ABSTRACT
It is important to keep in mind that though we have drawn on solid interdisciplinary knowledge about the brain, much of our work here should be considered speculative. The challenges to knowing with certainty the relative influences of various neurobiological processes require additional research methodologies beyond the expertise of most clinicians. Nonetheless, this article addresses a gap in the literature with respect to a neurobiological understanding of the negative effects of trauma treatment on the therapist. In so doing, we have explored how this understanding can add to our current knowledge of the mechanisms by which the negative effects of trauma work affect the therapist, and of the differential effects of trauma treatment. It is our hope that the awareness of neurological processes may help clinicians gain a better appreciation for the biological reactions to affectively laden client material, that which lies beneath the surface. Such knowledge may lead to the development of effective protective strategies to manage affect, minimize potential harm, and enhance therapeutic effectiveness.
