Sexual Abuse Therapists in Summerfield, NC

Photo of Chris Elliott, Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Chris Elliott
Counselor, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
I have worked with children, teens, and families for the past sixteen years, first in an educational capacity and then in counseling and mentorship. While in graduate school for counseling, coursework has included family systems, marital conflict, crisis, career, human sexuality, and addictive behaviors. My practicum has involved domestic violence and sexual assault victims and perpetrators. My internship has included a very diverse population and a variety of concerns, but I have developed my focus toward teenagers, families, and couples. My passion is to help teens and families achieve their potential and live from a perspective of optimal holistic wellness.
I have worked with children, teens, and families for the past sixteen years, first in an educational capacity and then in counseling and mentorship. While in graduate school for counseling, coursework has included family systems, marital conflict, crisis, career, human sexuality, and addictive behaviors. My practicum has involved domestic violence and sexual assault victims and perpetrators. My internship has included a very diverse population and a variety of concerns, but I have developed my focus toward teenagers, families, and couples. My passion is to help teens and families achieve their potential and live from a perspective of optimal holistic wellness.
(336) 777-7499 View (336) 777-7499
Photo of Nancy Conrad Ball Counseling & Consulting PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Nancy Conrad Ball Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
Selecting a therapist is an important decision. Creating a therapeutic rapport with a perfect stranger and discussing very personal issues can be intimidating. I'd like to help make this process more comfortable. I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for 28 years. My integrative approach helps you utilize your skills and strengths to identify and solve current problems. It also affords you the opportunity to resolve long standing issues by learning new skills, tapping into your own inner resources and recognizing the body, mind and spirit connection.
Selecting a therapist is an important decision. Creating a therapeutic rapport with a perfect stranger and discussing very personal issues can be intimidating. I'd like to help make this process more comfortable. I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for 28 years. My integrative approach helps you utilize your skills and strengths to identify and solve current problems. It also affords you the opportunity to resolve long standing issues by learning new skills, tapping into your own inner resources and recognizing the body, mind and spirit connection.
(336) 268-8029 View (336) 268-8029
Photo of Haley Landry, Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Haley Landry
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
I understand what it is like to take that first step towards therapy, and I am so glad you are here! At RCS, I count it a privilege to partner with you to assist in creating a powerful change in your life and help you reach the goals you desire. I work with individuals (6+), couples, and families on a range of life concerns, including anxiety, stress management, depression, conflicts with life, relationships and love, parental and family concerns, trauma, faith, spirituality, and so much more. Whatever you bring to the counseling room, we will work it out together.
I understand what it is like to take that first step towards therapy, and I am so glad you are here! At RCS, I count it a privilege to partner with you to assist in creating a powerful change in your life and help you reach the goals you desire. I work with individuals (6+), couples, and families on a range of life concerns, including anxiety, stress management, depression, conflicts with life, relationships and love, parental and family concerns, trauma, faith, spirituality, and so much more. Whatever you bring to the counseling room, we will work it out together.
(336) 396-9938 View (336) 396-9938
Photo of Krystin Fullwood, Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Krystin Fullwood
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
My expertise lies in supporting those who are ready to confront hidden wounds. Through counseling, we'll collaborate to uncover the path toward wellness. Here, in this sacred space, you have the opportunity to reshape your life narrative according to your aspirations. Trauma manifests differently for each person. For some, it entails the process of seeing life through a lens of healing rather than a clouded one. If you're prepared to embark on the journey towards a brighter future, I'm eager to accompany you every step of the way!
My expertise lies in supporting those who are ready to confront hidden wounds. Through counseling, we'll collaborate to uncover the path toward wellness. Here, in this sacred space, you have the opportunity to reshape your life narrative according to your aspirations. Trauma manifests differently for each person. For some, it entails the process of seeing life through a lens of healing rather than a clouded one. If you're prepared to embark on the journey towards a brighter future, I'm eager to accompany you every step of the way!
(336) 303-8421 View (336) 303-8421
Photo of Matthew D McMillan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Matthew D McMillan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCAS, LCMHC, CHT, CCS
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or unable to get your life on track? Are you an adult or teen stuck in the same pattern/ rut? Have you said I'm going to stop this "bad habit" of drinking/drugs/smoking only to find yourself disappointed again? You've come to the right place! Imagine when you tell your friends or family "My problem is gone!" I am a leader in the treatment of Mental Health & Substance Abuse. I created & ran the Moses Cone Hospital Substance Abuse program for 7 years. My creativity and innovation never stops; ask about our Horse Program for individuals/teams for breakthrough change!
Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or unable to get your life on track? Are you an adult or teen stuck in the same pattern/ rut? Have you said I'm going to stop this "bad habit" of drinking/drugs/smoking only to find yourself disappointed again? You've come to the right place! Imagine when you tell your friends or family "My problem is gone!" I am a leader in the treatment of Mental Health & Substance Abuse. I created & ran the Moses Cone Hospital Substance Abuse program for 7 years. My creativity and innovation never stops; ask about our Horse Program for individuals/teams for breakthrough change!
(336) 814-9243 View (336) 814-9243
Photo of Sheryl Norris Ketner in Summerfield, NC
Sheryl Norris Ketner
MEd, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
Not accepting new clients
Fisher Park Counseling is a private counseling practice located near downtown Greensboro. I offer a warm, safe, and inviting atmosphere where you can share your concerns and we can work towards positive changes. I welcome all ethnicities, sexual identities and and spiritual orientations. I am qualified to work with individuals and couples experiencing a number of concerns including mood disorders, sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, adjustment issues, relationship and family concerns and social issues to name a few.
Fisher Park Counseling is a private counseling practice located near downtown Greensboro. I offer a warm, safe, and inviting atmosphere where you can share your concerns and we can work towards positive changes. I welcome all ethnicities, sexual identities and and spiritual orientations. I am qualified to work with individuals and couples experiencing a number of concerns including mood disorders, sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, adjustment issues, relationship and family concerns and social issues to name a few.
(336) 542-2076 View (336) 542-2076

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Valera Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Valera Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, CCMHC, CTF-CBT, SOTP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
She specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy(TF-CBT), depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, addiction, codependency, sexual abuse, adjustment disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity, anger issues, disorder grief,and loss, divorce/co-parenting.
Whether you are trying to overcome sudden life changes or dealing with a mental health condition, get in touch with Valera Counseling Services, PLLC. We provide counseling sessions in a supportive environment that fosters empowerment and independence and inspires you to reach your full potential. Our goal is to help you live your life in a functional and independent manner. We are committed to providing clients worldwide with quality counseling and therapy services at our two offices. Contact us in our office in Winston-Salem or Greensboro, North Carolina for an appointment. Hablamos Español. Servimos a Nuestra Comunidad Latina!
She specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy(TF-CBT), depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, addiction, codependency, sexual abuse, adjustment disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity, anger issues, disorder grief,and loss, divorce/co-parenting.
Whether you are trying to overcome sudden life changes or dealing with a mental health condition, get in touch with Valera Counseling Services, PLLC. We provide counseling sessions in a supportive environment that fosters empowerment and independence and inspires you to reach your full potential. Our goal is to help you live your life in a functional and independent manner. We are committed to providing clients worldwide with quality counseling and therapy services at our two offices. Contact us in our office in Winston-Salem or Greensboro, North Carolina for an appointment. Hablamos Español. Servimos a Nuestra Comunidad Latina!
(336) 396-7585 View (336) 396-7585
Photo of LaTasha Carter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summerfield, NC
LaTasha Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27455
Other areas include Sexual Abuse, Anxiety, Relational Problems, Depression, & Self Esteem.
Are you facing challenges in your life? You are not alone. Everyone can benefit from having a confidant to share their most inner thoughts. Clinicians are specialized listeners who can get to the root of the problem and help you reach your goals. It is my sincere mission, to aid individuals in living happier lives filled with purpose, satisfaction, and meaning. I know it can be difficult to take the first step. I am here to walk with you on this journey.
Other areas include Sexual Abuse, Anxiety, Relational Problems, Depression, & Self Esteem.
Are you facing challenges in your life? You are not alone. Everyone can benefit from having a confidant to share their most inner thoughts. Clinicians are specialized listeners who can get to the root of the problem and help you reach your goals. It is my sincere mission, to aid individuals in living happier lives filled with purpose, satisfaction, and meaning. I know it can be difficult to take the first step. I am here to walk with you on this journey.
