Moral Injury (also called secondary trauma or vicarious trauma) is the emotional response of those individuals who hear the traumatic experience of others.  This is especially prevalent with helping professionals: therapists, case managers, nurses, physicians, teachers, clergy, and first responders. Caring for traumatized people can lead those whose job it is to provide care to experience such an emotional toll that can look and feel just like PTSD.

The COVID pandemic has seen an increase in this “moral injury” of helping professionals—especially those in the healthcare profession. Many (if not all) helping professionals have been dealing with their trauma of the pandemic while helping others navigate it.

Due to the possible severity of the symptoms, secondary trauma can compromise both professional and personal functioning, reducing one's overall quality of life. This is where therapy can help.

I find it a great honor to aid in the protection and healing of other professionals so they can continue helping others.