Developing Balance Amidst Treating Trauma: An Ethical Buddhist Approach

As therapists we are impacted by the trauma our clients bring into sessions. Exposure to trauma can affect our ability to be present to ourselves, our lives, and our clients, as well as create ethical dilemmas. Burnout, compassion fatigue, secondary trauma, all can come from trauma exposure. Without awareness of how we are impacted, and practices that restore balance, we are vulnerable to ethical blind spots.

In this workshop, we explore the impact of working with trauma and practices that can help develop balance and ethical integrity.

Participants will learn Reflective Meditation, an innovative, contemplative meditation approach to bring gentle awareness to how they hold the trauma of others.

Participants will also apply Buddhist teachings on the development of compassion, loving-kindness, equanimity, and empathetic joy, and how these can help cope with the impact of trauma exposure and restore balance.

"Two Cardinals" painting by Kim Knuth

"I appreciated the opportunity to reflect how trauma impacts me and the ethical obligation of self-care"

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn about the impact of working with trauma in clinical practice and its ethical implications.
  • Identify how greater internal balance can be a safeguard against ethical violations of regarding professional boundaries, dual relationships and confidentiality
  • Learn and apply a Buddhist framework for developing capacity for balance amidst treating trauma.
  • Practice Reflective Meditation to nurture connection to self and others and sustain you as a therapist.
  • Experience a unique opportunity to develop more self-compassion in the face of professional stressors.
  • Adopt an adaptation of ACA Code of Ethics as workshop agreements.

Join us in this transformative workshop to develop restorative practices, ethical insight, and personal/professional growth. Limited spots available for a more personalized learning experience.

Saturday, December 7, 2024 9:30-4:30 PM Online via Zoom

 

Cost: The workshop is offered at three price points: $225, $175, and $125. Consider what you can afford. If you are able to pay on the higher end, this will support others who are experiencing financial challenges. We offer one free slot for BIPOC therapists in each workshop. Please mail ethics@pinestreetsangha.org with your request.

CE: 6 hours approved by NBCC**

**Pine Street Sangha has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6694. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Pine Street Sangha is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

And in-person, Portland, Oregon onMarch 14, 2025 9:30am-4:30pm
Location to be announced

Register!

For more on this approach to meditation, visit Pine Street Sangha