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Choosing to Heal

Using Reality Therapy in the Treatment of Sexually Abused Children

By Laura Ellsworth

Published April 6th 2007 by Routledge – 192 pages

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Description

The number of sexual abuse disclosures by children has been increasing at a steady rate. Therapists are faced with the dilemma of limited resources and training to help them best serve this vulnerable population.

Choosing to Heal breaks new ground as the first resource to use Reality Therapy and Choice Therapy in focusing on the treatment of sexually abused children. Mental health professionals are provided with numerous techniques and strategies to utilize during the treatment process.

Parents, caretakers, teachers and anyone helping children heal from sexual abuse can obtain an understanding of the process in simple and understandable language. Choosing to Heal is a must-have resource for anyone helping a child heal from sexual abuse.

Reviews

"Laura Ellsworth’s writing has the authenticity of an experienced practitioner sharing her clinical expertise. The book began as a treatment intervention manual for therapists working with victims of sexual abuse and was expanded to reach a wider audience…It was inspirational and practical in offering realistic therapeutic strategies to support traumatized children and their carers. Although it is directed towards working with children who have been sexually abused, it could equally be applied to children traumatized by physical or emotional maltreatment."

– Karen Baker, Sexual and Relationship Therapy

Contents

Choice Theory and Reality Therapy. Sexual Abuse and Coping Mechanisms. Survival and Self-preservation. Love and Belonging: Connecting and Caring. Power. Freedom. Fun. Abuse Reporting, Ethics and Cultural Competence. Appendix.

Author Bio

Laura Ellsworth, M.A., L.H.M.C., has specialized in the treatment of child sexual abuse for over 15 years. She has developed many programs to aid in the healing process and education of child sexual abuse victims. She has given numrous television, radio and newspaper interviews and is a frequent expert witness in sexual abuse trial proceedings. Ellsworth plans a series of lectures upon publication of the book.