BCS Clinic Staff attend Trauma Stewardship Training
On June 5th, the clinic staff at Bronx Community Solutions attended a
Transforming Trauma workshop, hosted by the Trauma Stewardship Institute (TSI). TSI works with professionals to raise
awareness, increase understanding, and manage the impact of repeated vicarious
trauma exposure (i.e., working with individuals who have experienced trauma). The day was dedicated to discussing and
understanding the ways in which vicarious trauma exposure can impact an
individual as well as their family, friends, co-workers, and communities.
The presenter and founder of TSI, Laura van Dernoot
Lipsky, worked with participants to identify ways to recognize the negative
impacts of vicarious trauma on one’s interpersonal relationships, both personal
and professional. Using research and anecdotal evidence, Laura
offered support and validation for the difficulty faced by professionals who,
through their work, are repeatedly exposed to tragedy and human suffering. Participants were also encouraged to ask
questions, offer support, and share their experiences.
Following the presentation, BCS clinic staff discussed
their feelings about the workshop and some of the ways it helped us to think about
and recognize the impact of vicarious trauma we may experience through working
with our clients. Many of the clients we
serve at BCS are in the midst of crises and/or have significant histories of
trauma; during our brief time with them, they often share details of their
personal lives, giving us a glimpse into the daily struggles and hardships they
face. The workshop served as a helpful
reminder of the importance of awareness, self-care, and actively seeking ways
to manage the aforementioned impacts in order to maintain psychological and
physical health, as well as to better serve our clients.
- Marsha Brown, Clinical Coordinator
Bronx Community Solutions
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