Originally I was in college (many, many years ago), and had confided in the college youth minister about my past sexual abuse. He asked me to see one of the counselors for the university. It was the best thing I ever did for myself. I saw him for a bit over 2 years.

Some 15 years later I was attending a church-sponsored care group for people in recovery from various issues. My pastor recognized something in me that needed more help and spoke to me privately about perhaps seeing him for therapy (he is a licensed pastoral counselor). He worked with me for about 3 years.

I sought out my current therapist about 8 years ago as I recognized I needed further help. Still see him semi-regularly but have finally worked through most issues (not all).