(336) 645-9741 View (336) 645-9741
Photo of Lisa Shelton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Lisa Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
I have training and experience with counseling sexual assault survivors, Gender-Responsive Treatment, trauma and Domestic Violence.
My passion is to serve those individuals, couples and families who struggle with substance abuse, mental health and life issues that others may not understand. My Vision and Purpose is to increase individuals, couples and families awareness of addiction and mental health while also educating about healthy relationships, conflict resolution, developing strategies, coping skills to improve the overall quality of one’s life.
I have training and experience with counseling sexual assault survivors, Gender-Responsive Treatment, trauma and Domestic Violence.
My passion is to serve those individuals, couples and families who struggle with substance abuse, mental health and life issues that others may not understand. My Vision and Purpose is to increase individuals, couples and families awareness of addiction and mental health while also educating about healthy relationships, conflict resolution, developing strategies, coping skills to improve the overall quality of one’s life.
(336) 395-5308 View (336) 395-5308
Photo of Todd Jones, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Todd Jones
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
My specialty is working in a variety of areas including anxiety, sexual addiction, history of sexual abuse, sexual orientation, childhood trauma, ptsd, marital conflict, affair recovery, divorce, pre-marital counseling, grief, spirituality, and adult transitional issues among many other areas of relational brokenness helping people achieve wholeness.
I enjoy working with clients who seek to grow emotionally, relationally and spiritually. I believe therapy is an opportunity to come alongside others to help them heal and grow. I am relational in my approach. I believe that people have been broken in relationships and that we are healed in the context of relationships. Over the past 19 years I have had many clients reach their goals and experienced transformation through the counseling process. There is no greater privilege than being able to walk beside people in their healing journey. Evening and weekday appointments available. Contact me via phone, text or email.
My specialty is working in a variety of areas including anxiety, sexual addiction, history of sexual abuse, sexual orientation, childhood trauma, ptsd, marital conflict, affair recovery, divorce, pre-marital counseling, grief, spirituality, and adult transitional issues among many other areas of relational brokenness helping people achieve wholeness.
I enjoy working with clients who seek to grow emotionally, relationally and spiritually. I believe therapy is an opportunity to come alongside others to help them heal and grow. I am relational in my approach. I believe that people have been broken in relationships and that we are healed in the context of relationships. Over the past 19 years I have had many clients reach their goals and experienced transformation through the counseling process. There is no greater privilege than being able to walk beside people in their healing journey. Evening and weekday appointments available. Contact me via phone, text or email.
(336) 863-3102 View (336) 863-3102
Photo of Kellyne Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summerfield, NC
Kellyne Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27405  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Kellyne Williams, and I appreciate you visiting my page and having the bravery to do so. “The past is in your head, but the future is in your hands.” Just as the past has a part in shaping who you are now, the present will shape who you become. I am a therapist that works with women, men, and adolescent who struggles with anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, grief, self-esteem, sexual abuse, sexual addiction, and stress. I look forward to walking alongside you in your journey.
Hello! My name is Kellyne Williams, and I appreciate you visiting my page and having the bravery to do so. “The past is in your head, but the future is in your hands.” Just as the past has a part in shaping who you are now, the present will shape who you become. I am a therapist that works with women, men, and adolescent who struggles with anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, grief, self-esteem, sexual abuse, sexual addiction, and stress. I look forward to walking alongside you in your journey.
(704) 850-6329 View (704) 850-6329
Photo of Brittainy Adkins, Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Brittainy Adkins
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
Why? It's such a simple word with so much importance. As humans, it is in our nature to ask this question about ourselves, others, and the world around us. Sometimes the answer may not be so clear. That's where therapy can help. I work with teens and adults who ask themselves this question every day. Perhaps you have experienced trauma at some point in your life, you're going through major changes, or you're struggling to truly find yourself. No matter where you are in your life, there is strength in asking for help.
Why? It's such a simple word with so much importance. As humans, it is in our nature to ask this question about ourselves, others, and the world around us. Sometimes the answer may not be so clear. That's where therapy can help. I work with teens and adults who ask themselves this question every day. Perhaps you have experienced trauma at some point in your life, you're going through major changes, or you're struggling to truly find yourself. No matter where you are in your life, there is strength in asking for help.
