Abstract
This study explores the experiences of lay counsellors that work with women survivors of violence, within the non-governmental organisation setting and the context of South Africa. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five volunteer lay counsellors, who were obtained using purposive-inclusive and snowball sampling methods. This research followed a qualitative, interpretivist approach in order to capture the meanings each participant attached to their experiences. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data and the research findings were interpreted within a social constructivist framework. Thus, the meaning that lay counsellors attached to their experiences were understood as a product of their social engagement with women survivors, their work environment, and their sociocultural context. Emergent themes related to lay counsellors within the context of violence against women in South Africa, challenges and hindrances faced by lay counsellors when working with survivors of violence, and positive transformation and coping amongst lay counsellors working with survivors of violence. The aims of this study were to provide valuable information that can be used to inform lay counsellors about the influence that their work can have on them. On a broader scale, the findings aimed to contribute towards a gap in South African trauma literature that overlooks those experiences of lay counsellors in this field and to highlight how best to support lay counsellors in their role. Keywords: South Africa, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), volunteer lay counsellors, women survivors of violence.
M.A. (Counselling Psychology)