Hi, my name is Cheryl D’ La Rotta and I am a doctoral student at Walden University. 

I am conducting a qualitative research study titled: Interpersonal Violence Within Same-Sex Relationships: The Survivor’s Perspective of Counselor Competency. This study is a requirement for my doctoral degree in Counseling Education, and Supervision specializing in Forensic Mental Health at Walden University. Specifically, I am gathering information about the lived experiences of survivors of domestic violence who identify as gay or lesbian, and their personal opinions of their counseling experience. Part of the data collection would include one interview session lasting no longer than 90 minutes. This could be done virtually due to the social distancing issue or if you are in a different location than Florida. If you are in the Tampa, St. Petersburg, or Clearwater area depending again, if the social distancing is still active, we would meet virtually at a time agreed by both of us. If this has been uplifted, then we can meet at a public location near you. To say “Thank-You” for participating in the study, I will give you $25.00 cash. 

The inclusion criteria to be in the study include participants who identify as gay or lesbian and have experienced a same-sex relationship where interpersonal violence (abuse) occurred for at least 6 months. These events include but are not limited to: physical, emotional, verbal, sexual abuse. All participants must be at least 18 years old or older, speak English and have participated in therapy with a licensed professional for at least three months. My goal is to start the interview process in the next three-four weeks. If you need any additional information please feel free to reach out to me via email. 

Sincerely

Cheryl D’ La Rotta
Walden University CES – Specialization: Forensic Mental Health 

Cheryl.dlarotta@waldenu.edu

IRB Approval Number: 05-22-20-0136364

Dr. Corinne Bridges – Walden University – Corinne.bridges@mail.waldenu.edu