Sexual Abuse Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Jennifer V Kulka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer V Kulka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19123  (Online Only)
I can help you 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 free you from your 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 can help you 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 free you from your 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.
(267) 497-2204 View (267) 497-2204
Photo of Katie Fries - All of You Therapy, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
All of You Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
We accept VCAP funding for- no police report needed in order to be eligible if you have experienced sexual abuse in the state of PA.
Our clients are sensitive, thoughtful adults who have experienced childhood abuse, neglect, and overall family dysfunction and have found ways to appear like they "have it all together" on the outside, but internally are suffering with painful memories, feelings of deep shame, and an overall sense of unworthiness. In our work with adults who have been raised by emotionally immature parents, we help clients re-discover, or perhaps discover for the first time, a true sense of self and identity. Many of our clients are parents who are committed to breaking the cycle of intergenerational trauma for the good of their children.
We accept VCAP funding for- no police report needed in order to be eligible if you have experienced sexual abuse in the state of PA.
Our clients are sensitive, thoughtful adults who have experienced childhood abuse, neglect, and overall family dysfunction and have found ways to appear like they "have it all together" on the outside, but internally are suffering with painful memories, feelings of deep shame, and an overall sense of unworthiness. In our work with adults who have been raised by emotionally immature parents, we help clients re-discover, or perhaps discover for the first time, a true sense of self and identity. Many of our clients are parents who are committed to breaking the cycle of intergenerational trauma for the good of their children.
(215) 999-8214 View (215) 999-8214
Photo of Barry Zakireh, PhD, Psychologist
Barry Zakireh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My client and service focus is on individuals or entities seeking treatment, psychological evaluations, risk assessment, expert witness representation, and related services for sexual misconduct, sexual abuse, sexual victimization, or trauma. Other areas of specialty include assessment of violence; standards of professional practice; program development; supervision and training of forensic practitioners; treatment or supervision of professionals and clergy with sexual misconduct; pretrial defendants; juveniles delinquency and sexual offending; and supervision or training of clinical personnel involved in various relevant psychological, civil, or criminal justice interventions. Also, I have extensive training in treatment of general psychological conditions as well as providing psychological and psycho-educational evaluations.
My client and service focus is on individuals or entities seeking treatment, psychological evaluations, risk assessment, expert witness representation, and related services for sexual misconduct, sexual abuse, sexual victimization, or trauma. Other areas of specialty include assessment of violence; standards of professional practice; program development; supervision and training of forensic practitioners; treatment or supervision of professionals and clergy with sexual misconduct; pretrial defendants; juveniles delinquency and sexual offending; and supervision or training of clinical personnel involved in various relevant psychological, civil, or criminal justice interventions. Also, I have extensive training in treatment of general psychological conditions as well as providing psychological and psycho-educational evaluations.
(267) 871-9901 View (267) 871-9901
Photo of Emily Cox, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I have extensive experience with survivors of sexual & interpersonal violence and childhood sexual abuse as an LPC, Certified Yoga Teacher, Certified PE Therapist, and Certified Trauma Process Yoga Group Practitioner.
Looking to make change in your life, but not sure if it is possible? Do you feel terrified of the world, or struggle to trust yourself or other people? I work with people to make measurable and meaningful change in their lives. I am passionate about helping people feel comfortable with themselves, other people, and the world. I value building safety and trust using humor, empathy, and authenticity.
I have extensive experience with survivors of sexual & interpersonal violence and childhood sexual abuse as an LPC, Certified Yoga Teacher, Certified PE Therapist, and Certified Trauma Process Yoga Group Practitioner.
Looking to make change in your life, but not sure if it is possible? Do you feel terrified of the world, or struggle to trust yourself or other people? I work with people to make measurable and meaningful change in their lives. I am passionate about helping people feel comfortable with themselves, other people, and the world. I value building safety and trust using humor, empathy, and authenticity.
(215) 709-8713 View (215) 709-8713
Photo of Kelly Ace, LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Ace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have worked with children, teens, and adults from diverse backgrounds as they follow a path of healing after sexual abuse.
Hello! I get that life is complicated and traumatic experiences make it more so. I have experience helping clients heal and grow as they navigate challenges related to sexual trauma, disability, and mental health.
Throughout my career, I have worked with children, teens, and adults from diverse backgrounds as they follow a path of healing after sexual abuse.
