Sexual Abuse Therapists in Pinellas County, FL

Photo of Jessica Gagliardo., Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Jessica Gagliardo.
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
Welcome! I am so glad that you are considering therapy. My name is Jessica and I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in treating adults with trauma and trauma related disorders. I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I regularly work with clients who have PTSD resulting from sexual abuse or assault, being in combat, or being the victim of a violent crime.
Welcome! I am so glad that you are considering therapy. My name is Jessica and I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in treating adults with trauma and trauma related disorders. I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I regularly work with clients who have PTSD resulting from sexual abuse or assault, being in combat, or being the victim of a violent crime.
(727) 205-1217 View (727) 205-1217
Photo of Bianca Massi, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Bianca Massi
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34684  (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families, creating a safe and empowering environment that fosters healing and growth. My areas of expertise include treating addiction, trauma, PTSD, physical and sexual abuse, family violence, depression, anxiety, and helping individuals navigate life transitions and grief and loss.
As a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families, creating a safe and empowering environment that fosters healing and growth. My areas of expertise include treating addiction, trauma, PTSD, physical and sexual abuse, family violence, depression, anxiety, and helping individuals navigate life transitions and grief and loss.
(347) 508-9157 View (347) 508-9157
Photo of Mindy Lee At Nassau Psychology Pc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pinellas County, FL
Mindy Lee At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Mindy specializes in sexual abuse, trauma and complex trauma, family life stages, loss and grief, delinquency.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Mindy completed her Master of Social Work at Adelphi University and has over 25 years of program and clinical experience providing therapy and therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and families in community based and residential programs, outpatient mental health and private practice. Mindy has provided supervision to licensed social workers and expressive arts therapist and interns.
Mindy specializes in sexual abuse, trauma and complex trauma, family life stages, loss and grief, delinquency.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Mindy completed her Master of Social Work at Adelphi University and has over 25 years of program and clinical experience providing therapy and therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and families in community based and residential programs, outpatient mental health and private practice. Mindy has provided supervision to licensed social workers and expressive arts therapist and interns.
(516) 908-5599 View (516) 908-5599
Photo of Chana Jessica Ceasar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pinellas County, FL
Chana Jessica Ceasar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IPMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I specialize in therapy for women who experienced trauma, particularly neglect and sexual abuse, at an early age.
Are you living with the pain of childhood trauma? Do you have a hard time setting boundaries or feeling safe because your trust was violated in the past? Is negative thinking keeping you from feeling confident in yourself and your choices? Even if you’re struggling right now, you do possess inner wisdom that can guide you toward clarity and healing. As your therapist, I will help you reconnect with your body so you can explore your emotions and strengths in a transformative, meaningful way. Collaborating together, we can enhance a sense of empowerment in your life.
I specialize in therapy for women who experienced trauma, particularly neglect and sexual abuse, at an early age.
Are you living with the pain of childhood trauma? Do you have a hard time setting boundaries or feeling safe because your trust was violated in the past? Is negative thinking keeping you from feeling confident in yourself and your choices? Even if you’re struggling right now, you do possess inner wisdom that can guide you toward clarity and healing. As your therapist, I will help you reconnect with your body so you can explore your emotions and strengths in a transformative, meaningful way. Collaborating together, we can enhance a sense of empowerment in your life.
(628) 209-4175 View (628) 209-4175
Photo of Ariel L LANDRUM, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pinellas County, FL
Ariel L LANDRUM
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, military members and their families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with your life? Do you feel you have little support? Perhaps you feel on edge and don’t know how to relax? Do you feel there isn’t enough time in the day? Or your world runs on chronic stress? Maybe you’ve noticed these feelings and have even tried ways to challenge them. Jumped into yoga, didn’t work. Read a self-help book, didn’t work. Sought advice from friends. They didn’t understand. Googled your symptoms. Yeah, that was a bad idea. If you find yourself saying yes, then you're looking at the right profile. Let me be your guide to balance and mental wellness.
