Objectives. To compare the level of secondary traumatic stress disorder symptoms, demographic (age) and work-
-related variables (years of experience, average number of trauma patients over the past 12 months, and clinical
supervision) in a sample of trauma therapists and psychiatrists working with trauma victims.
Method. The study included 160 participants, 80 therapists and 80 psychiatrists, who worked with trauma victims.
Participants filled out the PTSD Questionnaire: Factorial Version to assess the level of secondary traumatic stress
disorder symptoms and the Berlin Social Support Scales to measure social support. They also provided demographic
and work-related information.
Results: The results of our study revealed higher rates of secondary traumatic stress disorder (STSD) symptoms
among psychiatrists compared to therapists. We also noticed significant differences with respect to age, years of
experience and actually received support between therapists and psychiatrists.
Conclusions: Mental health specialists should be aware of the potentially negative impact of working with trauma
victims in the form of secondary traumatic stress disorder symptom