Sexual Abuse Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Veroniki Usherenko, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veroniki Usherenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128  (Online Only)
Life’s journey includes many difficulties, including challenges for individuals, couples, and families. Therapy provides a confidential and safe space where feelings can be explored, new skills can be acquired, and healing can begin. Seeking guidance is an important first step. I have experience working with those involved in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other trauma. Trauma often surfaces in ways as we do not always know how to articulate and process our emotions. I take a collaborative approach with my clients to reinforce safety, identify problem areas, set goals, and learn to identify and express their feelings.
Life’s journey includes many difficulties, including challenges for individuals, couples, and families. Therapy provides a confidential and safe space where feelings can be explored, new skills can be acquired, and healing can begin. Seeking guidance is an important first step. I have experience working with those involved in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other trauma. Trauma often surfaces in ways as we do not always know how to articulate and process our emotions. I take a collaborative approach with my clients to reinforce safety, identify problem areas, set goals, and learn to identify and express their feelings.
(858) 683-1072 View (858) 683-1072
Photo of Darlene Hourany, LFMT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darlene Hourany
Marriage & Family Therapist, LFMT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with the aftermath of sexual assault? It's common to experience a range of intense and confusing emotions, from fear and anger to guilt and sadness. These feelings can deeply affect your studies, relationships, and self-image. My focus is on providing a safe, understanding space where your feelings are heard and validated. We'll work together to navigate these complex emotions, helping you regain a sense of empowerment and control over your life.
Are you grappling with the aftermath of sexual assault? It's common to experience a range of intense and confusing emotions, from fear and anger to guilt and sadness. These feelings can deeply affect your studies, relationships, and self-image. My focus is on providing a safe, understanding space where your feelings are heard and validated. We'll work together to navigate these complex emotions, helping you regain a sense of empowerment and control over your life.
(858) 786-0472 View (858) 786-0472
Photo of Leticia Isabel Bane, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leticia Isabel Bane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Are you concerned about your child after having experienced something traumatic? Domestic violence, accidents, assault, child physical abuse, child sexual abuse, neglect, and other traumatic events take time and support to heal from. Many children are left with depression, anxiety, PTSD, defiance, opposition, and many other issues after the trauma.
Are you concerned about your child after having experienced something traumatic? Domestic violence, accidents, assault, child physical abuse, child sexual abuse, neglect, and other traumatic events take time and support to heal from. Many children are left with depression, anxiety, PTSD, defiance, opposition, and many other issues after the trauma.
(619) 547-0995 View (619) 547-0995
Photo of Jennifer V Kulka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer V Kulka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I help folks cope and heal from sexual and relationship trauma. Trauma can fracture who you are as a person. It can make you feel unlike yourself, distant from others, changed forever. This does not have to be permanent. Together, we can build resilience, access your strengths, and let your past stay in the past. Learning to understand your trauma, manage symptoms, change patterns, and increase self-esteem can help you cultivate the life and meaningful relationships that you want. Most of my clients have experienced rape, sexual assault, childhood abuse, systemic oppression, and/or violence from a partner.
I help folks cope and heal from sexual and relationship trauma. Trauma can fracture who you are as a person. It can make you feel unlike yourself, distant from others, changed forever. This does not have to be permanent. Together, we can build resilience, access your strengths, and let your past stay in the past. Learning to understand your trauma, manage symptoms, change patterns, and increase self-esteem can help you cultivate the life and meaningful relationships that you want. Most of my clients have experienced rape, sexual assault, childhood abuse, systemic oppression, and/or violence from a partner.
(442) 245-5162 View (442) 245-5162
Photo of Miyoung Son, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miyoung Son
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help can be challenging for many. As psychotherapy aims at positive changes you desire, I am honored to provide a safe place for your self-exploration and reflection in which you can gain your inner peace and change you long for. Being specialized in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence, I can offer some resolution in your trauma work. Trauma can penetrate not only your emotional well-being but also almost every facet of your life. My warm and peaceful presence would guide you through an effective treatment you deserve. My other specialties include performance anxiety, and psychological impotence (ED).
Reaching out for help can be challenging for many. As psychotherapy aims at positive changes you desire, I am honored to provide a safe place for your self-exploration and reflection in which you can gain your inner peace and change you long for. Being specialized in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence, I can offer some resolution in your trauma work. Trauma can penetrate not only your emotional well-being but also almost every facet of your life. My warm and peaceful presence would guide you through an effective treatment you deserve. My other specialties include performance anxiety, and psychological impotence (ED).
(619) 485-6056 View (619) 485-6056
Photo of Morgan Shaw, PsyD, Psychologist
Morgan Shaw
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced significant trauma in their lives, particularly child sexual abuse, child maltreatment, and intimate partner violence.
