Helping Patients Who Have Experienced Sexual Assault

Individuals who have experienced sexual assault face many barriers to seeking help. Mental health providers who treat patients that have been sexually assaulted need to be well versed in understanding sexual violence and trauma. This article discusses the role of stigma, the challenges that survivors face around disclosing their sexual assault and describes treatment options for patients post-sexual assault who have symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Copyright: 2022

After reading the CE Corner article, you will be asked to complete a “Commitment-to-Change” (CTC) exercise. The CTC exercise is designed to help facilitate the translation of your learning into practice. Completion of the CTC is required prior to the completion of the CE Test based on the APA Monitor CE Corner article. "

Part of the APA Monitor’s CE Corner article series.

This product is not included in the APA Unlimited CE program.

New York state psychologists: This program is not currently in compliance with the unique requirements imposed by the New York State Board of Education for New York licensed psychologists CE.

• Identify the common consequences of sexual assault for survivors.
• Discuss the role of stigma and the challenges that survivors may face around disclosing their sexual assault to friends and family.
• Describe options for treating patients post–sexual assault who have symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression that include community-based and culturally relevant practices.

Stephanie Pappas