Hello! I get that life is complicated and traumatic experiences make it more so. I have experience helping clients heal and grow as they navigate challenges related to sexual trauma, disability, and mental health.
(484) 613-2923 View (484) 613-2923
Photo of Julia Lindenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Lindenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have specialized training and experience working with first responders and veterans as well as men who have experienced trauma including sexual abuse.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 8 years of experience in the field of mental health. I have specialized in trauma since my graduate training and worked with young adults and adults facing a variety of challenges including childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, abusive adult relationships and "single" traumatic events.
I have specialized training and experience working with first responders and veterans as well as men who have experienced trauma including sexual abuse.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 8 years of experience in the field of mental health. I have specialized in trauma since my graduate training and worked with young adults and adults facing a variety of challenges including childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, abusive adult relationships and "single" traumatic events.
(484) 564-5226 View (484) 564-5226
Photo of Allena M Moncrief, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allena M Moncrief
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
I am a trauma- informed therapist with specialization in the areas of: self-esteem, relational conflict, sexual abuse, transgenerational trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Greetings, my name is Dr. Allena M. Moncrief. I obtained my PhD from Drexel University in the field of Couple and Family Therapy in 2017. I have been providing therapeutic services to clients in Pennsylvania since 2010. As a psychotherapist, I understand the decision to enter psychotherapy can be extremely challenging for some individuals. Thus, I strive to meet individuals where they are in the therapeutic process. This process involves helping individuals explore the root of their difficulties/roadblocks and assisting them with creating a roadmap that will lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
I am a trauma- informed therapist with specialization in the areas of: self-esteem, relational conflict, sexual abuse, transgenerational trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Greetings, my name is Dr. Allena M. Moncrief. I obtained my PhD from Drexel University in the field of Couple and Family Therapy in 2017. I have been providing therapeutic services to clients in Pennsylvania since 2010. As a psychotherapist, I understand the decision to enter psychotherapy can be extremely challenging for some individuals. Thus, I strive to meet individuals where they are in the therapeutic process. This process involves helping individuals explore the root of their difficulties/roadblocks and assisting them with creating a roadmap that will lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
(267) 314-6694 View (267) 314-6694
Photo of Kristine M. Dolce, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristine M. Dolce
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
My specialties focus on trauma (particularly sexual abuse), grief/loss, addiction, anxiety and depression.
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling anxious, emotional or angry and don't know why? Feeling overwhelmed but don't know what to do? Perhaps there is a specific issue weighing you down. I offer a safe space to explore whatever might be troubling you.
My specialties focus on trauma (particularly sexual abuse), grief/loss, addiction, anxiety and depression.
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling anxious, emotional or angry and don't know why? Feeling overwhelmed but don't know what to do? Perhaps there is a specific issue weighing you down. I offer a safe space to explore whatever might be troubling you.
(215) 509-5167 View (215) 509-5167
Photo of Samantha Tomer, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Tomer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19130
I specialize in working with adults dealing with sexual abuse & assault, chronic illness & autoimmune conditions, and anxiety.
It’s like you’ve become a master at putting on a face, so that no one sees the true pain you feel. Maybe it’s a daily struggle to make sense of everything you’re feeling. Even on your best days, it can feel like your body is fighting against you, leaving you drained and defeated. You wish you could relax or slow down, but how? What you’ve been through has left deep scars on your personal life and relationships. It’s affecting your ability to trust others and feel safe. You may find yourself avoiding family and anything that triggers memories of the past, making it difficult to connect with others on a deep or meaningful level.
I specialize in working with adults dealing with sexual abuse & assault, chronic illness & autoimmune conditions, and anxiety.
It’s like you’ve become a master at putting on a face, so that no one sees the true pain you feel. Maybe it’s a daily struggle to make sense of everything you’re feeling. Even on your best days, it can feel like your body is fighting against you, leaving you drained and defeated. You wish you could relax or slow down, but how? What you’ve been through has left deep scars on your personal life and relationships. It’s affecting your ability to trust others and feel safe. You may find yourself avoiding family and anything that triggers memories of the past, making it difficult to connect with others on a deep or meaningful level.
