Recovery from sexual assault: an innovative two-stage group therapy model

This article describes an innovative two-stage model of sexual assault therapy groups for women in a university setting. This model is recommended for use in various settings and includes a supportive therapy group and two specialized therapy groups, one for childhood sexual abuse survivors and the other for sexual assault (acquaintance rape and stranger rape) survivors. Theoretical underpinnings of the model are discussed in addition to practical aspects of group development such as elements of an effective group, screening of potential members, and marketing and recruitment techniques.