Experiences of Counselors Counseling Clients Who Have Been Sexually Assaulted

Authors

Carrie J. Tremble, University of San DiegoFollow

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Sexual assault, education, counselor experience, supervision, societal myths

Subject Area

Clinical Supervision, Counseling, Counselor Education, Higher Education Counseling, Mental Health Counseling

Abstract

Approximately one in four women will be sexually assaulted, many of whom will seek counseling as a result. However, the literature regarding the experiences of counselors who counsel clients who have been sexually assaulted is limited. This qualitative, phenomenological study explored the experiences of nine counselors who have counseled clients who have been sexually assaulted. The analysis of participant data revealed several themes, which included (a) self-care; (b) utilizing effective counseling skills; (c) lack of counselor training impacts work; (d) seeking supervision and consultation; (e) societal myths about sexual assault; and (f) legal issues regarding sexual assault. The findings may guide counselors, counselor educators, and supervisors in providing more effective counseling services to clients who have been sexually assaulted.

Recommended Citation

Tremble, C. J. (2022). Experiences of Counselors Counseling Clients Who Have Been Sexually Assaulted. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 15(3). Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.sacredheart.edu/jcps/vol15/iss3/11