Reflective Practice as the Lifeline to Professional Self Growth and Preservation

When working with children and families during some of their most vulnerable times that include trauma and loss, we are challenged to help in often complex ways that intersect with our own lives. We can easily lose our way especially when our own experiences, possible trauma triggers, and family/attachment histories become activated. Increasing reflective practice techniques such as self-monitoring questions, mindfulness strategies, and shared reflection opportunities serves as a lifeline to greater self-compassion and professional growth. We then open the door to better understand and keep ourselves regulated in our work so that we can better understand and help children and families regulate.