What is Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-informed programs and services represent the “new generation” of transformed mental health and allied human services organizations and programs who serve people with histories of violence and trauma.

Trauma survivors and consumers in these programs and services are likely to have histories of physical and sexual abuse and other types of trauma-inducing experiences, and this often leads to mental health and other types of co-occurring disorders such as health problems, substance abuse problems, eating disorders, HIV/AIDS issues, and contact with the criminal justice system. When a human service program takes the step to become trauma-informed, every part of its organization, management, and service delivery system is assessed and potentially modified to include a basic understanding of how trauma impacts the life of an individual seeking services. Trauma-informed organizations, programs, and services are based on an understanding of the vulnerabilities or triggers of trauma survivors that traditional service delivery approaches may exacerbate, so that these services and programs can be more supportive and avoid re-traumatization.

Trauma-Specific Interventions

Trauma-specific interventions are designed specifically to address the consequences of trauma in the individual and to facilitate healing. Treatment programs generally recognize the survivor’s need to be respected, informed, connected, and hopeful regarding their own recovery; the interrelation between trauma and symptoms of trauma (e.g. substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, etc.); and the need to work in a collaborative way with survivors (and also with family and friends of the survivor) and with other human services agencies in a manner that will empower survivors and consumers.

Following are some well-known trauma-specific interventions based upon psychosocial educational empowerment principles that have been used extensively in public system settings. Please note that these interventions are listed for informational and educational purposes only. NCTIC does not endorse any specific intervention.

Addiction and Trauma Recovery Integration Model (ATRIUM)
Essence of Being Real
Risking Connection
Sanctuary Model
Seeking Safety
Trauma, Addictions, Mental Health, and Recovery (TAMAR) Model
Trauma Affect Regulation: Guide for Education and Therapy (TARGET)
Trauma Recovery and Empowerment Model (TREM and M-TREM)