ISSUES IN THE PROFESSIONAL-DEVELOPMENT OF PSYCHOTHERAPISTS - COUNTERTRANSFERENCE AND VICARIOUS TRAUMATIZATION IN THE NEW TRAUMA THERAPIST

Psychotherapy with survivors of chronic childhood trauma poses unique challenges to therapists. In this article we describe countertransference responses that are common to work with survivors. We also examine the phenomenon of vicarious traumatization (i.e., the impact upon the therapist's psyche of empathic engagement with trauma survivors). Both aspects of trauma therapy are framed in light of their particular impact on new trauma therapists. Last, we address organizational and personal factors that can ameliorate these negative correlates of trauma work. By proactively addressing these issues, organizations, training programs, supervisors, and therapists can promote the personal and professional development of new clinicians.