Trauma-Informed Programming

According to the concept of a trauma-informed approach, “A program, organization, or system that is trauma-informed:

Realizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery.
Recognizes the signs and symptoms of trauma in clients, families, staff, and others involved with the system.
Responds by fully integrating knowledge about trauma into policies, procedures, and practices; and
Seeks to actively resist re-traumatization."

A trauma-informed approach reflects adherence to six key principles rather than a prescribed set of practices or procedures. These principles may be generalizable across multiple types of settings, although terminology and application may be setting- or sector-specific:

Safety
Trustworthiness and Transparency
Peer support
Collaboration and mutuality
Empowerment, voice and choice
Cultural, Historical, and Gender Issues

Trauma-specific intervention programs generally recognize the following:

The survivor's need to be respected, informed, connected, and hopeful regarding their own recovery
The interrelation between trauma and symptoms of trauma such as substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety
The need to work in a collaborative way with survivors, family and friends of the survivor, and other human services agencies in a manner that will empower survivors and consumers