Understanding the Difference: Trauma Informed vs Trauma Responsive Approaches

Understanding the Difference: Trauma Informed vs Trauma Responsive Approaches

The field of psychology has seen a lot of development in the last few decades, and one of the areas that has been focused on is the impact of trauma on individuals. Trauma, as defined by the American Psychological Association, is an emotional response to an event that leaves an individual feeling powerless and overwhelmed. In this article, we will focus on the difference between two concepts that are heavily used in the field of psychology – Trauma Informed and Trauma Responsive Approaches.

Introduction
Trauma is a difficult issue to deal with, and the right approach is very important to ensure the best outcome for the person suffering from it. With the advent of Trauma Informed and Trauma Responsive Approaches, practitioners in the field of psychology are able to provide better care for their clients. These two approaches, while similar, have some key differences that are important to understand.

Trauma Informed Approaches
Trauma Informed Approaches refer to the way in which an entire system, be it an organization, school, or community, is structured in a manner that is sensitive and responsive to trauma. This includes creating policies and procedures that are sensitive to the needs of those who have experienced trauma, and training staff to be aware of the ways trauma can manifest itself. Trauma Informed Approaches focus on creating a safe space and treating clients with respect and dignity.

Trauma Responsive Approaches
In contrast, Trauma Responsive Approaches refer to the way in which practitioners interact with clients who have experienced trauma. This approach emphasizes the importance of creating a relationship with the client that is based on trust and safety. Trauma Responsive Approaches acknowledge that clients who have experienced trauma are often in a state of heightened arousal and may be struggling with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or even suicidal thoughts. Practitioners using this approach are trained to be attuned to these needs and respond accordingly.

Main Differences
The main difference between Trauma Informed and Trauma Responsive Approaches is that the former deals with structuring organizations and communities to be sensitive to those who have experienced trauma, while the latter deals with how practitioners actually interact with clients who have experienced trauma. It’s important to note that both approaches are complementary and can be used in tandem. Trauma Informed Approaches can create a safe space for clients, while Trauma Responsive Approaches can ensure that the care provided is tailored to the specific needs of the individual.

Conclusion
Trauma Informed and Trauma Responsive Approaches are two key concepts in the field of psychology. Both approaches are focused on ensuring that clients who have experienced trauma receive the best possible care. While Trauma Informed Approaches are focused on structuring organizations and communities to be sensitive to those who have experienced trauma, Trauma Responsive Approaches focus on creating relationships with clients based on trust and safety. Using both approaches in tandem can create the best possible outcome for clients.

Speech tips:

Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.