Photo of Lauren Deakin, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Lauren Deakin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
In addition to treating individuals with general anxiety and depression, I specialize in trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sex addiction, work addiction, low-self esteem and religious abuse.
My approach to therapy is clear, curious, warm, and adaptive to your needs. I utilize a blend of techniques from various therapeutic modalities that are proven effective and backed by research. You can expect our work to flow through two main focal points: practical insights and exercises based on neuroscience and mind-body integration that bring needed relief; and a deeper exploration of lifelong patterns in the subconscious mind to bring lasting change and healing. I am a supportive agent toward self-knowing so my clients can inhabit their lives and relationships from a place of vibrancy and clarity.
In addition to treating individuals with general anxiety and depression, I specialize in trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sex addiction, work addiction, low-self esteem and religious abuse.
My approach to therapy is clear, curious, warm, and adaptive to your needs. I utilize a blend of techniques from various therapeutic modalities that are proven effective and backed by research. You can expect our work to flow through two main focal points: practical insights and exercises based on neuroscience and mind-body integration that bring needed relief; and a deeper exploration of lifelong patterns in the subconscious mind to bring lasting change and healing. I am a supportive agent toward self-knowing so my clients can inhabit their lives and relationships from a place of vibrancy and clarity.
(929) 357-2579 View (929) 357-2579
Photo of Lynne Julianna Beldegreen, Art Therapist in New York, NY
Lynne Julianna Beldegreen
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Many of my clients have experienced sexual abuse or rape.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
Many of my clients have experienced sexual abuse or rape.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
(917) 960-3953 View (917) 960-3953
Photo of Airam Marcano, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York, NY
Airam Marcano
Licensed Master Social Worker, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a particular expertise working with survivors of interpersonal trauma, including sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and disrupted attachment in childhood.
I believe there is no single way of working with people who enter therapy. My goal as a therapist is to help you better understand yourself. Drawing from relational, cognitive, and trauma informed approaches, I support clients to build awareness, trust, and connection with themselves and to others. I believe that healing is deeply rooted in the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment that feels safe in order to heal.
I have a particular expertise working with survivors of interpersonal trauma, including sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and disrupted attachment in childhood.
I believe there is no single way of working with people who enter therapy. My goal as a therapist is to help you better understand yourself. Drawing from relational, cognitive, and trauma informed approaches, I support clients to build awareness, trust, and connection with themselves and to others. I believe that healing is deeply rooted in the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment that feels safe in order to heal.
(347) 697-4805 View (347) 697-4805
Photo of Antoinette Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Antoinette Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SFTT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Previously, I worked part-time at an outpatient clinic for sexual assault and abuse survivors.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
Previously, I worked part-time at an outpatient clinic for sexual assault and abuse survivors.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
(646) 480-1874 View (646) 480-1874
Photo of Elizabeth J. Carroll, Psychologist in New York, NY
Elizabeth J. Carroll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I'm a warm and relational provider who specializes in working with emerging adults, high-achieving women, members of the LGBT+ community, anxiety and depression, a history of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, current or historical family conflict, and relationship exploration.
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I'm a warm and relational provider who specializes in working with emerging adults, high-achieving women, members of the LGBT+ community, anxiety and depression, a history of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, current or historical family conflict, and relationship exploration.
(347) 427-9165 View (347) 427-9165
Photo of Sherie L Seff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Sherie L Seff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
(646) 600-5012 View (646) 600-5012
Photo of Shelby Catherine Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Shelby Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
My practice is dedicated to serving those who have endured the profound impacts of trauma, particularly intimate partner violence or sexual assault, as well as those grieving a loss. They are individuals who, despite their challenges, are motivated to initiate therapy, and may be grappling with mood changes, or troubling symptoms, with or without a diagnosis. Together, we will explore and develop healthy coping skills, paving the way toward healing and rediscovery of hope. They are determined to work towards a brighter, more resilient future with therapy.
