Counseling survivors of sexual abuse requires acknowledgment of the legitimacy of the client's ego defenses while helping the client abandon those defenses which have become obstacles to leading a fulfilling life. Such defenses may also impede the therapeutic process, as survivors are less likely to trust other people. Clients can arrive at a meaningful understanding of their abuse histories, attain emotional peace, and develop healthy relationships with others. This lesson explains the rationale, format, goals and themes for a specific model of short term group work. It is designed to provide a safe environment for clients to disclose their histories of sexual abuse as well as to process negative emotional fallout. As the client progresses through therapy, she or he will require the counselor's assurance that experiencing pent-up emotions and confronting the reality of personal vulnerability does not entail a loss of control. Eight themes (one for each week) progressively take the group members on a journey of self-exploration that puts them in touch with their self-esteem, emotions, communication styles, and means for conflict resolution. All aspects of the group are described from goals to client selection to descriptions of weekly meetings to termination. Contains 26 references, a short list of recommending reading, and 4 multiple-choice questions. (JBJ)