Sexual Abuse Therapists in Chestertown, MD

Photo of Chelsea Horrocks Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Chelsea Horrocks Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Chestertown, MD 21620
I believe that life is a balancing act. People seek balance in relationships, in happy versus sad days, in work time and home life, and in the influence of the past versus looking toward the future. Balance looks different to everyone, but we know it when we have it and miss it when it's gone. Life transitions such as graduation, career changes, the end of a relationship, a loss, or new parenthood can throw off our balance. Whether these changes are a part of our plan or outside of our control, we will learn from them. I love to walk alongside people in transition to help them find their own balance and build a life they love.
I believe that life is a balancing act. People seek balance in relationships, in happy versus sad days, in work time and home life, and in the influence of the past versus looking toward the future. Balance looks different to everyone, but we know it when we have it and miss it when it's gone. Life transitions such as graduation, career changes, the end of a relationship, a loss, or new parenthood can throw off our balance. Whether these changes are a part of our plan or outside of our control, we will learn from them. I love to walk alongside people in transition to help them find their own balance and build a life they love.
(410) 873-9772 View (410) 873-9772
Photo of Trish Cleary, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Trish Cleary
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LCMFT, LCADC, CGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chestertown, MD 21620
Anxiety? Depression? Stress? Life Changes? With over thirty years of experience in private practice, I have noticed how sometimes long-standing behaviors can actually create personal problems, cause relationship difficulties, and undermine the achievement of life goals. Working together, we can explore and identify these behaviors and change them. Individual Therapy helps to build confidence as you begin to understand and take steps to modify personal challenges. Couples Therapy identifies and builds upon personal and relationships strengths to repair interpersonal distress. Group Psychotherapy enhances and deepens personal awareness so you improve your connections with others.
Anxiety? Depression? Stress? Life Changes? With over thirty years of experience in private practice, I have noticed how sometimes long-standing behaviors can actually create personal problems, cause relationship difficulties, and undermine the achievement of life goals. Working together, we can explore and identify these behaviors and change them. Individual Therapy helps to build confidence as you begin to understand and take steps to modify personal challenges. Couples Therapy identifies and builds upon personal and relationships strengths to repair interpersonal distress. Group Psychotherapy enhances and deepens personal awareness so you improve your connections with others.
(301) 375-0982 View (301) 375-0982
Photo of Cassi Pinder, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Cassi Pinder
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chestertown, MD 21620
Life can be overwhelming and difficult. At times, it is hard to navigate through this world without feeling stuck. If you feel stuck in whatever stage of life you are in, I want to help you work through the issues that are getting in the way of the life you want to have.
Life can be overwhelming and difficult. At times, it is hard to navigate through this world without feeling stuck. If you feel stuck in whatever stage of life you are in, I want to help you work through the issues that are getting in the way of the life you want to have.
(410) 891-2599 View (410) 891-2599
Photo of Barbara K Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Barbara K Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Chestertown, MD 21620
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck or out of balance in your life? I believe I can help shift you to a place of increased clarity, focus and positive movement. I assist clients to find solutions to present day challenges as well as address any underlying or unresolved matters that are keeping them in undesirable and unhealthy patterns. My fundamental belief is that we have the wisdom within to make positive and healthy changes in our lives. My role as a therapist is to help clients connect with, strengthen and trust this inner wisdom. I have over 20 years of experience helping clients more toward more life satisfaction and ease.
Are you feeling stuck or out of balance in your life? I believe I can help shift you to a place of increased clarity, focus and positive movement. I assist clients to find solutions to present day challenges as well as address any underlying or unresolved matters that are keeping them in undesirable and unhealthy patterns. My fundamental belief is that we have the wisdom within to make positive and healthy changes in our lives. My role as a therapist is to help clients connect with, strengthen and trust this inner wisdom. I have over 20 years of experience helping clients more toward more life satisfaction and ease.
