ABSTRACT
In the world of trauma treatment, the clinicians who are drawn to the field are often trauma survivors themselves. is can be quite advantageous if the therapist has resolved his or her own issues. Along with a sound clinical knowledge base, the reconciliation of traumatic experiences can bring a unique level of empathy and understanding to the work. is enables us to join with clients on a deeper level. Yet Rothschild (2006) posed an important question when she asked, “Is it possible that empathy is a double-edged sword, wielding both help and harm? Does the same tool that facilitates our understanding of our clients also threaten our well-being at times? e short answer is yes.” (p. 10).
