Citation

Sese Dorado J. Women Ther. 1996; 19(1): 93-108.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J015v19n01_08

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article examines the role of the feminist therapist when an adult client is grappling with what seems to be memories of childhood sexual abuse. It draws from research conducted on the process of remembering and coming to terms with sexual abuse for adult survivors of incest. The article uses a Michigan civil statute of limitations as an example of a civil law with which sexual abuse survivors in Michigan must contend if they wish to seek compensation through the legal system. It then briefly describes an alternative approach to incest survivors' civil cases, the discovery rule. It subsequently moves beyond specific statutes to raise questions as to whether or not the legal system is the best arena in which to solve complex psychological dilemmas. Finally, the article suggests a reasonable stance from which a feminist therapist can work in order to empower her client and herself.