Implications of the Wounded-Healer Paradigm for the Use of the Self in Therapy

Abstract

The use of the self in therapy relates closely to the paradigm of the wounded-healer. The paradigm holds that deep within each healer lies an inner wound which may not only play an important role in vocational choice. but constitute a significant if not essential factor con--~~ .~~~~-~~~ uibuting to heal& in the patient. Its mythical origins are described along with a diagrammatic model which attempts to analyze the interactional dynamics in the healerpatient encounter. Grant D. Miller. M.D.. 1s Assisvxnt &an b r Student A f f a~r~ and Associdle Professor. Depanmcnt ul Ps$chtutrv and Brkviural Suirncrs at the Unwersltv uf N e v l d~ School of Medicme. Reno, NV 89557-(X)46. -

Empathy Fatigue: Healing the Mind, Body, and Spirit of Professional Counselors

“…Thus, the counselor is seen as a role model for emotional and spiritual wellness by the client who feels wounded; however, the counselor who attempts to act as a ''role model'' may not be dealing honestly and openly with their client. Showing vulnerability as a therapist and facilitating empathic understanding suggests to our clients that we responsibly share or disclose our wounds along side of them (Miller & Baldwin, 1987). Accordingly, the appropriate use of counselor disclosure can be used for therapeutic leverage.…”

Environmentally Initiated, Self-Confirming Alienation in the Workplace

“…Third, the concept of the "wounded healer" has some influence, particularly in the helping professions (Miller & Baldwin, 1987). A version of this concept also applies to non-service jobs.…”

Power, Care and Vulnerability: Considering Use of Self in Child Welfare Work

“…In previous decades, the concept of the social worker as someone seeking to resolve her/his own intrapsychic issues through practice (Rompf & Royse, 1994) has also been framed as the 'wounded healer', with both its positive and negative connotations (Miller & Baldwin, 1999). In recent years, several developments have stimulated new ways of thinking about the social worker's 'self' (or 'selves') (Bula, 1999) in various aspects of practice and with marginalized populations.…”