Therapists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Kelly A Counts, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Kelly A Counts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78257
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. I specialize in treating complex trauma, sexual trauma and the full spectrum of anxiety and stress disorders with EMDR. I am passionate about working with clients whom have been diagnosed with personality disorders, children or spouses of individuals whom have been diagnosed with personality disorders, victims of sexual abuse and survivors of incest abuse. Growth and healing is not just possible but attainable together. I approach every client as a whole and healthy being capable of unlimited growth regardless of a diagnosis or a severe history of trauma and pain.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. I specialize in treating complex trauma, sexual trauma and the full spectrum of anxiety and stress disorders with EMDR. I am passionate about working with clients whom have been diagnosed with personality disorders, children or spouses of individuals whom have been diagnosed with personality disorders, victims of sexual abuse and survivors of incest abuse. Growth and healing is not just possible but attainable together. I approach every client as a whole and healthy being capable of unlimited growth regardless of a diagnosis or a severe history of trauma and pain.
(210) 879-7691 View (210) 879-7691
Photo of Jennifer Scardino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Jennifer Scardino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
For the past 10+ years, I have been working with people to heal personal trauma BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, sexual abuse survivors and chronic illnesses.
We all have an inner wisdom to heal. A reed, much like the story of the lotus flower, begins within murky environments and grows toward the sun through strength and flexibility to weather the storms. My intention within sessions is to build a safe, supported space to attune to any needs you have in your current journey. I welcome children, adolescents, adults, elders and couples. I am passionate about cultivating a collaborative, trauma informed and safe therapeutic space that is culturally responsive and attuned to your needs in this current journey.
For the past 10+ years, I have been working with people to heal personal trauma BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, sexual abuse survivors and chronic illnesses.
We all have an inner wisdom to heal. A reed, much like the story of the lotus flower, begins within murky environments and grows toward the sun through strength and flexibility to weather the storms. My intention within sessions is to build a safe, supported space to attune to any needs you have in your current journey. I welcome children, adolescents, adults, elders and couples. I am passionate about cultivating a collaborative, trauma informed and safe therapeutic space that is culturally responsive and attuned to your needs in this current journey.
(726) 224-4588 View (726) 224-4588
Photo of Shannon Lollar, Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Shannon Lollar
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC-TX, LCPC-MT, CCPT-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78259
Waitlist for new clients
While I work with a wide variety of clients, I specialize in folks with a history of trauma, those who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual assault, or struggled with addictions.
Prioritizing yourself, and your wellness can be difficult, especially in our turbulent world. I would be honored to help you create a safe space where you can completely be yourself, and accepted for who that is. I am always amazed at the resilience and potential each of my clients have, and I would love to help you tap into that. I believe that an authentic relationship between the counselor and client is really important for change. I know I am not always the right fit for all clients, so if I'm not your cup of tea, I will help you find the counselor that is!
While I work with a wide variety of clients, I specialize in folks with a history of trauma, those who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual assault, or struggled with addictions.
Prioritizing yourself, and your wellness can be difficult, especially in our turbulent world. I would be honored to help you create a safe space where you can completely be yourself, and accepted for who that is. I am always amazed at the resilience and potential each of my clients have, and I would love to help you tap into that. I believe that an authentic relationship between the counselor and client is really important for change. I know I am not always the right fit for all clients, so if I'm not your cup of tea, I will help you find the counselor that is!
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Photo of Tonya Leigh Carson, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Tonya Leigh Carson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78206  (Online Only)
In my therapy I specialize in PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Substance Abuse. Many of these centers of pain are common in women who are suffering from domestic violence, sexual assault and abuse, or addiction. Whether your pain is from a lifetime of trauma, or from a single, life-changing event, the tools I can give you will help you get to moving forward. If you feel like you’re losing the battle, and you don’t know where to go next, I can help you find peace and relief!
In my therapy I specialize in PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Substance Abuse. Many of these centers of pain are common in women who are suffering from domestic violence, sexual assault and abuse, or addiction. Whether your pain is from a lifetime of trauma, or from a single, life-changing event, the tools I can give you will help you get to moving forward. If you feel like you’re losing the battle, and you don’t know where to go next, I can help you find peace and relief!
(830) 293-5703 View (830) 293-5703
Photo of Margaret Bean, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Margaret Bean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
(210) 941-4997 View (210) 941-4997
Photo of Thomas Efird, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Thomas Efird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR-AC, Veteran
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Waitlist for new clients
I've worked in the mental health field for over 23 years, serving in both the military and civilian settings. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issues include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime/theft, car accidents, grief/loss, combat, first responders/medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed.
