ABSTRACT
This chapter defines several terms used to describe the negative impact of chronic exposure to client psychological trauma: vicarious traumatization, secondary traumatic stress, and compassion fatigue. Symptoms for these states are also discussed, along with the physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of burnout. Strategies for organizations and individuals in responding to vicarious trauma, secondary traumatic stress, and compassion fatigue are included. The chapter concludes by encouraging counselors to examine their own responses to loss with a detailed list of questions for self-reflection.
