Jodie Harrison, Jake Ellison, Hannah Cowling
Translating Therapy into Practice: Examples from Interventions Addressing Harmful Sexual Behaviour in Young People and their Families
Workshop Abstract
This workshop is aimed at for practitioners seeking practical guidance on adapting therapeutic approaches to support young people and their families affected by sexual abuse. Drawing on over 35 years of combined experience in working with this population, the presenters will offer a brief overview of evidence-informed methods in both individual and family therapy, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Family and Systemic Therapy.
Participants will explore how these approaches can be modified to address the unique needs of young people who have experienced sexual abuse, as well as those displaying harmful sexual behaviours. The workshop will provide concrete examples of direct interventions, highlighting interventions that have effectively helped young people reduce risky or harmful sexual behaviours.
Emphasis will be placed on translating theory into practice, equipping attendees with actionable tools and insights for their clinical work. By the end of the session, participants will gain practical knowledge on tailoring therapeutic techniques to this sensitive context, fostering safer outcomes for young people and their families, and enhancing the effectiveness of direct intervention strategies.
About the Speakers
Jodie Harrison is a Family and Systemic Psychotherapist and accredited EMDR Therapist with twenty years’ experience working with young people displaying harmful sexual behaviours and their families.
She is also a supervisor and trainer. Jodie specialises in supporting young people affected by sexual abuse and trauma, working directly with children and systemically with their families. Her expertise combines practical intervention strategies with systemic approaches, enabling positive outcomes and safer futures for young people and their families.
Jake Ellison is a dedicated Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with seven years of experience working with children and young people who have sexualised histories and complex trauma. He regularly leads group therapy sessions with adolescent boys, promoting healthy behaviours, emotional regulation, and safe decision-making to help them build resilient futures.
In addition to his work with young people, Jake is committed to supporting professionals in the field of abuse and trauma. He develops effective coping strategies to prevent vicarious trauma from prolonged exposure to others' traumatic experiences.
Hannah Cowling has a strong background in Social Work and is a Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapist as well as an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) Therapist. With over twelve years of experience, she specialises in supporting individuals affected by sexual abuse, particularly focusing on children and young people with complex trauma.
In addition to her therapeutic work, Hannah has published research in the field, contributing to a deeper understanding of trauma and its treatment. Her dedication to evidence-based therapies has helped many on their journey toward healing and recovery, making her a compassionate and skilled therapist in trauma care.