provide a safe space where they can feel seen and heard.
(206) 800-6644 View (206) 800-6644
Photo of Chris Cline - The Lord Who Heals Christian Therapy
The Lord Who Heals Christian Therapy
Not Verified Not Verified
Parkland, WA 98444  (Online Only)
Chris Cline, MA, has her Master's in Counseling and received her degrees from Regis University and Colorado Christian University. She has been working with children, teenagers, families, couples and individuals on topics of addictions, depression, sexual abuse, adoption, abandonment, attachment issues, domestic violence, wrestling with your relationship with God, trauma experienced while in the womb, gender identity, post traumatic stress disorder and conversion disorder. She has led groups on anger management, domestic violence, children of divorce, thinking errors, adolescent relationships and the masks we wear.
Chris Cline, MA, has her Master's in Counseling and received her degrees from Regis University and Colorado Christian University. She has been working with children, teenagers, families, couples and individuals on topics of addictions, depression, sexual abuse, adoption, abandonment, attachment issues, domestic violence, wrestling with your relationship with God, trauma experienced while in the womb, gender identity, post traumatic stress disorder and conversion disorder. She has led groups on anger management, domestic violence, children of divorce, thinking errors, adolescent relationships and the masks we wear.
(253) 201-7634 View (253) 201-7634
Photo of Dolynda Allen, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Dolynda Allen
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
Waitlist for new clients
It is common to encounter difficulties throughout life. When such challenges arise, individuals may seek the assistance of a counselor or therapist to better understand and address their issues. Choosing to pursue counseling is the initial step toward change and is often a difficult decision. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, early childhood trauma, sexual abuse, PTSD, and family integration challenges. I am dedicated to listening to your concerns and aiding you in developing a deeper understanding of these issues.
It is common to encounter difficulties throughout life. When such challenges arise, individuals may seek the assistance of a counselor or therapist to better understand and address their issues. Choosing to pursue counseling is the initial step toward change and is often a difficult decision. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, early childhood trauma, sexual abuse, PTSD, and family integration challenges. I am dedicated to listening to your concerns and aiding you in developing a deeper understanding of these issues.
(360) 215-5065 View (360) 215-5065
Photo of Julia A Boyd, MEd, Counselor
Julia A Boyd
Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003  (Online Only)
I come to my client with over thirty years, (I started young) of experience in working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders domestic abuse, sexual assault and other forms of trauma.
I believe that therapy is based in a philosophy of respect, trust and building a safe non-judgemental relationship. I strongly believe each person has the wisdom to understand what works for them. I want clients to know they've come to a place of hope and my role as therapist is to listen and guide by providing support and encouragement
I come to my client with over thirty years, (I started young) of experience in working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders domestic abuse, sexual assault and other forms of trauma.
I believe that therapy is based in a philosophy of respect, trust and building a safe non-judgemental relationship. I strongly believe each person has the wisdom to understand what works for them. I want clients to know they've come to a place of hope and my role as therapist is to listen and guide by providing support and encouragement
(253) 303-5420 View (253) 303-5420
Photo of Dr. Jamie Layton, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Jamie Layton
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98405  (Online Only)
My research focused primarily on trauma, PTSD, marginalized identities, and sexual assault.
I specialize in working with people who are in intense emotional distress, including people who feel like their lives are almost unlivable. Many of my clients are navigating the worst moments of their lives or challenges that feel impossible. I help my clients find ways through to the other side. I often work with clients experiencing anxiety, uncontrollable anger, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, health issues, personality disorders, self-harm, or suicidality. I also have expertise in LGBTQIA+ issues and religious trauma and deconstruction. I am skilled with men's issues, including men who may not view themselves as “therapy” people.
My research focused primarily on trauma, PTSD, marginalized identities, and sexual assault.
I specialize in working with people who are in intense emotional distress, including people who feel like their lives are almost unlivable. Many of my clients are navigating the worst moments of their lives or challenges that feel impossible. I help my clients find ways through to the other side. I often work with clients experiencing anxiety, uncontrollable anger, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, health issues, personality disorders, self-harm, or suicidality. I also have expertise in LGBTQIA+ issues and religious trauma and deconstruction. I am skilled with men's issues, including men who may not view themselves as “therapy” people.
(253) 319-1263 View (253) 319-1263
Photo of Tracey Hunt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracey Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98422
Tracey offers supportive, caring, solution- focused methods and has a special gift to heal those who have suffered from emotional, physical, sexual abuse, and trauma issues.
Tracey's calling is to comfort the hurting, to heal the broken hearted, and help people find peace........ Therapy is a powerful experience of growth and change. I work with individuals, couples, families, and teenagers to successfully reduce stress, anxiety, and depression; strengthen relationships; resolve grief, past traumas, and internal conflict. Together we will work on modifying negative thinking and self destructive behaviors, build self esteem and better thoughts; enhance intimacy, foster self discovery; and help to improve one's overall quality of life experiences.
Tracey offers supportive, caring, solution- focused methods and has a special gift to heal those who have suffered from emotional, physical, sexual abuse, and trauma issues.
