Grieving sexual abuse : the therapist's process

Clinicians working in the area of sexual abuse often experience grief as a direct result of the trauma they encounter in their therapeutic endeavors. This article explores the stages of grief that transpire in reaction to treating sexual victimization and examines the behavioral indicators which surface during each phase of the therapist's process. The author's personal account is included as a means of chronicling this experience and offering suggestions as to more effective resolution. As a final note, certain preventative measures which are aimed at diminishing the potential for negative countertransference and personal conflict are presented for consideration.