Free Essay

The Effects of Trauma on the Counseling Professional

In:

Submitted By marcmtchll
Words 677
Pages 3
The Effects of Trauma on Clients and Mental Health Counselors

Examples of Trauma: For this assignment we were asked to conceptualize two traumatic events to use as examples. One man-made or natural disaster and one personal trauma. The man-made disaster I choose is a mass shooting at a college campus. The personal trauma I choose is a car accident with a family of four which leaves the father dead, but the mother and two children survive.
Potential Effects on Survivors: For the survivors of the campus shooting this event may be very traumatizing. A number of survivors may experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Human-caused mass disasters can leave survivors felling vulnerable and questioning their safety in the world. (Shallcross, 2012). The surviving auto accident family members left without a husband and father are going to have to deal with grief and loss. The wife may need to cope with overwhelming responsibility and the children may feel anger and a sense of abandonment.
Potential Effects on First Responders: One possible effect on first responders to the scene of both the campus shooting and the family auto accident may be Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS). STS presents itself much like PTSD and is caused by viewing others suffer trauma (Baird & Kracen, 2006). The first responders at both trauma sites can be effected greatly even if only at the scene for a short time. According to Baird & Kracen (2006) "the precipitating experience(s) of the helper can be of quite short duration" (p. 182).
Counselors Role in Treating the Survivors and First Responders I believe that the counselors who treat the survivors of both these traumatic situations would have to approach them much differently. With survivors of the campus shooting, a counselor may work to get them through the initial shock of their experience. The counselor may also work on restoring the survivors view of the world as being a safe place. The counselor who treats the family who lost their father in an auto accident has to help them not only get over the initial shock of their trauma, but help them establish a new life. These survivors need help through the beginning stages of loss and grief and continued therapy while they adapt to their new normal. However, I believe that since both scenarios are traumatic and the first responders of each will be at the scene a short period of time, both will show similar symptoms and be able to be counseled in relatively the same way.
How a mental health counselor could develop VT or STS: Both traumatic events can lead a counselor to develop either STS (Secondary Traumatic Stress) or VT (Vicarious Trauma). I believe the counselor working with survivors of the campus shooting may more likely acquire STS, while the counselor working with the auto accident family may more likely develop VT. The family may need long term counseling, causing the counselor to re-live this trauma multiple times manifesting itself into Vicarious Trauma. Counseling the mass shooting victims likely will be over a shorter time period.
Strategies for mitigating or addressing VT and STS: Self care is a key component for a counselor to avoid VT or STS. Counselors should take care of their health, sleep regularly, exercise, and find ways to reduce stress. Additional steps counselors can take to avoid STS and VT are to manage their case load, utilize peer supervision, rely on agency tools, and to get additional education and training (Trippany, Kress, & Wilcoxon, 2004).

References
Baird, K., & Kracen, A. C. (2006). Vicarious traumatization and secondary traumatic stress: A research synthesis. Counselling Psychology Quarterly, 19(2), 181–188. Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
Trippany, R. L., White Kress, V. E., & Wilcoxon, S. A. (2004). Preventing vicarious trauma: What counselors should know when working with trauma survivors. Journal of Counseling & Development, 82(1), 31-37. Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
Shallcross, L. (2012, February). A calming presence. Counseling Today. Retrieved fromhttp://ct.counseling.org/2012/02/a-calming-presence/

Similar Documents

Free Essay

Mental Health Counseling

...A Case Study Unit Three: Counseling Specializations and Multidisciplinary Teams COUN5004 Survey of Research in Human Development for Professional Counselors Identify your preferred counseling specialization “When the truth is fully recognized, survivors can begin their recovery. But far too often, secrecy prevails and the story of the traumatic event surfaces not as a verbal narrative but as a symptom (Herman, 1997).” The history of trauma theory was first introduced by Sigmund Freud. Through his psychoanalytic theory and practice, Freud discovered what he described as a state of disillusion in women suffering from hysteria. After WII, psychiatrists noted the severity of psychological illness of soldiers who had been in combat; and would then theorize that some individuals were predisposed to trauma while others were resilient and could cope with the stress war related events. Throughout the 21st century more and more psychologists have found evidence to support that exposure to a traumatic event or several traumatic events causes profound changes in an individual’s psychological state and has today become an area of concentration and specialization. According to Herman, traumatic events produce profound and lasting changes in physiological arousal, emotion, cognition and memory. Moreover, traumatic events may sever these normally integrated functions from one another. A victim of trauma may cope with overloaded internal balancing mechanisms by displaying one or...