My practice is dedicated to serving those who have endured the profound impacts of trauma, particularly intimate partner violence or sexual assault, as well as those grieving a loss. They are individuals who, despite their challenges, are motivated to initiate therapy, and may be grappling with mood changes, or troubling symptoms, with or without a diagnosis. Together, we will explore and develop healthy coping skills, paving the way toward healing and rediscovery of hope. They are determined to work towards a brighter, more resilient future with therapy.
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Photo of Diandra Morse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Diandra Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
Currently, I offer virtual therapeutic support in New York State and specialize in the treatment of sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, and navigating interpersonal conflicts.
Hi there! I'm Diandra, a bilingual (Spanish/English) psychodynamic psychotherapist who blends cognitive behavioral therapy with narrative and solution-focused therapy in my practice. In our work together, I prioritize relationship building as I believe the more my clients feel comfortable, safe and heard in our conversations the more effective our work will be.
Currently, I offer virtual therapeutic support in New York State and specialize in the treatment of sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, and navigating interpersonal conflicts.
Hi there! I'm Diandra, a bilingual (Spanish/English) psychodynamic psychotherapist who blends cognitive behavioral therapy with narrative and solution-focused therapy in my practice. In our work together, I prioritize relationship building as I believe the more my clients feel comfortable, safe and heard in our conversations the more effective our work will be.
(315) 883-2618 View (315) 883-2618
Photo of Daniel Blausey, Art Therapist in New York, NY
Daniel Blausey
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014
Stress reduction, sexuality, grief and loss, sadness, and childhood sexual abuse are just a few common areas of focus for my clients.
Welcome to my art therapy and psychotherapy practice page. For over 25 years I have successfully worked with adults and young people seeking change. I am equally at ease with traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or an integration of the two and collaborate with my clients to establish the safest approach to realize personal intentions. My engagement style is gentle and encouraging, yet more thought-provoking and compassionately challenging when it is advantageous to the therapy.
Stress reduction, sexuality, grief and loss, sadness, and childhood sexual abuse are just a few common areas of focus for my clients.
Welcome to my art therapy and psychotherapy practice page. For over 25 years I have successfully worked with adults and young people seeking change. I am equally at ease with traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or an integration of the two and collaborate with my clients to establish the safest approach to realize personal intentions. My engagement style is gentle and encouraging, yet more thought-provoking and compassionately challenging when it is advantageous to the therapy.
(646) 480-7303 View (646) 480-7303
Photo of Dayle M Kramer, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York, NY
Dayle M Kramer
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LCSW, LP, NyPsyA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I have treated numerous people who have been abused ranging: from sexual abuse to childhood abandonment; often prompting depressions and self-esteem issues.
Sometimes it is a struggle to face thoughts and feelings that you are having. Various events have happened to us in our life that continue to haunt us causing harmful and troubling feelings. These troubling feelings can feel shameful and unforgiveable. It helps to have a safe environment to talk.
I have treated numerous people who have been abused ranging: from sexual abuse to childhood abandonment; often prompting depressions and self-esteem issues.
Sometimes it is a struggle to face thoughts and feelings that you are having. Various events have happened to us in our life that continue to haunt us causing harmful and troubling feelings. These troubling feelings can feel shameful and unforgiveable. It helps to have a safe environment to talk.
(917) 652-6823 View (917) 652-6823
Photo of Kaylene Graffitti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Kaylene Graffitti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping adults, teens, and children heal from trauma. Whether you're struggling with a complex trauma history or navigating through a stressful life event, I work alongside my clients to help them navigate challenging experiences, overwhelming emotions, and confusing relationship dynamics (in families or with partners). My clinical focus and passion is working with clients navigating intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual assault, abuse as a child, and other complex traumas. In recent years, I've also developed a specialty in working with parents of children with special needs.
I have a passion for helping adults, teens, and children heal from trauma. Whether you're struggling with a complex trauma history or navigating through a stressful life event, I work alongside my clients to help them navigate challenging experiences, overwhelming emotions, and confusing relationship dynamics (in families or with partners). My clinical focus and passion is working with clients navigating intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual assault, abuse as a child, and other complex traumas. In recent years, I've also developed a specialty in working with parents of children with special needs.
