Sexual Abuse Therapists in Nashville, TN
Mary Beth Heaney-Gárate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Welcome New Clients! Saturday & Sunday appointments available. I believe in the resilience of people who are doing the best they can and want better. You are capable. I've helped clients navigate challenges in their relationships, families, school & workplace. Together, we've addressed: anxiety & depression; substance use; grief, stress, & burnout; abandonment & neglect, shame & self-confidence; and trauma including rape, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. I also provide licensure supervision. My mission is to ensure you feel heard, supported, & empowered to achieve your goals and experience your best life.
Welcome New Clients! Saturday & Sunday appointments available. I believe in the resilience of people who are doing the best they can and want better. You are capable. I've helped clients navigate challenges in their relationships, families, school & workplace. Together, we've addressed: anxiety & depression; substance use; grief, stress, & burnout; abandonment & neglect, shame & self-confidence; and trauma including rape, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. I also provide licensure supervision. My mission is to ensure you feel heard, supported, & empowered to achieve your goals and experience your best life.
Lisa R Lyons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37228
Waitlist for new clients
If you are an adult and have experienced childhood sexual/emotional/physical abuse, an adult who was recently abused, or a person who has done their abuse work, but wants to restore sexuality, let us work together. If you are a partner who wants to understand, work through your own emotions and responses, I would like to hear from you as well. With 20 years at the Sexual Assault Center, as well as 1 year at the VA working with Military Sexual Assault, I would tell you, the path is hopeful.
If you are an adult and have experienced childhood sexual/emotional/physical abuse, an adult who was recently abused, or a person who has done their abuse work, but wants to restore sexuality, let us work together. If you are a partner who wants to understand, work through your own emotions and responses, I would like to hear from you as well. With 20 years at the Sexual Assault Center, as well as 1 year at the VA working with Military Sexual Assault, I would tell you, the path is hopeful.
Rachel Styers Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a therapist is to cultivate a safe and accepting space for clients to find empowerment, reclamation, and healing. Many of my clients are survivors of physical and emotional abuse, neglect, relational and attachment trauma, and sexual assault. They have suffered from deep relational wounds that have led to anxiety, depression, grief, fear, addiction, a sense of powerlessness, and disconnection. I seek to help my clients reclaim themselves through addressing core wounds, negative beliefs, and learned ways of coping.
My goal as a therapist is to cultivate a safe and accepting space for clients to find empowerment, reclamation, and healing. Many of my clients are survivors of physical and emotional abuse, neglect, relational and attachment trauma, and sexual assault. They have suffered from deep relational wounds that have led to anxiety, depression, grief, fear, addiction, a sense of powerlessness, and disconnection. I seek to help my clients reclaim themselves through addressing core wounds, negative beliefs, and learned ways of coping.
You many be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, anxious, depressed, and reliving past traumatic experiences, but hopeful for understanding, confidence, and peace? Through my work in sexual assault centers, domestic violence shelters, in private practice, and at Onsite Workshops I have learned how trauma is stored in the body, how it creates negative beliefs about the self, how it keeps us from living in the present moment and how it keeps us from connecting to those around us. Working with me feels like gentle confrontation and resource building in order to delve into past wounds with a deeply open, knowledgeable, and compassionate ally.
You many be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, anxious, depressed, and reliving past traumatic experiences, but hopeful for understanding, confidence, and peace? Through my work in sexual assault centers, domestic violence shelters, in private practice, and at Onsite Workshops I have learned how trauma is stored in the body, how it creates negative beliefs about the self, how it keeps us from living in the present moment and how it keeps us from connecting to those around us. Working with me feels like gentle confrontation and resource building in order to delve into past wounds with a deeply open, knowledgeable, and compassionate ally.
Specialities include but are not limited to trauma, sexual abuse recovery, entertainment industry, family conflict, personality disorder, military issues, foster system/adoption, and codependency.
