Translating Trauma-Informed Principles into Social Work Practice

• Published in: Social work (New York) Vol. 65; no. 3; pp. 288 - 298
• Main Author: Levenson, Jill
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Oxford University Press 01-07-2020
• Subjects: Adverse childhood experiences; trauma; trauma-informed practices; childhood adversity; trauma-informed care; adverse childhood experiences
• ISSN: 0037-8046; 1545-6846
• DOI: 10.1093/sw/swaa020

Abstract
Trauma-informed social work is characterized by client-centered practices that facilitate trust, safety, respect, collaboration, hope, and shared power. Many agencies have adopted trauma-informed care (TIC) initiatives and many social workers are familiar with its basic principles, but it is challenging to infuse these ideals into real-world service delivery. This article offers 10 trauma-informed practices (TIPs) for translating TIC concepts into action by (a) conceptualizing client problems, strengths, and coping strategies through the trauma lens and (b) responding in ways that avoid inadvertently reinforcing clients’ feelings of vulnerability and disempowerment (re-traumatization). TIPs guide workers to consider trauma as an explanation for client problems, incorporate knowledge about trauma into service delivery, understand trauma symptoms, transform trauma narratives, and use the helping relationship as a tool for healing.