Co-locating narrative and solution-focused theory in a family based therapy with children affected by extrafamilial sexual abuse

Abstract

Child sexual abuse affects the lives of many children and families in Canada. Application of narrative and solution-focused therapy within a family based intervention with children recently affected by extrafamilial sexual abuse is the focus of this report. A comprehensive literature review of narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, the co-location of these two models and child sexual abuse is provided. This theoretical examination provides the foundation for the synopsis and analysis of clinical services provided to nine families during a practicum experience. The Family Environment Scale (FES) and the Children's Version of the Family Environment Scale (CVFES) were used as both, clinical and evaluative tools within the interventions. Client feedback and clinician impressions deemed the integration of narrative and solution-focused therapy to be an effective method to provide a comprehensive therapeutic service to children and families affected by extrafamilial sexual abuse.