Many social workers and other helping professionals dedicate their careers to supporting others while carrying unresolved childhood trauma of their own. In this episode of Social Work Talks, NASW member Elisabeth Joy LaMotte, LICSW, speaks with social work educator and author Adam McCormick about his brand new NASW Press book, Healing the Helping Professional: The Unfinished Business of Childhood Trauma.

McCormick examines how adverse childhood experiences can shape professional practice, workplace relationships, self-perception, and overall well-being. He discusses the ways unresolved trauma may influence helping professionals throughout their careers and offers insights into the healing process, emphasizing self-awareness, resilience, and personal growth.

This conversation explores the importance of addressing the emotional impact of childhood trauma, not only for personal well-being, but also for sustaining an effective, ethical, and compassionate social work practice. Social workers, counselors, therapists, and other helping professionals will gain valuable perspectives on the connection between healing, professional development, and long-term career sustainability.

Guest: Adam McCormick, MSSW, PhD, is a Professor of Social Work at St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas.
Host: Elisabeth Joy LaMotte, LICSW, DC Counseling and Psychotherapy Center

September 30, 2026

Read a transcript of episode 149

Watch episode 149 on YouTube

Resources