Into the Labyrinth. A Case Study of a therapist’s journey with an adult survivor of childhood abuse
Authors
Pamela Stocker
BACP
Keywords:
childhood sexual abuse, therapeutic relationship, gestalt, creative interventions, metaphor and myth, power and autonomy
Abstract
This case study describes the therapeutic journey of a client who suffered serious sexual and physical abuse from toddlerhood to adolescence. It considers challenges and ethical issues in the therapeutic partnership with an abuse survivor, exploring the importance of the theoretical framework and of supervision. Issues of autonomy and power in relation both to therapy and to church pastoral practices receive attention. Central to this therapeutic journey is the role of creative methodology, metaphor and myth in facilitating transformation.
Author Biography
Pamela Stocker, BACP
Freelance counsellor, poet and textile artist. MA Christian Spirituality, Heythrop College, University of London. Gestalt counselling PG Dip. Previously English Teacher and School Chaplain.