(585) 488-4932 View (585) 488-4932
Photo of Zoe Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Zoe Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
I have extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, adult children of narcissists, and 9/11 survivors (via the World Trade Center Health Program).
I am a licensed clinical social worker offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My style of therapy is warm, non-judgmental and interactive. I strive to create an environment that feels safe where meaningful work can occur through exploration and gentle challenging. I utilize an eclectic approach, meaning the work is informed by my training in various modalities of psychotherapy and tailored to the individual. I hold a Master's degree from New York University and have trained and worked throughout the New York City hospital and public school system and in various outpatient mental health clinics.
(347) 514-6386 View (347) 514-6386
Photo of Will Higdon-Sudow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Will Higdon-Sudow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a queer therapist, I believe that therapy is different for every individual. My passion for understanding people and relationships has always been driven by curiosity. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and have experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As a career changer, my previous career in advertising and fashion informs my extensive experience working with clients in the performing arts and other creative fields.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a queer therapist, I believe that therapy is different for every individual. My passion for understanding people and relationships has always been driven by curiosity. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and have experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As a career changer, my previous career in advertising and fashion informs my extensive experience working with clients in the performing arts and other creative fields.
(347) 227-1963 View (347) 227-1963
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
Photo of Hayley Caddes in New York, NY
Hayley Caddes
MS, CPC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014
Some things I've personally had to work through in my 20s - anxiety, major depression, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, self-harm, rock bottom self-esteem, resurfaced childhood trauma, intimate image abuse, ADHD, moving to a new city, school transfers & (many) career transitions, NYC dating, workplace sexism, & building supportive friendships as an adult.
Maybe you haven’t found a therapist who gets you. Maybe you aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for. We’ve all been there. I started my coaching business to provide young adults with a unique experience and realness you don't get with most clinical approaches: day-to-day guidance and mentorship from someone relatable who has overcome similar challenges. I specialize in helping you get unstuck and create a life you're excited about living using a process rooted in lived experience. Together, we'll set achievable goals, develop personalized coping skills, and build a support system within your real-world environment.
Some things I've personally had to work through in my 20s - anxiety, major depression, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, self-harm, rock bottom self-esteem, resurfaced childhood trauma, intimate image abuse, ADHD, moving to a new city, school transfers & (many) career transitions, NYC dating, workplace sexism, & building supportive friendships as an adult.
Maybe you haven’t found a therapist who gets you. Maybe you aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for. We’ve all been there. I started my coaching business to provide young adults with a unique experience and realness you don't get with most clinical approaches: day-to-day guidance and mentorship from someone relatable who has overcome similar challenges. I specialize in helping you get unstuck and create a life you're excited about living using a process rooted in lived experience. Together, we'll set achievable goals, develop personalized coping skills, and build a support system within your real-world environment.
(646) 248-6264 View (646) 248-6264
Photo of Jonathan Merker, Counselor in New York, NY
Jonathan Merker
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
My ideal client identifies as a gay/bi/queer/questioning man who has survived childhood sexual abuse and/or a conversion therapy program (i.e. “ex-gay” or “pray the gay away"). The symptoms my ideal client is struggling with after surviving abuse manifest in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship & sexual dysfunction, and others. My clients come to me to become empowered in their mental health, their feelings, their relationships, and their sexuality.
My ideal client identifies as a gay/bi/queer/questioning man who has survived childhood sexual abuse and/or a conversion therapy program (i.e. “ex-gay” or “pray the gay away"). The symptoms my ideal client is struggling with after surviving abuse manifest in anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship & sexual dysfunction, and others. My clients come to me to become empowered in their mental health, their feelings, their relationships, and their sexuality.
(332) 529-6933 View (332) 529-6933
Photo of Gwenn Lowe (Gideon), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Gwenn Lowe (Gideon)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
I specialize in working with those affected by interpersonal trauma, including intimate partner violence, family violence and sexual assault.
