Sexual Abuse or Assault

I am trained in several trauma-informed strategies. I currently hold certification in Complex PTSD and Trauma (CCPT) Levels I and II, which incorporates EMDR, Parts Work (IFS), CPT, and Polyvagal Theory. I am well-versed in Emotional Freedom Tapping (EFT), DBT, CBT, Family Systems, Somatic Psychology, and the impact of trauma on the brain.

I am a certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR can look very different from traditional talk therapy. I work to integrate talk therapy processing and EMDR together. It is considered the “gold standard” treatment for traumatic episodes and PTSD. Evidence shows it is also effective in the treatment of: phobias, philias, addiction, grief and loss, attachment disorders, depression, anxiety, etc. My niche' is sexual trauma combining my two specialties.

I am trained in several trauma-informed strategies. I currently hold certification in Complex PTSD and Trauma (CCPT) Levels I and II, which incorporates EMDR, Parts Work (IFS), CPT, and Polyvagal Theory. I am well-versed in Emotional Freedom Tapping (EFT), DBT, CBT, Family Systems, and the impact of trauma on the brain.

All forms of trauma can cause excruciating symptoms. Trauma perpetrated by other people, especially when sexual in nature, comes with its own particular challenges. I spent over four years working exclusively with survivors of sexual trauma and can bring extensive training and experience to the conversation. If past trauma is still infringing upon your present, you deserve to have space and support for healing.

I specifically work with survivors of sexual trauma. As a survivor myself, I intimately know and understand the challenging process of recovery. I hold safe and validating space for survivors, and offer feminist justice-based interventions to repair trauma, rebuild a life worth living, and reconnect to community.

EMDR is a useful modality for people who are experiencing symptoms caused by traumatic events like sexual abuse and sexual assault. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can also be useful for sexual abuse and sexual assault survivors because it teaches strategies to become more mindful of the present moment, cope with painful emotions in safe and healthy ways, and establish healthy boundaries and communicate effectively with others.

As a dedicated professional in the field of trauma and abuse recovery, I have cultivated a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding sexual abuse and its profound impact on individuals. My expertise lies in creating a safe, empathetic environment where survivors can begin to heal and reclaim their narratives. With a focus on trauma-informed care, I employ various therapeutic approaches, including Sandtray Therapy, to facilitate healing and self-expression.

You've tried just forgetting it happened and moved on with your life, but at some point the past will begin to gnaw at you. Anxiety brings nightmares and flashbacks. You can't focus. You're questioning everything--who can you trust, was it your fault, was it really that bad, and how will you ever feel safe again? Sadness and anger follow you everywhere you go. Now's the time to reach out. You're not alone and we will work together so you can reclaim your life.

I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, complex trauma, and PTSD, providing trauma-informed care in a supportive and healing environment. I often integrate a variety of mental health modalities, art therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) that focuses on restoring a sense of safety, fostering resilience, and empowering individuals on their path toward healing.

In addition to working clinically with survivors of sexual abuse and assault, I am a Staff Trainer for MVP Strategies, a gender violence prevention program founded by Jackson Katz, PhD., utilizing the Bystander Approach. I have worked for over 10 years training individuals in the US Military, the entertainment industry, college and university athletic programs, and community groups to recognize and intervene in sexual violence in their immediate cultural contexts.

I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, complex trauma, and PTSD, providing trauma-informed care in a supportive and healing environment. I often integrate a variety of mental health modalties, art therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) that focuses on restoring a sense of safety, fostering resilience, and empowering individuals on their path toward healing.

James Foley LCSW 60 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10165 www.sexuallycompulsive.com

When you have experienced sexual trauma, it is crucial to work with someone who understands the complexity and depth of how your life and sense of yourself can be impacted. I work with you to begin the process of feeling safer in your body and in your relationships, to regain confidence and trust with those around you and with yourself. I create a caring, non-judgmental place where I bring many years of training in body-based trauma healing approaches, mindfulness, and relationship focus.

Trauma is an emotional response to any circumstance where you felt hopeless and overwhelmed. Many times the trauma is in the form of sexual abuse or assault. These experiences exceed your capacity to shape your beliefs, identity, spirituality, and coping. Trauma impacts the way you see yourself, others and the world around you.

Whether you experienced sexual abuse years ago as a child, or if your experience occurred three days ago as an adult.... I am here for you. I am so familiar with the questions left following a sexual assault about who we are, whether we'll ever feel better, the what-if's, and so many more. Once physical safety is established, there's a lot to unpack, and when it feels safe, I would be honored to walk down that challenging path with you.

Sexual trauma is one of the most painful traumas as it's often surrounded by so much shame and self-blame that it can take a very long time to reach out for help. As someone who has worked at sexual assault agencies in Boulder, CO, San Antonio, TX and San Francisco, CA as well as treating trauma in my counseling practice, I have seen first hand the wide spread pain and havoc that sexual trauma causes. The good news is that relief from your pain is possible and freedom is within reach.

I have found great fulfillment in my work with people who have engaged in risky or abusive sexual behaviors. I am passionate about preventing sexual abuse in our society and have found my professional niche in working with those who have engaged in such behaviors or who find themselves trying to managing concerning desires and attractions. I pride myself in my compassionate and nonjudgmental approach to my work. I see people, not behaviors and look forward to supporting you in your journey.