Trauma-informed counselling prioritises safety, empowers clients, and understands how past experiences affect present needs, promoting healing without re-traumatising.
Trauma impacts many, and being informed empowers you to build trusting relationships, navigate healing safely, and support stress resilience
There are some general signs that may indicate you have experienced trauma. These can include flashbacks, anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, feeling numb or disconnected.
Trauma-informed teaching and counselling create safe spaces where educators and therapists approach individuals with the understanding that past experiences, both positive and negative, shape who they are today. This lens acknowledges the potential impact of trauma on learning, behaviour, and emotional well-being.
Trauma-informed teachers recognise these triggers and respond with compassion, fostering trust and a sense of security. Similarly, trauma-informed counsellors create a judgement-free zone where individuals can explore their experiences without fear of re-traumatisation.
By prioritising safety, building positive relationships, and equipping individuals with coping mechanisms, trauma-informed approaches empower individuals to heal and thrive. It’s not about dwelling on the past, but about understanding its influence and fostering resilience for a brighter future.
Your intuition is valuable. Unexplained emotional patterns or struggles sometimes stem from buried experiences. Seeking support from a trauma-informed therapist can offer safe exploration, even without clear memories. Together, you can build understanding and empower your healing journey.
Both offer unique benefits! Individual therapy provides a deeper focus, undivided attention and a tailored pace. Group therapy provides peer support, diverse perspectives, shared healing and is cost-effective. Talk to a therapist to explore what aligns with your needs and comfort.
No single modality reigns supreme! Trauma-informed approaches can be woven into various therapies. Explore options like: talk therapy, for example Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Motivational Interviewing, body-based practices (yoga, somatic movements), expressive therapies (psychodrama, art, music), or mindfulness approaches. Listen to your needs and discuss options with a therapist experienced in trauma-informed care.
Deepen your understanding: Explore resources on trauma’s impact on learning and behaviour. Build trust: Prioritise positive relationships, listen actively, and offer choice. Create a safe haven: Provide predictability, consistency, and clear expectations. Empower students: Teach coping skills, validate emotions, and celebrate resilience. Seek support: Collaborate with colleagues, school professionals, and external resources. Remember, progress takes time and reflection. Keep learning, keep connecting, and keep advocating for your students’ well-being.