Neurobiology of professional wellbeing

The Neurobiology of Professional Wellbeing explores the impact of working with traumatised children and young people and considers how our understanding of neurobiology can inform our approach to professional wellbeing. Self-care can be a term that conjures negative images or does not seem relevant to the ‘real work’ of professionals. However, it is critical to ensure our own wellbeing as well as our capacity to support the children, young people and families with whom we work.

Vicarious Trauma is a psychological term used to refer to changes in a person that can occur when they are repeatedly exposed to traumatic material within the context of their work. The experience of vicarious trauma can lead to a transformation in an individual’s inner experiences, core beliefs, and cognitive schema as well as a disruption in their view of self, others and the world. There are a number of factors – personal, professional and organisational – which contribute to the risk of experiencing vicarious trauma. Preventing vicarious trauma is grounded in a range of strategies and activities that include self-care.

This workshop supports us to conceptualise the neurobiological components of vicarious trauma and offers a professional framework to ensure our wellbeing in the midst of this challenging work.