I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, military members and their families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with your life? Do you feel you have little support? Perhaps you feel on edge and don’t know how to relax? Do you feel there isn’t enough time in the day? Or your world runs on chronic stress? Maybe you’ve noticed these feelings and have even tried ways to challenge them. Jumped into yoga, didn’t work. Read a self-help book, didn’t work. Sought advice from friends. They didn’t understand. Googled your symptoms. Yeah, that was a bad idea. If you find yourself saying yes, then you're looking at the right profile. Let me be your guide to balance and mental wellness.
(323) 792-2573 View (323) 792-2573
Photo of Christine Cione, LMHC, Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Christine Cione, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience assisting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and those with long standing depression, anxiety and prolonged grief disorder.
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you've imagined. Are you at a crossroads in your life? Are you feeling stuck and wish you could change your perspective? Are you overwhelmed by emotions that make it challenging to navigate through life? You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past or current traumatic events, or everyday life stressors. If so, you probably are seeking peace of mind, gratitude, hope, inner strength, and healthy coping skills. If this sounds like you, I welcome the opportunity to assist you on your path towards healing.
I have extensive experience assisting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and those with long standing depression, anxiety and prolonged grief disorder.
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you've imagined. Are you at a crossroads in your life? Are you feeling stuck and wish you could change your perspective? Are you overwhelmed by emotions that make it challenging to navigate through life? You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past or current traumatic events, or everyday life stressors. If so, you probably are seeking peace of mind, gratitude, hope, inner strength, and healthy coping skills. If this sounds like you, I welcome the opportunity to assist you on your path towards healing.
(516) 217-2150 View (516) 217-2150
Photo of Kimberly Perez, Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Kimberly Perez
Counselor, MS , LMHC
Verified Verified
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in helping survivors of trauma, including those who have experienced sexual assault, Narcissistic abuse, domestic violence or depression, and poor self-esteem.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges with self-worth and depression. My ideal clients often grapple with issues related to unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, or childhood trauma. I am dedicated to providing empathetic guidance to help you navigate these difficulties and work towards personal growth and healing.
(813) 733-5942 View (813) 733-5942
Photo of Amanda Elliott Asproni, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Pinellas County, FL
Amanda Elliott Asproni
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33755  (Online Only)
Amanda specializes in treating the multiple dimensions of complex trauma including infidelity, problematic sexual behavior, betrayal & developmental trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sexual anorexia & relationship intimacy. Amanda is trauma trained, neuropsychologically informed & practices with a psychodynamic, object relations, transactional analysis, attachment & family system frame. She's worked since 2010 with Rick Reynolds, LCSW & consults with other renowned industry leaders Michael Crocker, PhD, Matthew Hedelius, PsyD., CSAT-S, Mary Deitch, PsyD, JD, and Cara Weed, LSCW, CSAT.
Amanda specializes in treating the multiple dimensions of complex trauma including infidelity, problematic sexual behavior, betrayal & developmental trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sexual anorexia & relationship intimacy. Amanda is trauma trained, neuropsychologically informed & practices with a psychodynamic, object relations, transactional analysis, attachment & family system frame. She's worked since 2010 with Rick Reynolds, LCSW & consults with other renowned industry leaders Michael Crocker, PhD, Matthew Hedelius, PsyD., CSAT-S, Mary Deitch, PsyD, JD, and Cara Weed, LSCW, CSAT.
(813) 212-0820 View (813) 212-0820
Photo of Beth Thomas in Pinellas County, FL
Beth Thomas
LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34685
I have more than 20 years experience working as a counselor in Pasco County schools helping youth, adults, and families who have been affected by some very real issues including substance abuse, physical/emotional/sexual abuse, trauma, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues.
I have more than 20 years experience working as a counselor in Pasco County schools helping youth, adults, and families who have been affected by some very real issues including substance abuse, physical/emotional/sexual abuse, trauma, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues.
