The experiences of counsellors working with trauma survivors of child abuse

Abstract

Counsellors in the field of trauma are often exposed to certain situations and narratives that give rise to emotional and psychological stress, which can result in disruptions in cognitive schema, self and professional identity. Nevertheless, the positive effects of engaging in this type of trauma work have also been noted, which include increased resilience when dealing with their clients in the healing process. Therefore, when studying the adverse effects of therapeutic work in trauma, one should take into consideration the narratives and lived experiences of professionals, rather than focusing merely on influential models and theories of secondary trauma and stress. Furthermore, this research aims to explore how traumatized clients, such as child abuse survivors, influence their helpers’ lives. For the purpose of this study, ten structured interviews were held with 8 female counsellors and 2 male counsellors, who were asked about their negative and positive experiences during their careers. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis, with findings revealing that the candidates had experienced certain degrees of vicarious trauma. Findings further demonstrate that participants experienced positive growth and positive coping strategies to counterbalance the negative afflictions caused by therapeutic work. Results suggest that due to the present inefficient supervision provided to counsellors by their organizations, counsellors feel that should adequate supervision be offered, symptoms of secondary traumatic stress would decrease. This research provides insight into the negative consequences of child abuse, not only on the victims, but also on those professionals who assist them during their healing process.