This document provides a comprehensive set of guidelines for therapists working with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). The guidelines are clearly set out in four sections. They include discussion on the long-term effects of CSA, an outline of abuse-focused philosophy and practice, ongoing therapy process issues, and a three-stage therapy process. The guidelines, which are research-based, are predominantly an amalgamation of works by well respected therapists, with a focus on abuse and trauma. They are restricted to practice issues in a one-to-one psychotherapy context.
In the section on long-term effects of CSA, an overview of the difficulties some survivors may experience is given. The section on abuse-focused philosophy and practice discusses different aspects of therapy and the therapeutic relationship that incorporates good practice. Issues that continue throughout therapy are discussed in the ongoing process issues section. The last section provides guidelines on three recognisable stages in abuse-focused therapy: safety and self-work, exploration and integration, and empowerment and reconnection.
The author posits that the guidelines are not prescribed rules. Their central aim is to support the provision of safe and informed therapeutic services to survivors of CSA. |
