Sexual Abuse Therapists in Long Beach, CA

Photo of Mahima Mohan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Mahima Mohan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90806  (Online Only)
I maintain a social justice lens in my treatment, and have specialized training related to trauma, sexual abuse/violence, adolescent mental health, and identity development.
When seeking support, you deserve an experience that feels safe, personalized, and inclusive. I'm committed to helping you through your healing with compassion and sensitivity. You lead the process as I aid in facilitating your journey towards empowerment.
I maintain a social justice lens in my treatment, and have specialized training related to trauma, sexual abuse/violence, adolescent mental health, and identity development.
When seeking support, you deserve an experience that feels safe, personalized, and inclusive. I'm committed to helping you through your healing with compassion and sensitivity. You lead the process as I aid in facilitating your journey towards empowerment.
(424) 349-4930 x704 View (424) 349-4930 x704
Photo of Kate O'Shaughnessy Nulty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Kate O'Shaughnessy Nulty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Healing cannot occur in isolation and as your therapist I will support and guide you on your path. I am a Holistic Psychotherapist in private practice for over 15 years. I was classically trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy but my style has evolved over the years to be more humanistic and includes various treatment modalities including Somatic Experiencing.I have a special affinity for working with adults who have survived childhood trauma including sexual abuse, physical abuse and developmental trauma. My practice also focuses on supporting women in their journey through motherhood, mood disorders, and relational therapy
Healing cannot occur in isolation and as your therapist I will support and guide you on your path. I am a Holistic Psychotherapist in private practice for over 15 years. I was classically trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy but my style has evolved over the years to be more humanistic and includes various treatment modalities including Somatic Experiencing.I have a special affinity for working with adults who have survived childhood trauma including sexual abuse, physical abuse and developmental trauma. My practice also focuses on supporting women in their journey through motherhood, mood disorders, and relational therapy
(562) 513-6676 View (562) 513-6676
Photo of Headway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Headway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
I have experience working with diverse populations including children and families, adolescents, homeless, veterans, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, addiction, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, and life challenges.
I would like to acknowledge and welcome you for taking a bold first step toward your wellness and recovery journey. My goal is the prevention and reduction of risk factors for emotional and behavioral problems and the promotion of metal health wellness. Utilizing evidence-based practices, I will work with you to help you learn to manage your difficult emotions and develop tools that work for you. I believe once something becomes shareable, it becomes more bearable.
I have experience working with diverse populations including children and families, adolescents, homeless, veterans, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, addiction, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, and life challenges.
I would like to acknowledge and welcome you for taking a bold first step toward your wellness and recovery journey. My goal is the prevention and reduction of risk factors for emotional and behavioral problems and the promotion of metal health wellness. Utilizing evidence-based practices, I will work with you to help you learn to manage your difficult emotions and develop tools that work for you. I believe once something becomes shareable, it becomes more bearable.
(650) 844-1053 View (650) 844-1053
Photo of Erin Igarashi-Parra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Erin Igarashi-Parra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, intimate partner violence, and women’s issues.
It can be very difficult to take steps towards positive change when facing challenges in life. Have you been having difficulties engaging in things you previously enjoyed? Are you isolating and finding it harder to talk to family or friends? If you are looking for a safe empowering space where you can begin the process of healing, you have already taken your first step.
My experience includes working with trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, intimate partner violence, and women’s issues.
It can be very difficult to take steps towards positive change when facing challenges in life. Have you been having difficulties engaging in things you previously enjoyed? Are you isolating and finding it harder to talk to family or friends? If you are looking for a safe empowering space where you can begin the process of healing, you have already taken your first step.
(661) 724-4866 View (661) 724-4866
Photo of Leigh Ann Greenfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Leigh Ann Greenfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
In addition to eating disorders, trauma, and general mental health, I have some specialization in working with Dissociative Disorders and survivors of trafficking and extended childhood sexual abuse.
I specialize in treating C-PTSD and eating disorders, but also work with clients seeking healing from depression, anxiety, and general mental health concerns. Whether your trauma is a "Big T" or "Little T" trauma, I believe all our nervous systems need healing and restoration after experiences that leave us confused, unsafe, or disconnected. Whatever you are going through, you'll find a nonjudgmental, supportive space in our work.
In addition to eating disorders, trauma, and general mental health, I have some specialization in working with Dissociative Disorders and survivors of trafficking and extended childhood sexual abuse.
I specialize in treating C-PTSD and eating disorders, but also work with clients seeking healing from depression, anxiety, and general mental health concerns. Whether your trauma is a "Big T" or "Little T" trauma, I believe all our nervous systems need healing and restoration after experiences that leave us confused, unsafe, or disconnected. Whatever you are going through, you'll find a nonjudgmental, supportive space in our work.
