Vicarious trauma is a term therapists have long used to describe how they empathetically pick up the effects of trauma during their sessions with clients. But lately, we have been hearing this term used more with educators.   

School staff members are recognizing how they have absorbed trauma from their students - which has only increased through the pandemic - during their daily interactions. And unlike therapists, educators are not trained to recognize or care for themselves within a cycle of vicarious trauma.  

For this, we were really grateful to speak with Dr. Perry Camp, a longtime mental health professional with in depth experience in schools, and Mr. Antoine Harris, a licensed social worker who currently works with students and staff at Garnet Patterson STAY in Washington. They have so much experience navigating vicarious trauma in their own lives, as well as counseling educators to recognize the symptoms for themselves.   

During our conversation, we discussed:  

- Why educators are prone to picking up other people's trauma, especially in this pandemic era. 

- How to recognize vicarious trauma and the self-care educators can practice to help themselves if they see symptoms.

 - The trauma-informed policies and procedures schools can have in place to help educators take care of themselves. 

- and more!  

We hope this episode inspires a more open conversation about the vicarious trauma people experience in schools, so educators can get the support they need. As always, please let us know if you have any questions or comments about this episode. We always love to hear from you!

Thank you for listening! Please learn more about our educator wellness work in schools at or email [email protected]