Reaching out for help can be challenging. If you are scrolling through this, that means you are contemplating doing just that, which is a difficult and positive first step. I understand and value the importance of finding the “right fit” for your therapy. My approach to therapy is warm, empathic, and strength-based. I am also an EMDR trained therapist. I work with children, adolescents and adults to create a safe and supportive environment where we can explore issues such as life transitions, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, and how to cope with challenges.
I specialize in working with those affected by interpersonal trauma, including intimate partner violence, family violence and sexual assault.
Reaching out for help can be challenging. If you are scrolling through this, that means you are contemplating doing just that, which is a difficult and positive first step. I understand and value the importance of finding the “right fit” for your therapy. My approach to therapy is warm, empathic, and strength-based. I am also an EMDR trained therapist. I work with children, adolescents and adults to create a safe and supportive environment where we can explore issues such as life transitions, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, and how to cope with challenges.
(917) 341-7692 View (917) 341-7692
Photo of Pamela Ann Kirsch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Pamela Ann Kirsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
I earned my master’s degree in social work from Columbia University where I focused on clinical practice and contemporary social issues. I follow an anti-oppressive framework and apply a strength based and client-centered approach to my work with survivors of sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence. I have extensive experience providing crisis support and on-going counseling to patients who identify as LGBTQIA or HIV-affected and have been impacted by violence and/or struggle with depression, anxiety or PTSD. In practice, I use a combination of trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I earned my master’s degree in social work from Columbia University where I focused on clinical practice and contemporary social issues. I follow an anti-oppressive framework and apply a strength based and client-centered approach to my work with survivors of sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence. I have extensive experience providing crisis support and on-going counseling to patients who identify as LGBTQIA or HIV-affected and have been impacted by violence and/or struggle with depression, anxiety or PTSD. In practice, I use a combination of trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(347) 380-7051 View (347) 380-7051
Photo of Michael Ash & Associates, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Michael Ash & Associates
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
My areas of focus include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship issues, intrusive thoughts, life transitions and adjustments, suicide thoughts, self-injury, sexual assault and abuse, interpersonal concerns, academic concerns, and spiritual confusion.
I am a Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about providing counseling and guidance to individuals in times of crisis and emotional instability. I believe that each client is unique, and I use a holistic approach to treatment that will meet and assist them where they are. I will come alongside each client with effective listening, empathy, compassion, and genuineness. I will provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space that allows transparency for healing and growth in mind, body, and soul.
My areas of focus include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship issues, intrusive thoughts, life transitions and adjustments, suicide thoughts, self-injury, sexual assault and abuse, interpersonal concerns, academic concerns, and spiritual confusion.
I am a Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about providing counseling and guidance to individuals in times of crisis and emotional instability. I believe that each client is unique, and I use a holistic approach to treatment that will meet and assist them where they are. I will come alongside each client with effective listening, empathy, compassion, and genuineness. I will provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space that allows transparency for healing and growth in mind, body, and soul.
(929) 284-2293 View (929) 284-2293
Photo of Charlotte Rapp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Charlotte Rapp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in intimate partner violence and sexual assault and have completed many related trainings.
Hi and welcome! Whether you are hoping to start therapy for the first time or returning to therapy, I am so glad you reached my profile. I have experience working with a variety of clients with various life experiences. Whether you are struggling with symptoms of depression and anxiety, you're having difficulties in your relationships, or things from your past are coming up for you, I hope to support you on your path and empower you to create the life you desire. You are not alone on this journey.
I have extensive experience in intimate partner violence and sexual assault and have completed many related trainings.
Hi and welcome! Whether you are hoping to start therapy for the first time or returning to therapy, I am so glad you reached my profile. I have experience working with a variety of clients with various life experiences. Whether you are struggling with symptoms of depression and anxiety, you're having difficulties in your relationships, or things from your past are coming up for you, I hope to support you on your path and empower you to create the life you desire. You are not alone on this journey.
(864) 689-4249 View (864) 689-4249
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.