Alliance: Theoretical and Intervention Preferences of NYC Rape Crisis Counselors
Theoretical and Intervention Preferences of NYC Rape Crisis Counselors
During the summer of 2005, the New York Alliance Against Sexual Assault conducted a research study to identify the theoretical and intervention preferences of rape crisis counselors and service providers throughout the city. With this study, we hoped to determine the differences and similarities in the types of treatment provided, based on the type of agency and the type of client. In addition, we hoped to gain a better understanding of the interests, training, and needs of counselors in New York City. It is our hope that this report will serve as a collaborative tool, facilitating contact between counselors who have similar interests and/or concerns.We conducted this study using a survey containing sixteen questions. The survey was distributed to eleven hospital-based rape crisis programs, and three community based programs. We received 14 responses. In addition, we conducted face-to-face in depth interviews with 8 counselors. These interviews were conducted to gather more in depth information about the preferences and needs of rape crisis counselors. [[1] Read the full report (pdf)]
Theoretical Models
GENERAL MODELS
1. Crisis Intervention: Crisis intervention therapy aims to intervene as quickly as possible after the traumatic event occurred. The goals are to help the client clarify the event, minimize the use of destructive coping skills, and create productive coping techniques.
2. Psychoeducation: This therapy involves the therapist teaching the survivor about the impact of trauma, common disorders associated with trauma, and ways to cope with symptoms.
3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive behavioral theory stems from the idea that people are characterized by how they think about the world, and that the way they think and interpret events leads to emotional responses. The goal of CBT in the context of rape crisis counseling, is to teach the client to identify and change irrational or dysfunctional thoughts about their rape that are causing negative emotions and reactions (Hembree et. al 2003).
4. Psychodynamic /Psychoanalytic: Psychoanalytic therapy aims to uncover unconscious thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Psychodynamic theory also focuses on uncovering repressed thoughts and emotions while focusing on the dynamics of the client’s family.
[[2] Read the complete list of theoretical models (pdf)]
[1]: http://www.nycagainstrape.org/media/research/bc_4_full.pdf
[2]: http://www.nycagainstrape.org/media/research/bc_4_models.pdf
Copyright © 2000-2007 by The New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault