| Child sexual abuse is a universal phenomenon impacting not only the child who was abused but also the family and community. Though research regarding the treatment of child sexual abuse has advanced in the field of counseling, few conclusions can be drawn about treatment models' effectiveness or the competencies necessary for those who work with sexually abused children and their families. The purpose of this study was to explore how counselors describe their counseling experience and perceptions in the treatment of this vulnerable population and their families. A phenomenological study was established in order to answer the question, "What are counselors' experiences of competency in working with sexually abused children and their families?" Additionally, this study considered how counselors view family counseling in the treatment of children who have been sexually abused and the counselors' preferred therapeutic approaches. The results of ten (N=10) counselors' lived experiences were understood through individual verbatim textural structural descriptions of their experiences and understanding of the phenomenon of competency in the treatment of sexually abused children and their families. Four major themes emerged from this study: counselor education, training, experience, and supervision. In addition, all of the participants precisely mentioned utilizing the family in some way in the treatment process of sexually abused children and three of the participants highlighted family counseling as an essential approach to the treatment with this population. Analysis of data revealed the predominant and overwhelming treatment approach used by participants was incorporating play therapy techniques with cognitive behavioral therapy. An additional examination of the literature completed after analyzing the study's results, supported the findings that it is essential for counseling professionals to be aware of the constant need to develop and enhance competencies, to be knowledgeable of different treatment approaches, and to utilize the family in some way during the treatment of children who have been sexually abused. |
