Working with children and young people who have experienced trauma can lead to transformation in an individual’s inner experiences, beliefs and views of the world and self. Factors that contribute to vicarious trauma are important to understand. Understanding knowledge and frameworks of professional wellbeing can sustain and support practitioners in this complex area of practice.

The Neurobiology of professional wellbeing course explores the impact of working with traumatised children and young people and considers how our understanding of neurobiology can inform our approach to professional wellbeing. Self-care can be a term that conjures negative images or does not seem relevant to the ‘real work’ of professionals. However, it is critical to ensure our own wellbeing as well as our capacity to support the children, young people and families with whom we work.

‘Vicarious trauma’ is a psychological term used to refer to changes in a person that can occur when they are repeatedly exposed to traumatic material within the context of their work. The experience of vicarious trauma can lead to a transformation in an individual’s inner experiences, core beliefs, and cognitive schema as well as a disruption in their view of self, others and the world. There are a number of factors – personal, professional and organisational – which contribute to the risk of experiencing vicarious trauma. Preventing vicarious trauma is grounded in a range of strategies and activities that include self-care.

This workshop supports us to conceptualise the neurobiological components of vicarious trauma and offers a professional framework to ensure our wellbeing in the midst of this challenging work. It is suitable for all professionals and organisations working with children and young people who have experienced trauma.

Facilitator
This training is delivered by experienced professional trainers with expertise and experience in trauma informed intervention and practice. Our trainers have a strong understanding of trauma and its impact on children and families, translating this knowledge into practice in a range of professional contexts. A focus on application to practice via discussion and strategy is a core component of the workshop.

This workshop is aimed at people working with and caring for children and young people who have experienced trauma, including child protection practitioners, mental health and allied health professionals and other therapeutic practitioners, educators and early-learning staff, family support services, and out-of-home care staff.