Sexual Abuse Therapists in West Virginia

Photo of Miranda Riffle, MA, NCC, LPC, EMDR-C, ALPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Miranda Riffle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, EMDR-C, ALPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26505
I also have experience in working with people in recovery, trauma/PTSD, codependency, religious trauma and survivors of sexual abuse/assault.
I work to create a whole-brain and body approach to healing for each individual client through the use of EMDR. I promote seeking balance in life and advocate to help people feel emotionally and mentally empowered. I also take a trauma-informed approach in helping others better understand themselves, their behavior and how this has impacted their life. It is important to me to meet people where they are in seeking change and healing, because I believe this allows people to experience the power of freedom and choice in improving the overall quality of their life.
I also have experience in working with people in recovery, trauma/PTSD, codependency, religious trauma and survivors of sexual abuse/assault.
I work to create a whole-brain and body approach to healing for each individual client through the use of EMDR. I promote seeking balance in life and advocate to help people feel emotionally and mentally empowered. I also take a trauma-informed approach in helping others better understand themselves, their behavior and how this has impacted their life. It is important to me to meet people where they are in seeking change and healing, because I believe this allows people to experience the power of freedom and choice in improving the overall quality of their life.
(304) 449-8629 View (304) 449-8629
Photo of Kierra Whitman, LPC, Counselor
Kierra Whitman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kearneysville, WV 25430
Are you a teenager trying to navigate the overwhelming feelings and thoughts that life brings on? Are you a survivor of sexual assault or domestic violence/ intimate partner abuse? Are there moments when you notice that the traumas from your past are affecting your relationships and everyday livelihood? So often, we ignore our inner hurts and we force ourselves to smile when we want to scream or laugh when we want to cry. Keeping up an act like that can be exhausting, and it can disconnect you from yourself.
Are you a teenager trying to navigate the overwhelming feelings and thoughts that life brings on? Are you a survivor of sexual assault or domestic violence/ intimate partner abuse? Are there moments when you notice that the traumas from your past are affecting your relationships and everyday livelihood? So often, we ignore our inner hurts and we force ourselves to smile when we want to scream or laugh when we want to cry. Keeping up an act like that can be exhausting, and it can disconnect you from yourself.
(681) 248-5029 View (681) 248-5029
Photo of Dr. Nicholas Keith Bennett, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nicholas Keith Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cross Lanes, WV 25313  (Online Only)
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, specific phobias, and trauma in clients pre-teen through late adulthood. I have served on integrative teams for parents and children in CPS cases as well as on collaborative teams providing treatment for clients residing in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with service members and Veterans, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, specific phobias, and trauma in clients pre-teen through late adulthood. I have served on integrative teams for parents and children in CPS cases as well as on collaborative teams providing treatment for clients residing in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with service members and Veterans, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
(805) 203-6673 View (805) 203-6673
Photo of Dr. Daria White, PhD, LPC-R, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Daria White
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, LPC-R, NCC
Verified Verified
Franklin, WV 26807  (Online Only)
In the last 20 years I have worked with university students, older adults, couples, individuals who struggled with anxiety, depression, domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, refugees, and immigrants.
The work I do relates to the years spent on my own personal journey of healing. As someone said: “You cannot take people to a place you have never been yourself.” I believe that healing happens in context and connection. The encounter with another, studying their face, eyes, and expressions, knowing something of their true inner nature, shows the deep magic within and between us. I invite you to walk your healing journey with me. My focus is to provide the space for you to feel attached and safe with another human being, share deeply from your heart, begin to piece together your life-story, and find new meaning and resilience.
In the last 20 years I have worked with university students, older adults, couples, individuals who struggled with anxiety, depression, domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, refugees, and immigrants.
The work I do relates to the years spent on my own personal journey of healing. As someone said: “You cannot take people to a place you have never been yourself.” I believe that healing happens in context and connection. The encounter with another, studying their face, eyes, and expressions, knowing something of their true inner nature, shows the deep magic within and between us. I invite you to walk your healing journey with me. My focus is to provide the space for you to feel attached and safe with another human being, share deeply from your heart, begin to piece together your life-story, and find new meaning and resilience.
(304) 443-5486 View (304) 443-5486
Photo of Renee Minx | Metta Holistic Therapy, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Minx | Metta Holistic Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
As an experienced therapist I specialize in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, perfectionism, people-pleasing and grief.