Words: 830 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

Police Shooting Findings

...Police Responses to Officer-Involved Shootings Introduction Both mental health counselors and police professionals have investigated and detailed the ecstatic impact of officer-involved shooting incidents. Post-shooting trauma has resulted in many departments seeking professional support for officers involved in shootings. Research shows the percentage of officers who experienced exceedingly high, moderate, or no responsive impact after involvement in a shooting. Evaluation of Personal Impact of the Study from a Police Officer’s Perspective This research has an immense personal impact on officers. The physical, psychological and emotional reactions of police officers after a shooting incident vary. If the findings of this research were to be implemented, it would have a positive, personal effect on the police officers involved in shootings (Klinger, 2006). The findings showed that most officers experience physiological, psychological, and emotional reactions just before and as they fired a gun. Their recollections of the event were found to be vague, or in extreme cases, they could not remember the incident at all. Also, exceedingly few officers experienced long-lasting negative effects after a shooting. Their post-shooting reactions were influenced by actions and attitudes of family, friends, colleagues, and investigators. These reactions lessened as activity and attention about the incident diminished (Klinger, 2006). Many police officers...

Words: 805 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

The Effects of Trauma on Clients and Counselors

...Running head: The Effects of Trauma on Clients and Counselors 1 The Effects of Trauma on Clients and Counselors :Week Eight Application Tonya James Walden University Manmade disasters and trauma causing events, such as hurricanes and suicide are events that have challenged the counseling community to learn more about how these events affect everyone involved (Digman and Ginter, 1995). None is exempt from experiencing either of these traumatic events. These events affect everyone in different ways; however it opens the door to the option of receiving mental health services and, these services can become more readily available during these times of crisis. Providing mental health services has become more and more of a challenge. There appears to be more people affected by disasters and trauma causing events than ever before. Hurricanes are one example of a natural disaster that has and can cause a significant amount of damage to personal property and can cause a great deal of mental anguish as well. A study completed by Satcher, Friel and Bell, 2007, indicated that 39% if Hurricane Katrina evacuees experienced moderate symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD and 24% had severe symptoms. Suicide on the other hand has been declared a national public health concern according to Thomas and Leitner, 2005. There are about 30,000 suicides in America every year, 80 suicides and 1,500 attempted suicides in America every...

Words: 705 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Literature Review – Trauma Felt by a Counselor

...LITERATURE REVIEW Literature Review – Trauma Felt by a Counselor Marie C Klemens Walsh University Abstract The purpose of this research is to identify that a counselor can be a victim of trauma, as well as their client. By taking care of oneself in a physical, mental and spiritual manner, they are preparing for a potentially well maintained professional life as a counselor. Knowledge and acceptance of these traumatic occurrences, is the first part of healing. The literature that I had obtained provided the reader, with great knowledge pertaining to the subject matter of vicarious traumatization and counter transference. By identifying both of these subjects as different forms of trauma, I also learned that they have similar qualities. With the knowledge that I am basing this research on and further exploration of this subject matter, counselors can be more prepared for their future. Literature Review - Trauma Felt by a Counselor The counseling profession is based on the realism as a powerful, but yet private relationship between a counselor and a client, but with ethics being a factor, all efforts are centered on being impartial and having good intentions (Jaffe & Diamond, 2011). Because of the tight relationship between a counselor and his or her client, it is humanly impossible that a client and a counselor will not endure feelings and reactions towards each other (Jaffe & Diamond, 2011). Trauma is the occurrence in which an individual is confronted...

Words: 3156 - Pages: 13

Premium Essay

Trauma Paper

...* Select two examples of trauma-causing events to use for this assignment: * one man-made or natural disaster 9/11/01 * one more personal trauma-causing crisis Rape * Explain the potential effects these events may have on the survivors and the first responders. * Explain how the counselor’s role may differ in treating a survivor of each of the traumas you selected and how they may differ in treating a first responder to each of the traumas. * Explain how a mental health counselor could develop VT or STS in each of these traumatic events. * the belief in personal invulnerability that allows one to use public transportation at night, or the belief that the world is an orderly place, are challenged by the stories and experiences relayed to persons who practice counseling or psychotherapy with survivors of trauma. * first identified the problem of vicarious traumatization (VT), which they defined as the cumulative transformative effects upon therapists resulting from empathic engagement with traumatized clients. As part of their work, these clinicians must listen to graphically detailed de-scriptions of horrific events and bear witness to the psychological (and sometimes physical) aftermath of acts of intense cruelty and/or violence.The cumulative experience of this kind of empathic engagement can have deleterious effects upon clinicians, who may experience physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms similar to those of their traumatized...

