In-depth Guide to Understanding Therapy for Sexual Trauma
Author: Annie Mowbray
Reviewer: Kaitlyn Shelp, MA, LMHC ✓
Published April 4, 2025
Sexual trauma is a distressing and impactful event that can have lasting effects. The impact of sexual abuse or sexual trauma can be all-encompassing, affecting your perception of yourself, how you view others, and even your global views of life. The impact goes beyond just the event and can shape your emotional, physical, and mental health. Although this experience can be all-consuming, finding a therapist and the right therapeutic approach can lead to recovery, healing, and empowerment. This guide will explore sexual trauma and the resources available that can lead you to healing.
What is Considered Sexual Trauma?
Sexual trauma is the physical and psychological impact of sexual assault of any kind. Sexual assault can include any unwanted sexual contact, sexual abuse, or harassment. Sexual assault is not limited to any specific age, gender, or race, and can affect a person from any background. Sexual trauma goes beyond the physical event and can have lasting, distressing effects on a person psychologically.
The Prevalence of Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is defined as any nonconsensual sexual act, including assault, coercion, harassment, inability to consent, exploitation, or incest. Research from the CDC states that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience sexual violence in their lifetime.
Sexual abuse has long-lasting and deeply rooted effects on an individual that can manifest in many ways. Some of the psychological impacts that can happen are PTSD, guilt, shame, depression, and anxiety. Seeking therapy is essential for recovery.
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Trauma Therapy Explained
Trauma therapy is a specialization within counseling that addresses the psychological impact of sexual trauma. It supports individuals in processing the event or events of their trauma safely and begins implementing tools to cope with the emotional and psychological impacts. Trauma therapy supports clients through gaining clarity and understanding of their experience and helps to manage their symptoms.
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The Journey of Healing Trauma Through Therapy
Understanding the process
The path to recovery can look different for each individual, but getting connected with a therapist will aid individuals in getting specialized support. Researching or seeking consultations with counselors is the first step, where a survivor can share their specific needs or goals for counseling. The initial conversation will lead to developing a therapeutic relationship with your chosen counselor and getting an individually designed treatment plan. The plan will include long-term and short-term goals that will be supported and tailored to the individual's progress and needs. A counselor will come alongside their survivor to empower and support them at each step.
What Resources are Available to Me Along with Therapy?
Depending on your journey and specific needs, there are a variety of resources. Some resources include support groups or counseling groups that focus on sexual abuse survivors. Other resources include legal services, community resources such as hotlines, shelters, psychoeducation, advocacy, and more. Further implementing therapeutic techniques into your daily life such as grounding and mindfulness methods can aid in recovery.
How do I find the right therapist?
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. Things to look for when seeking a counselor to navigate sexual trauma are to look for someone who specializes in trauma. Be ready and willing to ask questions regarding their approach and capabilities when working with trauma survivors. Ask for a consultation to become familiar with your therapists and address any concerns you may have about starting therapy.
When finding the right therapist, the most important aspect is finding someone you feel comfortable and safe with. Building a connection and relationship with your counselor is vital for sexual trauma recovery. Be willing and open to ask questions or share concerns you may have.
What are the top trauma therapy techniques used in Tampa, Florida?
There are many different therapeutic techniques a counselor can use to support a survivor through processing the sexual trauma. In Tampa, there are a few main techniques used.
First is TF-CBT, which is trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. TF-CBT is specifically designed for trauma survivors and is utilized to aid in processing and healing from trauma.
Another technique commonly used is EMDR, which is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR aids survivors in processing specific events through bilateral situations.
Further, CPT is used, which is Cognitive Processing Therapy, and CPT supports survivors through processing and coping with the emotional effects of trauma.
How do I Prepare for My First Trauma Therapy Session?
Research
Research before your first session on your counselor and their therapeutic interventions. Gaining familiarity and noting any areas of confusion you may have can ease the distress and nervousness when starting the therapy. Create questions and ask them.
Define Goals and needs for therapy
Bringing awareness and coming prepared to discuss your goals for theory can help supervisors start on the right foot.
Emotionally Prepare
Processing and working through sexual issues can be extremely difficult and hard to do; therefore, it is important to emotionally prepare before our first session. It is normal to feel overwhelmed and vulnerable.
Be Open and Honest
Stating therapy for sexual trauma is a big step. You need to be open and honest with your counselor about how you are feeling and if you are concerned. Take therapy at your own pace and take a deep breath.
Your Journey to Healing
Overall, sexual trauma is a prevalent and heavy subject, but there is a path to healing. Sexual trauma theory is a valuable resource on the path of healing and recovery. With the right support, survivors can find their power, and getting connected with the right therapies can be the first step on that journey.