I've worked in the mental health field for over 23 years, serving in both the military and civilian settings. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issues include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime/theft, car accidents, grief/loss, combat, first responders/medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed.
(210) 806-7819 View (210) 806-7819
Photo of Chari D. Vandever, M.A., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Chari D. Vandever, M.A., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78260  (Online Only)
I will have limited openings for new clients beginning in February 2024. I focus on treating young adults (18+) and women's issues. I am familiar with the unique problems young adults deal with in this age of technology and social media and their impact on self esteem and relationships/friendships as well as life transitions. I see individuals with various issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, social anxiety, self esteem issues, self harm, family conflict, issues surrounding social media, entering college, relationship problems, PTSD, as well as victims of physical, emotional, sexual abuse.
I will have limited openings for new clients beginning in February 2024. I focus on treating young adults (18+) and women's issues. I am familiar with the unique problems young adults deal with in this age of technology and social media and their impact on self esteem and relationships/friendships as well as life transitions. I see individuals with various issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, social anxiety, self esteem issues, self harm, family conflict, issues surrounding social media, entering college, relationship problems, PTSD, as well as victims of physical, emotional, sexual abuse.
(361) 792-3703 View (361) 792-3703
Photo of Judi Craig, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Judi Craig
Psychologist, PhD, MCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78231
I particularly enjoy working with PTSD--from combat experiences, sexual abuse, assaults, automobile accidents, etc.
My style is direct, practical, and upbeat, so I use a wide variety of therapeutic processes I've found to be effective in my 30+ years in private practice. You don't have to wonder what I'm thinking--because I will tell you! My goal is to assist you achieve your goals--whether it is healing past or current trauma, communicating better, learning ways to help with anxiety and/or depression, becoming a more effective parent, resolving a relationship issue, or simply helping you just to feel more positive about yourself and your life.
I particularly enjoy working with PTSD--from combat experiences, sexual abuse, assaults, automobile accidents, etc.
My style is direct, practical, and upbeat, so I use a wide variety of therapeutic processes I've found to be effective in my 30+ years in private practice. You don't have to wonder what I'm thinking--because I will tell you! My goal is to assist you achieve your goals--whether it is healing past or current trauma, communicating better, learning ways to help with anxiety and/or depression, becoming a more effective parent, resolving a relationship issue, or simply helping you just to feel more positive about yourself and your life.
(210) 775-0907 View (210) 775-0907
Photo of Beverly M Davis, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Beverly M Davis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
Trauma can come from a single incident, like a divorce or a car accident, or from stressors that span several years, such as physical or sexual abuse or parental neglect.
After 30 years of practice I still love what I do. My work is personal--only I answer calls, make appointments, greet you at the door. I want to know who you are, how I can help, what we can accomplish together. My response to you is always original and addresses your unique pain. I am trained in several theoretical models and I use them to guide my practice, but your personal struggle is the focus of our work together. You can come alone or with your partner, child, or family.
Trauma can come from a single incident, like a divorce or a car accident, or from stressors that span several years, such as physical or sexual abuse or parental neglect.
After 30 years of practice I still love what I do. My work is personal--only I answer calls, make appointments, greet you at the door. I want to know who you are, how I can help, what we can accomplish together. My response to you is always original and addresses your unique pain. I am trained in several theoretical models and I use them to guide my practice, but your personal struggle is the focus of our work together. You can come alone or with your partner, child, or family.
(210) 485-1679 View (210) 485-1679
Photo of Valerie J Vineyard, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Valerie J Vineyard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
Specialties include relational issues; men and women suffering with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive behaviors, sexual dysfunctions, relational problems, sexual abuse, parenting difficulties, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use problems.
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, confused, powerless, helpless to control life issues, a healthy first step toward realizing positive change in your life, is to invest in therapy. By discovering your strengths, gifts, and unique perception, we can begin utilizing these attributes toward effective thoughtful problem solving and decision making behaviors.
Specialties include relational issues; men and women suffering with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive behaviors, sexual dysfunctions, relational problems, sexual abuse, parenting difficulties, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use problems.
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, confused, powerless, helpless to control life issues, a healthy first step toward realizing positive change in your life, is to invest in therapy. By discovering your strengths, gifts, and unique perception, we can begin utilizing these attributes toward effective thoughtful problem solving and decision making behaviors.
