How we accompany the distress of others can nourish us — or leave us prone to empathic distress, secondary trauma, moral injury, and caregiver burnout. Joan Halifax calls these caregiver “edge states.” To engage in truly ethical care is be deeply attuned and present with our clients and the communities in which we work. For those of us who descend into the realms of suffering – the charnel grounds of trauma, despair, and the full spectrum of self-harming behaviors – especially during this period of national/systemic trauma, widespread despair, and disequilibrium – it is more imperative than ever to engage in self-discernment of our own shadow sides and edge states.

“Self-Care” has rightfully woven itself into the curriculum and parlance of caregiving communities. We hear plenty about getting enough sleep, nourishment, community, down time, yoga, and a wide range of restorative practices. All of which are necessary – but not sufficient. What’s been missing from the conversation is a self-discerning process of caregiver edge states and the value they offer.

As we consult together about both client and therapist, we’ll consider how the following perspectives affect our ability to offer sustainable care with both compassion and equanimity:
* The neuroscience-based distinction between compassion and empathy.
* The critical importance of both compassion and equanimity in offering care with a “soft front and a strong back.”
* To be on the Path of Care without being attached to outcome.
* Our “lineage narratives” of how we became caregivers
* How we relationally hide behind the role of caregiver, however interpersonally nourishing it may be.
* How to “find a place of rest in the middle of things.”
* G.R.A.C.E.: The Trauma-Informed Model for Resilient Caregiving.

This process of self-discernment is the “oxygen mask” we are encouraged to place on before we assist others. It is what will keep us grounded, connected to our intention, attuned, compassionate, and engaged, not lapsing into anxiously over-functioning or withdrawing into disengagement. Being able to sustainably provide support and compassionate care while preventing empathic distress and caregiver fatigue: this is truly the highest ethical value – both for ourselves and those for whom we care.

Book: Standing at the Edge: Finding Freedom Where Fear and Courage Meet by Joan Halifax
Group will be Interpersonal, experiential, contemplative, client- and therapist-focused

Details and Options:
6 per group
8 weeks
9/25 – 11/13, 5-7pm
$50 per meeting
CEU’s available for LPC, LMFT, LCSW

Please message to inquire about group specifics and secure a spot in the group.
*Note: registration for this workshop opens on September 10. Please contact me for me information.

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Reviews of Standing at the Edge by Mate, Goleman, and others.

“In this beautifully written volume, Joan Halifax combines a spiritual master’s depth, the insight of a psychologist, and the vision of a prophet to help us fulfill our humane duty towards others while maintaining respect and care for our own body, mind, and soul.” – Gabor Maté, MD, author of In The Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters With Addiction

“Roshi Joan Halifax embodies what she teaches: equanimity, dedication to benefiting others, and putting compassion into action. Her no-nonsense approach to the emotions that push us to our edge—and can also propel our greatest good—truly inspires. In Standing at the Edge she offers us all a fascinating read and a practical roadmap to fulfilling our personal good work.” – Daniel Goleman, New York Times bestselling author of Altered Traits and Emotional Intelligence

“Reading Standing at the Edge, I am struck by Joan Halifax’s honesty and hard-won humility. This is an unusual, courageous, and inspiring work, a true guide to keeping one’s footing in these unstable and perilous times.” —Mark Epstein, MD and author of Advice Not Given: A Guide to Getting Over Yourself and Going to Pieces Without Falling Apart

“This book is a gift to anyone who seeks to serve others. With unwavering honesty and startling clarity, Joan Halifax examines the potential pitfalls of our virtuous intentions, taking on issues that concern people who are drawn to service. With characteristic intellectual precision, scholarship, and real-world experience, Standing at the Edge is food for the soul.” —Ira Byock, MD, author of Dying Well and The Best Care Possible