Sexual Abuse Therapists in Dallas, TX

Photo of William Eugene Flynn - Forensic and Clinical Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Forensic and Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
I perform evaluations and expert testimony for the courts in criminal law, family law, civil law, immigration law and military justice. My specialities include sexual abuse, child witnesses, violent behavior, and mitigation at sentencing.
I perform evaluations and expert testimony for the courts in criminal law, family law, civil law, immigration law and military justice. My specialities include sexual abuse, child witnesses, violent behavior, and mitigation at sentencing.
(214) 202-7344 View (214) 202-7344
Photo of Deborah Stovall, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Stovall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230  (Online Only)
I treat sexual abuse/trauma recovery, codependence recovery, and helping clients find satisfaction, joy, and a general feeling of contentment. Using various techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, sand tray therapy, and talk therapy; my clients feel a difference within one month. Most of my clients are finished and satisfied with their goals in therapy within 3-9 months. I am trained in Family Therapy, therefore, I use these techniques to explore family of origin issues.
I treat sexual abuse/trauma recovery, codependence recovery, and helping clients find satisfaction, joy, and a general feeling of contentment. Using various techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, sand tray therapy, and talk therapy; my clients feel a difference within one month. Most of my clients are finished and satisfied with their goals in therapy within 3-9 months. I am trained in Family Therapy, therefore, I use these techniques to explore family of origin issues.
(469) 772-3389 View (469) 772-3389
Photo of Tabatha Gunn, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tabatha Gunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
My primary focus is trauma survivors. I have experience with survivors of domestic violence, sexual and physical assault, and traumatic grief (i.e. individuals who have lost loved ones to homicide, suicide, or sudden deaths). I also work with clients experiencing major life transitions and issues with self-esteem. I work primarily with adults from all backgrounds.
My primary focus is trauma survivors. I have experience with survivors of domestic violence, sexual and physical assault, and traumatic grief (i.e. individuals who have lost loved ones to homicide, suicide, or sudden deaths). I also work with clients experiencing major life transitions and issues with self-esteem. I work primarily with adults from all backgrounds.
(817) 717-4706 View (817) 717-4706
Photo of Corrie Pleska, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrie Pleska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75207  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical social worker offering virtual therapy to individuals in Texas and Louisiana. My specialities lie in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and assault, LGBTQIA+ adults and teens, and those experiencing chronic illness. As a queer person myself, I value knowing I can access therapy from a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. My job is to meet you where you are and assess how your feelings, experiences, and the systems we live in impact how you make sense of the world. Learning about ourselves in such a way impacts the way we navigate our lives, for the better.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical social worker offering virtual therapy to individuals in Texas and Louisiana. My specialities lie in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and assault, LGBTQIA+ adults and teens, and those experiencing chronic illness. As a queer person myself, I value knowing I can access therapy from a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. My job is to meet you where you are and assess how your feelings, experiences, and the systems we live in impact how you make sense of the world. Learning about ourselves in such a way impacts the way we navigate our lives, for the better.
(504) 294-8473 View (504) 294-8473
Photo of Maria Isela Ventura, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Isela Ventura
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75247
I have experience working with survivors of trauma, including sexual abuse, domestic violence, and incest recovery.
MIVentura Counseling is a place where you will be provided with the right supportive environment to assist you and help you to freely explore your initial concerns. I am here to serve you and help you discover your inner strengths and resources, and stay focused on your goals. By providing you with the necessary counseling skills, tools, and techniques you will be able to develop your own strategies, and thus achieve your goals. Which are based on your unique needs, and these, in turn, can empower you during the healing process and can lead you to create an equilibrium in your life.
I have experience working with survivors of trauma, including sexual abuse, domestic violence, and incest recovery.
MIVentura Counseling is a place where you will be provided with the right supportive environment to assist you and help you to freely explore your initial concerns. I am here to serve you and help you discover your inner strengths and resources, and stay focused on your goals. By providing you with the necessary counseling skills, tools, and techniques you will be able to develop your own strategies, and thus achieve your goals. Which are based on your unique needs, and these, in turn, can empower you during the healing process and can lead you to create an equilibrium in your life.
