Sexual Abuse Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Susie J. Balcom, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susie J. Balcom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15233  (Online Only)
I'm a certified EMDR therapist, certified sexual assault counselor, and currently pursuing sex therapy certification.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
I'm a certified EMDR therapist, certified sexual assault counselor, and currently pursuing sex therapy certification.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
(412) 520-3576 View (412) 520-3576
Photo of Jodie McGovern, MA, RYT 200, EMDRIA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodie McGovern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, RYT 200, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Queer EMDR therapist. I exclusively treat trauma, PTSD, and CPTSD. Topics of expertise include divorce, sexual assault/abuse, and healing from childhood trauma and abusive relationships. Through the use of EMDR we will reduce the impact of trauma in your life. You will learn to understand your nervous system and how to calm anxiety and triggers. What you can expect from me is that I will be warm, candid, authentic, and invested.
Queer EMDR therapist. I exclusively treat trauma, PTSD, and CPTSD. Topics of expertise include divorce, sexual assault/abuse, and healing from childhood trauma and abusive relationships. Through the use of EMDR we will reduce the impact of trauma in your life. You will learn to understand your nervous system and how to calm anxiety and triggers. What you can expect from me is that I will be warm, candid, authentic, and invested.
(412) 981-1819 View (412) 981-1819
Photo of Megan Zurasky, MSCP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Zurasky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
I am an EMDR therapist and certified sexual assault counselor in the state of PA.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
I am an EMDR therapist and certified sexual assault counselor in the state of PA.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
(412) 838-4052 View (412) 838-4052
Photo of Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
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 DeMarquis Clarke, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
DeMarquis Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am a capable, compassionate, experienced clinician that provides individual, couple/marital, and family therapy for a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, relational conflict, trauma and abuse recovery, parent-child conflict, anger management, and more. My specialties include: couple/marital therapy; sexual abuse and trauma recovery; as well as working with issues of religion/spirituality, race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am a capable, compassionate, experienced clinician that provides individual, couple/marital, and family therapy for a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, relational conflict, trauma and abuse recovery, parent-child conflict, anger management, and more. My specialties include: couple/marital therapy; sexual abuse and trauma recovery; as well as working with issues of religion/spirituality, race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
(412) 435-1347 View (412) 435-1347
Photo of Dr. Brian J. Ferraccio, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brian J. Ferraccio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I’m here to help you find yours, embrace them, & use them! My practice has a special focus on treating survivors of sexual abuse/assault & traumas.
*Please Assist Dr. F. in Most Efficiently Managing High Demand by Enrolling for Your Consult Directly @ “Pittsburgh-Therapist.com”* I know there are real reasons that led you here, together we can find real solutions. I will listen to your story & together we will work to resolve your unique challenges, step by step, at your pace. Recent events have been disruptive, unsettling, & traumatic. As a result, you may be facing new/intensified problems. I excel in aiding adults & teens who are exhausted, down, overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, survivors of trauma/abuse, and/or have problems relating to others. I look forward to meeting you.
I’m here to help you find yours, embrace them, & use them! My practice has a special focus on treating survivors of sexual abuse/assault & traumas.
*Please Assist Dr. F. in Most Efficiently Managing High Demand by Enrolling for Your Consult Directly @ “Pittsburgh-Therapist.com”* I know there are real reasons that led you here, together we can find real solutions. I will listen to your story & together we will work to resolve your unique challenges, step by step, at your pace. Recent events have been disruptive, unsettling, & traumatic. As a result, you may be facing new/intensified problems. I excel in aiding adults & teens who are exhausted, down, overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, survivors of trauma/abuse, and/or have problems relating to others. I look forward to meeting you.
