Written communication with survivors of sexual abuse. Use of letters in therapy.
1. Written therapeutic communication with clients can have a lasting impact by enhancing themes of a therapy session, commenting on strengths, and highlighting changes. 2. Therapeutic letters can be used to validate the sexual abuse survivor's experience, offer commendation, provide information, normalize day-to-day living, encourage reflection, and seek clarification. 3. The use of therapeutic letters is consistent with a family systems nursing approach to practice, in which the nurse focuses on strengths and resources, interactions, and reciprocity during contact with the patient.
Harper-Jaques
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S
Mental Health Services, Holy Cross Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Masters
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A
D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002650:Child Abuse, Sexual / Q000523:psychology*; D003142:Communication; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D005196:Family Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010553:Personality Development; D011568:Psychiatric Nursing; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D014956:Writing