(214) 247-7184 View (214) 247-7184
Photo of Deena Harbaugh, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deena Harbaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Hello! I am Deena Harbaugh. My practice focuses on adults struggling with the aftereffects of incest/sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, trauma, family of origin issues, divorce, marriage conflict, and LGBTQ issues.
Hello! I am Deena Harbaugh. My practice focuses on adults struggling with the aftereffects of incest/sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, trauma, family of origin issues, divorce, marriage conflict, and LGBTQ issues.
(469) 892-8917 View (469) 892-8917
Photo of Stephen D. Finstein, LCSW, LMFT, LSOTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephen D. Finstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LSOTP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
My practice is almost entirely forensic, i.e., court/litigation related, civil, criminal, and immigration cases. My main specialty is evaluating and treating individuals accused of sexual abuse or sexual offenses, child abuse, domestic violence. Some allegations are false, others are true. I find it very rewarding to turn around false allegations. Additional specialties include consulting on child custody evaluations or social studies, CPS cases, and preparation of immigration evaluations, e.g., domestic violence (VAWA), extreme hardship, asylum and evaluations for Adam Walsh waivers.
My practice is almost entirely forensic, i.e., court/litigation related, civil, criminal, and immigration cases. My main specialty is evaluating and treating individuals accused of sexual abuse or sexual offenses, child abuse, domestic violence. Some allegations are false, others are true. I find it very rewarding to turn around false allegations. Additional specialties include consulting on child custody evaluations or social studies, CPS cases, and preparation of immigration evaluations, e.g., domestic violence (VAWA), extreme hardship, asylum and evaluations for Adam Walsh waivers.
(214) 919-8816 View (214) 919-8816
Photo of Devyn Box, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devyn Box
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75218
I specialize in helping folks navigate gender identity, sexuality, systemic barriers, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, & other forms of trauma.
You deserve an expansive and liberated life. Many of my clients are exploring what it means to be their most authentic self, and how to deal with the barriers that stand in their way. They're looking for a place to be seen and understood, and to be able to let down their guard. I see clients who are navigating identity, sexuality, and belonging; those with trauma histories, anxiety, and depression, looking for relief and a deeper healing that takes them to a place of ease and fulfillment. They may have tried other solutions, but feel stuck and eager for a lasting and meaningful change.
I specialize in helping folks navigate gender identity, sexuality, systemic barriers, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, & other forms of trauma.
You deserve an expansive and liberated life. Many of my clients are exploring what it means to be their most authentic self, and how to deal with the barriers that stand in their way. They're looking for a place to be seen and understood, and to be able to let down their guard. I see clients who are navigating identity, sexuality, and belonging; those with trauma histories, anxiety, and depression, looking for relief and a deeper healing that takes them to a place of ease and fulfillment. They may have tried other solutions, but feel stuck and eager for a lasting and meaningful change.
(720) 743-6557 View (720) 743-6557
Photo of Andrea Earle, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Earle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201
I specialize in sexual assault & abuse, trauma, physical, mental, & emotional abuse, relationship & family issues, couple’s therapy, PTSD, ADHD & Anxiety.
I have been in practice 16-years and have opened my service area thanks to Google Meet & Facetime. I became a therapist (I have a dual degree in both individual & family therapy) after beginning my own work over 2 decades ago. I see therapy as a tool, a valuable asset that helps us to pull from our history and present the things that work so our future can be everything we want.
I specialize in sexual assault & abuse, trauma, physical, mental, & emotional abuse, relationship & family issues, couple’s therapy, PTSD, ADHD & Anxiety.
I have been in practice 16-years and have opened my service area thanks to Google Meet & Facetime. I became a therapist (I have a dual degree in both individual & family therapy) after beginning my own work over 2 decades ago. I see therapy as a tool, a valuable asset that helps us to pull from our history and present the things that work so our future can be everything we want.