(210) 879-6713 View (210) 879-6713
Photo of Christine Elizabeth Chandler, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Christine Elizabeth Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with trauma (abuse, assault, childhood, military), social anxiety, depression, and other issues.
I understand that clients are experts in their own lives, but sometimes they need help with unwanted thoughts, symptoms, or behaviors. Reaching out for help can be difficult for all kinds of reasons. I want to reassure you with words from Brené Brown “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to." I want to help you work on becoming the best version of yourself. Loneliness, social anxiety, and just dealing with a constantly changing world can sometimes make anyone feel out of control. I want to help give you back that feeling of being in control of your life.
I specialize in helping people with trauma (abuse, assault, childhood, military), social anxiety, depression, and other issues.
I understand that clients are experts in their own lives, but sometimes they need help with unwanted thoughts, symptoms, or behaviors. Reaching out for help can be difficult for all kinds of reasons. I want to reassure you with words from Brené Brown “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to." I want to help you work on becoming the best version of yourself. Loneliness, social anxiety, and just dealing with a constantly changing world can sometimes make anyone feel out of control. I want to help give you back that feeling of being in control of your life.
(254) 237-4683 View (254) 237-4683
Photo of Shawna Corley, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Shawna Corley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
Want to start your journey to healing? I would love to come along side you and help facilitate your growth. I love working with kids, teens, and adults and I am skilled to handle the hard issues of trauma. My work with clients covers a wide range of topics, but I specialize in sibling/parent conflict, relationships, trauma, abuse, sexual identity, sexual assault, and grief. I will ensure you are provided an individual plan and help challenge you to reach you optimum version of you. I am available to perform Child Custody Evaluations and Adoptions Studies though the Bexar County DRO. I am also available for forensic cases.
Want to start your journey to healing? I would love to come along side you and help facilitate your growth. I love working with kids, teens, and adults and I am skilled to handle the hard issues of trauma. My work with clients covers a wide range of topics, but I specialize in sibling/parent conflict, relationships, trauma, abuse, sexual identity, sexual assault, and grief. I will ensure you are provided an individual plan and help challenge you to reach you optimum version of you. I am available to perform Child Custody Evaluations and Adoptions Studies though the Bexar County DRO. I am also available for forensic cases.
(210) 853-2618 View (210) 853-2618
Photo of Turning Point Therapeutic Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Turning Point Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LSOTP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
I also hold a second license and certifications specialized in sexual abuse-both victim and offender, as well as sex addiction.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, helpless or is your life out of control in some way? Have you experienced depression, anxiety, addictions, or traumas that affect your ability to sustain relationships? Do you seek a safe, supportive place in which to explore your feelings, thoughts in order to turn your life in a new direction? For 23 years, I have helped people understand and change their behavior and motivations using primarily a cognitive (thinking based) behavior therapy approach which examines harmful thinking that supports negative feelings, and behavior patterns, so that you become equipped to change and grow.
I also hold a second license and certifications specialized in sexual abuse-both victim and offender, as well as sex addiction.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, helpless or is your life out of control in some way? Have you experienced depression, anxiety, addictions, or traumas that affect your ability to sustain relationships? Do you seek a safe, supportive place in which to explore your feelings, thoughts in order to turn your life in a new direction? For 23 years, I have helped people understand and change their behavior and motivations using primarily a cognitive (thinking based) behavior therapy approach which examines harmful thinking that supports negative feelings, and behavior patterns, so that you become equipped to change and grow.
(210) 943-9470 View (210) 943-9470
Photo of Victoria Shackelford, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Victoria Shackelford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC, NCC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
(210) 602-3002 View (210) 602-3002
Photo of Paula Mokry With Genesis Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Paula Mokry With Genesis Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78255
I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of stressors including anxiety, divorce, relationship difficulties, child behavioral problems, grief and loss, depression and survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
I provide confidential therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to my clients when everyday problems become too overwhelming to handle on their own. I create a warm relaxing environment so clients feel comfortable exploring their situation and together we can find solutions. I am open to seeing either just the individual or incorporating members of the family to help achieve the best outcome through therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy techniques including art therapy to help children express their feelings through play.
I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of stressors including anxiety, divorce, relationship difficulties, child behavioral problems, grief and loss, depression and survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
I provide confidential therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to my clients when everyday problems become too overwhelming to handle on their own. I create a warm relaxing environment so clients feel comfortable exploring their situation and together we can find solutions. I am open to seeing either just the individual or incorporating members of the family to help achieve the best outcome through therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy techniques including art therapy to help children express their feelings through play.
