Carrying the torch of hope

: An investigation into the experiences of shared interpersonal trauma in the therapeutic relationship

Abstract

Background and aims: Existing research has identified that therapists with a history of interpersonal trauma can experience both negative and positive implications from the therapeutic work with traumatised clients. The topic has predominantly been explored using quantitative research methods, highlighting an inconsistency as to whether a trauma history in gnificant contributing factor to the positive and negative implications of the work. To date, little is known about how therapists with a history of interpersonal trauma experience this therapeutic work with their clients. This study therefore aimed to provide further insight by using a qualitative approach to investigate accounts of therapists with a history of interpersonal trauma working therapeutically with traumatised clients.
Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight qualified therapists who work therapeutically with traumatised clients in their current practice. Interview transcripts were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).
Results: Results: The analysis produced three master themes with nine sub-themes, (1) Navigating challenges and rewards, (2) Getting to know the self: a protective quality, and (3) “You’re affected all your life”: the permanent imprint of interpersonal trauma.
Conclusion: The key findings of this research study suggest that therapists who have a history of interpersonal trauma can mitigate both the negative and positive implications of their work. Three factors were identified: continuous self- awareness, obtaining training in working with trauma, and engaging in self-care practices focused on nervous system regulation. These findings could pave the way for larger scale studies seeking to identify to what extent these three factors contribute to robust working practice in this group of therapists.

Date of Award	9 May 2023
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Roehampton
Supervisor	Mark Donati (Director of Studies) & Jasmine Childs-Fegredo (Co-Supervisor)