Peer Support Teams and How They Can Be Effectively Used to Reduce The Effects of Primary and Secondary Trauma on Social Workers
Child welfare practice has always been challenging on social
workers. Recently, there has been increasing recognition that
social workers are at high risk of “secondary trauma,” as result
of repeated exposure to traumatic situations with children and
families. Secondary trauma is found to negatively impact
well-being, performance, and staff retention. Historically, we
have poorly equipped our staff with tools to help reduce the
effects of the trauma they encounter daily.
A collaboration of Agency partners developed a peer support
program to start addressing secondary trauma. A team of social
workers has been trained to support their peers in managing the
daily stressors of work. This workshop will discuss the
development and successes of the Ventura County Peer Support
Program.
- Carmen Franco: Senior Administrative Specialist, Ventura County Children and Family Services
- Shelley Townley: Supervisor, Ventura County Children and Family Services
- Katie Andrews: Supervisor, Ventura County Children and Family Services
- Taryn Massey: Supervisor, Ventura County Children and Family Services