Trauma-Informed Care
In October 2024, we achieved certification in the Sanctuary Model of Care. This model offers trauma-informed and responsive care by educating and providing tools on understanding and responding to trauma. Every WCBS employee is required to undergo Sanctuary training, and all individuals served will experience Sanctuary through community meetings, creating self-care and safety plans, and using tools like S.E.L.F. to solve problems.
Sanctuary’s core principle revolves around using a shared language, minimizing re-traumatization, and recognizing that trauma and adversity affect everyone.
Shared Language
Every employee at WCBS is trained in Sanctuary, and all clients are introduced to it. We use a common language to avoid confusion and ensure alignment. One of our key commitments is open communication. By maintaining a shared language and being open, we prevent secrecy, potential crises, re-traumatization, and future issues.
Reducing Re-Traumatization
We start by altering our language, especially when assisting someone facing challenges or displaying worrying behavior. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with you?” we ask, “What happened to you?” Being mindful of language and responses in stressful situations helps prevent re-traumatization by focusing on intent versus impact. We emphasize growth and change, offering tools for immediate response and debriefing to improve future actions without shaming anyone. These practices enhance trauma-informed care and member engagement.
Trauma & Adversity are Pervasive Experiences
It’s crucial to understand that everyone has something affecting them, so we lead with compassion and kindness. Accountability remains key in our care, and we train on holding each other accountable in a supportive way. Recognizing trauma histories and their potential toxic stress is vital for effective trauma-responsive methods.
Sanctuary represents a lifestyle, and WCBS has embraced these changes over the past three years as we worked towards certification. By adhering to our seven commitments, understanding trauma theory, adapting our language, and equipping ourselves to treat those we serve with a solution-focused mindset, we have successfully implemented our trauma-informed and responsive care model.
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