Wounds from the Work: Understanding & Responding to Vicarious Trauma in the Caregiver
Heather Evans, DSW, LCSW & Alycha Boehm, LSW | September 19 | 9:45-10:45 am
Topic: Direct Service | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
Work on the frontlines addressing human trafficking inevitably impacts the mind, body, and spirit. Being immersed in the impact of trauma, evil, and suffering will take a toll, but can also lead to a deeper understanding of self and others. Individuals working closely with trauma must be attuned to the impact of this work to remain in a position of effectiveness. The presenters believe that because vicarious trauma is an inevitability for anyone working with human trafficking or other forms of social injustice, having an understanding of it, being able to recognize symptoms in both individuals and organizations, and having a proactive plan for preventing and mitigating it is crucial. This presentation will define vicarious trauma, provide data from interviews conducted with service providers, and provide an opportunity for self-reflection as well as ideas for how to conceptualize and implement self-care and organizational-care.
Presentation Objectives:
• Discuss the nature of vicarious trauma in both individuals and organizations, including contributors and symptoms
• Present data from interviews with providers on their described impact of vicarious trauma and what they have found helpful to reduce and mitigate impact
• Identify personal symptoms of secondary trauma
• Discuss the role of self-care and organizational care and present a practical way to conceptualize and practice self-care