Therapy provides a safe space for processing your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors after experiencing sexual trauma. A therapist can help you build effective coping strategies and overcome the mental health challenges that often affect survivors.
Your First Therapy Session
Feeling at ease with your therapist may take some time—especially if you’ve never before participated in therapy. It’s normal for your therapist to spend the first session or two getting to know you and setting the stage for more intensive conversations.
One of the first questions your therapist may ask is, “What are your goals for therapy?” Don’t panic—there isn’t a right or wrong answer! Your initial goal may be something like, “I want to stop having nightmares” or “I want to feel happy again.”
Whatever you choose to share will help your therapist support you effectively.
Talking About Sexual Assault & Abuse
Even in a safe, therapeutic space, talking about sexual violence can be incredibly difficult; it may even feel retraumatizing. Your therapist is there to help you with these overwhelming feelings.
Share only what you’re ready to share, and let your therapist know if you need to take a break.
Managing Your Therapy
If you start to feel that therapy isn’t working for you, consider changing therapists. Therapy can only be as successful as your connection with the therapist, and there’s nothing wrong with acknowledging that one therapist’s personality or approach isn’t a good match for you.
Before you abandon therapy altogether, try these steps for transitioning to new mental health support:
- Make a list of your concerns
- Share your concerns with your therapist
- Ask if your therapist can recommend someone who better suits your needs
- Have your therapist send your records to the new provider
Even with your records, your new therapist may ask you to reshare certain aspects of your life and story. Take a deep breath and dive back in. The healing journey can be tedious and trying at times, but most survivors report meaningful results from their time in therapy.
Taking a Break From Therapy
Therapy is designed to arm you with knowledge and skills for living a healthy, fulfilling life—this includes learning to manage the trauma of sexual violence. Some survivors feel ready to leave therapy after a few months, while others find value in continuing counseling for many years.
Many people discontinue and return to therapy many times throughout their lives. Over time, you will encounter new challenges you may want to work through with a therapist. When this happens, reach out to your former therapist or find a new one and embrace the opportunity to achieve new levels of hope and healing.
Celebrating Your Growth
The healing journey is far from linear. You may experience wonderful stretches of peace and positivity only to wake up one day feeling absolutely miserable and desperate.
Have grace for yourself, and celebrate every step you take. Sometimes, growth is painful—but it’s still growth. And no matter how someone else hurt you, you are essential in this world, worthy of love, and deserving of happiness.
Medical Disclaimer: Please note that the content on this site does not constitute medical advice, and RAINN is not a medical expert. If you have further questions after reading this information, please contact a local healthcare professional or hospital.
Last updated: July 8, 2025