Sexual Trauma Therapy

A Trauma-Informed Lens

No matter the modality, sexual trauma therapy is guided by trauma-informed principles: safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity. Survivors set the pace, and every treatment approach is adapted to respect their readiness and boundaries.

Sexual trauma therapy draws on approaches proven to help survivors process painful experiences, reduce symptoms, and regain a sense of safety. Treatment is always tailored to each survivor’s needs and paced with sensitivity to avoid re-traumatization.

Here are some of the most effective treatments used in sexual trauma therapy:

Psychodynamic and Relational Therapies

For survivors with complex trauma or long-term patterns of difficulty in relationships, psychodynamic therapy can help uncover and heal unconscious wounds. Relational therapy strengthens trust and intimacy, which are often deeply affected by sexual trauma.

Mindfulness and Grounding Practices

Integrating mindfulness helps survivors stay present, manage triggers, and build tolerance for difficult emotions. Grounding techniques provide immediate tools for safety when trauma memories or flashbacks arise.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

One of the most widely used therapies for trauma, EMDR helps reprocess distressing memories by reducing their emotional intensity. Survivors often find that EMDR allows them to recall the event without reliving the overwhelming feelings.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

TF-CBT is especially effective for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. It helps identify negative beliefs (such as shame or self-blame), reduce avoidance, and build healthy coping skills.

Somatic and Body-Based Therapies

Because trauma is often held in the body, somatic approaches like Somatic Experiencing and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy help survivors release physical tension and reconnect with their bodies safely. These approaches are particularly helpful for restoring a sense of physical safety.