Learn about Trauma-informed approaches on integrating an understanding of people's experiences of trauma into all aspects of service delivery.
Individuals and communities who have experienced adversity and trauma are at risk of being re-traumatized in a variety of health and social service settings. A lack of knowledge and understanding about the impact of trauma can prevent us from providing the most effective care and support. Given the influence that trauma has on health and social outcomes, it is important that service providers have a basic understanding of trauma so they can recognize the symptoms of trauma and appreciate the role they play in supporting healing. Although trauma is often a contributing factor to many of the mental health, addictions, and other social issues that challenge people in our society, the services, programs, organizations, and systems often fail to see the connection between trauma, well-being, and resilience.
Service providers may also be exposed to direct trauma in their workplaces through interpersonal violence of various forms, and can experience vicarious trauma as a result of supporting individuals and communities who have experienced trauma. Trauma-informed approaches are not just for front-line providers. Organizations play an important role in developing trauma-informed workplaces through:
Support: promoting ongoing support, training, and opportunities for growth for staff at all levels.
Supervision & Mentorship: fostering skill development and safe relationships between staff and supervisors/management and nurturing trauma-informed teams.
Resilience: reviewing policies and practices to ensure they promote self-care and resilience.
Affirmation & Validation: acknowledging staff trauma, whether experienced inside or outside the workplace (or both).
Agenda
March 10th, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM:
AM - The Basics: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Trauma; Trauma-Informed Principles (pt. 1)
PM - Trauma-Informed Principles (pt. 2); When Trauma Comes to Work (vicarious/workplace trauma and how trauma responses impact our work)
The day will be a combination of theory, practice examples, and table discussion focused on practical application of trauma-informed principles.
March 11th, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM:
AM - Intersections between Trauma and Intellectual Disabilities; How to Apply Trauma-Informed Principles in our Work with People with Intellectual Disabilities (pt. 1)
PM - How to Apply Trauma-Informed Principles in our Work with People with Intellectual Disabilities (pt. 2)
Building on the content presented during the first day, the second will include significant opportunities for table discussion, individual reflection, and interactive discussion focused on applying trauma-informed approaches to supporting people with intellectual disabilities in a variety of settings.
Your Trainer: Erin Beckwell
Erin Beckwell is a social worker and consultant who has spent her career working in the areas of health, education, and community development. She has a Master's in Social Work and is a Registered Social Worker in Saskatchewan. Erin’s work most recent work focuses on mobilizing knowledge to promote equitable, harm reduction-based, and trauma-informed community services and supports. Originally from rural Southwest Saskatchewan, she and her wife have called Treaty 6 Territory & Homeland of the Métis (Saskatoon, SK) home for over 20 years.