(843) 483-6392 View (843) 483-6392
Photo of Jennifer V Kulka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer V Kulka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19123  (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 Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19149
Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to individuals across the lifespan, specializing in Trauma. Sarah has spent years working with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assaults, sexual abuse, and child abuse and neglect. Sarah is also dedicated to supporting LGBT+ individuals and parents of LGBT+ children in growing their understanding of how to lovingly support their child.
Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to individuals across the lifespan, specializing in Trauma. Sarah has spent years working with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assaults, sexual abuse, and child abuse and neglect. Sarah is also dedicated to supporting LGBT+ individuals and parents of LGBT+ children in growing their understanding of how to lovingly support their child.
(412) 900-5241 View (412) 900-5241
Photo of Sabina Mauro, PsyD, Psychologist
Sabina Mauro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
At some point in our life we all experience a traumatic event. For some, these traumatic events (such as sexual abuse, a break-up, domestic violence, death of a loved one) are manageable and symptoms typically subside without disrupting any other areas of life. However, for others, such traumatic events take control over some or all areas of their life and lead to negative long-term consequences. As painful as the trauma is, you can still heal and grow after a traumatic event.
At some point in our life we all experience a traumatic event. For some, these traumatic events (such as sexual abuse, a break-up, domestic violence, death of a loved one) are manageable and symptoms typically subside without disrupting any other areas of life. However, for others, such traumatic events take control over some or all areas of their life and lead to negative long-term consequences. As painful as the trauma is, you can still heal and grow after a traumatic event.
(267) 799-2701 View (267) 799-2701
Photo of Keana Fairfax - A Space For Us Counseling, INC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Space For Us Counseling, INC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Greetings! I am Keana Fairfax, LCSW, a doctoral candidate (2024). My Ideal clients may face challenges such as healing from trauma, including childhood sexual abuse or racial exclusion. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD may also exist. They require a safe space for healing, culturally competent support, and empowerment. Their goals may include processing repressed trauma, building confidence, developing coping and distraction strategies, improving emotional communication and trust, and relationship building. Tailoring care to these complex needs can pave the way toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
Greetings! I am Keana Fairfax, LCSW, a doctoral candidate (2024). My Ideal clients may face challenges such as healing from trauma, including childhood sexual abuse or racial exclusion. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD may also exist. They require a safe space for healing, culturally competent support, and empowerment. Their goals may include processing repressed trauma, building confidence, developing coping and distraction strategies, improving emotional communication and trust, and relationship building. Tailoring care to these complex needs can pave the way toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
(856) 386-7108 View (856) 386-7108
Photo of Nita Laver, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nita Laver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Are you tired of repeating old patterns that are holding you back in your life? Have you been feeling angry, empty, lonely stressed out and unhappy? Are you struggling through a transition or a loss or with the legacy of emotional, physical or sexual abuse? There are times in everyone's life when reaching out for and receiving help can make a real difference in resolving problems, easing pain and living a more satisfying life. In psychotherapy a safe place will be created in which to deal with and resolve the unhappiness you are experiencing.
Are you tired of repeating old patterns that are holding you back in your life? Have you been feeling angry, empty, lonely stressed out and unhappy? Are you struggling through a transition or a loss or with the legacy of emotional, physical or sexual abuse? There are times in everyone's life when reaching out for and receiving help can make a real difference in resolving problems, easing pain and living a more satisfying life. In psychotherapy a safe place will be created in which to deal with and resolve the unhappiness you are experiencing.
(215) 798-0291 View (215) 798-0291
Photo of Michelle Hurtt, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Hurtt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Michelle Hurtt, a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania with over 16 years of experience in the mental health domain.I hold the title of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), continually advancing my understanding of trauma. My passion lies in supporting women who have endured trauma, particularly survivors of sexual trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and domestic violence. Additionally, I specialize in addressing various behavioral health concerns such as anxiety, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, grief, and PTSD.
Hi! I'm Michelle Hurtt, a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania with over 16 years of experience in the mental health domain.I hold the title of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), continually advancing my understanding of trauma. My passion lies in supporting women who have endured trauma, particularly survivors of sexual trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and domestic violence. Additionally, I specialize in addressing various behavioral health concerns such as anxiety, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, grief, and PTSD.