(817) 369-3645 View (817) 369-3645
Photo of Jan Anselmo-Henson, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jan Anselmo-Henson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244  (Online Only)
I specialize in addictions (both adult and adolescent) and parent child relationships with teenagers. I work with young adults in helping them transition from high school to college to adult life. I have also had a great deal of experience working with victims of sexual abuse (both adult and adolescent). I believe in helping people define what they want and help them figure out a plan to work towards that goal. As a therapist who has formerly worked in full time ministry I also enjoy working with people who are dealing with religious issues whether it is deconstruction or helping them develop the spiritual life they want.
I specialize in addictions (both adult and adolescent) and parent child relationships with teenagers. I work with young adults in helping them transition from high school to college to adult life. I have also had a great deal of experience working with victims of sexual abuse (both adult and adolescent). I believe in helping people define what they want and help them figure out a plan to work towards that goal. As a therapist who has formerly worked in full time ministry I also enjoy working with people who are dealing with religious issues whether it is deconstruction or helping them develop the spiritual life they want.
(214) 380-2650 View (214) 380-2650
Photo of Andrea Addie, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Addie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201
Have you found yourself overwhelmed by the weight of past trauma either from childhood abuse, intergenerational trauma, or sexual assault & feeling stuck with the memories playing out in your head? Or maybe you’ve been saying “I need to get back to my old self,” or “I’ve been dealing with a lot lately” & hoping for the insight or tools to change that? I work with adults & LGBTQIA folks just like you: ones that have it within them to thrive again after trauma & life challenges, but just need the support to tap into their strengths to get there or support gathering & sorting pieces of life to make sense of everything.
Have you found yourself overwhelmed by the weight of past trauma either from childhood abuse, intergenerational trauma, or sexual assault & feeling stuck with the memories playing out in your head? Or maybe you’ve been saying “I need to get back to my old self,” or “I’ve been dealing with a lot lately” & hoping for the insight or tools to change that? I work with adults & LGBTQIA folks just like you: ones that have it within them to thrive again after trauma & life challenges, but just need the support to tap into their strengths to get there or support gathering & sorting pieces of life to make sense of everything.
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Photo of Eleny Guerrero Pena Lpc Lcdc - Courage 2 Overcome Counseling, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, trained, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleny Guerrero Pena Lpc Lcdc - Courage 2 Overcome Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, trained
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75203
Do anxiety, generation trauma ("what happens at home stays home" and never resolved), sexual abuse, addiction and insecurities run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As challenging as those experiences were for the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings.
Do anxiety, generation trauma ("what happens at home stays home" and never resolved), sexual abuse, addiction and insecurities run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As challenging as those experiences were for the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings.
(512) 890-2730 View (512) 890-2730
Photo of Erika Esquivel, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Esquivel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75202  (Online Only)
I support people of diverse backgrounds seeking to manage stress, depression/anxiety and heal from experiences of trauma, sexual abuse, and/or domestic violence.
Counseling is a space where you don’t have to pretend everything is okay or hide what you’re going through. You do that enough in other areas of your life. You do not have to repeat those patterns here. In counseling, all parts of you are welcome and all the things you have gone through can be talked about. My goal is to work together to reclaim your life through talk and connection by affirming your needs, identity and beliefs while urging you to make informed decisions about therapy.
I support people of diverse backgrounds seeking to manage stress, depression/anxiety and heal from experiences of trauma, sexual abuse, and/or domestic violence.
Counseling is a space where you don’t have to pretend everything is okay or hide what you’re going through. You do that enough in other areas of your life. You do not have to repeat those patterns here. In counseling, all parts of you are welcome and all the things you have gone through can be talked about. My goal is to work together to reclaim your life through talk and connection by affirming your needs, identity and beliefs while urging you to make informed decisions about therapy.
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Photo of Darian J Poe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darian J Poe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75287  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adult and teen survivors of sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, and identity-based violence.