(878) 216-7126 View (878) 216-7126
Photo of Olivia Frye - Mindful Matters Counseling Group, MS, LPC, NCC, ICGC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Matters Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am an LPC experienced working with survivors of sexual violence (rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse) grief/loss, other interpersonal traumas, anxiety, depression, gambling issues and relationship issues.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
I am an LPC experienced working with survivors of sexual violence (rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse) grief/loss, other interpersonal traumas, anxiety, depression, gambling issues and relationship issues.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
(412) 357-4035 View (412) 357-4035
Photo of Jennifer V Kulka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer V Kulka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201  (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 Julia Lindenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Lindenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (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 Daniela García Zubieta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniela García Zubieta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in PTSD, sexual trauma, sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, and generational trauma.
Hello! I'm glad you're here. Over the last decade, I have worked with folks from various backgrounds and have found that most everyone can benefit from a safe, warm space to explore and process inner aspects of themselves. Coming from a stance of curiosity rather than judgment, I guide my clients to finding meaning and truth they already had within themselves. If I seem like a good fit for you, I look forward to witnessing your process and bringing compassion and support to your journey.
I specialize in PTSD, sexual trauma, sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, and generational trauma.
Hello! I'm glad you're here. Over the last decade, I have worked with folks from various backgrounds and have found that most everyone can benefit from a safe, warm space to explore and process inner aspects of themselves. Coming from a stance of curiosity rather than judgment, I guide my clients to finding meaning and truth they already had within themselves. If I seem like a good fit for you, I look forward to witnessing your process and bringing compassion and support to your journey.
(412) 293-0489 View (412) 293-0489
Photo of Joseph H Altman, Psychologist
Joseph H Altman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I provide a positive, supportive, environment where clients have an opportunity to be heard, and to be healed of their emotional pain and fears. My approach is to meet people where they are and to encourage a shift in thinking from negative and fearful, to positive and hopeful. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD associated with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, losses and addictions. The goal is to help neutralize the anxiety, depression, guilt, shame and fears that are the symptoms of the trauma or addiction. The goal is to: "Learn to love, accept and forgive yourself because you are doing the best you can."
I provide a positive, supportive, environment where clients have an opportunity to be heard, and to be healed of their emotional pain and fears. My approach is to meet people where they are and to encourage a shift in thinking from negative and fearful, to positive and hopeful. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD associated with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, losses and addictions. The goal is to help neutralize the anxiety, depression, guilt, shame and fears that are the symptoms of the trauma or addiction. The goal is to: "Learn to love, accept and forgive yourself because you are doing the best you can."
(724) 505-4016 View (724) 505-4016
Photo of Kim Weiner, PhD, Psychologist
Kim Weiner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I worked for many years in college counseling, helping adults of all ages overcome problems arising from anxiety, poor mood, grief, life transitions, gender identity, sexual orientation, assault, and trauma among other concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist at Allegheny Mental Health Associates (AMHA), PC. with over 30 yrs of experience working with adults (18+) who encounter anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. I can help if you feel stressed and find it hard to be the person you want to be. I consider myself an integrative therapist and use a variety of therapeutic skills and techniques to best individualize treatment. My focus is to help you to discover, or recover, your sense of purpose and vitality, to enable you to re-connect with what matters most to you and teach you ways to relate to your life experiences with skill, insight and wisdom.
I worked for many years in college counseling, helping adults of all ages overcome problems arising from anxiety, poor mood, grief, life transitions, gender identity, sexual orientation, assault, and trauma among other concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist at Allegheny Mental Health Associates (AMHA), PC. with over 30 yrs of experience working with adults (18+) who encounter anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. I can help if you feel stressed and find it hard to be the person you want to be. I consider myself an integrative therapist and use a variety of therapeutic skills and techniques to best individualize treatment. My focus is to help you to discover, or recover, your sense of purpose and vitality, to enable you to re-connect with what matters most to you and teach you ways to relate to your life experiences with skill, insight and wisdom.
(412) 899-2510 View (412) 899-2510
Photo of Jena Meneo, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jena Meneo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Not accepting new clients
My areas of specialization include: Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Depression, Impulse Control, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame, Trauma, Sexual Issues including Sexual Addiction/Compulsions, Internet Compulsions, Sexual Abuse, Sex Therapy, Anger Management, Stress Management, Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, and Women's Issues.
