Which of the following is a recommended prevention strategy for practitioners to address vicarious trauma?

• A. Increase caseload and skip supervision
• B. Regular supervision/peer support and deliberate self-care routines with boundaries
• C. Isolate from colleagues
• D. Ignore self-care

Answer: (D)

Preventing vicarious trauma relies on ongoing support and self-care practices that help practitioners process exposure to clients’ trauma and protect their well-being. Regular supervision and peer support provide a space to reflect on difficult cases, recognize early reactions, receive guidance, and stay connected with colleagues, which reduces isolation and reinforces professional boundaries. Deliberate self-care routines with clear boundaries—consistent sleep, healthy habits, time off, and clear limits on work hours—help maintain resilience and sustain empathy over time. Practices that push for more cases without supervision, isolate from colleagues, or neglect self-care undermine resilience and increase the risk of burnout and vicarious trauma.