Cost of Caring: Vicarious Trauma Among Guidance Counselors and Psychologists

Abstract

This study sought to describe the lived experiences of vicarious trauma among guidance counselors and practicing psychologists. There were ten practicing registered guidance counselors and psychologists from Region 1 who served as respondents for this study who worked with trauma clients and had manifestations of vicarious trauma. An in-depth semi-structured interview protocol was used as the main data-gathering tool. Audio-recorded interviews were done on a one-on-one manner after permission was sought from the respondents and confidentiality ensured. Interviews were transcribed and using interpretative phenomenological analysis, main themes and sub-themes were identified. Findings revealed that respondents’ lived experiences of vicarious trauma included engagement behaviors, changes in worldview, and physiological and psychological symptoms. The respondents ascribed meanings to their experiences namely, inner strength/grit, reality check, nurturance of the transcendental motive, recognition of psychological boundaries, emotion management, openness to experience and change, sense of appreciation, professional growth, and deepening of spirituality. Recommendations were given for guidance counselors and psychologists and organizations. Suggestions for future studies were likewise recommended.