Are you having difficulty making decisions, expressing your emotions, or struggling to improve your personal relationship(s)? Admitting we have a problem and working to change our behaviors can be a challenge. I use cognitive behavioral, humanist, and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients focus in the here and now while gaining insight into themselves. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who offers therapy designed to help you learn healthy coping skills and improve your well being. I do not offer evening or weekend hours.
My areas of specialization include: Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Depression, Impulse Control, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame, Trauma, Sexual Issues including Sexual Addiction/Compulsions, Internet Compulsions, Sexual Abuse, Sex Therapy, Anger Management, Stress Management, Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, and Women's Issues.
Are you having difficulty making decisions, expressing your emotions, or struggling to improve your personal relationship(s)? Admitting we have a problem and working to change our behaviors can be a challenge. I use cognitive behavioral, humanist, and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients focus in the here and now while gaining insight into themselves. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who offers therapy designed to help you learn healthy coping skills and improve your well being. I do not offer evening or weekend hours.
(412) 387-5170 View (412) 387-5170
Photo of Mohini Wagle-Schmitt, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mohini Wagle-Schmitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Not accepting new clients
In addition to problems of anxiety and depression, my experience and training qualify me to specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual trauma.
I believe that the connection between therapist and client is vital to the effectiveness of therapy. I strive to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic environment in which a client can express herself or himself freely. My role is to be present in the relationship, listen mindfully, and facilitate changes that a client wants in his or her life. My engagement in the therapeutic process is committed to helping my clients enrich the quality of their relationships and their life.
In addition to problems of anxiety and depression, my experience and training qualify me to specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual trauma.
I believe that the connection between therapist and client is vital to the effectiveness of therapy. I strive to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic environment in which a client can express herself or himself freely. My role is to be present in the relationship, listen mindfully, and facilitate changes that a client wants in his or her life. My engagement in the therapeutic process is committed to helping my clients enrich the quality of their relationships and their life.
(412) 275-4059 View (412) 275-4059
Photo of Kristen Revello-Pouchot, MSEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Revello-Pouchot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
Not accepting new clients
Specifically: childhood/past traumas, sexual assault, LGBTQ+ related traumas, and grief/loss.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck? Reliving the past and dreading the future? Struggling to find peace? Life can be uncertain and unjust. Yet we are tasked with creating our own meaning around painful experiences. I want to help you regain your personal power, find peace with your past, and envision a life with joy and warmth.
Specifically: childhood/past traumas, sexual assault, LGBTQ+ related traumas, and grief/loss.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck? Reliving the past and dreading the future? Struggling to find peace? Life can be uncertain and unjust. Yet we are tasked with creating our own meaning around painful experiences. I want to help you regain your personal power, find peace with your past, and envision a life with joy and warmth.
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Photo of Matt Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Not accepting new clients
I help people who are confused by their emotions to develop a sense of control and safety in exploring their thoughts, memories and feelings. I work with people who have experienced sexual/physical/emotional abuse in childhood, or assault in adulthood, community violence, gender violence or incarceration; and who find it hard to control anger, sadness, mood swings, stress, to trust themselves, others or have close relationships. I believe that honest, compassionate discussion lets you approach what you might want to ignore, but won’t go away; or explore what might not have space to be said with friends or family.
I help people who are confused by their emotions to develop a sense of control and safety in exploring their thoughts, memories and feelings. I work with people who have experienced sexual/physical/emotional abuse in childhood, or assault in adulthood, community violence, gender violence or incarceration; and who find it hard to control anger, sadness, mood swings, stress, to trust themselves, others or have close relationships. I believe that honest, compassionate discussion lets you approach what you might want to ignore, but won’t go away; or explore what might not have space to be said with friends or family.
