Process to recovery: in support of long-term groups for sexual abuse survivors

This article presents a model for a long-term process group for treating adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. The reasons for the preference of an ongoing group are presented in light of their relevance to the early traumas of survivors. The rationale and philosophy guiding these groups with their emphasis on strengths rather than pathology, on individuation, and on educational and therapeutic components are highlighted. The developmental life of the group and corresponding behavior of members at each stage are viewed within the overarching concept of closeness, a key issue for survivors to experience and work through during their recovery.