Every ethical choice we make either strengthens or silences a survivor’s voice.
Dear Colleague,
When a survivor enters our care, they often carry a long history of being told what to do. Abusers, systems, even well-meaning helpers have all taken the steering wheel. Ethical care means giving it back. Even when that feels counterintuitive or uncomfortable.
Empowerment isn’t passive. It is one of the most active things we do in trauma informed care.
A client once shared with me that she was working hard to build the strength to leave her husband and heal from the trauma she had experienced. Her previous therapist had been hyper focused on her sobriety. While substance use may have been relevant, it was not her priority.
That contrast reminded me that ethical practice is not about pushing our agenda. It is about centering the survivor’s goals and supporting the process of reclaiming voice.
Survivors may ask, “What should I do?” Not because they are incapable of decision-making, but because they have been conditioned to seek permission. Gaslighting, coercive control, and trauma can strip away a person’s trust in their own judgment.
Instead of offering answers, we walk beside them. We explore the options together.
Empowerment also means helping survivors work through the pain beneath coping strategies. That includes holding space for hurt without judgment. We bolster their resilience as we co-create a path toward healing after abuse.
This is how we move from saviorism to collaboration. This is how we honor autonomy.
For support in navigating the ethical complexity of this work, consider booking a case consultation and work with Catrina. You might also find the Red Flags of Abuse Freebie helpful when educating or empowering your clients.
With appreciation for all you do,