Trauma & The Case for Utilizing NARM Therapy in Clinical Social Work: Implications for Practice, Compassion Fatigue, & Burnout

NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) therapy is a trauma informed therapeutic practice for treating developmental trauma by addressing attachment and interpersonal dynamics. This model is theoretically rooted in other clinical mental health therapy approaches, namely, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Attachment Theory, Cognitive Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing, and it incorporates self-regulation and awareness, bridging with relational approaches. As the research on developmental trauma grows, new research is needed to inform clinical social workers about NARM. In this paper the authors argue that NARM is a promising model that may prevent and mitigate secondary traumatic stress and burnout among social workers and may be used in trauma work with clients. A case vignette is presented demonstrating the application of the four pillars of the NARM model.