Words: 1017 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Understanding the Effects of Sexual Trauma

...Understanding the Effects of Sexual Trauma Julie Johnson Liberty University Crisis Counseling 302-B04 March 8, 2015 Abstract Rape and sexual trauma are not just physical violations, but also violations of mental and emotional well-being that leaves the victim with a lifetime of emotional distress. Victims of sexual trauma are often left with devastating consequences that affect the physical, psychological, social and even financial part of their lives. Because the rate of sexual violence continues to increase, researchers study the side effects extensively. Adverse effects of sexual violence are individualized and very diverse, leaving victims with a broad range of impacts. This paper will define what sexual trauma is and the devastating effects it can leave on the lives of the survivors. It will cover different variables such as the psychological impact of the immediate, short term and long term as well as the physical, social, and financial effects of childhood and adult sexual trauma. This paper will hope to promote further discussions on the effects of sexual trauma left on the lives of the victim as to help any individuals and organizations that might work with the victims of such violent acts. The analysis of this report would aim to support individuals working with victims in the recovery process of sexual trauma from family support, spiritual support, and the counseling process. Understanding the Effects of Sexual Trauma According to Basile & Saltzman...

Words: 2717 - Pages: 11

Free Essay

Educator in a Pastoral Role

...CONTENTS Title Page no. SECTION ONE: BACKGROUND 1 Introduction........................................................................................................2 2.1 Interpretation of Tina’s story.........................................................................3 1.2 Effects.................................................................................................................4 1.2.1 Effects of child abuse..............................................................................4 1.2.2 Effects of sexual abuse and emotional abuse...........................................5 1.3 Maslow’s hierarchy of needs................................................................................6 SECTION TWO: GUIDANCE FOR TINA 2.1 Definition of counselling........................................................................................7 2.2 Differentiation between counselling and support for learning problems.............8 2.3 Phenomenon of child trauma and its effects..........................................................9 2.4 Differentiation between parental involvement and parental counselling...........10 2.5 Learning intervention program.......................................................................... 2.6 Guidelines taken into account............................................................................ INTRODUCTION SECTION ONE: BACKGROUND One of the most important roles of an...

Words: 3282 - Pages: 14

Free Essay

Issues

...The emotional, psychological effects on adolescent children who have witnessed domestic abuse Kevin Day Pierce College April 20,2014 Introduction and population of interest Adolescents who witness domestic violence between their caretakers present emotional, behavioral and psychological issues. Oftentimes, these families are involved in the child welfare system, due to the negative violence and discord in the households, which places children at risk. This population is of great interest, as that studies have shown adolescents who witness domestic violence are vulnerable and do not have the capacity to understand nor cope with the trauma. According to Osofsky (2003), adolescents experience intense stresses that include fear of death and fear of loss of their parent. The negative effects result from children having to integrate the experience of violence and child welfare involvement, while living in a stressful environment. As a future clinician, I would like to utilize different therapy methods and specific strategies in treating these individuals. Integrated review of literature Children who have been involved in the child welfare system have experienced or witnessed some form of abuse or neglect, which causes them to have behaviour, emotional and psychological issues. Some of their behaviors, which are moderate to severe include: hitting, pushing, kicking and threatening others. Moylan, Herrenkohl, Sousa, Tajima, Herrenkohl, & Russo...

Words: 1427 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Jagger Smith Case

...Brief Introduction I. Jagger Smith presented with unhealthy sleep patterns and difficulties completing daily functions. Mr. Smith is currently 21 years of age and has been suffering from these symptoms since the age of thirteen. At the age of fifteen, Mr. Smith sought professional psychiatric help, and, due to the aforementioned symptoms, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Mr. Smith is relatively bright, and possesses an acute understanding of his problems but demonstrates no significant insight. He has experienced difficulty coping, using humor and the active promotion of an appearance of light-heartedness as defense mechanisms. He dresses casually and is poorly groomed; he places little stock in appearances and, while he may be nominally...

Words: 1821 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Treatment Plans

...Conceptualization and Needs Assessment Having a comprehensive crisis management plan in place allows members of the school staff and community to be aware of policy and procedures related to identifying students who may be in crisis. A crisis management plan should detail student behavior which may be signs of mental illness or crisis. In doing so school staff have criteria in place that helps identify those who may need assistance. According to Allen et al., the role of the school counselor is defined by the American School Counselor Association's (ASCA, 2000) by the statement, "the professional school counselor's primary role is to provide direct counseling service during and after the incident" (ASCA), school counselors are expected to serve students and school personnel during times of crisis by providing individual and group counseling; consulting with administrators, teachers, parents, and professionals; and coordinating services within the school and in the community”. (Allen et al, 1996) In relation to this definition the role of...

Words: 6116 - Pages: 25

Premium Essay

Brief Counseling Intervention Practices

...• Your intervention practices (successes, failures, preferences) o This week, I was introduced to grief counseling. I would consider my desire to learn and participate in this counseling practice a success. Despite the success I had, I would prefer to learn more about more uplifting intervention practices. Throughout the week, I was reminded that the use of grief counseling is used within any social work setting just not the hospital. It is important to at least become competent of the practice so when this intervention is needed I will be able to assist the client in reaching their goal. • Aspects of clinical practice that consume or renew your energy o While shadowing the dialysis center, the relationship building aspect of clinical practice encouraged my understanding why social work is important in this department. After further reflection, I was encouraged to remember that building a rapport with clients in any social work setting is mandatory. I was able to explore how much the social work support is helpful for patients progression toward their goal. •...