Are you tired of being the strong one ALL the time? Does your inner child need to be seen and understood? Therapy can help you learn to love yourself, feel safe in your body and let go of the past. We will tackle the root causes of your present day struggles to heal not only in the short term but also the long term.
As an experienced therapist I specialize in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, perfectionism, people-pleasing and grief.
Are you tired of being the strong one ALL the time? Does your inner child need to be seen and understood? Therapy can help you learn to love yourself, feel safe in your body and let go of the past. We will tackle the root causes of your present day struggles to heal not only in the short term but also the long term.
(304) 278-3451 View (304) 278-3451
Photo of Linda M Parkhill, MA, LPC, ALPS, Counselor
Linda M Parkhill
Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25404
My professional concentration has been in the areas of: domestic violence, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, PTSD, OCD, "transitional issues" and problem gambling.
My approach in counseling is somewhat holistic and eclectic. I believe a supportive counseling environment works to help a client achieve awareness, thus leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. Hopefully, the value will be realized in both behavioral and emotional changes. Under all circumstances, my mission is to treat the client with the utmost regard and honor the human condition as it is. Counseling hours are available most days at your convenience. Often clients are able to schedule an appointment with 24 hours of calling my office.
My professional concentration has been in the areas of: domestic violence, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, PTSD, OCD, "transitional issues" and problem gambling.
My approach in counseling is somewhat holistic and eclectic. I believe a supportive counseling environment works to help a client achieve awareness, thus leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. Hopefully, the value will be realized in both behavioral and emotional changes. Under all circumstances, my mission is to treat the client with the utmost regard and honor the human condition as it is. Counseling hours are available most days at your convenience. Often clients are able to schedule an appointment with 24 hours of calling my office.
(304) 462-9991 View (304) 462-9991
Photo of Tina C Outlaw, BSW, MSW, LISW-CP, CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina C Outlaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LISW-CP, CP
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301  (Online Only)
This helps clients work through issues with self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual abuse issues and confidence, overcome anxiety, learn healthy relationship dynamics, discipline and respect.
Looking for a different, more personal therapy experience, here it is ! I work collaboratively with you and your child/adolescent/family to develop a plan together on the second session, get a new skill each week, and see progress within 8 sessions. With 29 of years experience with children, adolescents and adults recovering from trauma, grief, emotional or behavioral challenges with educational or work-related issues in schools, group homes, rural health care clinics and military facilities. Sessions are online with a confidential platform to offer connivence and accessibility to any location in South Carolina.
This helps clients work through issues with self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual abuse issues and confidence, overcome anxiety, learn healthy relationship dynamics, discipline and respect.
Looking for a different, more personal therapy experience, here it is ! I work collaboratively with you and your child/adolescent/family to develop a plan together on the second session, get a new skill each week, and see progress within 8 sessions. With 29 of years experience with children, adolescents and adults recovering from trauma, grief, emotional or behavioral challenges with educational or work-related issues in schools, group homes, rural health care clinics and military facilities. Sessions are online with a confidential platform to offer connivence and accessibility to any location in South Carolina.
(843) 256-2277 View (843) 256-2277
Photo of Julianna Waller, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julianna Waller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheeling, WV 26003
I have had the pleasures of working in different areas of the mental health field including domestic violence, sexual assault, drug and alcohol, and LGBTQIA+. I have been drawn to work with teens and young adults who deal with symptoms of Chronic Illnesses, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Addiction, Anxiety, and Depression. I use Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This is an action-oriented where individuals learn to stop avoiding, denying, and struggling with their inner emotions. They accept that these deeper feelings are natural responses to certain situations that should not prevent them from moving.
I have had the pleasures of working in different areas of the mental health field including domestic violence, sexual assault, drug and alcohol, and LGBTQIA+. I have been drawn to work with teens and young adults who deal with symptoms of Chronic Illnesses, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Addiction, Anxiety, and Depression. I use Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This is an action-oriented where individuals learn to stop avoiding, denying, and struggling with their inner emotions. They accept that these deeper feelings are natural responses to certain situations that should not prevent them from moving.
(740) 267-4349 View (740) 267-4349
Photo of Stephanie Gosnell - EAS Winchester, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EAS Winchester, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Children, At-Risk-youth, criminally involved juveniles and adults, children and adults with a history of trauma (physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect), depression, anxiety.
Children, At-Risk-youth, criminally involved juveniles and adults, children and adults with a history of trauma (physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect), depression, anxiety.