(443) 552-0166 View (443) 552-0166
Photo of Michele Bowne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Michele Bowne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chestertown, MD 21620  (Online Only)
Have you been struggling and don't know where to start? You deserve a life you are excited to live, therapy is a tool that can help get you to that life. Many people are nervous or scared to start therapy. Others have tried it in the past with little success. Reaching out to start therapy, whether it is for the first time or the fifth, can be daunting. I want to help you achieve your goals and improve your mental health, and enjoy the process along the way.
Have you been struggling and don't know where to start? You deserve a life you are excited to live, therapy is a tool that can help get you to that life. Many people are nervous or scared to start therapy. Others have tried it in the past with little success. Reaching out to start therapy, whether it is for the first time or the fifth, can be daunting. I want to help you achieve your goals and improve your mental health, and enjoy the process along the way.
(301) 409-4658 View (301) 409-4658

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michelle Priddy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Michelle Priddy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LATC
Verified Verified
Centreville, MD 21617
Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Do you struggle to cope with daily life and feel like your past experiences are holding you back? As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand the unique needs of people impacted by trauma and am able to use evidence-based techniques to help you heal and recover. With a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering therapeutic environment, you can process your experiences, develop coping skills, and work towards a brighter future. Don't let trauma define your life - schedule an appointment and let's begin trauma-informed therapy today.
Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Do you struggle to cope with daily life and feel like your past experiences are holding you back? As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand the unique needs of people impacted by trauma and am able to use evidence-based techniques to help you heal and recover. With a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering therapeutic environment, you can process your experiences, develop coping skills, and work towards a brighter future. Don't let trauma define your life - schedule an appointment and let's begin trauma-informed therapy today.
(410) 449-7502 View (410) 449-7502

Online Therapists

Photo of Tanya Manyweathers LCSW-C Renewing Your Mind Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Tanya Manyweathers LCSW-C Renewing Your Mind Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I have over 40 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in the following areas: childhood abuse, neglect, anger management, domestic violence, sexual abuse, sexual assault, and relational issues.
My ideal client is that individual who may have experienced some type of childhood trauma and find themselves stuck or lost in life. If you are experiencing some of the following symptoms: depression, anxiety, anger, relational issues, feelings of abandonment, or rejection help is available. You do not have to isolate yourself or live an unfulfilled and meaningless life. Therapy can assist you in changing your life. You can have the life you desire. Sand Tray and Art Therapy is one of the many treatment interventions I utilize to help clients delve into past trauma. It is a safe and non-evasive way to deal with trauma.
I have over 40 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in the following areas: childhood abuse, neglect, anger management, domestic violence, sexual abuse, sexual assault, and relational issues.
My ideal client is that individual who may have experienced some type of childhood trauma and find themselves stuck or lost in life. If you are experiencing some of the following symptoms: depression, anxiety, anger, relational issues, feelings of abandonment, or rejection help is available. You do not have to isolate yourself or live an unfulfilled and meaningless life. Therapy can assist you in changing your life. You can have the life you desire. Sand Tray and Art Therapy is one of the many treatment interventions I utilize to help clients delve into past trauma. It is a safe and non-evasive way to deal with trauma.
(410) 849-0671 View (410) 849-0671
Photo of Lynn Strange in Chestertown, MD
Lynn Strange
MA
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20721  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty are Domestic Violence, Grief, Sexual Assault, Low Self-Esteem, Abandonment, and Family Counseling.
If you are someone, that is in need of a caring, supportive, compassionate, and non-judgmental counseling, to unload the burdens, issues, and difficult situations occurring in your life, I am ready to provide a safe & trusted place for you.
My areas of specialty are Domestic Violence, Grief, Sexual Assault, Low Self-Esteem, Abandonment, and Family Counseling.
If you are someone, that is in need of a caring, supportive, compassionate, and non-judgmental counseling, to unload the burdens, issues, and difficult situations occurring in your life, I am ready to provide a safe & trusted place for you.
(301) 923-4425 View (301) 923-4425
Photo of Alta Healthcare Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Alta Healthcare Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
Our highly trained, licensed clinicians can help with a variety of issues and disorders, including: Stress Management, Adjustment Problems, Anxiety / Phobias, Impulse Control, Anger Management, Relationship Issues, Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, Trauma, Chronic Mental Illness, Bipolar, Depression, ADD/ADHD, and more.
