The work of court reporters, captioners, and legal videographers often involves more than producing an accurate record. Many professionals also carry the emotional weight of difficult testimony, traumatic cases, coverage of crises and disasters, and the everyday pressures that come with the job.
To help members navigate those challenges, NCRA President Cindy Isaacsen, RPR, founded and arranged the National Court Reporters Foundation (NCRF) Peer to Peer Support ZoomUps. NCRA members are invited to register for the next Peer-to-Peer Support session on Thursday, Aug. 13, from 7:30-9 p.m. Eastern.
The confidential Zoom gathering provides a welcoming environment where NCRA members can connect with colleagues who understand the unique emotional demands of the profession. Whether participants choose to share their experiences or simply listen, the sessions are designed to foster understanding, encouragement, and community.
“I felt like I had no one to talk to about what I was hearing and writing every day,” says Isaacsen. “I realized I just could not be the only one struggling with the emotions I was feeling, and we have an entire profession of people who need encouragement and a place to go to feel supported.”
Each session is facilitated by certified peer support and grief support facilitator Bev Perez, MSW, a former police officer with specialized training in traumatic work experiences.
“Realizing you are not alone in your day-to-day professional and personal life is the best gift these sessions can give you,” says Perez. “Whether participants feel comfortable sharing or not, simply joining and listening provides them with a sense of community. I have already done numerous sessions, and each one offers support, validation, and a sense of togetherness that I am grateful to be a part of. Thank you to those who have shown up, and I welcome others to grab a blanket and your favorite cup of tea or drink of choice and participate or just listen as we share our stories together.”
The Peer-to-Peer Support program was created to offer members a safe, confidential space to discuss the challenges of the profession and remind one another that they are not alone. All discussions are facilitated by a licensed professional, and participants agree to maintain the confidentiality of everything shared during the session. Sessions are not recorded.
Your next opportunity to join:
The August 13 session is open to all NCRA members. Advance registration is encouraged. Register here and be sure to include your Zoom name. Your Zoom name is required, and your membership status will be confirmed.
Upcoming Peer-to-Peer Support sessions
- Oct. 8 | 7:30-9 p.m. Eastern
- Dec. 10 | 7:30-9 p.m. Eastern
Thanks are due in particular to Planet Depos; Allie Hall, RDR, CRR, CRI; Early Langley, RMR; Anissa Nierenberger, RPR, CRR, CRC, CRI; Donna Urlaub, FAPR, RDR, CRR; and Lisa Buell, RPR, CRR, for their generous donations to this program.
For questions or more information, contact NCRF Director Jill Parker Landsman at jlandsman@ncra.org or NCRF Manager Alex Vlahopoulos at avlahopoulos@ncra.org.
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