I believe that we all experience our own unique traumas in life, and it's how we respond to them that shapes our view of the world and ourselves. I'm here to help you see things from a different lens, or perhaps just help you develop new ways of responding to your own individual experiences. Healing your traumas allows you to regain your sense of power and strengthen your sense of self. I take a holistic approach to healing and wellness and believe that each client requires a unique, person-centered approach.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced significant trauma in their lives, particularly child sexual abuse, child maltreatment, and intimate partner violence.
I believe that we all experience our own unique traumas in life, and it's how we respond to them that shapes our view of the world and ourselves. I'm here to help you see things from a different lens, or perhaps just help you develop new ways of responding to your own individual experiences. Healing your traumas allows you to regain your sense of power and strengthen your sense of self. I take a holistic approach to healing and wellness and believe that each client requires a unique, person-centered approach.
(858) 437-5596 View (858) 437-5596
Photo of Heather Johns - Anxiety And Trauma Therapist, MA, LPCC
Heather Johns - Anxiety And Trauma Therapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
I have a passion for working with survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other traumas experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.
If you are a survivor of trauma, I am here to help you regain a sense of safety and wholeness. Together we can significantly reduce the negative effects that these events continue to have on your life. As a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I work to create a safe and judgement-free space where my client and I can walk along their healing journey together, gaining insight, learning coping skills, and building resiliency along the way.
I have a passion for working with survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other traumas experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.
If you are a survivor of trauma, I am here to help you regain a sense of safety and wholeness. Together we can significantly reduce the negative effects that these events continue to have on your life. As a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I work to create a safe and judgement-free space where my client and I can walk along their healing journey together, gaining insight, learning coping skills, and building resiliency along the way.
(619) 612-5085 View (619) 612-5085
Photo of Dena Nelson O'Connor, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dena Nelson O'Connor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Hello, My name is Dena and I am a Certified EMDR therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am trauma informed and use an eclectic approach utilizing Person Centered, Mindfulness, Strength Based, EMDR (rapid eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and Flash to help with processing trauma. I specialize in working with issues to include: trauma, family of origin issues, early childhood physical/sexual abuse and neglect, PTSD, anxiety, life transitions and relationship issues.
Hello, My name is Dena and I am a Certified EMDR therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am trauma informed and use an eclectic approach utilizing Person Centered, Mindfulness, Strength Based, EMDR (rapid eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and Flash to help with processing trauma. I specialize in working with issues to include: trauma, family of origin issues, early childhood physical/sexual abuse and neglect, PTSD, anxiety, life transitions and relationship issues.
(619) 514-1501 View (619) 514-1501
Photo of Rhonda Okonkwo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhonda Okonkwo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92132  (Online Only)
I am a survivor who works with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual trauma and/or sex trafficking.
Hey there, I’m Rhonda Stephanie! Do you have trouble managing anxiety and feelings of depression? Do you need assistance in processing a very difficult situation that you experienced?
I am a survivor who works with individuals who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual trauma and/or sex trafficking.
Hey there, I’m Rhonda Stephanie! Do you have trouble managing anxiety and feelings of depression? Do you need assistance in processing a very difficult situation that you experienced?
(562) 685-9187 View (562) 685-9187
Photo of Amanda Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92132  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. My background is a combination of trauma and community-based mental health and I work with clients with an array of diverse backgrounds. My work with clients involves finding out how to address the concerns that stop you from living a fulfilling life. Finding answers to question such as: How can we move from surviving to thriving, becoming the best version of what we want for ourselves? Prior to becoming a psychotherapist I spent seven years in crisis work, working with individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. My background is a combination of trauma and community-based mental health and I work with clients with an array of diverse backgrounds. My work with clients involves finding out how to address the concerns that stop you from living a fulfilling life. Finding answers to question such as: How can we move from surviving to thriving, becoming the best version of what we want for ourselves? Prior to becoming a psychotherapist I spent seven years in crisis work, working with individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
(661) 449-9284 View (661) 449-9284
Photo of Monica Grace Cashiotta-Munn, PsyD, EdD, LMFT, RN-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Grace Cashiotta-Munn
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, EdD, LMFT, RN-BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Have you been in addictive relationships or feel you cannot live without someone who is actually not good for you? Victims of sexual abuse, couples, individuals, adolescents and kids welcome.
Licensed MFT therapist, RN, and a Dr. of Psychology and Dr. of Education degrees. Have worked in the field for 35 years. I believe in empowering clients to move forward out of pain and understand their issues. I don't keep people in counseling for no reason. I've worked with ages from 4 years old to age 99. I use sand tray, family systems, cognitive and behavioral therapy, to deal with relationship, sexual addictions, depression, high risk divorce families and marriage conflicts. Worked for 32 years with registered sexual offenders. Nothing you say will shock me or will I judge you.
