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What We Do
VitalHearts® | The Resiliency Training Initiative is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization whose mission is caring for care-providers. Secondary trauma or vicarious trauma is a significant, although hidden problem for those in our society who treat the emotionally traumatized.
Resiliency Training for Care Providers Experiencing Secondary Trauma
Our program, the Secondary Trauma Resiliency Training Initiative offers a comprehensive approach to Secondary Trauma and Compassion Fatigue for professionals working in high trauma fields.
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The deep exposure to all the suffering afflicting their patients or clients multiplied case after case has the likely effect of traumatizing care-providers. Of course, unlike the primary sufferers of trauma, it is not direct. Care-providers are not bloodied, nor do they lose loved ones, but instead they suffer an accretion of exposure to the traumas, many of them violent or life-threatening, suffered by those they treat. That, in turn, diminishes care-provider effectiveness, creates compassion fatigue, and shortens their tenure. Significantly, it is crucial to acknowledge the great emotional rewards of this work. That is the reason it is so worth treating vicarious trauma rather than just accepting the departure of care-providers.
Healers Need Healing
The healers need healing. Secondary trauma or vicarious trauma can profoundly impact professionals through emotional depletion, depression and anxiety, a sense of isolation or helplessness, anger, irritability, and cynicism. These are not problems that overtake less competent care-providers. It is, ironically, those with the greatest capacity for feeling and expressing empathy who are most at risk for secondary trauma.
If You Work In These Areas, This Training Is For You:
Homelessness
Mental Health Agencies
Substance Abuse Treatment
High Morbidity Medical Services
ICUs, Emergency Rooms, Public Health, Oncology, Neurotrauma, Hospice and Palliative Care.
Victim Services
Child Abuse, Sexual Violence Prevention/Counseling, Domestic Violence, Victim Assistance Units
Our Commitment
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Statement
VitalHearts believes in creating an environment that values diversity, promotes an inclusive culture, and establishes a profound sense of belonging for each of our members. We believe that every participant should feel heard, included, visible, and valued. We are committed to inclusion across all dimensions including race, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, physical or mental abilities. Authenticity is at the heart of our trainings, and we are committed to making every effort to ensure that all of our members are free to be their authentic selves.