Tracey's calling is to comfort the hurting, to heal the broken hearted, and help people find peace........ Therapy is a powerful experience of growth and change. I work with individuals, couples, families, and teenagers to successfully reduce stress, anxiety, and depression; strengthen relationships; resolve grief, past traumas, and internal conflict. Together we will work on modifying negative thinking and self destructive behaviors, build self esteem and better thoughts; enhance intimacy, foster self discovery; and help to improve one's overall quality of life experiences.
(253) 292-6201 View (253) 292-6201
Photo of Bethany Sutton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bethany Sutton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
Waitlist for new clients
I have a specific passion for serving adoptive/foster families, LGBTQ+ individuals, and sexual abuse survivors.
Everyone is worthy of love and belonging. I am committed to creating a safe space for my clients no matter their background, story, or identity. I believe that each client is unique and deserves to be heard. Therapy is a collaborative process. My role is to meet you where you are and guide you toward healing. I will respect and honor your story and help you move through the pain to find new beginnings.
I have a specific passion for serving adoptive/foster families, LGBTQ+ individuals, and sexual abuse survivors.
Everyone is worthy of love and belonging. I am committed to creating a safe space for my clients no matter their background, story, or identity. I believe that each client is unique and deserves to be heard. Therapy is a collaborative process. My role is to meet you where you are and guide you toward healing. I will respect and honor your story and help you move through the pain to find new beginnings.
(253) 499-8871 View (253) 499-8871
Photo of Sig Hamilton, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Sig Hamilton
Counselor, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
I have been privileged to support individuals and couples in identifying and overcoming life’s challenges. Such challenges may consist of navigating grief, spirituality, anxiety, depression, divorce, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, post-partum depression, PTSD, and more. Those whom I have been fortunate to support are individuals who range from late teens to seasoned elders. My approach is first to meet you where you are and to support you in the path that you desire to take. In doing so, I welcome and value you.
I have been privileged to support individuals and couples in identifying and overcoming life’s challenges. Such challenges may consist of navigating grief, spirituality, anxiety, depression, divorce, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, post-partum depression, PTSD, and more. Those whom I have been fortunate to support are individuals who range from late teens to seasoned elders. My approach is first to meet you where you are and to support you in the path that you desire to take. In doing so, I welcome and value you.
(425) 906-1940 View (425) 906-1940
Photo of Kim Newall, MA, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Kim Newall
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
(206) 429-6243 View (206) 429-6243
Photo of Beverly Polhamus, MA, LMHC, CHT, EMDR, Counselor
Beverly Polhamus
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
I provide therapy to individuals (teen & adult), couples and families and specialize in the following areas: - Anxiety - Depression - Phobias - Trauma and PTSD - Sexual Abuse - Relationship Issues - Family and parenting concerns - Presentations - SA survivors groups.
Congratulations! You have taken the first step toward healing by seeking help. It is important that the relationship between you and your therapist is a good fit, based on mutual respect and trust. I use a strength-based and practical approach. I have a sense of humor which seems to help clients feel more comfortable. Therapy's primary focus is on the present with an understanding of the effects of past events on current behaviors and the need to process unresolved issues. "The turmoil of the past is never wholly forgotten, unresolved it seeps through even the strongest foundation."
I provide therapy to individuals (teen & adult), couples and families and specialize in the following areas: - Anxiety - Depression - Phobias - Trauma and PTSD - Sexual Abuse - Relationship Issues - Family and parenting concerns - Presentations - SA survivors groups.
Congratulations! You have taken the first step toward healing by seeking help. It is important that the relationship between you and your therapist is a good fit, based on mutual respect and trust. I use a strength-based and practical approach. I have a sense of humor which seems to help clients feel more comfortable. Therapy's primary focus is on the present with an understanding of the effects of past events on current behaviors and the need to process unresolved issues. "The turmoil of the past is never wholly forgotten, unresolved it seeps through even the strongest foundation."
(253) 205-8220 View (253) 205-8220
Photo of Linda Skinner - Pathway to Change Counseling Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pathway to Change Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
(253) 218-4176 View (253) 218-4176
Photo of Audie D Whitaker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audie D Whitaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
I work with many people experiencing traumatic stress from abuse, assault, dysphoria, medical trauma, grief, and life changes.
If you’ve been struggling to find a therapist experienced in working with your situation I encourage you to email me. I’m currently taking in-person appointments in Indiana and online in Washington. I specialize in treating trauma, sexual and gender issues and personality disorders. I have 10 years clinical experience serving Greater Lafayette and 15 years total working with individuals and couples of all ages. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and trained in multiple approaches to treating PTSD. I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the best way that we can work together to help you overcome your stress.
I work with many people experiencing traumatic stress from abuse, assault, dysphoria, medical trauma, grief, and life changes.
If you’ve been struggling to find a therapist experienced in working with your situation I encourage you to email me. I’m currently taking in-person appointments in Indiana and online in Washington. I specialize in treating trauma, sexual and gender issues and personality disorders. I have 10 years clinical experience serving Greater Lafayette and 15 years total working with individuals and couples of all ages. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist and trained in multiple approaches to treating PTSD. I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the best way that we can work together to help you overcome your stress.
(765) 345-4137 View (765) 345-4137

See more therapy options for Fife

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.