Childhood Sexual Abuse Therapist in Lanham, MD

Childhood Sexual Abuse

Childhood sexual abuse is a deeply traumatic experience that can have lasting effects on an individual’s emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. Survivors often carry the weight of unresolved pain into adulthood, leading to challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and low self-esteem. However, with professional support, survivors can reclaim their sense of self, heal from the trauma, and foster personal growth.

At Access Health Services in Lanham, MD, we are committed to providing trauma-informed care that helps survivors process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and embark on a healing journey.

What is Childhood Sexual Abuse?

Childhood sexual abuse refers to any sexual activity involving a child that an adult or older individual carries out. It can affect both physical contact and non-contact acts, such as exposure to sexual content. Survivors often experience emotional and psychological effects long after the abuse has stopped.

Forms of childhood sexual abuse include:

Sexual Touching or Assault: Inappropriate touching or penetration.
Exposure to Sexual Content: Forcing a child to view explicit material or engage in sexual conversations.
Grooming: Manipulative behaviors intended to build trust and prepare a child for abuse.
Exploitation: Using a child for sexual purposes, such as trafficking or pornography.

The trauma from childhood sexual abuse can manifest in various ways, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, self-harm, and challenges with relationships or intimacy. However, survivors can recover with the right therapeutic support.

Benefits of Addressing Childhood Sexual Abuse

Survivors can rebuild their lives by addressing the trauma through professional therapy. Key benefits include:

How Access Health Services Supports Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Our team at Access Health Services provides compassionate care and evidence-based therapies tailored to the needs of survivors. We create a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to share their experiences and begin the healing process.

Therapeutic Interventions

Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions to help survivors process trauma, manage triggers, and rebuild self-esteem.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): A specialized approach for processing traumatic memories and reducing the impact of PTSD symptoms.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): An evidence-based technique that helps reframe traumatic memories to reduce emotional distress.

Group Therapy and Peer Support

Group Sessions: Survivors connect with others who have experienced similar trauma, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.
Support Networks: Group therapy helps participants develop healthy coping strategies and build trust through shared experiences.

Holistic Wellness Approaches

Mindfulness-Based Practices: Techniques to help survivors stay grounded, manage anxiety, and promote emotional regulation.
Lifestyle Coaching: Encouraging healthy habits such as sleep hygiene, exercise, and nutrition to support emotional recovery.
Family Counseling: Working with families to rebuild trust, improve communication, and offer support for the survivor’s healing journey.

Who Can Benefit from Therapy for Childhood Sexual Abuse?

Therapy for childhood sexual abuse is designed to support individuals at all stages of healing. Survivors may seek care immediately following the trauma or years later when the emotional effects become more apparent.

Our programs are beneficial for:

Adults processing unresolved childhood trauma.
Adolescents showing signs of PTSD, anxiety, or depression following abuse.
Families seeking to support a loved one through their recovery journey.
Individuals struggling with self-worth, trust, or intimacy issues related to past abuse.
Those engaging in self-harm or experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Aftercare and Ongoing Support

Healing from childhood sexual abuse is a lifelong journey. At Access Health Services, we offer continued support to ensure survivors maintain their progress and thrive.

Follow-Up Therapy Sessions: Regular individual or group sessions to reinforce coping strategies and address new challenges.
Wellness Activities: Encouraging journaling, mindfulness, and self-care routines.
Community Support: Connecting survivors with local or online support networks to foster a sense of belonging and ongoing encouragement.

Why Choose Access Health Services in Lanham, MD?

Access Health Services provides trauma-informed care that prioritizes safety, compassion, and empowerment. Our goal is to guide survivors toward healing and emotional well-being.

Experienced Practitioner: Asongtia Ntongawah leads a dedicated team committed to helping survivors reclaim their lives.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Each plan is tailored to meet the survivor’s unique needs and goals.
Holistic Healing Approach: We integrate mental, emotional, and physical wellness to support comprehensive recovery.
Safe and Non-Judgmental Space: Survivors feel heard, respected, and supported at every step of their journey.

Take the first step toward healing. Book your appointment with Access Health Services today to begin your recovery.

FAQ's

How long does therapy for childhood sexual abuse take?

The healing process is different for everyone. Some individuals experience noticeable progress within a few months, while others benefit from ongoing support over a more extended period to fully process their trauma.

What types of therapy are effective for survivors of childhood sexual abuse?

Trauma-focused CBT and EMDR are highly effective therapies that help survivors process traumatic memories and reduce emotional distress. Group therapy and individual therapy also play a vital role in recovery.

Can family members participate in therapy sessions?

Yes, family counseling is available to help families better understand the impact of childhood sexual abuse and provide meaningful support for their loved ones during the healing process.

What can I do outside of therapy to support my healing?

Mindfulness practices, journaling, and maintaining healthy routines, such as exercise and proper sleep, can support emotional well-being between therapy sessions. Joining a support group can also help foster connections and reduce isolation.

Does insurance cover therapy for childhood sexual abuse?

Many insurance plans cover trauma therapy and mental health services. Contact Access Health Services or your insurance provider for specific coverage information.

Childhood Sexual Abuse Therapist in Lanham, MD