“Shared responsibility” an intersectional approach to sexual violence prevention: counselling and training experiences at the sexual violence and response office

Abstract

Sexual violence affects a significant amount of people in Saskatchewan, in particular women experiencing the highest rates of sexual violence. In Canada, there are a significant number of students in post-secondary institutions who have experienced or witnessed unwanted sexual behaviour. This report outlines my experiences while completing the MSW field practicum at the Sexual Violence and Prevention office located at the University of Regina. The ultimate goals of my practicum were to gain clinical counselling knowledge using a trauma-informed framework and to gain skills to provide educational opportunities for students to learn about gender-based violence. This report will highlight my use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and the use of Judith Herman’s (2022) stages of trauma recovery. These tools were utilized in counselling practice when supporting someone who has experienced gender-based violence. Additionally, I will discuss education and awareness-raising important events that occurred related to gender-based violence with the campus community. Beyond my day-to-day practicum, I will highlight how I have been reflective and aware of my positionality and to ensure I am an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed social worker.