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Vicarious Trauma: An Occupational Hazard and Hidden Burden 

November 5, 2024

What is Vicarious Trauma? 

Vicarious trauma is the result of repeated exposure to others’ trauma. Witnessing, hearing about and supporting others through their trauma can be traumatic, even if you do not experience a traumatic event directly. Over time, repeated exposure to others’ trauma can have lasting psychological effects and lead to emotional exhaustion, anxiety, burnout and even symptoms that mirror post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Are your employees at risk of exposure to traumatised people, trauma-filled stories or traumatic material? 

Understanding vicarious trauma is critical for organisations employing staff whose work brings them in contact with trauma. Vicarious trauma does not only have a negative impact on individuals; it is also an organisational issue that can affect the quality of work your team provides, staff retention and the overall emotional health and wellbeing of your workforce.  

Bringing Awareness to Vicarious Trauma in the Workplace  

The Keil Centre is offering new in-person training sessions to recognise and navigate vicarious trauma. These sessions help employees stay well while working in a trauma exposed workplace. 

  • An Introduction to Vicarious Trauma – 90 minutes 

This introductory session can be delivered to large groups and aims to raise awareness of the negative impact of vicarious trauma and the importance of self-care.  

  • Managing the Impact of Vicarious Trauma – half day session 

This session aims to increase understanding of vicarious trauma, recognising signs and symptoms and learning about helpful coping strategies. This is an interactive session with PowerPoint presentation slides and group discussions. Small groups of 6 – 8 delegates are recommended for this session.  

For more information on our vicarious trauma training, please contact Lize van Niekerk (Clinical Services Manager and Chartered Counselling Psychologist) at clinical@keilcentre.co.uk  

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