If you are an adult survivor of sexual abuse or sexual trauma, therapy can be a safe space to process painful experiences, regain a sense of safety, and rebuild trust in yourself and your relationships. Sexual trauma can affect emotional regulation, intimacy, attachment, and self-worth. I provide compassionate, psychodynamic therapy that helps survivors navigate these challenges at your pace, in a contained and supportive environment.
Sexual Trauma Therapy in Long Beach, CA
Signs Sexual Trauma May Be Affecting You
You have difficulty trusting others or forming close relationships
Often times feel anxious, unsafe, or hypervigilant
Experience shame, guilt, or self-blame related to past experiences
Avoid intimacy or sexual closeness
Experience recurring flashbacks or intrusive memories
Experience emotional numbness or difficulty feeling fully present
How Sexual Trauma Can Impact Adult Relationships
Sexual trauma often affects how survivors relate to others. Many adults notice patterns of withdrawal, difficulty expressing needs, or fear of closeness. These challenges are common and understandable responses to past trauma. Psychodynamic therapy explores these patterns in a safe environment, helping you gain insight, develop healthier relational patterns, and reclaim trust in yourself and others.
Psychodynamic Therapy for Sexual Trauma
Psychodynamic therapy emphasizes understanding how early experiences and unconscious patterns shape your present relationships and emotional responses. For survivors of sexual abuse, this approach can:
Explore the lasting emotional impact of trauma
Help identify patterns of avoidance, fear, or self-protection
Increase emotional awareness and regulation
Support rebuilding intimacy and trust safely
Strengthen a sense of self-worth and autonomy
What to Expect in Therapy
A confidential, supportive space to share your experiences
Gentle pacing to ensure emotional safety
Exploration of attachment, relational patterns, and self-perception
Evidence-informed interventions tailored to your needs
~Every session is designed to honor your pace, validate your experiences, and support your healing journey.
FAQs for Adult Survivors of Sexual Trauma
Q: How long does therapy for sexual trauma take?
A: This is a tricky question because healing takes time. Some clients work with me for a few months, while others remain in treatment for several years. The length of therapy depends on many factors, including a client’s goals, life experiences, motivation, therapeutic pace, and current phase of life.
I don’t have a crystal ball that can predict exactly how long someone will be in treatment. What I can offer is openness and transparency. When clients ask questions like, “Should I decrease session frequency?” or “Is it okay to take a break and return on a case-by-case basis?” I provide thoughtful clinical feedback so we can make those decisions collaboratively.
Q: Is psychodynamic therapy effective for sexual trauma survivors?
A: Yes. Psychodynamic therapy is widely used to help survivors understand and heal from relational and emotional patterns shaped by trauma.
Q: Can I work on both trauma and relationship difficulties at the same time?
A: Absolutely. Therapy often addresses trauma and its impact on current relationships together, helping you navigate intimacy, trust, and connection safely.
If you are an adult survivor of sexual trauma, reaching out for therapy is a brave first step. You can schedule a consultation online or contact me directly. Together, we’ll explore how therapy can support your journey toward safety and emotional healing.
