A Therapeutic Recovery Model for the Female Adult Incest Survivor

Abstract

As the prevalence of incest survivors seeking therapy continues to increase, clinicians must expand their knowledge and methods of treatment. This article discusses the development of incest within the family system, the resulting long-term effects, and a treatment model developed by the author to guide therapeutic intervention with the adult female survivor. The three-phase Incest Recovery Model provides direction regarding the issues and tasks that each survivor must confront before reaching the therapeutic goals. Phase 1 is conducted in a group setting; Phase 2 in individual therapy and sessions with the survivor's family of origin. Phase 3 concludes with a combination of individual and group sessions. Interruption and reentry of the model may occur at any time; consequently, survivors determine their individual progress. As the psychological burden of incest lessens, survivors are free to adopt healthier patterns of living.