The relationships between counsellors' orientation, experiences and training and their conceptualization of their tasks in the healing process in sexual abuse counselling : a qualitative analysis : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology at Massey University

Abstract

Eight counsellors registered with the Accident Compensation Corporation as sexual abuse counsellors participated in qualitative research employing semi-structured, in-depth interviews. A qualitative approach was used to explore previously unidentified variables in sexual abuse counselling, and the relationships among these. Transcribed interviews were analysed for recurrent regularities in themes and dynamics. Four overall themes emerged that appeared most salient in influencing counsellor's conceptualization of the tasks and processes involved in treating the effects of sexual abuse. These themes were (1) counsellor's orientation; (2) training and development; (3) understanding of the dynamics, issues, and effects of sexual abuse; and (4) personal experience of abuse. These variables have implications for both the practice of sexual abuse counselling and for future research.