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Key Ideas
The readings this week offered significant insights that deeply connected with me,
particularly in light of my experience as a veteran who was deployed to Iraq and witnessed
combat firsthand. I identified a personal resonance with several elements of the readings, and
two specific subjects spoke quite strongly with me.
First and foremost, the concept that humanity has the capacity to cause great harm to
itself struck a profound chord (Stebnicki, 2017). This thought resonated with me, considering my
direct experiences in a military deployment environment. I personally witnessed the devastating
impact of war on both the local population and their country. Additionally, I observed the
profound psychological toll it took on some of our soldiers, as well as the heartbreaking
separation of families caused by the impacts of war. On numerous occasions, I pondered the
question of whether war is the appropriate solution. The acknowledgment of the capacity for
worldwide destruction at different scales serves as a clear reminder of the intricate difficulties
our world confronts. Stebnicki (2017) also states that we do have some control on our
surroundings, properly handling this authority necessitates an elevated degree of social and
humanitarian consciousness. This entails the capacity to (a) anticipate the consequences of our
acts, (b) make arrangements for the most unfavorable outcomes after self-destructive procedures,
and (c) possess the awareness, expertise, and abilities to prevent and potentially undo a disregard
for human life.
Furthermore, the need of setting clear limits and discerning when to withdraw became
particularly evident (NCTSN Learning Center, n.d.). This component is vital, particularly in the
realm of mental health. My own experience as a medical specialist during the COVID-19
pandemic has highlighted the significance of establishing limits and prioritizing rest and
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relaxation. Engaging in self-care and recognizing the importance of taking breaks are crucial for
anyone employed in the mental health field.
Working with Trauma Clients
Firstly, it enables me:to engage with clients with an enhanced capacity for empathy and
sensitivity towards the distinct difficulties they might encounter. Comprehending the significant
influence of warfare on psychological well-being empowers me:to establish a secure and
impartial environment for clients to articulate their feelings and encounters.
Furthermore, acknowledging the intricacies of familial disturbances arising from combat
assist in resolving not just personal trauma but also the wider framework of interpersonal
connections. The impact of trauma frequently goes beyond the individual, influencing the
dynamics within the family. Military deployments in the United States have increased in
frequency and length over the last decade. Deployments are difficult for families, and children
can be affected by them. According to James and Countryman (2012), caregivers and children
from military households report more emotional challenges than the overall US population.
Recognizing this fact enables a more comprehensive and all-encompassing approach to
counseling.
When working with trauma clients, it is essential to adhere to the concepts of establishing
explicit boundaries, determining when to disengage, and giving priority to self-care. Setting clear
boundaries is crucial for establishing a secure therapeutic environment, assisting clients in
comprehending the structure and anticipated outcomes of the counseling collaboration (Posluns
& Gall, 2020). This level of transparency promotes a feeling of safety and consistency, which
can be very reassuring for persons who have undergone traumatic experiences. Furthermore, it is
crucial to accurately determine the appropriate timing for withdrawing, whether temporarily or
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changing the intensity of therapeutic initiatives, to minimize future traumatization. Being able to
identify indications of excessive stress or discomfort in clients and being adaptable in modifying
the therapeutic approach demonstrates a practice that prioritizes the needs and preferences of the
client (Posluns & Gall, 2020). Moreover, placing self-care as a top priority is not only an
essential requirement for mental health professionals on a personal level, but it is also a
professional duty. To ensure the consistent provision of high-quality care to trauma clients
without compromising their mental and emotional resilience, I will prioritize the maintenance of
my own well-being.
Christian Worldview Integration
From a Christian perspective, the core principles of love, compassion, and understanding
are consistent with the approach of identifying and understanding:the psychological impact and
disruptions created by conflict. One relevant Bible scripture is 1 Corinthians 13:7, which reads,
"Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things" (King James Bible,
1769/2023, 1 Corinthians 13:7). This passage underlines love's enduring character and
willingness to bear others' burdens. Understanding the psychological impact of combat in the
context of trauma counseling is consistent with Christianity's advocacy for compassionate love.
Engaging with trauma clients with greater empathy and sensitivity exemplifies Christian values
of compassion and care for others. Recognizing the enormous impact of war on psychological
well-being, a counselor reflects the love that attempts to understand and help people in their
challenges.
In terms of setting boundaries, deciding when to take a break, and prioritizing self-care,
the Christian worldview promotes self-stewardship, acknowledging that individuals are called to
care for themselves as vessels of God's work. A verse that's consistent with this concept is 1
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Corinthians 6:19-20, which says "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy
Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a
price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's:(King James Bible,
1769/2023,:1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This emphasizes the responsibility to care for oneself while
accepting the divine purpose of the body and mind.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an in-depth understanding of the psychological damage and disturbances
to an individual and their:family life caused by combat emerges as a critical component in
providing successful trauma support to clients. This understanding enables counselors to interact
with greater empathy and sensitivity, thereby providing a safe environment for clients to navigate
their experiences. The acknowledgment of familial disruptions broadens the therapeutic focus
beyond individual trauma, aligning with a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnection
of personal and relational well-being. Furthermore, the necessity of self-care is highlighted as a
critical component, reflecting the Christian worldview's emphasis on self-stewardship.
Prioritizing self-care is both a personal and professional obligation, as it ensures that mental
health professionals can continuously deliver high-quality care to trauma clients while
simultaneously looking after their own health. This holistic approach, which includes an
understanding of trauma's broader impact as well as a dedication to self-care, serves as the
foundation for compassionate and long-term trauma counseling techniques.
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References
James, T., & Countryman, J. (2012). Psychiatric effects of military deployment on children and
families: The use of play therapy for assessment and treatment.:Innovations in Clinical
Neuroscience,:9(2), 16–20
King James Bible. (2023). King James Bible Online. https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/
(Original work published 1769)
NCTSN LearningCenter. (n.d.). Psychological first aid online. Retrieved from
https://learn.nctsn.org/enrol/index.php?id=596
Posluns, K., & Gall, T. L. (2020). Dear mental health practitioners, take care of yourselves: A
literature review on self-care.:International Journal for the Advancement of
Counseling,:42(1), 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10447-019-09382-w
Stebnicki, M. A. (2017).:Disaster mental health counseling : Responding to trauma in a multicultural
context. Springer Publishing Company
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