At Samara, we meet each person where they are to identify tailored goals and move toward an improved quality of life. Support is provided within a safe, highly confidential, & creative space. We offer decades of experience providing therapeutic services within the entertainment industry. When needed, we help our clients explore their needs and life experiences through the lens of trauma-informed and trauma-focused care. Individual, family, and group therapy options are available. Connect with us to talk through next steps.
Specialities include but are not limited to trauma, sexual abuse recovery, entertainment industry, family conflict, personality disorder, military issues, foster system/adoption, and codependency.
At Samara, we meet each person where they are to identify tailored goals and move toward an improved quality of life. Support is provided within a safe, highly confidential, & creative space. We offer decades of experience providing therapeutic services within the entertainment industry. When needed, we help our clients explore their needs and life experiences through the lens of trauma-informed and trauma-focused care. Individual, family, and group therapy options are available. Connect with us to talk through next steps.
Kristine Stanfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
I have 8+ years experience specializing in grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, domestic and sexual abuse, relationship issues, and infertility/postpartum issues.
Do you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or numb? What about broken, trapped, or lost? We have times in life that can be exhausting and scary; where there seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel. Many times these experiences feel completely outside of our control. Maybe you’ve been experiencing this for a long time or just recently. You don't have to struggle alone! I’m passionate about working with people who are experiencing a difficult journey in life. I will walk with you, side by side, through the fire to help you get to the other side. Let me help you discover the phoenix within the ashes so you can feel whole again!
I have 8+ years experience specializing in grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, domestic and sexual abuse, relationship issues, and infertility/postpartum issues.
Do you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or numb? What about broken, trapped, or lost? We have times in life that can be exhausting and scary; where there seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel. Many times these experiences feel completely outside of our control. Maybe you’ve been experiencing this for a long time or just recently. You don't have to struggle alone! I’m passionate about working with people who are experiencing a difficult journey in life. I will walk with you, side by side, through the fire to help you get to the other side. Let me help you discover the phoenix within the ashes so you can feel whole again!
Ginger Poag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CEMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37220
Tired of years of therapy and no true, lasting healing? I work with individuals that have tried many forms of therapy, but still feel the deep pain of feeling alone, stuck, in a toxic relationship again, frequently being triggered, and haunted by their past. I specialize in working with adults who experienced childhood sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and trauma. Childhood trauma doesn't have to continue to have its grip on you, and take away your happiness! True healing is possible with EMDR. Over the 30 years that I have been in this field, I have seen hundreds of clients get their life, joy and happiness back.
Tired of years of therapy and no true, lasting healing? I work with individuals that have tried many forms of therapy, but still feel the deep pain of feeling alone, stuck, in a toxic relationship again, frequently being triggered, and haunted by their past. I specialize in working with adults who experienced childhood sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and trauma. Childhood trauma doesn't have to continue to have its grip on you, and take away your happiness! True healing is possible with EMDR. Over the 30 years that I have been in this field, I have seen hundreds of clients get their life, joy and happiness back.
Hannah Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
Not accepting new clients
I consider it a great privilege to hear my clients’ stories and walk with them on their journey of hope and healing. I have experience working with individuals from preschool age through adulthood who have experienced trauma in the form of physical abuse, sexual abuse, grief and loss, attachment ruptures, bullying, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and immigration trauma, among others.
I consider it a great privilege to hear my clients’ stories and walk with them on their journey of hope and healing. I have experience working with individuals from preschool age through adulthood who have experienced trauma in the form of physical abuse, sexual abuse, grief and loss, attachment ruptures, bullying, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and immigration trauma, among others.
Catherine Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37228
Hey! I’m Catherine. With every client, my intention is to create an environment that promotes safety, authenticity, and honoring your needs to fully bloom into the person you were meant to be. I specialize in working with women seeking support with building and maintaining healthy relationships, intimacy, self-worth, boundaries, and trauma recovery from childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, domestic violence, emotional neglect, traumatic accidents, and other difficult life experiences. I also specialize in helping those with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, and highly sensitive people (HSP).
