Holding the Hurt: The Therapeutic Relationship, Vicarious Trauma, and the Power of Co-Regulation in Complex Trauma Work

• • Presenter: John Sykes, MSW, LCSW
  • Thursday, September 25, 11 am – 12:30 pm, Central Time
  • Virtual Via Zoom
  • Free for Josselyn Staff
  • 1.5 CEUs will be offered
  • Registration will close at 1 pm on Wednesday, September 24

Objectives

• At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will:

  • Explore the foundational role of the therapeutic alliance in complex trauma treatment, including how emotional safety, trust, and consistency support relational healing for clients with histories of neglect, abuse, and disorganized attachment
  • Understand the dynamics of rupture and repair within the therapeutic relationship, emphasizing the use of co-regulation to navigate emotional dysregulation and foster nervous system stability during moments of relational distress
  • Identify the signs and impacts of vicarious trauma (VT) in trauma professionals, and engage in reflective practices and systemic strategies to support therapist resilience, embodied presence, and sustainable healing work

John Sykes, MSW, LCSW

Presenter Bio

John Sykes, MSW, LCSW earned a bachelor’s degree in Youth Services Administration from Northeastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in clinical social work from Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work.  John is a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in Illinois.  John has received and conducted extensive training on the treatment of psychological trauma.

John is an integrated therapist, abolitionist, and educator with decades of experience in the nonprofit sector since 1986. Licensed in Illinois, John has served in roles ranging from case manager and social worker to executive and clinical leadership, with extensive experience in residential treatment, community mental health, and child welfare. He teaches graduate courses at the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, covering topics such as treating complex trauma, adolescent treatment, decolonizing clinical social work, and direct practice. His therapeutic focus includes liberation-based healing, somatic, and trauma-specific interventions. John also consults with organizations on vicarious trauma and reflective practice. He owns a private practice in Hyde Park, Chicago, where he leads a team of associate therapists and interns. Learn more at www.accordingtosykes.com.