This research explores counsellors' attitudes and preparedness when working with clients involved in sex work.
Why is this research happening?
Sex workers can experience stigma and discrimination in many areas of their lives, including when accessing mental health and aupport services. Counselling can provide an important source of emotional and psychological support; however, counsellors may have varying levels of experience, knowledge and training in relation to working with clients involved in sex work.
This research aims to explore counsellors' attitudes towards working with clients involved in sex work and how prepared they feel when supporting this client group. This study will also explore counsellors experiences of training and whether they feel there are any gaps in the education or support available to therapists working in this area. As a small-scale study, this research aims to provide insight into the experiences and perspectives of the counsellors taking part. It may also highlight areas relating to training, knowledge and support that could be explored further in future research.
Who is doing the research?
My name is Catherine, and I am currently studying for a BA (Hons) in Integrative Counselling at New City College. This research is being undertaken as part of my final-year research project.
Who can take part?
I am looking to recruit four BACP-registered counsellors who have experience of working with client who are, or have previously been involved in sex work.
What will taking part involve?
Participants will be invited to take part in an individual, semi-structured interview lasting up to one hour maxium. Interviews will take place remotely via Microsoft Teams. Participants will be provided with semi-structured interivew questions in advance. You will not be required to provide your real name during the interview, and you will not be required to have your camera switched on. With your consent, the interivew will be audio-recorded and transcribed. The interviews will be analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes across participants' experiences and perspectives. All information collected during the research will be treated confidentially and anonymised in the final research project. Participants will not be identiable in any resulting research report.
How can I register my interest?
If you are interested in taking part or would like further information about the study, please contact: Catherine Riley BA (Hons) Integrative Counselling student New City College Email: S00029316@students.ncclondon.ac.uk.
Participation is entirely voluntary, and further information about the research will be provided before you decide whether you would like to participate. Participants have the right to withdraw from the interview anytime without having to privde a reason.
Please see here for more information.