Many of us never expected that our deepest challenge would be emotional depletion.
Dear Colleague,
We entered this work to make a difference. And we are. But sometimes, making space for trauma day after day takes more from us than we realize.
I’ve spoken with countless providers who describe feeling detached, irritable, or numb after sessions. These are not signs of failure. They are symptoms of compassion fatigue, a normal response to prolonged empathic engagement, especially when working with survivors of coercive control and complex trauma. Ignoring these signs only deepens the erosion.
We don’t need to wait for burnout before tending to our own wounds.
It is ethical and necessary to pause and evaluate how we’re doing. Reflective practice isn’t indulgent. It’s protection. What boundaries need reinforcing? Where can we say no more gently but firmly? Which parts of our schedule, environment, or documentation process can be redesigned to support sustainability?
Compassion fatigue is real, and you are not alone in it.
To help support you in your journey, I created a 1 Hour CE on Ethics & DV Survivors ($5) for clinicians just like us. It explores not only the legal and clinical dilemmas of trauma work, but also how to ethically hold our emotional boundaries while still offering trauma informed care. Pair this with our Monthly Free Peer Support Group to feel seen and supported by peers who get it.
You do not have to carry it all. And when you begin setting down the invisible load, you make room again for joy, clarity, and impact.
With appreciation for all you do,
#compassionfatigue #vicaroustrauma #providerburnout #traumainformedcare #supportsurvivors
P.S. Our Free Peer Support Group is tonight (2nd Monday of each month), go to catrinalpcs.com/providers to sign up.