"I Am Not A Victim. I Am A Survivor": Resilience as a Journey for Female Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse.

This study was designed to expand our understanding of the positive aspects of coping and resilience in female survivors of child sexual abuse. Research questions focused on women's lived experiences of being survivors of child sexual abuse and how they have experienced resilience, developed healthy intimate relationships, and viewed themselves as sexual beings. Using a qualitative research lens of phenomenology, we captured the essence of survivors' experiences of resilience. Although each woman's experience was unique, similar patterns of processes and outcomes emerged as meaningful in their development of resilient and healthy sexuality and relationship functioning. However, participants emphasized resilience as a process or journey-recovery from trauma, reconceptualization of self, and development of healthy sexuality included deliberate efforts occurring over time. Implications for future research and practice using a positive lens of resilience are provided.

Client and therapist initial experience of using mindfulness in therapy.

Literature has demonstrated the influence of mindfulness practice on both clients and therapists; however, no literature has considered the experience of mindfulness in therapy from both members of the therapeutic dyad. The present study interviewed five separate therapy dyads (n=10) regarding their experience of first using mindfulness in session. Participants, both clients and therapists, had little-to-no experience with mindfulness prior to the study. Interview transcripts were analyzed and common themes were derived. Results indicated that both clients and therapist felt that the practice of mindfulness had an impact on the therapeutic relationship. Furthermore, participants also suggested ways in which therapists may better utilize mindfulness in therapy.