Trauma Informed Educational Practices

Oregon Education Association. (2023). Trauma informed education. https://oregoned.org/professional-learning/core-programs/trauma-informed-education

Phase 1: Trauma Aware 

This is the first developmental phase on the journey toward being trauma informed. Organizational staff and leadership are aware of the prevalence of trauma among those using services as well as the workforce. They are able to explain and advocate for trauma informed care. 

Phase 2: Trauma Sensitive 

This developmental phase builds on the awareness that trauma informed care is needed. Once the staff and leadership of an organization understand and can speak about the need for trauma informed care, they move into the trauma sensitive phase where they build knowledge and create readiness for change. The steps for this phase include Foundational Knowledge, Agency Readiness, and Process and Infrastructure.

Phase 3: Trauma Responsive 

During this developmental phase, the organization and staff will be identifying TIC opportunities and noticing what is already trauma informed. The workgroup (and others) will review organizational policies and practice in order to develop a work plan of action. Priorities will be established and monitored. The steps for this phase include gather information and prioritize & create plan. 

Phase 4: Trauma Informed 

In this final developmental phase, the organization will be implementing trauma informed care. Policies and practice will support the principles of TIC and should create a culture and environment that feels safe, empowering, trustworthy, and welcoming. This is an ongoing process of continuous improvement and monitoring. The steps for this phase include implement & monitor, and adopt policy and practice. 

Text from Trauma Informed Oregon