Have you been in addictive relationships or feel you cannot live without someone who is actually not good for you? Victims of sexual abuse, couples, individuals, adolescents and kids welcome.
Licensed MFT therapist, RN, and a Dr. of Psychology and Dr. of Education degrees. Have worked in the field for 35 years. I believe in empowering clients to move forward out of pain and understand their issues. I don't keep people in counseling for no reason. I've worked with ages from 4 years old to age 99. I use sand tray, family systems, cognitive and behavioral therapy, to deal with relationship, sexual addictions, depression, high risk divorce families and marriage conflicts. Worked for 32 years with registered sexual offenders. Nothing you say will shock me or will I judge you.
(858) 330-1716 View (858) 330-1716
Photo of Marisa Dao, MA, APCC, NCC
Marisa Dao
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
Hello, my name is Marisa (she/her). As an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, I am passionate about supporting those navigating complex trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, racial and ethnic trauma and identity issues, substance use, intimate partner violence, sexual abuse/assault, active duty/veteran experiences, formerly incarcerated/ justice impacted experiences, life transitions, body neutrality, grief and loss, low self-worth and esteem, and you know all the other beautiful and terrible things in life!
Hello, my name is Marisa (she/her). As an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, I am passionate about supporting those navigating complex trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, racial and ethnic trauma and identity issues, substance use, intimate partner violence, sexual abuse/assault, active duty/veteran experiences, formerly incarcerated/ justice impacted experiences, life transitions, body neutrality, grief and loss, low self-worth and esteem, and you know all the other beautiful and terrible things in life!
(619) 332-0560 View (619) 332-0560
Photo of Michael Toohey, PsyD, Psychologist
Michael Toohey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
My specialties include working with adults and teens that have experienced trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, neglect and emotional abuse.
I recognize that coming to therapy is a courageous first step and that you are taking a chance when you make that first appointment, especially when you are struggling. I consider it an honor to be entrusted by one seeking help. I demonstrate that honor by being committed to providing you with practical feedback in an empathetic and compassionate manner. With cognitive behavioral strategies, I provide techniques to manage and reduce negative symptoms by tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.
My specialties include working with adults and teens that have experienced trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, neglect and emotional abuse.
I recognize that coming to therapy is a courageous first step and that you are taking a chance when you make that first appointment, especially when you are struggling. I consider it an honor to be entrusted by one seeking help. I demonstrate that honor by being committed to providing you with practical feedback in an empathetic and compassionate manner. With cognitive behavioral strategies, I provide techniques to manage and reduce negative symptoms by tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.
(619) 853-6745 View (619) 853-6745
Photo of Melissa McCormick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa McCormick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I work with those struggling to live with the effects of trauma and challenging life experiences who are desiring to work through past and present family issues in the midst of anxiety, depression, and other issues such as healing from abuse, assault, and neglect.
I am passionate about helping people who feel overwhelmed by their lives. We live at such a fast pace that we often do not have the space required to slow down to feel our emotions. When we are unable to connect with ourselves, symptoms like anxiety and depression increase. We need help connecting to our bodies, and regulating our nervous systems to slow down enough to move out of fight or flight and into the present moment. Doing so will make it possible to heal from our challenges like anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and chronic illness.
I work with those struggling to live with the effects of trauma and challenging life experiences who are desiring to work through past and present family issues in the midst of anxiety, depression, and other issues such as healing from abuse, assault, and neglect.
I am passionate about helping people who feel overwhelmed by their lives. We live at such a fast pace that we often do not have the space required to slow down to feel our emotions. When we are unable to connect with ourselves, symptoms like anxiety and depression increase. We need help connecting to our bodies, and regulating our nervous systems to slow down enough to move out of fight or flight and into the present moment. Doing so will make it possible to heal from our challenges like anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and chronic illness.
(619) 649-8023 View (619) 649-8023
Photo of Jennifer Konzen, PsyD, LMFT, CST, CCDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Konzen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CST, CCDC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120  (Online Only)
I work with couples to renew the fire in their love life and sexual relationship, couples affected by addiction, as well as couples who are no longer communicating or are on the brink of divorce. I counsel men and women who have experienced depression, anxiety, and OCD. I work with individuals dealing with grief, trauma, sexual abuse, and childhood or partner violence. I also work with parents and adolescents. I am a Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
I work with couples to renew the fire in their love life and sexual relationship, couples affected by addiction, as well as couples who are no longer communicating or are on the brink of divorce. I counsel men and women who have experienced depression, anxiety, and OCD. I work with individuals dealing with grief, trauma, sexual abuse, and childhood or partner violence. I also work with parents and adolescents. I am a Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
(858) 217-4992 View (858) 217-4992
Photo of Neda Khodaparast, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Neda Khodaparast
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I am well versed in a variety of treatment approaches and have a diverse clinical background in different areas including treatment of: Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Physical and Sexual Abuse/ Incest, PTSD, Domestic Violence,Infidelity Issues, Eating Disorder, and Adoption.