(323) 677-2921 View (323) 677-2921
Photo of Karla Lara, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Karla Lara
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I have over 12 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children suffering from grief/trauma, depression/anxiety/stress management, self-esteem/assertiveness/boundaries, intimate relationship abuse, and sexual assault.
Overcome obstacles that have been preventing you from living your best life. Experience positive reflection and empowerment through a therapeutic relationship that is trusting, open-minded, and safe. I will guide you to a healthier way of coping and discovering your purpose. Let’s work together on resolving past pain in an effort to promote healing and hope for a better future. Let's explore healthy strategies to achieve your personal growth. Maximize your potential to enjoy a successful, happy, and productive life today!
I have over 12 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children suffering from grief/trauma, depression/anxiety/stress management, self-esteem/assertiveness/boundaries, intimate relationship abuse, and sexual assault.
Overcome obstacles that have been preventing you from living your best life. Experience positive reflection and empowerment through a therapeutic relationship that is trusting, open-minded, and safe. I will guide you to a healthier way of coping and discovering your purpose. Let’s work together on resolving past pain in an effort to promote healing and hope for a better future. Let's explore healthy strategies to achieve your personal growth. Maximize your potential to enjoy a successful, happy, and productive life today!
(562) 632-5808 View (562) 632-5808
Photo of Mary Van Valkenburgh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Mary Van Valkenburgh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Waitlist for new clients
For 40 years, I have been honored to facilitate transformative changes for a culturally diverse clientele dealing with the trauma of sexual assault, grief and loss, substance abuse, anxiety, and inappropriate expressions of anger. I work with children and teens individually and in the context of their families. Parents who want help for their children may be called on to examine their own childhood and how it can affect current relationships with family members.
For 40 years, I have been honored to facilitate transformative changes for a culturally diverse clientele dealing with the trauma of sexual assault, grief and loss, substance abuse, anxiety, and inappropriate expressions of anger. I work with children and teens individually and in the context of their families. Parents who want help for their children may be called on to examine their own childhood and how it can affect current relationships with family members.
(562) 846-1045 View (562) 846-1045
Photo of Monica L. Martocci, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Monica L. Martocci, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90805  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of Adolescents, Adults, Active Duty Military/Veterans, and their Families. Focusing on Addictions, Eating Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Sexuality Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Disorders, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, and Self-Harm.
Specializing in the treatment of Adolescents, Adults, Active Duty Military/Veterans, and their Families. Focusing on Addictions, Eating Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Sexuality Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Disorders, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, and Self-Harm.
(310) 779-1499 View (310) 779-1499
Photo of Zane (Susan) Walshe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Zane (Susan) Walshe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
I specialize in treating: LGBTQIA+ Community, Alcoholism and Addictions, Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma: (Mental, Emotional, Physical, Sexual Abuse).
I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in private practice in Long Beach, California working with individuals, couples, and families. As a Transmasculine person who uses the pronouns they/them/theirs, I am especially qualified and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ Community and their allies. An eclectic therapist focused on the healing arts utilizing a wide variety of theories and techniques including Mindfulness, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential and Gestalt to serve the diverse needs of my clients. I also supervise wonderful, skilled, and compassionate Associates who offer caring therapy on a scale.
I specialize in treating: LGBTQIA+ Community, Alcoholism and Addictions, Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma: (Mental, Emotional, Physical, Sexual Abuse).
I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in private practice in Long Beach, California working with individuals, couples, and families. As a Transmasculine person who uses the pronouns they/them/theirs, I am especially qualified and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ Community and their allies. An eclectic therapist focused on the healing arts utilizing a wide variety of theories and techniques including Mindfulness, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential and Gestalt to serve the diverse needs of my clients. I also supervise wonderful, skilled, and compassionate Associates who offer caring therapy on a scale.
(562) 445-3729 View (562) 445-3729
Photo of Sophie Solow, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Long Beach, CA
Sophie Solow
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
Empathetic therapist dedicated to your well-being, with expertise in trauma, women's health, and holistic care. I specialize in trauma, women's health and mental wellness. I provide a holistic approach to mental health care for those seeking emotional healing and personal growth. I am a certified domestic violence victim advocate and sexual assault victim advocate. I am passionate about working with women, including adolescents and children.
Empathetic therapist dedicated to your well-being, with expertise in trauma, women's health, and holistic care. I specialize in trauma, women's health and mental wellness. I provide a holistic approach to mental health care for those seeking emotional healing and personal growth. I am a certified domestic violence victim advocate and sexual assault victim advocate. I am passionate about working with women, including adolescents and children.
(562) 303-5160 View (562) 303-5160
Photo of Ericca Fonseca, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Ericca Fonseca
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
I use a trauma informed approach when approaching issues of domestic violence, grief, family conflict, life transitions, sexual assault, abuse, and more.