(336) 930-9735 View (336) 930-9735
Photo of Nosaba Naveed, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Nosaba Naveed
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
Nosaba has been helping families struggling with mental health and life management issues in general for more than 10 years. She focuses on client empowerment. Nosaba specializes in women's issues, trauma, family issues, parenting, and personality disorders. Depression and bipolar disorders and ADHD are her special interest areas as well. Nosaba has completed her education at Montclair State University, NJ. Nosaba believes that with the power of the mind, humans can conquer everything that they desire and create their own destinies. Nosaba is an entrepreneur and a mother of 2 children.
Nosaba has been helping families struggling with mental health and life management issues in general for more than 10 years. She focuses on client empowerment. Nosaba specializes in women's issues, trauma, family issues, parenting, and personality disorders. Depression and bipolar disorders and ADHD are her special interest areas as well. Nosaba has completed her education at Montclair State University, NJ. Nosaba believes that with the power of the mind, humans can conquer everything that they desire and create their own destinies. Nosaba is an entrepreneur and a mother of 2 children.
(336) 948-8718 View (336) 948-8718
Photo of GoldStar Counseling and Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summerfield, NC
GoldStar Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center provides client-centered, therapeutic services for individuals seeking constructive solutions to regain daily, emotional stability. Key areas of focus are: sexual, emotional and physical abuse, childhood/adult trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, anger management, relational problems, PTSD in addition to substance abuse and other addictions. GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center prides itself in providing a safe, welcoming environment for clients to engage in non-judgmental conversations under the trusted guidance of our licensed therapists. Clients have the benefit of exploring both our coaching and counseling services to ensure the most effective results. Ultimately, we listen to and assess each client’s needs based on their unique set of experiences and desired goals, to provide them with the most appropriate pathway for progress. Located in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina, GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center is proud to serve clients in the Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, Charlotte, RTP, and surrounding areas.
GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center provides client-centered, therapeutic services for individuals seeking constructive solutions to regain daily, emotional stability. Key areas of focus are: sexual, emotional and physical abuse, childhood/adult trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, anger management, relational problems, PTSD in addition to substance abuse and other addictions. GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center prides itself in providing a safe, welcoming environment for clients to engage in non-judgmental conversations under the trusted guidance of our licensed therapists. Clients have the benefit of exploring both our coaching and counseling services to ensure the most effective results. Ultimately, we listen to and assess each client’s needs based on their unique set of experiences and desired goals, to provide them with the most appropriate pathway for progress. Located in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina, GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center is proud to serve clients in the Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, Charlotte, RTP, and surrounding areas.
(336) 948-8879 View (336) 948-8879
Photo of Dr. Maddy M Lowman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Dr. Maddy M Lowman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27405
It can be exceptionally difficult to go through daily life, and I've found that to be true for most (if not all) people I know and love. There are so many difficult things that can pile up on one another, making it complicated to maintain relationships, wellness, work, and other things you might value. Sometimes it's hard to "ask for what you need" because sometimes we have no idea! I'm here to help even when that question feels hard to answer, and our work can start with exploring goals you have for yourself. The resiliency I see in clients is awe-inspiring and beautiful, and I offer several approaches to help them get there.
It can be exceptionally difficult to go through daily life, and I've found that to be true for most (if not all) people I know and love. There are so many difficult things that can pile up on one another, making it complicated to maintain relationships, wellness, work, and other things you might value. Sometimes it's hard to "ask for what you need" because sometimes we have no idea! I'm here to help even when that question feels hard to answer, and our work can start with exploring goals you have for yourself. The resiliency I see in clients is awe-inspiring and beautiful, and I offer several approaches to help them get there.
(336) 396-7525 View (336) 396-7525
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Schmalz, Psychologist in Summerfield, NC
Dr. Jonathan Schmalz
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
We often seek therapy because we are hurting and unhappy in our relationships with others and ourselves. Anxiety or sadness can clue us in that something is amiss. Therapy can help you heal from past hurts and face the future with clear-eyed resolve to live life how you want. I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma-related concerns, anxiety, autism and ADHD in adults, and gender and sexual identity development. We will create new ways to cope in the present and heal wounds from the past so that you can live the life you really want.
