Exploring Counsellors鈥� Lived Experiences in Supporting Autistic Young People After Harmful Sexual Behaviour (HSB)

Study Overview
The purpose of this research is to explore counsellors鈥� lived experiences regarding their skills and confidence in supporting autistic young people in mainstream secondary schools who have engaged in HSB. By focusing on the lived experiences of counsellors navigating the intersection of autism and HSB鈥攊ncluding issues related to safeguarding and ethical dilemmas鈥攖his study aims to contribute any insights that could enhance the development of more inclusive, tailored support for autistic young people and their families.

Participant Criteria
I am seeking participants who meet the following criteria:

  • Professional Experience: Counsellors with a minimum of two years of post-qualification experience.
  • Relevant Experience: Those who have supported autistic young people post-HSB within mainstream secondary schools.
  • Focus: Discussions will centre on counsellors' past experiences rather than their experience of current cases.

Interview Details
Each participant will be invited to take part in a 60-minute semi-structured interview conducted online via Microsoft Teams. The interview will cover:

  • Experiences in navigating the intersection of autism and HSB,
  • Safeguarding concerns and ethical dilemmas encountered,
  • Perspectives on the adequacy of existing training and intervention frameworks.

All interviews will be audio-recorded and transcribed for detailed analysis.

Researcher and Supervisory Details

Please feel free to contact me if you require any additional information or would like to participate.

Yours sincerely,

Ruth Farmer