As a client, it is important that you are welcomed with a non-judgmental, safe and supportive space. Together, we can collaborate on how to address the issues you are coming in with through activities, psychoeducation, art, grounding activities, music and more. Therapy is meant to be a growing and empowering experience as you continue to learn about yourself. While it is important to identify your challenges, it is equally essential to identify your progress.
I use a trauma informed approach when approaching issues of domestic violence, grief, family conflict, life transitions, sexual assault, abuse, and more.
As a client, it is important that you are welcomed with a non-judgmental, safe and supportive space. Together, we can collaborate on how to address the issues you are coming in with through activities, psychoeducation, art, grounding activities, music and more. Therapy is meant to be a growing and empowering experience as you continue to learn about yourself. While it is important to identify your challenges, it is equally essential to identify your progress.
(657) 837-6034 View (657) 837-6034
Photo of Sarah Malik, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Sarah Malik
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
In addition to treating anxiety and depression, I specialize in chronic illness, sexual assault, domestic violence and elder abuse.
My goal as a therapist is to guide clients to a better understanding of themselves. I work with individuals, couples, & families and provide a safe, judgement free, welcoming space to help clients navigate the various challenges in life. I strive to create an empowering environment which helps clients build healthy coping skills, develop independence, and resolve past issues and trauma through identifying patterns by assigning homework designed specifically for the client’s needs.
In addition to treating anxiety and depression, I specialize in chronic illness, sexual assault, domestic violence and elder abuse.
My goal as a therapist is to guide clients to a better understanding of themselves. I work with individuals, couples, & families and provide a safe, judgement free, welcoming space to help clients navigate the various challenges in life. I strive to create an empowering environment which helps clients build healthy coping skills, develop independence, and resolve past issues and trauma through identifying patterns by assigning homework designed specifically for the client’s needs.
(310) 455-8815 View (310) 455-8815
Photo of Elena Dasgupta-Tsinikas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Elena Dasgupta-Tsinikas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
My Credentials: A certified cognitive behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of trauma and PTSD. My Experience: I have worked with issues such as family conflict, life transitions, domestic violence, sexual abuse, depression, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties & relationship distress. My Clients: I work with women, men, & non-binary individuals; LGBTQIA+ identified folx & their families; young adults, older adults, and parents raising young children. I also love working as a "therapist's therapist," providing a supportive, safe space for other mental health professionals who are working through their own "stuff".
My Credentials: A certified cognitive behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of trauma and PTSD. My Experience: I have worked with issues such as family conflict, life transitions, domestic violence, sexual abuse, depression, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties & relationship distress. My Clients: I work with women, men, & non-binary individuals; LGBTQIA+ identified folx & their families; young adults, older adults, and parents raising young children. I also love working as a "therapist's therapist," providing a supportive, safe space for other mental health professionals who are working through their own "stuff".
(323) 747-7364 View (323) 747-7364
Photo of Aimee McCaffrey Brasher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Aimee McCaffrey Brasher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
One of my specialties is working with women and the many issues that women struggle with especially today including depression, anxiety, trauma and sexual assault, self esteem, intimate partner abuse , commercial sexual exploitation, boundary setting, stress management, mother hood and work life balance.
Choosing a therapist can be a difficult process, I believe my role as a therapist is to partner with my clients to create a safe and non-judgemental environment while working with clients conjointly in learning more about themselves and resolving past pain in an effort to promote insight and healing. I believe in assisting my clients in identifying their goals, while exploring healthy strategies they can utilize in achieving these goals. Personal growth and healing is a goal that is unique to each individual, utilizing multiple strategies in an effort to promote healing through awareness and insight.
One of my specialties is working with women and the many issues that women struggle with especially today including depression, anxiety, trauma and sexual assault, self esteem, intimate partner abuse , commercial sexual exploitation, boundary setting, stress management, mother hood and work life balance.
Choosing a therapist can be a difficult process, I believe my role as a therapist is to partner with my clients to create a safe and non-judgemental environment while working with clients conjointly in learning more about themselves and resolving past pain in an effort to promote insight and healing. I believe in assisting my clients in identifying their goals, while exploring healthy strategies they can utilize in achieving these goals. Personal growth and healing is a goal that is unique to each individual, utilizing multiple strategies in an effort to promote healing through awareness and insight.
(562) 354-8634 View (562) 354-8634
Photo of Mayana Lea Geathers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Mayana Lea Geathers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90806  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in working with survivors of trauma, including child abuse, sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
You are worthy of experiencing a healing space that is safe for you to express your full self and explore your emotions and vulnerabilities. I look to create an empowering space for all the clients I work with, one that begins with the understanding that you are the expert on your own experience. I am here to provide nonjudgmental support along the way that honors all of your intersecting identities. I offer therapy with a social justice framework that includes a lens for the experiences of the BIPOC community and affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community.