(215) 267-5719 View (215) 267-5719
Photo of John Kreitzberg, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
John Kreitzberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
I am specializing in work with male-identifying, gender non-conforming, and queer survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
I believe past experiences can have a lasting impact on the present in ways that are sometimes hard to make sense of, such as negative relationship patterns, feeling stuck or overwhelmed, anger, shame, confusion, intimacy issues, concerns connected to gender identity and sexuality, or just doing things in life that aren’t working but you don’t understand why. My work helps people gain insight into how the past may be impacting the present, and foster the strength to express and stay true to their own needs and desires.
I am specializing in work with male-identifying, gender non-conforming, and queer survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
I believe past experiences can have a lasting impact on the present in ways that are sometimes hard to make sense of, such as negative relationship patterns, feeling stuck or overwhelmed, anger, shame, confusion, intimacy issues, concerns connected to gender identity and sexuality, or just doing things in life that aren’t working but you don’t understand why. My work helps people gain insight into how the past may be impacting the present, and foster the strength to express and stay true to their own needs and desires.
(267) 762-2819 View (267) 762-2819
Photo of Jean Campbell, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have worked with people who have difficulty with anger management, struggle with their Spirituality, have a history of PTSD and Trauma, childhood sexual abuse, addiction/substance abuse, domestic violence, and with sleep issues.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
I have worked with people who have difficulty with anger management, struggle with their Spirituality, have a history of PTSD and Trauma, childhood sexual abuse, addiction/substance abuse, domestic violence, and with sleep issues.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
(610) 609-2958 View (610) 609-2958
Photo of Sheila Boynton - Soul Transformation LLC, LSW, MDiv, CTCP, CAMS-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Soul Transformation LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MDiv, CTCP, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
There are many reasons you may be seeking therapy — marital and familial conflict, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or relationships are among the most common reasons. Perhaps you have asked yourself questions such as “how long will this pain last?” “when will I be good enough?” “how can I learn to love myself” “Why me?’ "How do I get out?" I want you to know you are not alone! Together we can explore your needs. You want to be happy, let's explore the barriers keeping you from living the best version of you. You need tools to navigate life, let's create a road map.
There are many reasons you may be seeking therapy — marital and familial conflict, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or relationships are among the most common reasons. Perhaps you have asked yourself questions such as “how long will this pain last?” “when will I be good enough?” “how can I learn to love myself” “Why me?’ "How do I get out?" I want you to know you are not alone! Together we can explore your needs. You want to be happy, let's explore the barriers keeping you from living the best version of you. You need tools to navigate life, let's create a road map.
(215) 770-3917 View (215) 770-3917
Photo of Addie Mooney, MEd, APC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Addie Mooney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, APC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a therapist my goal is to create a non-judgmental and supportive space where it feels safe to explore and grow. I have extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual assault and relational trauma (domestic violence, childhood abuse) as well as a strong understanding of narcissistic abuse and codependency. I also work with individuals that may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and OCD as well as life stress from difficult loss or transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates a psychodynamic and interpersonal framework along with some elements of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CF-CBT).
Welcome! As a therapist my goal is to create a non-judgmental and supportive space where it feels safe to explore and grow. I have extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual assault and relational trauma (domestic violence, childhood abuse) as well as a strong understanding of narcissistic abuse and codependency. I also work with individuals that may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and OCD as well as life stress from difficult loss or transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates a psychodynamic and interpersonal framework along with some elements of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CF-CBT).
(610) 686-8690 View (610) 686-8690
Photo of Gabriella Picariello, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriella Picariello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
You feel out of touch with yourself after surviving the unimaginable. Feeling overwhelmed with memories, anxiety, and pressure to heal- you feel more isolated than ever. You long to communicate effectively, enjoy time spent with loved ones, and find connection after navigating stressful experiences. I’m Gabriella, a licensed social worker and trauma-informed therapist specializing in supporting teens and young adults who have experienced sexual assault. My practice is dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate, and empowering space where survivors can heal and rediscover their strength and resilience.
You feel out of touch with yourself after surviving the unimaginable. Feeling overwhelmed with memories, anxiety, and pressure to heal- you feel more isolated than ever. You long to communicate effectively, enjoy time spent with loved ones, and find connection after navigating stressful experiences. I’m Gabriella, a licensed social worker and trauma-informed therapist specializing in supporting teens and young adults who have experienced sexual assault. My practice is dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate, and empowering space where survivors can heal and rediscover their strength and resilience.
(484) 482-0616 View (484) 482-0616
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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.