How can you use trauma-informed practice to help abuse and violence survivors?

1 Understand the principles of trauma-informed practice

Trauma-informed practice is based on six principles: safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity. These principles guide how you interact with survivors, how you design and deliver services, and how you support yourself and your colleagues. By following these principles, you can help survivors feel safe, respected, valued, and in control of their own recovery.

2 Assess the needs and strengths of survivors

As a social worker, you need to assess the needs and strengths of survivors in a holistic and individualized way. You need to consider the type, frequency, and severity of trauma they have experienced, as well as the coping strategies they have developed. You also need to recognize the resilience and resources they have, such as their personal goals, values, beliefs, skills, relationships, and community supports. You can use tools such as the Trauma and Recovery Scale or the Trauma Symptom Inventory to help you with your assessment.

4 Foster a trauma-informed relationship

A trauma-informed relationship is one that is based on trust, respect, empathy, and compassion. It is essential for helping survivors heal and recover from their trauma. As a social worker, you can foster a trauma-informed relationship by using effective communication skills, such as active listening, validating feelings, asking open-ended questions, and giving feedback. You can also use strategies such as setting boundaries, maintaining confidentiality, and sharing information to build trust and rapport with survivors.

5 Create a trauma-informed environment

A trauma-informed environment is one that is safe, comfortable, and supportive for survivors. It is also one that is aware of the potential triggers and stressors that can affect survivors. As a social worker, you can create a trauma-informed environment by making sure that your physical space is accessible, welcoming, and private. You can also make sure that your policies and procedures are transparent, flexible, and respectful of the rights and choices of survivors.

6 Practice self-care and seek supervision

Working with abuse and violence survivors can be challenging and rewarding, but it can also take a toll on your own well-being. You may experience compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, or burnout as a result of your work. Therefore, it is important that you practice self-care and seek supervision to cope with the stress and emotions that come with your role. You can practice self-care by taking breaks, engaging in hobbies, exercising, meditating, or seeking social support. You can also seek supervision by consulting with your peers, mentors, or managers to get feedback, guidance, and support.