Hey! I’m Catherine. With every client, my intention is to create an environment that promotes safety, authenticity, and honoring your needs to fully bloom into the person you were meant to be. I specialize in working with women seeking support with building and maintaining healthy relationships, intimacy, self-worth, boundaries, and trauma recovery from childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, domestic violence, emotional neglect, traumatic accidents, and other difficult life experiences. I also specialize in helping those with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, and highly sensitive people (HSP).
Jessica Davidson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
I have also been specially trained to work with children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse, behavioral issues and problems controlling anger.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
I have also been specially trained to work with children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse, behavioral issues and problems controlling anger.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
Shantell Johnson-Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I specialize in sexual assault/abuse, trauma from alcoholic/dysfunctional childhoods, LGBTQ identity, and pre-parental counseling.
I specialize in working with the emotional internalizers of the world. Do you self-isolate? Not return text messages or calls when life gets hard? Stuffing down your feelings and wants? Avoiding conflict? Self-sabotaging? Maybe intimacy is hard for you, especially if you're a survivor of sexual trauma. You want desperately to change but aren’t sure how. Trauma (especially from dysfunctional childhoods) convinces us that we’re an anomaly, not worth loving. It feels like everyone has it “together” except you. I get it, I’ve been there. The truth is, you’re not alone. Let's help YOU get what YOU what from life, relationships, and work.
I specialize in sexual assault/abuse, trauma from alcoholic/dysfunctional childhoods, LGBTQ identity, and pre-parental counseling.
I specialize in working with the emotional internalizers of the world. Do you self-isolate? Not return text messages or calls when life gets hard? Stuffing down your feelings and wants? Avoiding conflict? Self-sabotaging? Maybe intimacy is hard for you, especially if you're a survivor of sexual trauma. You want desperately to change but aren’t sure how. Trauma (especially from dysfunctional childhoods) convinces us that we’re an anomaly, not worth loving. It feels like everyone has it “together” except you. I get it, I’ve been there. The truth is, you’re not alone. Let's help YOU get what YOU what from life, relationships, and work.
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It can be embarrassing, painful and debilitating to have intimacy or sexual problems. It may be due to physical problems, aging, sexual abuse, strict upbringing, assault or for an unknown reason. You or someone you love may live with out of control pornography or sexual behavior or addiction. You may have difficulty forming a long term intimate relationship with someone and not understand why. You may be looking for solutions and believe no one will understand or you may believe your situation is hopeless. You are looking for healthy intimacy and sexuality in your relationship and may not be sure why this is so difficult.
It can be embarrassing, painful and debilitating to have intimacy or sexual problems. It may be due to physical problems, aging, sexual abuse, strict upbringing, assault or for an unknown reason. You or someone you love may live with out of control pornography or sexual behavior or addiction. You may have difficulty forming a long term intimate relationship with someone and not understand why. You may be looking for solutions and believe no one will understand or you may believe your situation is hopeless. You are looking for healthy intimacy and sexuality in your relationship and may not be sure why this is so difficult.
Allison Dowsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Hazel House practitioners treat a variety of concerns, especially focusing on trauma / PTSD (sexual assault / rape, military (veterans), and all forms of child abuse / neglect), family / relational attachment problems, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, substance abuse.
Hazel House, PLLC is a holistic, integrative center that uses multiple modalities to treat people affected by trauma, addiction, mental health concerns, and stress. Our mission is to facilitate the natural healing process in each individual who seeks our care, by offering compassionate connection alongside skilled interventions targeting body, mind, and spirit. Services include: Counseling / Therapy, Yoga, Acupuncture, Health Coaching / Functional Nutrition, Holistic Bodywork, Neurofeedback, and other natural treatments.
