Understanding Trauma-Informed Care- Supporting safety, dignity, and participation!

SAFETY:

What it means: Feeling physically and emotionally safe

What it may look like:                                 

• calm tone of voice
• predictable routines
• clear expectations
• respecting personal space
• Reducing sensory overload 

Support Strategies:

• prepare for transitions
• provide quiet spaces
• minimize sudden changes
• respond calmly during distress

TRUST & TRANSPARENCY

What it means: Consistency and honesty build security

What this may look like:

• following through on promises
• explaining what is happening
• consistent boundaries
• no surprises when possible
• clear communication

Support Strategies:

• give advance notice of changes
• use simple, honest language
• maintain consistent routines
• check for understanding

CHOICE

What it means: restoring autonomy and control

What this may look like:

• offering options
• respecting preferences
• allowing processing time
• supporting decision-making
• avoiding unnecessary demands

Support Strategies:

• offer two clear choices
• allow time to respond
• use virtual supports if helpful
• honor preferences where possible

COLLABORATION

What it means: working with the person, not doing things to them

What this may look like:

• shared problem-solving
• listening to lived experience
• involving the person in planning
• valuing input from support networks
• respectful teamwork

Support Strategies:

• ask for input and feedback
• include the person in goal setting
• use collaborative language ("let's","together')
• adapt supports based on feedback

EMPOWERMENT

What it means: building strengths, confidence, and capacity

What this may look like:

• recognizing strengths
• celebrating small successes
• skill-building opportunities
• encouraging independence
• promoting self-advocacy

Supporting Strategies:

• focus on strengths first
• teach coping and regulation skills
• encourage choice making
• acknowledge progress