What is Trauma-Informed Care?

We take working with trauma very seriously, and if you or someone you know is looking for healing from trauma, we want you to know that we are honored and see it as a privilege to walk alongside you as you navigate this process. You may have heard the term “trauma-informed care,”  but what is it? When looking for a therapist who works with trauma, here are some things to look for:

1. Safety

Not only is it important to feel physically safe, but feeling as though the person you are speaking with helps you feel emotionally and mentally safe as you process trauma is a crucial aspect of the healing process.

2. Trustworthiness and transparency

Trust is a huge part of healing from trauma. Not only is it important to feel like you can trust those you are processing your trauma with, but therapists will also go over informed consent with you to help you understand the process and know what to expect when working through trauma. 

3. Collaboration and mutuality

Collaboration is key to any therapeutic relationship, and knowing that you get to have choice and ownership over the process rather than being a passive recipient can be very healing for trauma survivors.

4. Empowerment and choice

It is the therapist’s job to focus on each individual's strengths and resilience, and support them in developing coping skills and building a sense of self-efficacy.

5. Cultural Sensitivity

A trauma-informed therapist must move past cultural stereotypes and biases, offer culturally responsive services, leverage the healing value of traditional cultural connections, and recognize and address historical trauma. Everyone has their own personal story, and it is never a therapist’s job to push their own biases or values and beliefs onto you as the client. 

We value trauma-informed care at the Counseling Center of Great Lakes. Reach out to one of our providers today to begin the healing process!