Finding and connecting with a therapist is one of the hardest thing to do because you are looking for someone who will see you, hear you, and help you navigate in areas you may be struggling with. Here at Alta Healthcare Services, we pride ourselves on having a variety of clinicians that have come from different walks of life to help you achieve your overall goal. No matter what you are going through you will find someone to give you a helping hand. Here your success and growth is our priority.
Our highly trained, licensed clinicians can help with a variety of issues and disorders, including: Stress Management, Adjustment Problems, Anxiety / Phobias, Impulse Control, Anger Management, Relationship Issues, Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, Trauma, Chronic Mental Illness, Bipolar, Depression, ADD/ADHD, and more.
Finding and connecting with a therapist is one of the hardest thing to do because you are looking for someone who will see you, hear you, and help you navigate in areas you may be struggling with. Here at Alta Healthcare Services, we pride ourselves on having a variety of clinicians that have come from different walks of life to help you achieve your overall goal. No matter what you are going through you will find someone to give you a helping hand. Here your success and growth is our priority.
(240) 201-6521 View (240) 201-6521
Photo of Denise Adams, Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Denise Adams
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Sykesville, MD 21784
I have worked with survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault for more than 10 years in a variety of in-hospital and recovery settings.
Imagine waking up every morning feeling like you can take on the world. How great does that feel? In 2017, I opened the doors of my practice to patients — offering them a wide range of counseling services to guide them through life’s challenges and most trying times. As a former special education teacher, a middle school counselor, and my experience as a clinical therapist, I bring a wide variety of experience to the space. Life can get difficult, and sometimes a little help from a Professional Therapist can make things better. I care about your well-being and will provide you all the tools you need to live your best life.
I have worked with survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault for more than 10 years in a variety of in-hospital and recovery settings.
Imagine waking up every morning feeling like you can take on the world. How great does that feel? In 2017, I opened the doors of my practice to patients — offering them a wide range of counseling services to guide them through life’s challenges and most trying times. As a former special education teacher, a middle school counselor, and my experience as a clinical therapist, I bring a wide variety of experience to the space. Life can get difficult, and sometimes a little help from a Professional Therapist can make things better. I care about your well-being and will provide you all the tools you need to live your best life.
(410) 204-5271 View (410) 204-5271
Photo of Meaghan Tarquinio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Meaghan Tarquinio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Trauma affects people in unique ways. It can present as depression, anger, hopelessness, anxiety or PTSD. There is no “right way” to respond to trauma. If your life is being negatively impacted by your experiences, you are worthy of the chance to heal and make strides towards wholeness and peace. I am a trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals find their path to healing. I believe in the power of resilience and the importance of creating a safe space for you. For over a decade, I have specialized in trauma with a focus on intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, and adverse childhood experiences.
Trauma affects people in unique ways. It can present as depression, anger, hopelessness, anxiety or PTSD. There is no “right way” to respond to trauma. If your life is being negatively impacted by your experiences, you are worthy of the chance to heal and make strides towards wholeness and peace. I am a trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals find their path to healing. I believe in the power of resilience and the importance of creating a safe space for you. For over a decade, I have specialized in trauma with a focus on intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, and adverse childhood experiences.
(240) 802-8962 View (240) 802-8962
Photo of Craig Rushing, Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Craig Rushing
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21226
My practice has helped individuals gain independence, address problematic issues and have a more rewarding lifestyle while developing healthy relationships since 1996. I have worked extensively with adults, couples, families, and teenagers suffering from depression; emotional and sexual abuse disorders; addictive behaviors; and other mental illnesses. My office is located on the second floor of Pennington Center. The building has a handicap access entrance.
My practice has helped individuals gain independence, address problematic issues and have a more rewarding lifestyle while developing healthy relationships since 1996. I have worked extensively with adults, couples, families, and teenagers suffering from depression; emotional and sexual abuse disorders; addictive behaviors; and other mental illnesses. My office is located on the second floor of Pennington Center. The building has a handicap access entrance.
