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This guidebook is written for those indi­viduals who have chosen to dedicate a time in their life to work with abused women, children and their abusers. It attempts to recognize the unique experi­ence of anti-violence workers in Canada and to promote individual, professional and organizational solutions to support them.Vicarious trauma is one outcome of this work. The effects of vicarious trauma are cumulative and build upon memories obtained through listening to the stories of one inhumane act of cruelty after another. This creates a permanent, subtle or marked change in the personal, political, spiritual and professional outlook of the counsellor or advocate. Vicarious trauma has a life-changing effect on individuals, ultimately affecting their view of the world and their relationships and connections to families, friends and community. Understanding and working with the trauma is both an individual and organizational challenge.