Hazel House practitioners treat a variety of concerns, especially focusing on trauma / PTSD (sexual assault / rape, military (veterans), and all forms of child abuse / neglect), family / relational attachment problems, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, substance abuse.
Hazel House, PLLC is a holistic, integrative center that uses multiple modalities to treat people affected by trauma, addiction, mental health concerns, and stress. Our mission is to facilitate the natural healing process in each individual who seeks our care, by offering compassionate connection alongside skilled interventions targeting body, mind, and spirit. Services include: Counseling / Therapy, Yoga, Acupuncture, Health Coaching / Functional Nutrition, Holistic Bodywork, Neurofeedback, and other natural treatments.
Sandi Anders
Counselor, MDiv, E-RYT, CSC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212 (Online Only)
I frequently use the principles of trauma-sensitive yoga in combination with sexuality counseling for survivors of childhood sexual abuse or sexual trauma.
As an AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselor working with individuals and couples, I combine evidence-based best practices with experience as a Tantric Sexuality Educator and practitioner, offering a supportive environment for thorough and constructive exploration of sexual matters. Questions and concerns may be talked about openly without fear of embarrassment or criticism. As a Mind-Body Psychotherapist, I help clients talk through issues and learn to utilize emotions as embodied resources for healing and growth, encouraging awareness of connection between body, mind, and spirit. My background as a pastoral psychotherapist and experience with body therapies such as yoga, breath-work, and meditation inform my work.
I frequently use the principles of trauma-sensitive yoga in combination with sexuality counseling for survivors of childhood sexual abuse or sexual trauma.
As an AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselor working with individuals and couples, I combine evidence-based best practices with experience as a Tantric Sexuality Educator and practitioner, offering a supportive environment for thorough and constructive exploration of sexual matters. Questions and concerns may be talked about openly without fear of embarrassment or criticism. As a Mind-Body Psychotherapist, I help clients talk through issues and learn to utilize emotions as embodied resources for healing and growth, encouraging awareness of connection between body, mind, and spirit. My background as a pastoral psychotherapist and experience with body therapies such as yoga, breath-work, and meditation inform my work.
Hazel House, PLLC / Lindsay E. Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
We treat a variety of concerns, especially trauma / PTSD (sexual assault / rape, military (veterans), and all forms of child abuse / neglect), family / relational attachment issues, depression, anxiety, chronic pain / illness, & substance use.
Many clients come to us after feeling stuck in talk therapy. Talking about your problems is helpful, but sometimes you need more! If you are ready to take your healing to the next level, please reach out! We integrate somatic and experiential therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, IFS, psychodrama, nature therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, Neurofeedback, holistic health coaching, and more, to go deeper, so you can truly heal from past experiences. There are no quick fixes - there is only the journey to truly know, love, and care for yourself, and our team of expert therapists is ready to take the journey with you.
We treat a variety of concerns, especially trauma / PTSD (sexual assault / rape, military (veterans), and all forms of child abuse / neglect), family / relational attachment issues, depression, anxiety, chronic pain / illness, & substance use.
Many clients come to us after feeling stuck in talk therapy. Talking about your problems is helpful, but sometimes you need more! If you are ready to take your healing to the next level, please reach out! We integrate somatic and experiential therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, IFS, psychodrama, nature therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, Neurofeedback, holistic health coaching, and more, to go deeper, so you can truly heal from past experiences. There are no quick fixes - there is only the journey to truly know, love, and care for yourself, and our team of expert therapists is ready to take the journey with you.
Helen Tarleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, Ed, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I help my clients with issues such as life transitions; anxiety; depression; grief; trauma; phobias; chronic illness; sexual assault and adoption.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
I help my clients with issues such as life transitions; anxiety; depression; grief; trauma; phobias; chronic illness; sexual assault and adoption.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
Melissa Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215 (Online Only)
Melissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience in the field of social work. She has worked in a number of specialty areas, including addiction recovery, child and family welfare, community mental health, domestic violence, sexual assault, medical/inpatient, law enforcement, military, and Veterans. Melissa has extensive experience in working with PTSD and complex trauma. She is trained in Biofeedback, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), CPT (cognitive processing therapy), PE (prolonged exposure), and EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing).
Melissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience in the field of social work. She has worked in a number of specialty areas, including addiction recovery, child and family welfare, community mental health, domestic violence, sexual assault, medical/inpatient, law enforcement, military, and Veterans. Melissa has extensive experience in working with PTSD and complex trauma. She is trained in Biofeedback, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), CPT (cognitive processing therapy), PE (prolonged exposure), and EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing).
My areas of special clinical interest include adolescents and adults across the life cycle, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, boundary issues, communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, academic issues, premarital/marital counseling, relationship conflict, family conflict, spirituality, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma.
The joy of therapy lies in tailoring my approach to fully leverage the unique strengths and skills of each individual client. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, and hope for those whom I have the opportunity to serve. I endeavor to invite clients into a therapeutic relationship that enhances their ability to develop insight that leads to action.
My areas of special clinical interest include adolescents and adults across the life cycle, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, boundary issues, communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, academic issues, premarital/marital counseling, relationship conflict, family conflict, spirituality, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma.
The joy of therapy lies in tailoring my approach to fully leverage the unique strengths and skills of each individual client. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, and hope for those whom I have the opportunity to serve. I endeavor to invite clients into a therapeutic relationship that enhances their ability to develop insight that leads to action.
Located in Nashville, TN our licensed counselors see Individuals, Couples, and Families. We offer counseling for: Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage, Infant Death, Stillbirth, Failed IVF, Abortion), Adoption-Related Loss, Support for Infertility and Reproductive Health Concerns, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), STD Diagnoses, Grief, Loss, Relationship issues, Sexual Abuse and Assault, Boundaries, Assertiveness and Communication, Self Esteem, and Pornography/Sexual Addiction. We are a faith-based, safe, and confidential place, providing professional counseling regardless of age, race, or religion.
Located in Nashville, TN our licensed counselors see Individuals, Couples, and Families. We offer counseling for: Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage, Infant Death, Stillbirth, Failed IVF, Abortion), Adoption-Related Loss, Support for Infertility and Reproductive Health Concerns, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), STD Diagnoses, Grief, Loss, Relationship issues, Sexual Abuse and Assault, Boundaries, Assertiveness and Communication, Self Esteem, and Pornography/Sexual Addiction. We are a faith-based, safe, and confidential place, providing professional counseling regardless of age, race, or religion.
Sara Jane Tinker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SEP®
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201 (Online Only)
Want restored self-worth, healthy patterns to get needs met, and a loving, authentic relationship? Desire more friends? Less over-thinking, over-reacting? Life in the present moment? Peace? End worry? I combine Somatic Experiencing, Attachment Work, & EMDR to help heal broken hearts & childhood wounds; or specific needs for recovery from stress, trauma, accidents, illness, assault, chronic pain, betrayal, loss, infidelity, or breakups; easing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, PTSD & Complex Trauma, or addictive behaviors. I work with couples, individuals, & the range of personality and mood disorders.
Want restored self-worth, healthy patterns to get needs met, and a loving, authentic relationship? Desire more friends? Less over-thinking, over-reacting? Life in the present moment? Peace? End worry? I combine Somatic Experiencing, Attachment Work, & EMDR to help heal broken hearts & childhood wounds; or specific needs for recovery from stress, trauma, accidents, illness, assault, chronic pain, betrayal, loss, infidelity, or breakups; easing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, PTSD & Complex Trauma, or addictive behaviors. I work with couples, individuals, & the range of personality and mood disorders.
See more therapy options for Nashville
Nearby Sexual Abuse Therapists Searches for Nashville
- Antioch
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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.