(410) 775-5160 View (410) 775-5160
Photo of Grace Carmichael, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Grace Carmichael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I specialize in working with children, youth, adults and families impacted by trauma. Utilizing my trauma-focused training, combined with my background in domestic and relationship violence prevention, I bring a strengths-based approach that is both motivational and client-centered. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and integrate both psychoeducation and skills-based techniques into my work. My specialties include trauma and PTSD, grief, and relationship and domestic/sexual abuse. More broadly, I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood-related disorders.
I specialize in working with children, youth, adults and families impacted by trauma. Utilizing my trauma-focused training, combined with my background in domestic and relationship violence prevention, I bring a strengths-based approach that is both motivational and client-centered. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and integrate both psychoeducation and skills-based techniques into my work. My specialties include trauma and PTSD, grief, and relationship and domestic/sexual abuse. More broadly, I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood-related disorders.
(443) 390-7856 View (443) 390-7856
Photo of Xiaofang (Bethanie) Wang Lanterman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Xiaofang (Bethanie) Wang Lanterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I have provided individual, couple and family therapy to diverse population from systemic lens on issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma/PTSD, parenting, sexual abuse, couple relationships, marital and premarital concerns, family conflicts and connection, and interracial relationships.
The process of finding a therapist can be daunting, but I believe it is a sign of courage and strength to seek help for lasting personal growth and for stronger relationships. My overall perspective about therapy is to show acceptance, compassion and care to all clients; to build safe, warm, trustworthy, and collaborative therapeutic relationships; to apply evidence-based and culturally-competent therapeutic concepts and skills to address clients’ specific needs; and to build upon client’s strength for change. I can speak both English and Mandarin. I provide immigration psychological evaluations. I am licensed in Maryland and D.C.
I have provided individual, couple and family therapy to diverse population from systemic lens on issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma/PTSD, parenting, sexual abuse, couple relationships, marital and premarital concerns, family conflicts and connection, and interracial relationships.
The process of finding a therapist can be daunting, but I believe it is a sign of courage and strength to seek help for lasting personal growth and for stronger relationships. My overall perspective about therapy is to show acceptance, compassion and care to all clients; to build safe, warm, trustworthy, and collaborative therapeutic relationships; to apply evidence-based and culturally-competent therapeutic concepts and skills to address clients’ specific needs; and to build upon client’s strength for change. I can speak both English and Mandarin. I provide immigration psychological evaluations. I am licensed in Maryland and D.C.
(240) 222-1529 View (240) 222-1529
Photo of Rachel Bollinger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Rachel Bollinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive knowledge in working with individuals who have been impacted by sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Do you find yourself overthinking? Are you a people pleaser who feels their needs are unimportant? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event. This can be exhausting and may be impacting your current relationships, job functioning, or daily mood. I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to trust and be vulnerable with others. My goal in our work together is that you can be yourself, while feeling supported and cared for.
I have extensive knowledge in working with individuals who have been impacted by sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Do you find yourself overthinking? Are you a people pleaser who feels their needs are unimportant? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event. This can be exhausting and may be impacting your current relationships, job functioning, or daily mood. I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to trust and be vulnerable with others. My goal in our work together is that you can be yourself, while feeling supported and cared for.
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Photo of Renee Drehmer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Renee Drehmer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
With 20+ years working in the counseling field, my experience has ranged from working in domestic violence/sexual abuse programs, in city and suburban mental health centers, and hospital settings.
As a therapist, I find it important for clients to have a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental place to explore their concerns. Along with providing such an environment, I work collaboratively with clients, utilizing a strengths-based, client centered approach, to find paths toward healing and solutions that work best for them and their life situations. I believe such a therapeutic environment offers people the opportunity for personal growth and development as well as a deeper understanding of themselves.
With 20+ years working in the counseling field, my experience has ranged from working in domestic violence/sexual abuse programs, in city and suburban mental health centers, and hospital settings.
