Child sexual abuse is something most people in society find difficult to acknowledge and talk about, despite it being a global public health problem. Within the helping professions, beyond reporting requirement, this topic is not covered in-depth in our training. This workshop will provide a focused reflective space to work with our responses as therapists to disclosures of child sexual abuse beyond a mandatory reporting and safeguarding role. We will engage in discussion and activities to building capacity and skills to establish strong therapeutic relationships with children, from ages 3- 17 who disclose sexual abuse. A range of experiential learning opportunities will allow you to explore your own responses and take forward a renewed sense of self-confidence in working with all children. 

Please note, this is a LIVE and INTERACTIVE training event. We don't record this.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the webinar you will be able to:

• Understand the range of disclosures of sexual abuse children can display to others.
•  Experience art-based and embodied ways to build self-awareness in moment-to-moment interactions when being with another.
• Reflect on the nuances of responding to disclosures of sexual abuse.
• Consider optimal ways to build and maintain safe therapeutic spaces for children.
• Review strategies for self reflection and self care.

Training methods will include:

• Interactive presentations
• Large group discussions
• Practical arts-based and embodied activities in pairs
• Focused reflection time

Who should attend? 

Psychologists, social workers, counsellors, art therapists, play therapists, case workers or other allied health professionals and students who are currently working or intend to work with children aged 3-17 in therapeutic settings.