(727) 594-7410 View (727) 594-7410
Photo of Rebecca Crecraft, Psychologist in Pinellas County, FL
Rebecca Crecraft
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
My passion is helping adults and teens who have experienced trauma re-develop a sense of safety and re-gain control of their lives. If you have experienced sexual assault, physical or emotional abuse, divorce, car accident, or loss of a loved one, we will work together to replace negative life patterns that are keeping you from moving forward and create healthy boundaries and coping skills that will lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life
My passion is helping adults and teens who have experienced trauma re-develop a sense of safety and re-gain control of their lives. If you have experienced sexual assault, physical or emotional abuse, divorce, car accident, or loss of a loved one, we will work together to replace negative life patterns that are keeping you from moving forward and create healthy boundaries and coping skills that will lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life
(727) 228-6018 View (727) 228-6018
Photo of Yara Moreno, Moving Forward Counseling Services , Marriage & Family Therapist in Pinellas County, FL
Yara Moreno, Moving Forward Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience specializing in the field of trauma; specifically Sexual Abuse trauma.
Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed with your life right now? I believe people can sometimes feel stuck due to life circumstances, relationship issues, or trauma. These difficult situations can leave you feeling lost, depressed, anxious, fearful, emotionally wounded, unfulfilled and with no purpose. Would you like to move forward? Do you want to feel whole? At Moving Forward Counseling Services, LLC, I help individuals get "unstuck" from the traumas of their past experiences. If you feel ready to take a step toward hope & healing, take the first step and call me or text me (904) 902-4543 to schedule a FREE Consultation!
I have over 10 years of experience specializing in the field of trauma; specifically Sexual Abuse trauma.
Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed with your life right now? I believe people can sometimes feel stuck due to life circumstances, relationship issues, or trauma. These difficult situations can leave you feeling lost, depressed, anxious, fearful, emotionally wounded, unfulfilled and with no purpose. Would you like to move forward? Do you want to feel whole? At Moving Forward Counseling Services, LLC, I help individuals get "unstuck" from the traumas of their past experiences. If you feel ready to take a step toward hope & healing, take the first step and call me or text me (904) 902-4543 to schedule a FREE Consultation!
(321) 221-5644 View (321) 221-5644
Photo of Dr. Carleah G. East, Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Dr. Carleah G. East
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
My passions include mental and social issues: * Anxiety * Depression * LGBTQ * Relationships *Adolescence *Mood Disorders * Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse.
Ask yourself this question: Have I SMILE'd Today? As a Clinical Director and licensed psychotherapist, I integrate clinical expertise with compassion, dedication, love, laughter, understanding and encouragement in order to provide enriching experiences of healing and transformation. I make sure to tailor my therapeutic approach to "YOU" as an individual, based upon your needs. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral and holistic techniques to address unhealthy feelings, emotions and behaviors by challenging faulty beliefs and practices. My goal is to give you real conversations w/ real solutions! It's time You SMILE again...
My passions include mental and social issues: * Anxiety * Depression * LGBTQ * Relationships *Adolescence *Mood Disorders * Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse.
Ask yourself this question: Have I SMILE'd Today? As a Clinical Director and licensed psychotherapist, I integrate clinical expertise with compassion, dedication, love, laughter, understanding and encouragement in order to provide enriching experiences of healing and transformation. I make sure to tailor my therapeutic approach to "YOU" as an individual, based upon your needs. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral and holistic techniques to address unhealthy feelings, emotions and behaviors by challenging faulty beliefs and practices. My goal is to give you real conversations w/ real solutions! It's time You SMILE again...
(727) 270-9221 View (727) 270-9221
Photo of Cheryl Ann D' La Rotta, Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Cheryl Ann D' La Rotta
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor for the State of Florida. I am very sensitive to the issues of diversity, oppression, and discrimination. I am a Certified Trauma Professional with the ITAP and advocate in the issues of the LGBT, sexual assault survivors, childhood sexual abuse survivors, elderly abuse, intimate partner violence and many other types of trauma. I have created a safe and secure environment for my clients to unveil their lived experiences, as I help guide them towards their goals and a better way of life. My own lived experiences allow me to be vulnerable, empathetic, and non-judgmental
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor for the State of Florida. I am very sensitive to the issues of diversity, oppression, and discrimination. I am a Certified Trauma Professional with the ITAP and advocate in the issues of the LGBT, sexual assault survivors, childhood sexual abuse survivors, elderly abuse, intimate partner violence and many other types of trauma. I have created a safe and secure environment for my clients to unveil their lived experiences, as I help guide them towards their goals and a better way of life. My own lived experiences allow me to be vulnerable, empathetic, and non-judgmental
(786) 565-4802 View (786) 565-4802
Photo of Linda A Banik MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Linda A Banik MA, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Currently treating: Anxiety, OCD, phobias, trauma, sexual abuse, relationships, depression, career change, toxic relationships, healthy boundaries and more.