(540) 390-1471 View (540) 390-1471
Photo of Laurel Thornton, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR-C, ALPS, Counselor
Laurel Thornton
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR-C, ALPS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26501
I consider myself a neuro-psychotherapist. I enjoy working with people who want to feel differently and are ready for the things that they know are true to feel true. I enjoy working with any age individual. I help facilitate change for those who would like to have the stresses or large events of the past not have so much power and control over them in the present. I work to empower people to feel more grounded in the present and hopeful about the future.
I consider myself a neuro-psychotherapist. I enjoy working with people who want to feel differently and are ready for the things that they know are true to feel true. I enjoy working with any age individual. I help facilitate change for those who would like to have the stresses or large events of the past not have so much power and control over them in the present. I work to empower people to feel more grounded in the present and hopeful about the future.
(304) 844-9971 View (304) 844-9971
Photo of Melissa Crawford, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Crawford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
My philosophy of therapy is that it is collaborative, person centered, and strengths-based process that has the ability to transform individual’s lives. Life is about transitions and change, and therapy can provide a safe place to learn skills to cope with these inevitable parts of life. My therapy style is to provide support and a non-judgmental stance to provide a safe place to process life’s difficulties.
My philosophy of therapy is that it is collaborative, person centered, and strengths-based process that has the ability to transform individual’s lives. Life is about transitions and change, and therapy can provide a safe place to learn skills to cope with these inevitable parts of life. My therapy style is to provide support and a non-judgmental stance to provide a safe place to process life’s difficulties.
(304) 924-4402 View (304) 924-4402
Photo of Melissa Swartz - Melissa Swartz, LPC, ALPS, AADC, LPC, Counselor
Melissa Swartz, LPC
Counselor, ALPS, AADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charles Town, WV 25414
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling at work, in your relationships, not able to maintain the healthy habits you're trying to develop? Take heart, it's not you; it's your wiring. And YOU can change it with Emotional Brain Training (EBT). Research has shown people using this method tend to experience lasting improvements in depression, relationships, blood pressure, weight, and addictions.
Are you struggling at work, in your relationships, not able to maintain the healthy habits you're trying to develop? Take heart, it's not you; it's your wiring. And YOU can change it with Emotional Brain Training (EBT). Research has shown people using this method tend to experience lasting improvements in depression, relationships, blood pressure, weight, and addictions.
(304) 997-4991 View (304) 997-4991
Photo of Dr. Kari Mika-Lude, LPC, AADC-S, NCC, ALPS, EMDR-tr, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kari Mika-Lude
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, AADC-S, NCC, ALPS, EMDR-tr
Verified Verified
Hurricane, WV 25526
My approach is holistic, focusing on you as a whole person and working to identify the source(s) of a problem in addition to reducing symptoms. Together, we will take a look at your thoughts/beliefs, feelings, and behaviors; identify any problematic patterns; and begin to change those patterns to be more useful and constructive. We will also work on developing coping skills to help you feel better and build confidence and resiliency for facing life's challenges and stressors.
My approach is holistic, focusing on you as a whole person and working to identify the source(s) of a problem in addition to reducing symptoms. Together, we will take a look at your thoughts/beliefs, feelings, and behaviors; identify any problematic patterns; and begin to change those patterns to be more useful and constructive. We will also work on developing coping skills to help you feel better and build confidence and resiliency for facing life's challenges and stressors.
(304) 760-9945 View (304) 760-9945
Photo of Brynn Simmons - Hometown Healing, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hometown Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hedgesville, WV 25427
Hometown Healing is a family owned practice. Brynn and Jesse Simmons established the practice in 2020 to provide the community with a new approach to therapy and overall wellness. We currently have two clinicians, Heather Carr, LGSW and Brynn Simmons, LPC. Hometown Healing offers therapy for all ages. Together we can identify goals to help make changes in your life, or manage hard, overwhelming feelings.
Hometown Healing is a family owned practice. Brynn and Jesse Simmons established the practice in 2020 to provide the community with a new approach to therapy and overall wellness. We currently have two clinicians, Heather Carr, LGSW and Brynn Simmons, LPC. Hometown Healing offers therapy for all ages. Together we can identify goals to help make changes in your life, or manage hard, overwhelming feelings.
