Cognitive-Behavioral Group Treatment for a Sexually Abused Child and a Nonoffending Caregiver

This study presents the case of 11-year-old Amanda and her mother (Ms. Jones) who completed Project SAFE (Sexual Abuse Family Education), a manualized group treatment for sexually abused children and their nonoffending caregivers. Amanda experienced sexual abuse by her stepfather on multiple occasions over a 4-year period. Prior to treatment, Amanda reported symptoms of anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and fear related to victimization. Ms. Jones also reported clinically significant internalizing problems for Amanda. Ms. Jones presented with stress related to parenting, as well as depression and anxiety. Both Amanda and Ms. Jones completed the entire 12-session protocol. Amanda and Ms. Jones’s progress throughout treatment are described, along with implications of the case and recommendations for clinicians and students. Results support the efficacy of the group modality, the importance of including nonoffending caregivers, and the necessity of broad treatment strategies when treating children who have experienced sexual abuse.