Your largest fear carries your greatest growth. If you're searching for that one person that will change your life, look in the mirror. Our fatigue is often caused NOT by school or work, but by worry, frustration & resentment. The real cause of problems is not life itself, it's the commotion the mind makes about life that really causes the problem. Tired of overthinking? Tired of not having movement in your life? Feel stuck? Battling intrusive thoughts? Anxiety or depression draining you? Having a hard time deciding which way to go? You can choose to stay where you are, or you can choose to get help. Call me when you're ready!
Currently treating: Anxiety, OCD, phobias, trauma, sexual abuse, relationships, depression, career change, toxic relationships, healthy boundaries and more.
Your largest fear carries your greatest growth. If you're searching for that one person that will change your life, look in the mirror. Our fatigue is often caused NOT by school or work, but by worry, frustration & resentment. The real cause of problems is not life itself, it's the commotion the mind makes about life that really causes the problem. Tired of overthinking? Tired of not having movement in your life? Feel stuck? Battling intrusive thoughts? Anxiety or depression draining you? Having a hard time deciding which way to go? You can choose to stay where you are, or you can choose to get help. Call me when you're ready!
(678) 974-0991 View (678) 974-0991
Photo of Amanda Mole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pinellas County, FL
Amanda Mole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma and mood disorders, and have experience with domestic violence, sexual assault, spiritual and religious trauma, LGBTQIA issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and other issues.
Immediate openings! - I accept clients of all backgrounds, but I find that people who have religious trauma, such as spiritual abuse, sexism, homophobia, sexual abuse, etc., are quite comfortable with me and my style of therapy. I also am neurodiversity-affirming and welcome adults who are autistic or live with other brain types that fall under the neurodiversity umbrella. My specialized training includes gender affirming treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and internal family systems therapy. I help clients process and integrate trauma as well as build new skills.
I specialize in trauma and mood disorders, and have experience with domestic violence, sexual assault, spiritual and religious trauma, LGBTQIA issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and other issues.
Immediate openings! - I accept clients of all backgrounds, but I find that people who have religious trauma, such as spiritual abuse, sexism, homophobia, sexual abuse, etc., are quite comfortable with me and my style of therapy. I also am neurodiversity-affirming and welcome adults who are autistic or live with other brain types that fall under the neurodiversity umbrella. My specialized training includes gender affirming treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and internal family systems therapy. I help clients process and integrate trauma as well as build new skills.
(727) 235-7273 View (727) 235-7273
Photo of Sital Parmar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pinellas County, FL
Sital Parmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Largo, FL 33773
Hi I'm Sital, I work from a client centered/strengths-based and trauma informed practice. I have great experience working with individuals showcasing complex emotions and needs including trauma, domestic violence, life changes, sexual assault, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, immigration/refugee and family dynamics. I always provide a nonjudgmental, confidential and secure space for clients as they navigate and start to work towards their goals in a professional setting.
Hi I'm Sital, I work from a client centered/strengths-based and trauma informed practice. I have great experience working with individuals showcasing complex emotions and needs including trauma, domestic violence, life changes, sexual assault, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, immigration/refugee and family dynamics. I always provide a nonjudgmental, confidential and secure space for clients as they navigate and start to work towards their goals in a professional setting.
(850) 809-7539 View (850) 809-7539
Photo of Healing Stone Therapy Services, LLC, Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Healing Stone Therapy Services, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
I have experience working with such issues as sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, relationship issues, conflict resolution, parenting skills and other types of behavioral difficulties.
