Invisible Wounds: Preventing Vicarious Trauma in Practicing Counselors
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to understand the relationship between supervision and
levels of vicarious trauma in practicing counselors. Due to the diverse number of traumatic
events, the probability of counselors encountering trauma related material is quite great, placing
counselors at a higher risk for experiencing vicarious trauma (Sommer, 2008). The lack of
knowledge and training on vicarious trauma can potentially result in an impaired counselor who
can no longer effectively treat the trauma of the client due to their own distress. Possible harm to
the client receiving counseling may result if the counselor is no longer capable of providing
effective counseling. Therefore, it is essential counselor educators and supervisors begin to
identify measures that will prevent the occurrence of vicarious trauma or lessen its effects in
future and practicing counselors. This study found supervision to be strongly correlated with
lower levels of vicarious trauma in practicing counselors. Additionally, this study indicated self
care was the most effective supervision strategy in mitigating vicarious trauma symptoms in
practicing counselors. Implications for supervisors and counselor educators are discussed to
assist supervisors and educators in lessening the damaging effects of vicarious trauma on
practicing counselors
Description
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Article
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Keywords
vicarious trauma, supervision, counselors
Citation
Taylor, M. A. (2018). Invisible Wounds: Preventing Vicarious Trauma in Practicing Counselors. Auburn University.