(210) 899-0584 View (210) 899-0584
Photo of Kelsey Backes, Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Kelsey Backes
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, RPT, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78261
I have worked extensively with trauma and other issues through my involvement with domestic violence/sexual assault centers, child protective services, and community mental health.
Life is a journey and everyone's trial and tribulations are different. In life, it is inevitable that change occurs and that can be an overwhelming venture to embark on alone. I can be a tool and a resource for you during your time of need. I am passionate about helping others; it is a calling in my life. As Elisabeth Kubler-Ross stated, "Beautiful people do not just happen." Ross's statement has always sparked a fire within me, as I know from personal and professional experience that strength comes from within and growth comes from pain, sometimes we just need a little help.
I have worked extensively with trauma and other issues through my involvement with domestic violence/sexual assault centers, child protective services, and community mental health.
Life is a journey and everyone's trial and tribulations are different. In life, it is inevitable that change occurs and that can be an overwhelming venture to embark on alone. I can be a tool and a resource for you during your time of need. I am passionate about helping others; it is a calling in my life. As Elisabeth Kubler-Ross stated, "Beautiful people do not just happen." Ross's statement has always sparked a fire within me, as I know from personal and professional experience that strength comes from within and growth comes from pain, sometimes we just need a little help.
(210) 625-4433 View (210) 625-4433
Photo of Denise M. Filer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Denise M. Filer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78202
If you have come to the realization you are emotionally and mentally blocked; then it is time for a change. If those behavior patterns and thoughts have gotten in the way of you experiencing the deeper meaning of life and enjoyment let me facilitate your growth so that you can transform your life and live to the fullest. I Specialize in: • Depression • Grief • Addiction • Sexual Abuse • LGBTQ •PTSD • Personality Disorders •Co-occurring diseases •and Trauma .
If you have come to the realization you are emotionally and mentally blocked; then it is time for a change. If those behavior patterns and thoughts have gotten in the way of you experiencing the deeper meaning of life and enjoyment let me facilitate your growth so that you can transform your life and live to the fullest. I Specialize in: • Depression • Grief • Addiction • Sexual Abuse • LGBTQ •PTSD • Personality Disorders •Co-occurring diseases •and Trauma .
(830) 254-5603 View (830) 254-5603
Photo of Mikah Watford, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Mikah Watford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, ACCTS
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78239
I am an Advanced Clinical Trauma Specialist providing evidence-based treatments for trauma including EMDR. Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Cognitive Processing therapy. In person and Telehealth sessions available.
I am an Advanced Clinical Trauma Specialist providing evidence-based treatments for trauma including EMDR. Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Cognitive Processing therapy. In person and Telehealth sessions available.
(210) 879-1798 View (210) 879-1798
Photo of Nidia I. Valadez, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Nidia I. Valadez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78248  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you experiencing challenges with fear, self-doubt, or painful memories from a traumatic event? I am here to offer assistance. Together, we can explore your strengths, understand the root of your difficulties, and awaken a more confident and resilient version of yourself. Life can be overwhelming, hindering our ability to give and receive love and experience happiness. Let's collaborate on a journey towards the fulfilling life you truly deserve.
Are you experiencing challenges with fear, self-doubt, or painful memories from a traumatic event? I am here to offer assistance. Together, we can explore your strengths, understand the root of your difficulties, and awaken a more confident and resilient version of yourself. Life can be overwhelming, hindering our ability to give and receive love and experience happiness. Let's collaborate on a journey towards the fulfilling life you truly deserve.
(210) 384-2931 View (210) 384-2931
Photo of Kristel K Zoller, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Kristel K Zoller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Waitlist for new clients
Trained, certified & experienced trauma therapist with over 10-years experience guiding clients through trauma recovery. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to release, process and learn to work through trauma, grief, depression and anxiety. My mission is to help you find your sense of self, your voice, your confidence and your power. I specialize in working with the military population and men & women with a history of childhood abuse, domestic violence, sexual trauma and combat trauma. "A lot of people who have experienced trauma at the hands of others take responsibility, and that is what's toxic." -Hannah Gadsby
Trained, certified & experienced trauma therapist with over 10-years experience guiding clients through trauma recovery. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to release, process and learn to work through trauma, grief, depression and anxiety. My mission is to help you find your sense of self, your voice, your confidence and your power. I specialize in working with the military population and men & women with a history of childhood abuse, domestic violence, sexual trauma and combat trauma. "A lot of people who have experienced trauma at the hands of others take responsibility, and that is what's toxic." -Hannah Gadsby
(210) 405-1866 View (210) 405-1866

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.