Dr Monique de Klerk is a senior counselling psychologist at the NWU's Centre for Health and Human Performance (CHHP)
Dr Monique de Klerk knows the difference between the theoretical and the practical. As a senior counselling psychologist at the Centre for Health and Human Performance (CHHP) of the North-West University (NWU), she runs the psychology intern training programme at the centre. Beyond her academic expertise, her work as a clinician in practice provides her with unique insights into the human condition.
Having completed her PhD on a crisis containment model aimed specifically at helping teachers in schools to support children and colleagues in need, she now specialises in trauma-focused therapy.
According to her, understanding individual needs begins with distinguishing between a crisis and trauma.
“First of all, a crisis can be understood to be something situational and time-limited. When an individual is faced with a crisis situation, they usually feel that they cannot cope, or that their existing coping strategies are no longer working. This can leave them feeling emotionally overwhelmed. What is also important to remember is that a crisis can also present an opportunity for growth for the individual,” she explains.
In contrast, trauma can have long-lasting psychological effects, largely because of the neurological changes that occur in the brain.
“When an individual is exposed to a traumatic event, it may involve a single incident or multiple traumatic experiences. These experiences can leave a person feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, unable to cope and often out of control, with their sense of safety severely affected. That is where the fight, flight or freeze response comes into play. To bring these two concepts together: a crisis may or may not develop into trauma, depending largely on the individual’s ability to process the crisis and work through the experience. Unfortunately, if that processing does not take place, the crisis may evolve into a trauma response.”
That is why clients who experience a crisis are often guided through a thorough risk assessment process to determine the nature and severity of their needs.
“When assessing risk in a client experiencing a crisis, it is essential to first conduct a comprehensive assessment of their emotional state, coping ability and available support systems. One needs to determine whether there is any risk of harm, either to themselves or to others. This involves evaluating factors such as suicidal ideation, self-harming behaviour, impulsive or risk-taking behaviour, and the availability of social support. Once that risk has been assessed, appropriate interventions can be implemented. These may include crisis intervention techniques, stabilisation strategies, and connecting the individual with appropriate professional or community support systems,” she says.
Dr De Klerk notes that when an individual experiences a traumatic event, the brain’s alarm system is activated, particularly the amygdala. This signals the hypothalamus and brainstem, activating the autonomic nervous system and triggering the familiar fight, flight or freeze response.
During this process, activity increases in the brain’s emotional centres, whereas activity in the prefrontal cortex, responsible for reasoning and decision-making, decreases. Stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline are released and may disrupt how the brain processes and stores memories. As a result, traumatic memories may become fragmented.
“When this happens, individuals may struggle to process the event as something that occurred in the past. Instead, reminders from the external environment – something seen, heard or felt – can trigger the emotional centres of the brain, making the person feel as though the experience is happening again.
“These neurological responses can lead to a range of psychological and physical symptoms, including anxiety, depression, fear, panic, intrusive thoughts, nightmares and flashbacks. Individuals may also experience increased heart rate, muscle tension, sleep disturbances and constant alertness. In some cases, intrusive thoughts may contribute to self-harming behaviour, suicidal ideation or risk-taking behaviour, while other people may withdraw socially and isolate themselves.
“Because of these effects, it is important that individuals seek professional support when experiencing symptoms of trauma,” she emphasises.
Treatment typically begins by ensuring that the individual feels safe and stabilised, both emotionally and physically. This stage focuses on developing healthy coping strategies and emotional regulation skills, helping the person regain a sense of control in their daily life.
Once the individual is more stable, treatment can move to trauma-focused therapy, where the traumatic experience is processed and gradually integrated into the person’s life narrative. This process helps individuals begin to heal from the emotional impact of the trauma.
Treatment may also involve strengthening support systems and addressing related conditions such as anxiety, depression or maladaptive coping behaviours. In some cases, additional psychological assessments or pharmacological support may also be required.
However, trauma does not affect only those who directly experience it. Dr De Klerk notes that vicarious trauma can also affect those who support individuals in distress.
Professionals, family members and caregivers are often exposed to painful experiences through the stories of others. Managing this risk begins with self-awareness – recognising one’s emotional limits, triggers and responses.
It also requires actively practising self-care, maintaining clear professional boundaries and ensuring a healthy work–life balance. Seeking supervision, consultation or personal therapy when necessary can help professionals remain effective in their roles while protecting their own well-being.
Maintaining strong personal relationships and a sense of purpose outside of work can further reduce the risk of emotional exhaustion and isolation.
If you recognise any of the signs of trauma in yourself or others, Dr De Klerk encourages people to reach out for professional support. Seeking help early can make a meaningful difference in the recovery process.
Through initiatives such as the work done at the CHHP, the NWU continues to play an important role in supporting the psychological well-being of students, staff and the broader community.
