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Abstract
The article explores the concepts of vicarious traumatisation and vicarious resilience and the implications of applying ecological systems theory to develop a multilayered, systemic model for work with sexual abuse survivors in an agency context. Key terms are defined, drawing on recent research and publications relating to vicarious traumatisation and resilience and these concepts' influence on practice with sexual abuse survivors. The practical applications and cultural significance of the vicarious traumatisation framework are set out, showing how practitioners and clients within the organisational setting in which they both practise may work together drawing on their respective strengths and insights, to achieve mutually agreed goals. The implications for organisational strategies to support workers at risk of vicarious traumatisation, and to promote vicarious resilience are discussed.
Introduction
In this article the term vicarious traumatisation is defined and the impact on the practitioner is outlined, with reference to the research literature. Secondly, I review recent applications of the vicarious traumatisation framework to suggest the way forward for the self-care of those working with survivors of sexual violence, drawing upon the newer concept of vicarious resilience. Thirdly, drawing from ecological systems theory, I suggest a systemic model of vicarious traumatisation, the experience of which I see as existing on several levels, with each impacting upon the next in a compounding or spiralling fashion. These levels I conceptualise as relating to the self of the therapist and immediate relationships with significant others; the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist; the interface between the therapist and the employing organisation; and the societal discourses that surround the work of therapy for survivors of sexual violence.
I provide an illustration of how I see this process working dynamically on each of the four levels to propose interventions to address vicarious traumatisation on each level. The implications for the self-care of those who provide counselling and therapeutic services to survivors of sexual violence are discussed.
Background and Initial Aims
My initial aim in writing this paper was to discuss vicarious traumatisation and resilience in the context of self-care for clinicians working with survivors of sexual violence. In my practice and research, I have usually situated the concept of vicarious traumatisation (hereafter referred to as VT) more in the preconditions for safe and...