First responders and caregivers often deal with unexplained fatigue or burnout.
Caring for others can drain your energy, leading to chronic fatigue, depression, or other mental health concerns. Long-term exposure to the trauma of others can make you feel as if you’ve experienced their pain. Seeking professional vicarious trauma therapy can help you process your feelings and improve your quality of life.
People who experience vicarious trauma may deal with feelings of:
Intrusive thoughts or memories
Chronic illness
Panic attacks
Anxiety or depression
Emotional burnout
Reduced empathy or compassion
Hopelessness
Difficulty maintaining relationships
Healthcare workers, first responders, caregivers, and therapists can experience vicarious trauma. I, Dr. Vicki Handfield, am here to help address the trauma of caring for others. I can help you develop coping skills to alleviate symptoms and move forward.
Vicarious trauma can interfere with your life.
Vicarious trauma is a type of trauma that directly impacts those caring for others. While compassion and empathy are natural responses for professionals caring for others, repeated exposure can trigger emotional distress. Many professionals experience this type of trauma, and personal concerns can make these symptoms feel overwhelming.
Professional therapy can help you unpack the complex emotions and thoughts keeping you from serving others. I can help you establish solid boundaries and restore your mental well-being. Whether you feel at risk for vicarious trauma or you’re already suffering the effects, therapy can guide you to a place of rest.
Therapy can help you regain control of your life.
Direct exposure to the trauma of others can alter your perception of reality. Taking on the burdens and emotional pain of others can affect your ability to do your job well. I provide a safe and understanding atmosphere to help you cope with triggers and move forward.
Therapy can help you reclaim your passion and empathy for your profession. You will develop coping skills that help reduce burnout and build resilience. We will create a personal therapy plan that addresses your needs.
FAQs About Vicarious Trauma Therapy
You don’t have to navigate complex emotions alone. I can help you process your feelings and develop coping strategies to thrive.
Who Can Benefit From Vicarious Trauma Therapy?
Those who spend their days caring for others can benefit from vicarious trauma therapy. Law enforcement, therapists, first responders, and healthcare workers deal with long-term trauma exposure. This exposure can take a toll on your overall well-being. Therapy combines self-care practices and psychotherapy techniques to alleviate symptoms that keep you from enjoying your life.
How Can Therapy Help Me Recover?
If you work in a highly traumatic environment, you may experience extreme fatigue or burnout. Carrying the burdens of others can affect all areas of your life. Therapy can encourage you to build a solid support system that encourages you to share your thoughts freely and break free from the effects of trauma.
Improve Your Mental Health Today
Therapy can help build resilience as you spend your days caring for others. I provide a non-judgemental space where you can share your emotions freely. Contact me to get started on your journey today.