Welcome to Three Rivers Training Center. Led by Carol Miles, MSW, LCSW, EMDRIA-approved Trainer and Consultant, Three Rivers provides EMDRIA Approved Trainings and Consultation for practitioners seeking additional skills to effectively address both acute and complex trauma.
More and more people are turning to therapy, often EMDR therapy, to deal with trauma. The rise in clients dealing with posttraumatic stress disorder or complex PTSD shows how challenging the therapy can be even for therapists. With this growing workload, therapists face a higher risk of vicarious trauma, absorbing the emotional toll of their clients' traumatic experiences.
Just like the advice on airplanes to put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others, therapists must prioritize self-care. In the demanding field of EMDR therapy, where more individuals are seeking help for trauma, therapists face a growing workload and an increased risk of vicarious trauma. Acknowledging the emotional toll of assisting clients with posttraumatic stress disorder or complex PTSD is vital.
Much like the airplane safety reminder, therapists need to ensure their own well-being first to effectively aid others. By striking a balance and addressing their emotional needs, therapists can sustain their strength and provide optimal support for those on the path to trauma recovery. This dual commitment to self-care and client care is similar to fixing your own oxygen mask before assisting others – a crucial approach for creating a therapeutic space that fosters healing and progress for both therapists and clients alike.
There's a great article from EMDR Therapy Quarterly, Autumn 2023, from EMDR UK on resources for therapists to take care of themselves. To receive a copy, simply fill out the form. And if you have more ideas on self-care to add.
