Many people receiving services have experienced trauma, whether through medical experiences, loss, neglect, or repeated lack of control. Trauma-informed care recognizes this reality and adjusts support accordingly.
At its core, trauma-informed care emphasizes safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. DSPs practicing trauma-informed care avoid unnecessary power struggles and prioritize predictability and respect.
Small actions matter. Explaining what will happen next, honoring preferences, and being consistent with routines can reduce anxiety and build trust.
Trauma-informed care also means understanding behavior as communication. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with this person?” DSPs ask, “What might have happened, and how can I support them?”
DSPs do not need to be therapists to be trauma-informed. They need awareness, patience, and a commitment to dignity. This approach benefits both individuals and staff by reducing conflict and building stronger relationships.
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