Presented by California CASA
Most CASA advocates are already familiar with the concept of secondary trauma and have received basic training on its signs and symptoms. This session is designed to go deeper, beyond definitions, into the more subtle, layered, and often overlooked ways that secondary trauma can affect advocates over time. The focus will be on increasing self-awareness, recognizing quiet warning signs, and developing sustainable strategies to support both the advocate and the youth's well-being. In this session, advocates will explore: How secondary trauma can shape thought patterns, nervous system responses, and emotional availability—even when we feel “fine” on the surface Less obvious manifestations of secondary trauma - and how to recognize and respond to them What it means to stay regulated and connected to oneself while supporting youth who are struggling Practical, embodied strategies for self-stewardship, rooted in nervous system care, that help advocates stay grounded and present How to work with (rather than override) internal signals of distress, so advocates can sustain their involvement without burning out This session will normalize the impact of this work and offer compassionate, accessible tools for tending to the emotional weight of advocacy, especially for those who may not even realize the toll it’s taking.

CE Hours: 1.5