A note on language: the terms ‘sexual violence’, and ‘sexual abuse’ are used interchangeably in this blog. They are intended to reflect the wide range of ways that a person can be affected by non-consensual sexual contact. By its very nature, sexual abuse forces individuals to inhabit smaller spaces within themselves, their relationships, and the […]
A Response to Weinstein’s Lawyer
Trigger warning: several versions of sexual violence discussed in some detail. A note on language: the range of words used to refer to different types of sexual violence are used interchangeably to denote the many ways someone can experience it. ‘Asked whether she had herself ever been sexually assaulted, she replied, to the astonishment of […]
Psychotherapists and Counsellors: Do You Work With Survivors of Sexual Violence Pre-Trial?
‘Pre-trial therapy’ is the term given to survivors of sexual violence in the UK that have reported to the Police about their experiences, and are making use of talking therapy at the same time. This includes being at any stage of the criminal justice system from reporting, to investigations, to a trial. This term is […]
Call for Survivors of Sexual Violence: Do You Want to Share Your Experiences?
Every Psychotherapist, and Counsellor will work with survivors of sexual violence. My belief is that these professionals should be influenced by survivors, so that we can better meet their needs in our work. Currently I’m in the process of writing a professional textbook on this subject (due 2021) which will enable trainee/qualified Psychotherapists, and Counsellors who […]
Feminist Identity and Sexual Violence
Content warning: sexual violence, abuse. ‘On some days I know it wasn’t my fault, but if I’d gone straight home that night instead of staying out then it wouldn’t have happened’. As a Psychotherapist specialising in the impact of sexual abuse, I see this emotionally-laden back and forth with all of my clients coming for […]