How Do Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse Experience Formally Delivered Talking Therapy? A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review explored how adult survivors of child sexual abuse experienced nonspecific and trauma-focused talking therapies. Following extensive systematic searches of academic databases, 23 qualitative empirical studies were chosen for review. Using a line-by-line thematic synthesis, four analytical themes developed. These themes were: The Therapeutic Process as a Means for Forming Connections, which discusses therapeutic relationships; Developing a Sense of Self Through the Therapeutic Processes, which identifies stages of developmental recovery; Therapeutic Lights and Black Holes in the Shadows of child sexual abuse, which reflects on how a history of child sexual abuse influenced experiences of therapy; and Healing or Harrowing: Connecting With Others and First-time Experiences, which explores what was helpful, hindering, and new throughout the therapeutic journey. Findings related to participants developing new options for interpersonal relationships through the experience of authentic trust and the experiential learning of control and choice. Recommendations are discussed in relation to developing therapeutic practice and future research.

Experiences of fatherhood among men who were sexually abused in childhood

“…Counseling and talk therapy is well acknowledged as a significant resource for CSA survivors with the interpersonal approach of the counselor and their ability to create trust and safety being significant predictors of outcomes (Chouliara et al, 2011;Parry & Simpson, 2016;Rapsey et al, 2017). Consistent with the literature, the counseling relationship was perceived by many of the participants in the present study as helpful in terms of gaining insight into their past and integrating their trauma experiences into their identities.…”

“…Considering the unique psycho-social sequelae of CSA for men who subsequently become fathers, mental health professionals need to be aware of and especially sensitive to traditional norms of masculinity, related stigma, both from internalized stigma and fear of others' perceptions, and the prevalent "victim-offender" narrative in their work with this population. Clinicians also need to recognize that overtly addressing sexual abuse may be very difficult for men struggling against gender stereotypes and the need to provide a safe, non-pathologizing environment that enhances interpersonal trust and relational capability (Joseph & Linley, 2005;Wark & Vis, 2018;Chouliara et al, 2011;Parry & Simpson, 2016;Rapsey et al, 2017).…”

Child neglect and abuse: a global glimpse within the framework of evidence perspective

“…; Nathanson et al. ; Parker & Turner ; Parry & Simpson ; Thornton & Veenema ; Walsh et al. ), and three studies that deal with abuse alone (Bailhache et al.…”

Great Expectations and e-mental health: The role of literacy in mediating access to mental healthcare

“…27 Since then, the evidence for the importance of the therapeutic relationship in mental health has mounted, and it has arguably the strongest evidence for therapeutic interventions in mental healthcare. [28][29][30] Therapeutic relationships are particularly important to survivors of trauma, 31 and unfortunately childhood trauma is common, 32 particularly in marginalised communities. 33 Therapeutic relationships take time to deepen and cannot be outsourced to multiple providers without a loss of attachment.…”