ABSTRACT
The therapeutic process is different for each client. An opportunity can advantageously arise at any time to facilitate the development of greater concern for the well-being of others, including the people a client may have mistreated sexually or harmed in other ways. This chapter discusses the interrelatedness of client denial and failure to show empathy for victims, and how this can challenge the counsellor's capacity to communicate positive regard. It demonstrates the rehabilitative gains of victim empathy, and also discusses various ways of facilitating empathy. A client can be invited to write a letter of apology to the victim and the victim's loved ones. It is important to clarify that such a letter should never be sent as this could re-traumatize the victim and significant others. Working with clients to increase victim empathy takes the form of a gradual desensitizing process. The experiences of victims can then be personalized through exploration of a fictional case study.