(304) 449-3441 View (304) 449-3441
Photo of Michael Hugh Rucker II - Rucker Therapy Associates, LMFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rucker Therapy Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26505
Michael Rucker is a clinically trained marriage and family therapist and has been in practice for over a decade in Charleston, WV and Morgantown, WV. He has worked with a broad population of clients, including individuals, couples, families, children, teenagers, and groups. His passion and life experiences has led to an interest and specialization with a myriad of topic areas that he excels with, including but not limited to infidelity, infertility, mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, learning disabilities, addiction, marital issues, and divorce adjustment.
Michael Rucker is a clinically trained marriage and family therapist and has been in practice for over a decade in Charleston, WV and Morgantown, WV. He has worked with a broad population of clients, including individuals, couples, families, children, teenagers, and groups. His passion and life experiences has led to an interest and specialization with a myriad of topic areas that he excels with, including but not limited to infidelity, infertility, mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, learning disabilities, addiction, marital issues, and divorce adjustment.
(681) 229-4032 View (681) 229-4032
Photo of Taylor Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Taylor Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508  (Online Only)
Seeking help takes courage and I’m glad that you’re reaching out for support. Therapy is a collaborative process, and it can provide a safe space to explore and navigate challenging situations and experiences. My hope is to help you along the journey toward greater self-understanding so that you may live a fulfilled, authentic life. My areas of special interest include eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, sport performance, anxiety, and depression.
Seeking help takes courage and I’m glad that you’re reaching out for support. Therapy is a collaborative process, and it can provide a safe space to explore and navigate challenging situations and experiences. My hope is to help you along the journey toward greater self-understanding so that you may live a fulfilled, authentic life. My areas of special interest include eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, sport performance, anxiety, and depression.
(304) 969-7113 View (304) 969-7113
Photo of Stephanie Casto, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Casto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wheeling, WV 26003
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist based in West Virginia. I am also certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. I have 5 years of therapy experience with clients of all ages, including kids, teens and adolescents. I have provided services both online and in person through an agency and in my private practice.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist based in West Virginia. I am also certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. I have 5 years of therapy experience with clients of all ages, including kids, teens and adolescents. I have provided services both online and in person through an agency and in my private practice.
(304) 660-3266 View (304) 660-3266
Photo of Jennifer Myers - Mountaineer Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Mountaineer Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
I utilize an individualized approach to target clinical symptoms and personality issues. My interventions are evidence based with the goal of empowering others to better understand the origins of their issues and to make meaningful changes, regardless of diagnostic labels. I believe everyone deserves to be assisted and supported to live to their full potential and particularly enjoy working with those who have experienced complex trauma from childhood and relationship experiences. I welcome veterans and military families, those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and people seeking to integrate or discuss faith in treatment.
I utilize an individualized approach to target clinical symptoms and personality issues. My interventions are evidence based with the goal of empowering others to better understand the origins of their issues and to make meaningful changes, regardless of diagnostic labels. I believe everyone deserves to be assisted and supported to live to their full potential and particularly enjoy working with those who have experienced complex trauma from childhood and relationship experiences. I welcome veterans and military families, those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and people seeking to integrate or discuss faith in treatment.
(304) 948-5677 View (304) 948-5677
Photo of Christina Jackson, MS, LPC, Psychologist
Christina Jackson
Psychologist, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkersburg, WV 26104
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Counseling Psychologist with more than 10 years of experience helping adults, teens, families, and couples. I enjoy helping people who struggle with trusting themselves find that self trust again or for the first time.
I am a Counseling Psychologist with more than 10 years of experience helping adults, teens, families, and couples. I enjoy helping people who struggle with trusting themselves find that self trust again or for the first time.
(304) 337-5416 View (304) 337-5416
Photo of Maeven Miller - Maeven Miller Counseling, LLC, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maeven Miller Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, WV 25702
I provide individual counseling for adult women in my private practice located in Huntington, WV. I specialize in treating trauma and abuse, but am able to provide services for a host of other presenting issues such as anxiety and fear, depression, family and relational issues, grief, life transition, and perinatal (pre and post pregnancy) mental health issues. I am also pleased to offer Christian based counseling if a client desires (Please see website for more info).
I provide individual counseling for adult women in my private practice located in Huntington, WV. I specialize in treating trauma and abuse, but am able to provide services for a host of other presenting issues such as anxiety and fear, depression, family and relational issues, grief, life transition, and perinatal (pre and post pregnancy) mental health issues. I am also pleased to offer Christian based counseling if a client desires (Please see website for more info).
(304) 337-5454 View (304) 337-5454

See more therapy options for West Virginia

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.