I am currently accepting clients! My name is Darian (she/her) and I hold a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology. Currently, I am also earning a doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology at Texas Woman's University. I enjoy working with people who have experienced complex trauma and people who are experiencing shame, anxiety, depression, and relational disconnection. I also enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment that fosters connection, empowerment, and lasting change.
I have experience working with adult and teen survivors of sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, and identity-based violence.
I am currently accepting clients! My name is Darian (she/her) and I hold a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology. Currently, I am also earning a doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology at Texas Woman's University. I enjoy working with people who have experienced complex trauma and people who are experiencing shame, anxiety, depression, and relational disconnection. I also enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment that fosters connection, empowerment, and lasting change.
(940) 289-6744 View (940) 289-6744
Photo of Luis Perez, LCDC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Luis Perez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCDC, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
I have experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with Resiliency, Trauma, Grief, Sexual Assault, Near Death Experiences/Altered States, Syndromes, People Pleasing, and Addictions.
We all are capable of living happy and healthy lives. Over the years, I have supported the diverse needs of my clients through the strength of the therapeutic relationship, nurturing the trust and acceptance required for positive change. I consider it an honor to embark on this journey with you, respecting your experience as it has provided a foundation for healing. I would like to help guide you in discovering personal balance and individualized self-worth, as we work to reveal the seemingly lost or hidden strengths buried within.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with Resiliency, Trauma, Grief, Sexual Assault, Near Death Experiences/Altered States, Syndromes, People Pleasing, and Addictions.
We all are capable of living happy and healthy lives. Over the years, I have supported the diverse needs of my clients through the strength of the therapeutic relationship, nurturing the trust and acceptance required for positive change. I consider it an honor to embark on this journey with you, respecting your experience as it has provided a foundation for healing. I would like to help guide you in discovering personal balance and individualized self-worth, as we work to reveal the seemingly lost or hidden strengths buried within.
(469) 654-4729 View (469) 654-4729
Photo of Alejandra Diaz, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alejandra Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My clinical specializations include: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression problems, habit change, treating trauma, sexual abuse, behavioral problems, acute and chronic pain management, emotional co-dependence, self-esteem problems, self-empowerment and strengthening of inner resources.
I strongly believe in the potential of human beings to access their inner resources to create change and empower themselves to have the quality of life they want and they deserve. I am a Spanish/English Bilingual Therapist who works with adults. As an immigrant myself, I understand cross-cultural and acculturation situations that hinder daily life due to immigration processes. Part of my focus as a therapist is to comprehend and work with the nuances of different backgrounds and cultural needs. I have been a hypnotherapist for over 14 years. I have extensive training and experience in Traditional and Ericksonian Hypnosis. I also have training in healing emotional wounds through regressive techniques. I truly believe hypnosis is a magnificent technique to help clients reach out their inner resources, create change and empower themselves. As an active member of the North Texas Society of Clinical Hypnosis, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of international congresses in Mexico and Costa Rica as well as facilitated webinars with similar groups of professionals in Italy, France and Reunion Island.
My clinical specializations include: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression problems, habit change, treating trauma, sexual abuse, behavioral problems, acute and chronic pain management, emotional co-dependence, self-esteem problems, self-empowerment and strengthening of inner resources.
I strongly believe in the potential of human beings to access their inner resources to create change and empower themselves to have the quality of life they want and they deserve. I am a Spanish/English Bilingual Therapist who works with adults. As an immigrant myself, I understand cross-cultural and acculturation situations that hinder daily life due to immigration processes. Part of my focus as a therapist is to comprehend and work with the nuances of different backgrounds and cultural needs. I have been a hypnotherapist for over 14 years. I have extensive training and experience in Traditional and Ericksonian Hypnosis. I also have training in healing emotional wounds through regressive techniques. I truly believe hypnosis is a magnificent technique to help clients reach out their inner resources, create change and empower themselves. As an active member of the North Texas Society of Clinical Hypnosis, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of international congresses in Mexico and Costa Rica as well as facilitated webinars with similar groups of professionals in Italy, France and Reunion Island.
