What is a Trauma-Informed Approach?

 Psychological trauma is a pivotal force that shapes one’s mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. Because trauma stems from violence, abuse, neglect, disaster, terrorism, and poverty nearly every person is impacted in some way. A trauma-informed approach, sometimes called Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) provides a new perspective to better understand the impact of trauma throughout the life cycle.

No-Cost Trauma-Informed Training and Technical Assistance

The Baltimore City Health Department- Office of Youth and Trauma Services adopted a Trauma-Informed Approach which is supported by its partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Center for Trauma-Informed Care. The Office of Youth and Trauma Services Trauma Training and Technical Assistance Center (OYTSTTAC) provides training and technical assistance, throughout Baltimore City, through in-person organizational technical assistance, virtual learning networks, technical assistance materials, and links to other resources supported by the federal government.

A Trauma-Informed approach can be implemented in any type of service setting or organization and is distinct from trauma-specific interventions or treatments that are designed specifically to address the consequences of trauma and facilitate healing.

How Does an Organization Provide Trauma-Informed Care?

OYTSTTAC will aid your agency in moving toward a trauma-informed approach by conducting an agency-wide Organizational Trauma-Informed Self-Assessment. The assessment is designed to gauge the agency’s and staff’s preparedness in incorporating Trauma-Informed practices.

An OYTSTTAC member will provide feedback based on the assessment and work with staff and stakeholders in gaining the foundation of a trauma-informed approach through training and technical assistance. The Trauma-informed approach involves a collaborative approach, where healing is led by the individual/consumer and supported by the service provider. In organizations, TIC impacts many aspects of service delivery from how services are provided, to the layout of physical spaces. 

*Training and technical assistance availability are subject to change.