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
I am well versed in a variety of treatment approaches and have a diverse clinical background in different areas including treatment of: Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Physical and Sexual Abuse/ Incest, PTSD, Domestic Violence,Infidelity Issues, Eating Disorder, and Adoption.
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
(860) 615-9919 View (860) 615-9919
Photo of Julie H Morrell - Julie H Morrell, MFT Online, Phone, & Telehealth, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie H Morrell, MFT Online, Phone, & Telehealth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma & Phobias *Pre-marital *Anger/Depression *Grief therapy *Anxiety *Dating Help *Treatment for Sexual abuse, *Addiction/Recovery *Post-traumatic Stress issues, PTSD *Relapse Prevention *EMDR therapy.
Are you having feelings of sadness or anxiety? Do you feel angry, grief, trauma and/or frustration? Do you feel like something is preventing you from experiencing joy or freedom in your life, or your relationships? That's where I can help you. I have over 39 years of counseling/therapy experience. My approach is interactive & collaborative. After counseling, my clients report having more fulfilling relationships, better coping skills, more feelings of connection, as well as healing from the burdens of past hurts, anxieties & traumas. I am also a trained EMDR therapist.
Trauma & Phobias *Pre-marital *Anger/Depression *Grief therapy *Anxiety *Dating Help *Treatment for Sexual abuse, *Addiction/Recovery *Post-traumatic Stress issues, PTSD *Relapse Prevention *EMDR therapy.
Are you having feelings of sadness or anxiety? Do you feel angry, grief, trauma and/or frustration? Do you feel like something is preventing you from experiencing joy or freedom in your life, or your relationships? That's where I can help you. I have over 39 years of counseling/therapy experience. My approach is interactive & collaborative. After counseling, my clients report having more fulfilling relationships, better coping skills, more feelings of connection, as well as healing from the burdens of past hurts, anxieties & traumas. I am also a trained EMDR therapist.
(619) 857-1355 View (619) 857-1355
Photo of Ariana Rivera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariana Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
I have extensive experience in the treatment of trauma including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and PTSD.
Hello, I'm Ariana (she/her/ella). I'm a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and family systems who are experiencing life stressors, the aftermath of trauma, symptoms of depression or anxiety, or early childhood (0-5 years of age) social/emotional/behavioral concerns. I take a strength - based approach and work to create a safe and collaborative space for clients to share their range of feelings and thoughts while they work to reconnect to themselves and others.
I have extensive experience in the treatment of trauma including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and PTSD.
Hello, I'm Ariana (she/her/ella). I'm a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and family systems who are experiencing life stressors, the aftermath of trauma, symptoms of depression or anxiety, or early childhood (0-5 years of age) social/emotional/behavioral concerns. I take a strength - based approach and work to create a safe and collaborative space for clients to share their range of feelings and thoughts while they work to reconnect to themselves and others.
(858) 533-2546 View (858) 533-2546
Joelle A Tonkovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering therapy to adults, children, adolescents, and families. I have worked extensively with issues related to depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, and abuse (physical abuse,sexual abuse, neglect, child endangerment, and domestic violence). I believe that healing, growth, and lasting change can occur within the safety of a therapeutic relationship. I provide a safe, confidential, and supportive environment in which issues can be explored.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering therapy to adults, children, adolescents, and families. I have worked extensively with issues related to depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, and abuse (physical abuse,sexual abuse, neglect, child endangerment, and domestic violence). I believe that healing, growth, and lasting change can occur within the safety of a therapeutic relationship. I provide a safe, confidential, and supportive environment in which issues can be explored.
(619) 722-3025 View (619) 722-3025
Photo of Madison Omholt, PhD, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Madison Omholt
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
Some of my specialties include the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, resolving relationship/marital issues, eating disorders, recovery from sexual assault and domestic violence.
As a therapist/teacher I ask that my clients be willing to grow. Growth can look many ways, but always involves practice. The people who take what they learn in sesh, practice it with insight, vulnerality, openness, and some diligence, they get the brilliance, sometimes very trying, and grace of somatic and relational transformation.
Some of my specialties include the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, resolving relationship/marital issues, eating disorders, recovery from sexual assault and domestic violence.
As a therapist/teacher I ask that my clients be willing to grow. Growth can look many ways, but always involves practice. The people who take what they learn in sesh, practice it with insight, vulnerality, openness, and some diligence, they get the brilliance, sometimes very trying, and grace of somatic and relational transformation.
(619) 273-5062 View (619) 273-5062
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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.