We often seek therapy because we are hurting and unhappy in our relationships with others and ourselves. Anxiety or sadness can clue us in that something is amiss. Therapy can help you heal from past hurts and face the future with clear-eyed resolve to live life how you want. I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma-related concerns, anxiety, autism and ADHD in adults, and gender and sexual identity development. We will create new ways to cope in the present and heal wounds from the past so that you can live the life you really want.
(336) 962-6565 View (336) 962-6565
Photo of Katrina Roseboro-Marsh, Pre-Licensed Professional in Summerfield, NC
Katrina Roseboro-Marsh
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MSSW, DMin, P-PsyD
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
The clients I serve find themselves being negatively impacted by unfortunate experiences in their lives. The three most prevalent commonalities are anxiety, stress, and prolonged feelings of sadness or depression. These symptoms can be accompanied by experiences of loss; loss of appetite, money, function, energy, employment, relationships, and oftentimes pleasure. This psychological distress can be rooted in fear, guilt, loneliness, disappointment, anger, resentment, and simple dissatisfaction.
The clients I serve find themselves being negatively impacted by unfortunate experiences in their lives. The three most prevalent commonalities are anxiety, stress, and prolonged feelings of sadness or depression. These symptoms can be accompanied by experiences of loss; loss of appetite, money, function, energy, employment, relationships, and oftentimes pleasure. This psychological distress can be rooted in fear, guilt, loneliness, disappointment, anger, resentment, and simple dissatisfaction.
(669) 234-8672 View (669) 234-8672
Photo of Prentiss Henry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Summerfield, NC
Prentiss Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
I specialize in working with children between the ages of 5 and 10 who are having trouble expressing themselves, shows obvious signs of low self- esteem, aggression, isolation, depression, or anxiety. I also work with individuals that may feel alone in their battle with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, or is unsure of the future because of the inability to adapt to life changes. Through co-therapy, my colleague and I also work with couples to successfully navigate through divorce and breakups, amicably resolving issues that not only effect couples, but also any children that may be involved.
I specialize in working with children between the ages of 5 and 10 who are having trouble expressing themselves, shows obvious signs of low self- esteem, aggression, isolation, depression, or anxiety. I also work with individuals that may feel alone in their battle with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, or is unsure of the future because of the inability to adapt to life changes. Through co-therapy, my colleague and I also work with couples to successfully navigate through divorce and breakups, amicably resolving issues that not only effect couples, but also any children that may be involved.
(480) 467-3425 View (480) 467-3425
Photo of Julie Sowers Marshall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summerfield, NC
Julie Sowers Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
I specialize in rebuilding lives after separation/divorce, healing process of grief and loss, overcoming traumas, and supporting individuals with difficulties related to depressive and anxiety disorders. I believe the foundation of psychotherapy is anchored in honesty, compassion and respect. My therapeutic approach when working with couples and individuals is an eclectic approach. This is more flexible and is multifaceted that allows me to use the most effective methods available to address client's individual needs. I work with teens and adults.
I specialize in rebuilding lives after separation/divorce, healing process of grief and loss, overcoming traumas, and supporting individuals with difficulties related to depressive and anxiety disorders. I believe the foundation of psychotherapy is anchored in honesty, compassion and respect. My therapeutic approach when working with couples and individuals is an eclectic approach. This is more flexible and is multifaceted that allows me to use the most effective methods available to address client's individual needs. I work with teens and adults.
(336) 685-1939 View (336) 685-1939
Photo of Regina Kujawa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summerfield, NC
Regina Kujawa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27455
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience in mental health. I have provided psychotherapy in many different settings to include inpatient hospitalization, intensive in home services and substance and alcohol abuse treatment. I have worked with patients suffering with depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, substance and alcohol abuse,separation and divorce. I utilize a holistic approach to treatment and I am credentialed in Tension & Trauma Release TRE which is a healing modality that encourages the body to release deep muscular patterns of stress, tension and trauma that we carry in our bodies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience in mental health. I have provided psychotherapy in many different settings to include inpatient hospitalization, intensive in home services and substance and alcohol abuse treatment. I have worked with patients suffering with depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, substance and alcohol abuse,separation and divorce. I utilize a holistic approach to treatment and I am credentialed in Tension & Trauma Release TRE which is a healing modality that encourages the body to release deep muscular patterns of stress, tension and trauma that we carry in our bodies.
(336) 490-5094 View (336) 490-5094

See more therapy options for Summerfield

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.