Ground rules and supervision with PTSD

Important ground rules that need to be considered before commencing work with a PTSD sufferer.

Ground rules are something that must be well considered before working with the client as some people suffering from PTSD need to be treated delicately.

To begin, we must ensure that the client is actually suffering from PTSD, they must meet at least the minimum criteria. Before undertaking a course of treatment with someone supposedly suffering PTSD, certain minimum criteria should be met. Once PTSD is properly diagnosed then appropriate treatment can begin. GP referral can be made to diagnose someone with PTSD. PTSD however can sometimes be misdiagnosed when someone is actually suffering from stress, anxiety and depression.

Once the client is matched, the therapist must be sure whether they are suffering with a singular trauma, complex, PDSD, acute, chronic, delayed etc.

It is the therapist’s role to ensure the client understands the concept of PTSD and explain it fully. Depending on age and stage of the client, family members, guardian can be included and so they are aware of what is going on.

Very importantly, being honest with the client is integral.

Supervision can be very important for some clients, it is vital the we as the counsellor takes care during our work.

Supervision can be important for some clients, to be understood that there is a shared legal responsibility and accountability.

When it comes for group sessions of counselling, some therapists sit together and so can confer on each other’s work if needed.

Supervision exists for two reasons; firstly being to protect clients, and secondly to improve the ability of counsellors to provide value to their clients. Having this supervision simply protects the clients and also counsellors by involving impartial third parties, this reducing the risk of serious oversight and helping the therapist to appropriately reflect on their ideas, thoughts, feelings and so on. The supervision can perhaps bring a different perspective that could be useful especially in a more challenging case. To improve value and respectful supervision.

Listening when children play is important and can help be aware of potential risks. Discussing the limits of confidentiality and so the client feels safe to express themselves.

Vicarious trauma can strongly affect the counsellor and so it is important that they also seek advice if needed, do not carry too much on themselves.