What Is Trauma-Informed Care? A Guide to Finding the Right Support

 

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) emerged in the late 1990s as a response to the growing recognition of how trauma—especially repetitive trauma—affects an individual’s brain, nervous system, and overall health. Groundbreaking neuroimaging and scientific research revealed that trauma could leave individuals stuck in states of reactivity and chronic inflammation, impacting both their mental and physical well-being.

This approach aimed to shift the traditional, often hierarchical, model of healthcare toward a collaborative and empowering partnership between providers and patients. Trauma robs individuals of their voice, leaving them feeling powerless and disconnected from their own lives. Trauma-Informed Care was designed to restore that voice—placing patients at the center of their healing journey.

Key Principles of Trauma-Informed Care

When you are receiving true Trauma-Informed Care, you should experience:

1️⃣ A Sense of Safety

  • Your physical and emotional safety should be a top priority. Providers should foster an environment where you feel secure, respected, and heard.

2️⃣ Transparency and Trustworthiness

  • Providers should openly communicate their thoughts on your challenges, potential diagnoses, and recommended treatments—ensuring you fully understand each step of the process.

3️⃣ Collaborative Decision-Making

  • You should be actively involved in your care. Your provider should explore your perspective, listen to your concerns, and consider your input when developing a treatment plan.

4️⃣ Empowerment and Strength-Based Support

  • Trauma-Informed Care focuses on your resilience and ability to heal. Your provider should acknowledge and respect your journey, reinforcing your strengths and progress.

The Problem: Not All Care Is Truly Trauma-Informed

Unfortunately, many providers claim to offer Trauma-Informed Care but fail to embody its core principles. Instead of collaboration, patients may experience a hierarchical approach where they are told what’s wrong and what to do—without their voices being considered. This approach can reinforce feelings of powerlessness, echoing the dynamics experienced during past trauma.

If you feel unheard, dismissed, or disrespected in your care, it might be time to seek a provider who genuinely embraces Trauma-Informed Care. True healing happens in a space where your experiences, thoughts, and preferences are valued and where treatment is a partnership, not a directive.

Finding the Right Trauma-Informed Provider

When seeking a provider, consider the following:

  • Do you feel physically and psychologically safe with them?
  • Do they listen and validate your experiences?
  • Are they transparent about your care plan?
  • Do you feel respected by them? 
  • Do they empower you to take an active role in your healing?

If the answer is “no,” it might be worth exploring other options to ensure you receive the care and respect you deserve. Your healing journey should be supported by a provider who fosters trust, respect, and empowerment.

Looking for more guidance on healing from trauma?

📖 Read Resolve to Rise: Become Greater than Your Circumstances to gain insights into trauma recovery and resilience-building.
📘 Download the FREE Resolve to Rise Companion Guide for practical tools and strategies at www.resolvetorise.com.

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