Under the Informed Trauma Approach, all professionals involved in the care of survivors of traumatic experiences can contribute to minimizing their impacts and preventing retraumatizing situations.
Recently, the Sira Center participated in a course organized by the Red Cross on the application of the trauma-informed perspective in interventions with survivors of trafficking for sexual exploitation
It is common for third-sector organizations to work with people who have experienced or are experiencing trauma. Therefore, in recent years, various approaches have been developed to ensure an appropriate intervention. Currently, there are organizational models for addressing and supporting trauma. One of the most recognized is the Trauma-Informed Approach (TIC).
ICT is defined in multiple ways, and there are various models for incorporating it into the daily operations of organizations. However, according to the Agency Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA), all share three key elements(1) Detect the prevalence of trauma; (2) Understand that trauma treatment involves all individuals who are part of the program or organization; and (3) Carry out a coordinated response that puts this knowledge into practice.
”"Although with the intention of understanding and supporting, there is a risk of taking actions or asking questions that contribute to generating retraumatizing situations.".
The way to respond to a traumatic experience It is unique and personal. Therefore, sometimes people in their immediate environment fail to understand the coping strategies of those who suffer them. Although the intention is to understand and support, there is a risk of taking actions or asking questions that contribute to retraumatizing situations. To prevent these scenarios, the Informed Trauma Approach proposes creating environments that are aware of the causes and impacts of trauma itself, in order to minimize its impact. Under this approach, all professionals involved at every level of the organization must have a basic understanding of trauma and to be aware of the key role they can play in rehabilitation.
An organization that adopts the Trauma-Informed Approach understands both the potential pathways to recovery and the extent of the trauma's impact. It recognizes that the manifestation of trauma symptoms affects not only the individuals seeking specialized services, but also their families, the organization's staff, and everyone involved in the system.
Patients' receptiveness, their commitment to our services, and the team's capacity for action are largely dependent on understanding the trauma. The support and rehabilitation process begins with the first contact a person has with our organization. Therefore, it is essential that all professionals working within the program understand these principles.
Basic Principles of the Trauma-Informed Approach
Following the principles developed by SHAMSA, a pioneering organization in formulating the approach, the TIC is based on the following principles:
- Security. Safety is a fundamental principle in the trauma-informed approach. This means that the necessary resources must be in place so that people feel protected within the organization from any form of harm or revictimisation. It also implies set clear boundaries and respect confidentiality to promote trust and a sense of security among survivors. Furthermore, security also implies that the work environment is a safe environment for the people who are part of the organization.
- Reliability and Transparency. In a trauma-informed environment, trustworthiness and transparency are fundamental. Professionals must be reliable in their commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment, as well as in their communication with trauma survivors. This involves setting clear expectations and providing accurate information about available services, confidentiality boundaries, and any concerns raised by individuals who come to the organization.
- Empowerment, Voice, and Choice: Empowerment is a fundamental principle of the trauma-informed approach. It involves fostering the agency of trauma survivors, strengthening their own recovery process, giving them the opportunity to express their voice, make informed decisions, and participate in planning their care.
”Collaboration and mutuality between professionals and survivors, placing their experience and post-traumatic growth at the center of the recovery process.
- Peer Support: Peer support is essential in a Trauma-Informed Approach. This involves fostering a culture of solidarity and understanding within the organization. Peer support acts as a collective and organizational care strategy, and it also benefits trauma survivors by reducing isolation and feelings of loneliness, allowing them to feel more connected and understood.
- Collaboration and Mutuality: This involves recognizing the experience and wisdom of trauma survivors. This entails integrating collaborative working dynamics that serve to identify recovery goals and strategies that respect their individual preferences and boundaries. This trauma-informed approach promotes collaboration and mutuality between professionals and survivors, placing their experience and post-traumatic growth at the forefront. in the center of the recovery process.
- Cultural, Historical and Gender Issues: Recognizing and addressing cultural, historical, and gender issues is essential in a Trauma-Informed Approach. This involves understanding how past experiences, cultural and gender identities, and structural inequalities influence how people experience and recover from trauma.
A continuous process
Building a trauma-informed organization is an ongoing process and without completion date. Organizations that support and accompany survivors of violence receive diverse profiles, with varying traumatic impacts, worldviews, and contexts. At the same time, knowledge and practices on how to improve care continue to evolve. Therefore, an organization that applies the Trauma-Informed Approach must commit to constantly updating its methods, always prioritizing the well-being of those affected.