Introduction to Trauma-Informed Care – Passport to Careers State Conference 2020

Research suggests that between 60-80% of the population experiences at least one traumatic event during their lives, and prevalence of trauma is higher still for youth who have been homeless or involved in the foster care system. As communities respond to ongoing stress and potential traumas related to COVID-19 and its impacts, trauma-informed care is increasingly relevant. By working from a trauma-informed perspective, professionals can ensure that the services they provide are sensitive and relevant for trauma-affected individuals and communities. This workshop offers an introduction to trauma-informed care, including definitions of acute and chronic trauma, impacts on brain and behavior, foundations of trauma-informed care, and concrete strategies for professionals to provide sustainable and effective support within their roles.

Participants will learn definitions for acute and chronic trauma, common impacts of trauma on brain and behavior, foundations of trauma-informed care, and concrete strategies to implement trauma-informed practices within their roles.

Presented by Anna Scott and Sarah Odell of Southwest Youth & Family Services.

With over 23 years of combined experience working with diverse populations of youth and families in a variety of settings both in the USA and abroad, Anna and Sarah’s past and present relationships with trauma-affected youth and families inform and shape their perspectives and presentation. While protecting client confidentiality is critical for all mental health professionals, a primary tenet of trauma-informed care is empowerment, voice, and choice. Meeting trauma-affected individuals where they are, respecting their right to make choices in their lives, and empowering them to use their voices will be emphasized as essential parts of trauma-informed service provision.