As a therapist, I find it important for clients to have a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental place to explore their concerns. Along with providing such an environment, I work collaboratively with clients, utilizing a strengths-based, client centered approach, to find paths toward healing and solutions that work best for them and their life situations. I believe such a therapeutic environment offers people the opportunity for personal growth and development as well as a deeper understanding of themselves.
(410) 469-7472 View (410) 469-7472
Photo of Interventions, LLC (Dr. Howard), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Interventions, LLC (Dr. Howard)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20603  (Online Only)
Coaching Programs are based on Dateworthiness, Are you ready for love, facing past sexual trauma and moving forward after sexual abuse? If so, please inquire about coaching details.
"Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get." Such a true statement! Many of us have to "work with the cards we're dealt," even when those cards leave us feeling as if we have very few choices, and as if we have no control of our lives, but, isn't,"Life what you make it"? With that said, are you happy with life? Are you struggling with the chocolates in your box, or cards dealt you? We welcome the opportunity to offer new perspectives, that could result in a more fulfilled life!
Coaching Programs are based on Dateworthiness, Are you ready for love, facing past sexual trauma and moving forward after sexual abuse? If so, please inquire about coaching details.
"Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get." Such a true statement! Many of us have to "work with the cards we're dealt," even when those cards leave us feeling as if we have very few choices, and as if we have no control of our lives, but, isn't,"Life what you make it"? With that said, are you happy with life? Are you struggling with the chocolates in your box, or cards dealt you? We welcome the opportunity to offer new perspectives, that could result in a more fulfilled life!
(240) 607-5177 View (240) 607-5177
Photo of Natasha Charles McQueen, Counselor in Chestertown, MD
Natasha Charles McQueen
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Stevensville, MD 21666
Natasha has experience working with diverse clients, including first responders, incarcerated adults, sexual assault survivors, and mature (senior) adults.
At Chesapeake Bay Psychological Services, Natasha offers therapy for adjustment challenges, including immigration & re-entry; processing trauma, including childhood trauma and sexual abuse/assault; emotional challenges, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, and grief/loss; and to improve management of stress, life transitions, and other difficulties.
Natasha has experience working with diverse clients, including first responders, incarcerated adults, sexual assault survivors, and mature (senior) adults.
At Chesapeake Bay Psychological Services, Natasha offers therapy for adjustment challenges, including immigration & re-entry; processing trauma, including childhood trauma and sexual abuse/assault; emotional challenges, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, and grief/loss; and to improve management of stress, life transitions, and other difficulties.
(410) 705-2451 x1 View (410) 705-2451 x1
Photo of Anne K Eckman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Anne K Eckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW, EMDR-C, SEP
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
I believe that all people have the innate capacity to heal and grow from trauma and distress. I specialize in working with adults who have experienced challenging situations, past and present. These include trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and difficult pregnancy & birth-related experiences. I also help people to address anxiety, grief and loss, and other life transitions. Drawing on a range of complementary approaches, I collaborate with you to strengthen your skills to navigate present-moment distress, explore what’s feeling painful or stuck, and together find ways to help you flourish.
I believe that all people have the innate capacity to heal and grow from trauma and distress. I specialize in working with adults who have experienced challenging situations, past and present. These include trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and difficult pregnancy & birth-related experiences. I also help people to address anxiety, grief and loss, and other life transitions. Drawing on a range of complementary approaches, I collaborate with you to strengthen your skills to navigate present-moment distress, explore what’s feeling painful or stuck, and together find ways to help you flourish.
(301) 970-4289 View (301) 970-4289
Photo of Ashley Gardella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestertown, MD
Ashley Gardella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are experiencing anxiety (social anxiety, panic attacks, separation anxiety), depression (suicidal ideations and self-injurious behaviors) low self-esteem, cyberbullying, and difficult peer and family relationships. I also have extensive experience working with trauma, including sexual assault and abuse.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are experiencing anxiety (social anxiety, panic attacks, separation anxiety), depression (suicidal ideations and self-injurious behaviors) low self-esteem, cyberbullying, and difficult peer and family relationships. I also have extensive experience working with trauma, including sexual assault and abuse.
(240) 800-1230 View (240) 800-1230

See more therapy options for Chestertown

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.