(878) 225-5486 View (878) 225-5486
Photo of Dawn Covington, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Covington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
My experience is helping individuals and families overcome emotional, mental and spiritual challenges. I will help you identify unhealthy patterns that get in the way of you having a healthy and enjoyable life. We will learn and use positive coping skills and self-awareness skills to help you have satisfaction, fulfillment, growth and to experience new ways of being. My specialties include family problems, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, problems with self-esteem, relationship difficulties, grief and loss issues, trauma/sexual abuse, work issues, life transition issues, parenting, women's issues and anger management.
My experience is helping individuals and families overcome emotional, mental and spiritual challenges. I will help you identify unhealthy patterns that get in the way of you having a healthy and enjoyable life. We will learn and use positive coping skills and self-awareness skills to help you have satisfaction, fulfillment, growth and to experience new ways of being. My specialties include family problems, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, problems with self-esteem, relationship difficulties, grief and loss issues, trauma/sexual abuse, work issues, life transition issues, parenting, women's issues and anger management.
(412) 961-8349 View (412) 961-8349
Photo of Mandy Kushner, LPC-S, CCTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Kushner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I specialize in past or present trauma in all forms (sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, veterans of war, natural disasters, unresolved grief).
I strive to create a relaxed, supportive and positive environment for my clients during each counseling session, because I understand how difficult and scary it can be for clients to disclose personal information. I show my clients respect, honesty, compassion and I listen without judgement. I make sure my clients feel heard, validated, supported and gain insight. I have 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings which include: Outpatient, Home/Community, School-Based, Psychiatric Hospitals and Primary Care Physician Offices.
I specialize in past or present trauma in all forms (sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, veterans of war, natural disasters, unresolved grief).
I strive to create a relaxed, supportive and positive environment for my clients during each counseling session, because I understand how difficult and scary it can be for clients to disclose personal information. I show my clients respect, honesty, compassion and I listen without judgement. I make sure my clients feel heard, validated, supported and gain insight. I have 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings which include: Outpatient, Home/Community, School-Based, Psychiatric Hospitals and Primary Care Physician Offices.
(412) 999-2244 View (412) 999-2244
Photo of Nicole Grabowski, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Grabowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Social Worker (licensed in both Massachusetts, LICSW and Pennsylvania, LCSW) who earned my Master’s Degree from the University of Chicago. I work with adolescents and adults who are impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, grief, and conflict. I have experience working in a variety of settings, including residential programs, sexual assault crisis centers, and community health centers. My practice is rooted in trauma-informed and anti-oppressive frameworks and I utilize a person-centered approach that is welcoming of intersecting identities and experiences.
I am a Social Worker (licensed in both Massachusetts, LICSW and Pennsylvania, LCSW) who earned my Master’s Degree from the University of Chicago. I work with adolescents and adults who are impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, grief, and conflict. I have experience working in a variety of settings, including residential programs, sexual assault crisis centers, and community health centers. My practice is rooted in trauma-informed and anti-oppressive frameworks and I utilize a person-centered approach that is welcoming of intersecting identities and experiences.
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Photo of Virginia Wendt, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia Wendt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Not accepting new clients
I have training and experience working with clients who've experienced trauma, including intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and traumatic loss.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in community mental health, including over seven years as a psychotherapist. I believe that when we're able to live as authentically, honestly, and purposefully as we can, we feel more satisfaction, connection, and peace. I believe that awareness, curiosity, and self-compassion are powerful and necessary tools for growth, and that how we make meaning - of our lives, relationships, and the world - is deeply connected to our ability to live a fulfilling life.
I have training and experience working with clients who've experienced trauma, including intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and traumatic loss.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in community mental health, including over seven years as a psychotherapist. I believe that when we're able to live as authentically, honestly, and purposefully as we can, we feel more satisfaction, connection, and peace. I believe that awareness, curiosity, and self-compassion are powerful and necessary tools for growth, and that how we make meaning - of our lives, relationships, and the world - is deeply connected to our ability to live a fulfilling life.
(412) 660-6100 View (412) 660-6100
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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.