I have specialized training in working with survivors of trauma, including child abuse, sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
You are worthy of experiencing a healing space that is safe for you to express your full self and explore your emotions and vulnerabilities. I look to create an empowering space for all the clients I work with, one that begins with the understanding that you are the expert on your own experience. I am here to provide nonjudgmental support along the way that honors all of your intersecting identities. I offer therapy with a social justice framework that includes a lens for the experiences of the BIPOC community and affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community.
(562) 374-7048 x703 View (562) 374-7048 x703
Photo of Hannah Berstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Hannah Berstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
I specialize in helping people recover from sexual abuse and unhealthy relationships, helping them to once again trust their own instincts, and speak up for their true needs.
Are you struggling with anxiety and trauma and turning towards unhealthy coping mechanisms in an attempt to manage your emotions? Now is a trying time for almost everyone, and if you have a trauma background what's coming up in the current environment may be reminiscent of the stress, isolation, and fear induced by early childhood experiences. You don't have to handle this alone, and with clinically tested techniques to regulate the mind and body, it's possible to shift from a place of disempowerment to strength.
I specialize in helping people recover from sexual abuse and unhealthy relationships, helping them to once again trust their own instincts, and speak up for their true needs.
Are you struggling with anxiety and trauma and turning towards unhealthy coping mechanisms in an attempt to manage your emotions? Now is a trying time for almost everyone, and if you have a trauma background what's coming up in the current environment may be reminiscent of the stress, isolation, and fear induced by early childhood experiences. You don't have to handle this alone, and with clinically tested techniques to regulate the mind and body, it's possible to shift from a place of disempowerment to strength.
(310) 361-6678 View (310) 361-6678
Photo of Crystal Harper, Pastoral Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Crystal Harper
Pastoral Counselor, DMinCC, LCPC, CTSS, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? How about your relationship? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior? Do you want to experience more peace and well-being? I effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from traumatic experiences. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, and PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and believe in taking a holistic approach to counseling.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? How about your relationship? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior? Do you want to experience more peace and well-being? I effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from traumatic experiences. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, and PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and believe in taking a holistic approach to counseling.
(916) 579-7621 View (916) 579-7621
Photo of Rebecca Lynn Schwarz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Rebecca Lynn Schwarz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
I have focused my practice on helping people struggling with relationship problems such as: Marital disenchantment, communication problems, conflict resolution skills and family struggles with parenting kids, teenagers and launching young adults. I have a heart for working with individual adults, adolescents, and children struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Grieving, Posttraumatic stress, OCD, Victims of sexual abuse, incest, and Spiritual Crisis. Periodically I run groups for victims of sexual abuse.As a recent Breast Cancer Survivor, I am in a unique position to utilize my own painful experience to help women or their families suffering from cancer.
I have focused my practice on helping people struggling with relationship problems such as: Marital disenchantment, communication problems, conflict resolution skills and family struggles with parenting kids, teenagers and launching young adults. I have a heart for working with individual adults, adolescents, and children struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Grieving, Posttraumatic stress, OCD, Victims of sexual abuse, incest, and Spiritual Crisis. Periodically I run groups for victims of sexual abuse.As a recent Breast Cancer Survivor, I am in a unique position to utilize my own painful experience to help women or their families suffering from cancer.
(562) 222-0488 View (562) 222-0488
Photo of Marcy M Kovacevich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Marcy M Kovacevich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
Prior to founding Moonstone Therapy and Wellness I was in non-profit settings where I worked with survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, human trafficking & individuals coming out of homelessness.
I believe in the power of relationships. My goal in therapy is to provide a safe space to assist you in deepening your capacity for communication and connection, while harnessing your intuition, building on the innate healing power that resides within us all.
Prior to founding Moonstone Therapy and Wellness I was in non-profit settings where I worked with survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, human trafficking & individuals coming out of homelessness.
I believe in the power of relationships. My goal in therapy is to provide a safe space to assist you in deepening your capacity for communication and connection, while harnessing your intuition, building on the innate healing power that resides within us all.
(714) 487-0866 View (714) 487-0866
Photo of Soultenders, Inc., Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Soultenders, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT, LCSW, MFTI
Not Verified Not Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
The licensed providers in our network can help with: Adolescents , Anxiety , Child , Codependency , Depression , Divorce , Domestic Violence , Family Conflict , Infidelity , Marital and Premarital Parenting Pregnancy , Prenatal , Postpartum , Self Esteem , Sexual Abuse , Stress , Trauma , and PTSD , EMDR, and many more.
The licensed providers in our network can help with: Adolescents , Anxiety , Child , Codependency , Depression , Divorce , Domestic Violence , Family Conflict , Infidelity , Marital and Premarital Parenting Pregnancy , Prenatal , Postpartum , Self Esteem , Sexual Abuse , Stress , Trauma , and PTSD , EMDR, and many more.
(626) 587-2663 View (626) 587-2663
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.