Words: 540 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Caring for the Caregiver

...Caring for the Caregiver Paul Cobb Liberty University Abstract Those who provide are care in times of emergency, trauma, and grief are at great risk for developing health related issues and complications arising from providing services to those in need. The stress associated with professions such as doctors, nurses, clergy, and family member caregivers can prove disastrous to the emotional, physical and mental well-being of these responders. Depression, burnout, and compassion fatigue are but a few of the negative results of the continued stress that is placed upon caregivers in their day-to-day dealings with the suffering. More research must be conducted to examine ways to provide awareness to the caregiver and to provide awareness training to physicians and mental health professionals who are consulted by those who are experiencing symptoms associated with caregiving. Furthermore, research must be conducted to ensure that caregivers are made aware of the resources available to them through religious institutions, healthcare providers, and social support so they may reach out and be helped. Caring for the Caregiver The purpose of this research paper is to examine the impact that caring for others has upon those within the caregiving profession. Many studies have been conducted that link caregiver stress with negative effects upon the emotional, mental and physical health of the caregiver. The American Journal of Nursing (2008) states that "the increasing numbers of...

Words: 3641 - Pages: 15

Premium Essay

Compassion Fatique

...their family. Daily the nurse is faced with pain, trauma and suffering of the patient. These stresses along with environmental stressors can lead to compassion fatigue. Compassion fatigue is defined as a combination of physical, emotional and spiritual depletion that is linked to caring for patients and their families. As the nurse loses control over personal interactions with patients and their families, and emotionally over steps the boundaries between the patient’s distress and the nurse’s ability not distance themselves emotionally from the patient, compassion fatigue sets in. Compassion fatigue is caused by the empathy the nurse has for patients. It is a natural consequence of stress that can result from becoming emotionally connected to a patient and their family while providing care. Nursing is a care profession. We are drawn to become nurses because we a heart and care about others. Nurses are the only population group at risk for experiencing compassion fatigue; anyone in a “help” associated profession is at risk. All who work in healthcare need to be aware of compassion fatigue, the risks, the warning signs and coping mechanisms. Warning Signs of Compassion Fatigue Compassion fatigue symptoms develop over time. These symptoms effect our cognitive abilities, emotional status, interactions with others, spirituality and physical health. There are warning signs that the nurse and other healthcare professionals needs to recognize in order to combat compassion...

Words: 1590 - Pages: 7

Free Essay

Trends-Human Service

...focus on the North, South, East, West of the USA, and Military serving in foreign lands for our collection of data for this paper. East One major trend in the East coast that has affected Human Services professionals is the Terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 (9/11). There is no doubt that Americans everywhere will remember the tragic events that took place on 9/11 at the World trade Center, Pentagon, and the aborted flight in Pennsylvania. “The loss of lives and property on 9/11 was not large enough to have had a measurable effect on the productive capacity of the United States even though it had a very significant localized effect on New York City and, to a lesser degree, on the Washington, D.C. area” (Woodside & McClam, 2011, pg.? ) . The attack of 9/11 changed many lives in many ways. Every day is a reminder of how life has changed with longer lines at airports, concrete barriers, a greater police presence in cities, a color-coded five-level threat system, and increased emphasis on biological weapons research. The attacks on 9/11 has affected the work of human service professionals in a major way, encountering clients with both long and short term consequences. Because these attacks were acts of terrorism; people including Human Services professionals may feel helpless. Unsuccessful efforts to understand something that is beyond normal comprehension may result in fear. The American Psychological Association (2007) divides these people into three categories:...

Words: 2189 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Empathy Fatigue Paper

...fulfill the responsibilities of their helping role. Practicing regular self-care is crucial to the well-being of the counselor and therefore, the counselee. Centering Prayer is a form of self-care. This paper will discuss literature on the topic of Centering Prayer and explore two studies on the effectiveness of Centering Prayer in relieving stress. This information will be applied to preventing empathy fatigue in counselors. Research shows that counselors suffer empathy fatigue (Stebnicki, 2007). This condition “results from a state of emotional, mental, physical, and occupational exhaustion that occurs as the counselors’ own wounds are continually revisited by their clients’ life stories of chronic illness, disability, trauma, grief and loss” (Stebnicki, 2007, p. 318). Empathy fatigue is a state of counselor impairment. Conversely, the soul of the helping relationship is wellness....

Words: 1881 - Pages: 8