Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Real Solutions 4U
Understanding How Vicarious Trauma Impacts Lawyers
During his career, District Attorney Michael J. Rourke has prosecuted numerous high-profile and violent cases, including first-degree murder, sexual assault, and crimes against children.
After prosecuting a notorious triple murder, Rourke recognized that it’s not just victims who need support for their trauma, but legal professionals too.
Through the lens of his personal story, Rourke will explain how lawyers are impacted by vicarious trauma and the effect of not recognizing or ignoring this reality on one’s physical and mental health.
In a town hall discussion, Rourke will be joined by Ellie Feldmann, a licensed clinical professional counselor, who will teach attendees how to recognize and cope with vicarious trauma throughout their careers.
Speaker Bio
Ellie Feldmann is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in Illinois and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Michigan, with over 25 years of experience in the field of psychology. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology and is the owner of a private practice specializing in mental health counseling and professional consultation.
In her clinical work, Ellie focuses on helping adult women who struggle with unresolved childhood trauma that impacts their current relationships, as well as those dealing with anger management challenges. She also has extensive experience working with professionals in high-pressure environments, providing support for compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma among those repeatedly exposed to trauma and stressful conditions.
Beyond her private practice, Ellie is dedicated to supporting fellow mental health professionals through consultation services in training, credentialing, and billing. She has also been an adjunct instructor for over 21 years at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where she teaches in the Master’s in Counseling program.
Passionate about empowering individuals to heal, set boundaries, and build authentic relationships, Ellie brings a direct yet compassionate approach to her work—challenging her clients and audiences alike to move beyond survival and into true emotional resilience.