Session Six: The Unconscious Impact of Trauma on the Therapist and How Trauma-Informed Therapy Makes a Difference

Session Six: The Unconscious Impact of Trauma on the Therapist and How Trauma-Informed Therapy Makes a Difference 
Content Level: Beginning and Intermediate

Abstract: Trauma therapy has an impact not only on survivors, but on their therapist as well. Within the therapeutic relationship, the therapist may unconsciously introject the emotional material of the trauma, from the client. We will explore this area by reading the research and considering the impact from a clinical perspective. In true fashion to trauma treatment, we will also discuss ways to work through the residual effects of client’s trauma in the therapist. We will conclude with a comprehensive and cohesive understanding of the development and trauma-focused, phase-oriented treatment of complex trauma and some future directions in research and treatment. Time will be given to discuss case material as it relates to the readings. 

Readings:

  1. Pearlman, LA, Caringi, J, and Trautman, AR (2020) New Perspectives on Vicarious Traumatization and Complex Trauma, (pp. 189-204) in CA Courtois and JD Ford, eds. Treating Complex Traumatic Stress Disorders in Adults, second edition. NY, NY: The Guilford Press.
  2. Herman, JL (2015) Trauma and Recovery: The aftermath of violence – from domestic abuse to political terror. NY, NY: Basic Books pp. 237 – 247 (Afterword)
  3. Ford, JD and Courtois, CA (2020) Overview and Future Directions in Treatment for Complex Traumatic Stress Disorders, (pp. 591-602) in CA Courtois and JD Ford, eds. Treating Complex Traumatic Stress Disorders in Adults, second edition. NY, NY: The Guilford Press.

Timed outline:
45 minutes: Discussion of Reading 1 - how trauma is unconsciously communicated to therapists
45 minutes: Discussion of Reading 2 - understanding and ameliorating the unconscious impact of trauma within the therapeutic relationship 
30 minutes: Discussion of Reading 3 - success of trauma-informed therapy 
30 minutes: Discussion of Reading 2 - becoming a trauma-informed therapist and the next stages

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Discuss the unconscious impacts of trauma therapy within the therapeutic 
  • Discuss ways to work through the residual effects of client’s trauma in the therapist
  • Discuss the impact of understanding underlying complex trauma for therapeutic success with trauma survivors
Course summary
Available credit: 
  • 2.50 APA
    The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
Course opens: 
03/24/2022
Course expires: 
12/31/2023
Rating: 
0

Available Credit

  • 2.50 APA
    The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
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