trauma & self care

Working with families who have experienced trauma can be challenging and emotionally demanding. It's important to establish clear boundaries to maintain a safe and healthy working relationship with the families you serve. Here are some tips for setting boundaries when working with families with trauma:

Communicate clearly

One of the most important aspects of setting boundaries is clear communication. Be upfront with families about your role, expectations, and limitations. This may involve setting clear boundaries around the frequency and nature of communication, as well as what you can and cannot do to support the family.

Establish a schedule

Setting clear boundaries around your schedule can help you maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout. Establish specific times when you are available to work with families and stick to those times as much as possible. Let families know your schedule in advance so they can plan accordingly.

Define your role

It's important to define your role when working with families experiencing trauma. This may involve establishing clear boundaries around the types of support you can provide, such as counseling, therapy, or case management. Be transparent about what you can and cannot do to support the family.

Seek supervision and support

Working with families who have experienced trauma can be emotionally demanding, so it's important to seek supervision and support. This may involve consulting with a supervisor or mental health professional to debrief and process difficult cases. It may also involve seeking support from colleagues who can relate to your experiences.

Practice self-care

Setting boundaries is an important part of self-care when working with families with trauma. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, whether it's exercise, meditation, or spending time with friends and family. Taking care of yourself will help you maintain your emotional and mental well-being.

Final thoughts

Trauma is real and impacts student learning. To be able to support your students remember that setting clear boundaries is essential for maintaining a healthy and safe working relationship. By communicating clearly, establishing a schedule, defining your role, seeking supervision and support, and practicing self-care, you can set effective boundaries and avoid burnout. Remember, setting boundaries is a normal and healthy part of any professional relationship, and it's how you establish and maintain those boundaries that makes the difference.