Are you experiencing traumatic experiences from the past or present which continue to cause you distress? Are you having relationship issues regarding communication, trust or unhealthy boundaries, behavior issues with your child or grieving from a loss? I am a Licensed Therapist and I will work with you to resolve your issues by developing healthy coping skills. I can assist you on your journey to change painful patterns and search for solutions to your issues. With hard work and motivation you can identify solutions and move forward in your life. Your past does not define you as a person.
I have experience working with such issues as sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, relationship issues, conflict resolution, parenting skills and other types of behavioral difficulties.
Are you experiencing traumatic experiences from the past or present which continue to cause you distress? Are you having relationship issues regarding communication, trust or unhealthy boundaries, behavior issues with your child or grieving from a loss? I am a Licensed Therapist and I will work with you to resolve your issues by developing healthy coping skills. I can assist you on your journey to change painful patterns and search for solutions to your issues. With hard work and motivation you can identify solutions and move forward in your life. Your past does not define you as a person.
(727) 240-3961 View (727) 240-3961
Photo of Dr. Tom Petit, Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Dr. Tom Petit
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CCMHC, BCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Largo, FL 33777
Attuned care provided for accident, abuse and assault resolution.
These are difficult times. Anxiety can have a life of its own. Providing better help through online Telehealth is a 15 year specialty in my 39 year career. So many "what ifs" are a reality in many lives. What does one do when anxiety, stress and panic hit? Change from what was normal to the "now normal" can bring reactivity and stress. I offer online therapy helping clients understand their lives and the roots of their personal anxiety & stress. I provide a safe place and skills that create “breathing room” to help people break free from the grips of their anxiety, frustration, and personal and relational stress.
Attuned care provided for accident, abuse and assault resolution.
These are difficult times. Anxiety can have a life of its own. Providing better help through online Telehealth is a 15 year specialty in my 39 year career. So many "what ifs" are a reality in many lives. What does one do when anxiety, stress and panic hit? Change from what was normal to the "now normal" can bring reactivity and stress. I offer online therapy helping clients understand their lives and the roots of their personal anxiety & stress. I provide a safe place and skills that create “breathing room” to help people break free from the grips of their anxiety, frustration, and personal and relational stress.
(727) 250-5382 View (727) 250-5382
Photo of Cheri Yvonne Doval, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pinellas County, FL
Cheri Yvonne Doval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Cheri’s specialty areas include PTSD, grief, sleep issues, sexual assault/abuse, trauma, goal planning, life transitions, relationships, stress management, and anxiety.
Cheri feels that making the decision to start therapy is a big, personal step toward prioritizing mental health and improving overall well-being. Whether considering therapy for the first time or returning to get some support, it can be overwhelming to determine which type is the best fit. At its core, therapy provides a safe and nonjudgmental environment where patients can identify problems and goals and work collaboratively with a therapist to achieve them.
Cheri’s specialty areas include PTSD, grief, sleep issues, sexual assault/abuse, trauma, goal planning, life transitions, relationships, stress management, and anxiety.
Cheri feels that making the decision to start therapy is a big, personal step toward prioritizing mental health and improving overall well-being. Whether considering therapy for the first time or returning to get some support, it can be overwhelming to determine which type is the best fit. At its core, therapy provides a safe and nonjudgmental environment where patients can identify problems and goals and work collaboratively with a therapist to achieve them.
(727) 594-0273 View (727) 594-0273
Photo of Shelley M Samuels, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Pinellas County, FL
Shelley M Samuels
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Therapy is neither magic nor science, but I believe that therapy has the potential to be magical and transformative. I offer a warm, supportive environment to help individuals explore deep trauma as well as ordinary issues that impact daily life and long-term goals. I strive to inspire creativity through nature, and incorporate creative arts into my practice. My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions. A veteran career counselor, I've over 7 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching.
Therapy is neither magic nor science, but I believe that therapy has the potential to be magical and transformative. I offer a warm, supportive environment to help individuals explore deep trauma as well as ordinary issues that impact daily life and long-term goals. I strive to inspire creativity through nature, and incorporate creative arts into my practice. My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions. A veteran career counselor, I've over 7 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching.
(510) 974-7425 View (510) 974-7425

See more therapy options for Pinellas County

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.