Ginnie's House discusses 'yuck' factor

NEWTON — Ginnie’s House recently hosted a luncheon for psychotherapists and psychologists of Sussex County to discuss “the yuck factor” as part of their mission to prevent childhood sexual abuse through education.

The discussion was facilitated by Alexandra Miller, psychologist and board member of Ginnie’s House.

“Keeping confidentiality in our field is sacred, but there are certain exceptions that patients learn about prior to starting psychotherapy," Miller said. "This includes if someone wants to kill themselves or someone else or if there is an incident or allegation of childhood abuse, including sexual abuse.”

The “yuck factor” is a term coined by Miller and refers to the feelings and thoughts that psychotherapists may have that prevent them from reporting incidents of abuse.

“We wanted to have an open conversation about reasons why people don’t report, which is a reality, and then encourage people to report for the safety of children,” Miller said. Reasons psychotherapists may not report include mixed feelings about betraying their patients’ trust, being afraid authorities won’t help or thoughts that “they’re already in treatment.”

When child abuse is suspected, reported or disclosed, Ginnie’s House of Newton provides a safe place to address the healing and safety of the child and family. This is accomplished through providing a place for the coordinated efforts of individuals and agencies, including child protection, law enforcement/prosecution, health care and mental health professionals.

Rhona Beadle, executive director of Ginnie’s House handed out brochures to the psychotherapists to provide resources and information about reporting incidents or allegations of childhood sexual abuse.