ABSTRACT

This book presents the therapist with a reflective and robust framework for group treatment that promotes an end to the shame and secrecy so frequently experienced by survivors.

Through a series of tools such as visualisations and art exercises, the practitioner is guided through the process of establishing and running a group in this modality. The synthesis of both an educational and a process-based model is imbued with a sense of warmth and a deep understanding of this client group. Themes such as self-soothing, strengthening boundaries, inner-child work, making meaning of endings, and ways forward drive this therapeutic approach. Taking group work as the optimum matrix for change for this client population, this model provides a convincing rationale for the establishment of said work as best practice in the institutions that provide for their care.

Practicing therapists and mental health nurses will find this new model of therapy an instrumental resource in their approach to treatment for survivors of trauma and abuse.

chapter |2 pages

Introduction

part 1|21 pages

Forming a Group

chapter Chapter 1|10 pages

Assessment

chapter Chapter 2|3 pages

Mixed Gender Groups

chapter Chapter 3|4 pages

The Virtual Group

chapter Chapter 4|1 pages

Measuring Progress

chapter Chapter 5|1 pages

Note Keeping

part 2|7 pages

Therapeutic Co-Working

chapter Chapter 6|5 pages

Therapeutic Co-Working

part 3|8 pages

Session Structure

chapter Chapter 7|6 pages

Session Structure

part 4|62 pages

Session Themes

chapter Chapter 8|4 pages

Introductory Session

Confidentiality Contract and Codes of Behaviour, Safe Place Visualisation, Art Piece and Discussion

chapter Chapter 9|2 pages

Self-Soothing

chapter Chapter 10|3 pages

Boundaries

chapter Chapter 11|2 pages

Trust and Intimacy

chapter Chapter 12|3 pages

Self-Assertion / Speaking Your Truth

chapter Chapter 13|6 pages

The Family of Origin

chapter Chapter 14|3 pages

Dealing with Tyrants

chapter Chapter 15|3 pages

Anger / Rage

chapter Chapter 16|3 pages

Grief and Depression

chapter Chapter 17|2 pages

Loneliness

chapter Chapter 18|4 pages

Shame

chapter Chapter 19|2 pages

Sensuality and Sexuality

chapter Chapter 20|3 pages

Fear

chapter Chapter 21|3 pages

Suicidality

chapter Chapter 22|3 pages

The Myth of Forgiveness

chapter Chapter 23|3 pages

The Question of Evil

chapter Chapter 24|2 pages

Brokenness and Healing

chapter Chapter 25|2 pages

Inner Child Visualisation

chapter Chapter 26|3 pages

Endings and Beginnings

chapter Chapter 27|2 pages

Ways Forward

chapter Chapter 28|2 pages

Closing Session