(469) 256-6876 View (469) 256-6876
Photo of Gabrielle Larson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabrielle Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75248
I have experience working with domestic violence clients, sexual assault survivors, active duty military members, and veterans.
Hello! My name is Gabrielle "Gaby" Larson. I approach therapy from a humanistic perspective, where I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques including mindfulness, expressive arts, and highlighting strengths and resources individuals possess. I work to create a therapeutic environment that is comfortable and allows individuals to feel safe exploring their vulnerabilities. Each individual is different and deserves unique care based on their needs. As a humanistic therapist, I focus on acknowledging different identities clients hold and how these impact them on a personal and institutionalized level.
I have experience working with domestic violence clients, sexual assault survivors, active duty military members, and veterans.
Hello! My name is Gabrielle "Gaby" Larson. I approach therapy from a humanistic perspective, where I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques including mindfulness, expressive arts, and highlighting strengths and resources individuals possess. I work to create a therapeutic environment that is comfortable and allows individuals to feel safe exploring their vulnerabilities. Each individual is different and deserves unique care based on their needs. As a humanistic therapist, I focus on acknowledging different identities clients hold and how these impact them on a personal and institutionalized level.
(214) 480-4860 View (214) 480-4860
Photo of Tiffany Armstrong, PsyD, Psychologist
Tiffany Armstrong
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
I am a licensed psychologist who has worked with mental health disorders in settings such as residential substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health, intimate partner violence shelters, and private practice. My areas of interest include healthy relationships, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I am currently conducting therapy with adolescents, adults, and couples.
I am a licensed psychologist who has worked with mental health disorders in settings such as residential substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health, intimate partner violence shelters, and private practice. My areas of interest include healthy relationships, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I am currently conducting therapy with adolescents, adults, and couples.
(469) 789-2352 View (469) 789-2352
Photo of Alyssa Vargas, MS, NCC
Alyssa Vargas
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
I have a passion and experience working with clients across the lifespan who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse, sexual assault, relationship conflicts, grief, life transitions, and more.
Hey Y’all! My name is Alyssa Vargas. I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I approach counseling through a collaborative and humanistic perspective. I believe every client should be met where they are in their healing journey. I enjoy working with clients as they explore ways their life experiences have impacted their present self. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel supported and free to be your most authentic self.
I have a passion and experience working with clients across the lifespan who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse, sexual assault, relationship conflicts, grief, life transitions, and more.
Hey Y’all! My name is Alyssa Vargas. I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I approach counseling through a collaborative and humanistic perspective. I believe every client should be met where they are in their healing journey. I enjoy working with clients as they explore ways their life experiences have impacted their present self. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel supported and free to be your most authentic self.
(469) 812-7203 View (469) 812-7203
Photo of Brooke West, PhD, MS, RPT-S, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brooke West
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, RPT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244
My specialty is play therapy with traumatized children who have suffered emotional/physical/neglect/ or sexual abuse.
Are you suffering? Want Changes? Need help parenting? Is your child suffering from ADHD, Biploar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety? I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor. I am a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor. For a decade, I have worked in the following areas: crisis counseling, inpatient psychiatric counseling, agency counseling, and private practice. My formal education has prepared me to counsel: children, adolescents, adults. I enjoy working with clients who have suffered emotional disturbances, trauma, abuse, and mental disorders. My passion is to use various techniques, activities, and modalities to best allow you to express your inner world.
My specialty is play therapy with traumatized children who have suffered emotional/physical/neglect/ or sexual abuse.
Are you suffering? Want Changes? Need help parenting? Is your child suffering from ADHD, Biploar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety? I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor. I am a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor. For a decade, I have worked in the following areas: crisis counseling, inpatient psychiatric counseling, agency counseling, and private practice. My formal education has prepared me to counsel: children, adolescents, adults. I enjoy working with clients who have suffered emotional disturbances, trauma, abuse, and mental disorders. My passion is to use various techniques, activities, and modalities to best allow you to express your inner world.
(214) 960-1564 View (214) 960-1564
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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.