I, like my colleagues, went into this field serving survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault because I have had experiences similar to our clients and have had the opportunity to heal and receive support. So I know from experience that we often put ourselves in a position to be triggered when interacting with clients that present with trauma, especially if their situation mimics something we ourselves have gone through.

Through my interactions with my colleagues, I have observed certain symptoms of vicarious trauma, such as hypervigilance, apathy, and an altered viewpoint on society that reflects some hopelessness. The workshop I conducted with them, a combination of Building Resilience and Igniting My Inner Light, was meant to bring introspection on our lives where we may have lost some hope, and reignite it. 

We started by discussing the meaning of fire and its symbolism in our lives and the work that we do. Too much fire can be consuming, but a well-maintained flame means hope, celebration, and renewal. Whether we’re blowing out candles at a birthday party, creating memories with our loved ones around a campfire, or experiencing the catharsis of burning objects when letting go of the past, fire is in many ways a symbol of life and a strong symbol of hope, which can help to counteract vicarious trauma.

During the workshop, my colleagues reflected on their vicarious trauma, and began discussing their coping skills and what builds their resilience without me prompting it. One of them shared that she used to not look forward to her birthdays but now eagerly and actively participates in them as a reminder of the pain she struggled through and ultimately overcame as a domestic violence survivor herself. As we remembered past years of hurt and grief from our own trauma each of us sat in awe and admiration for the continued life and fight we have in us. 

I’d like to think that the workshop reaffirmed my colleagues’ motivation to serve the clients that come through our doors, as they remembered what it felt like being there themselves, and how they overcame what they had been through.