Coleman Supports a Positive Approach to Trauma-Informed Care

Sep 8, 2021 | Blog

As a trauma-informed organization, Coleman Health Services understands that different types of trauma can result in a number of ways – physical, emotional, and mental. But trauma is also a subjective experience. What might be considered traumatic for you might not be to someone else. However, anything that threatens the life and safety of someone is a traumatic event. And witnessing a traumatic event can have an impact as well. 

Types of trauma:

  • Combat trauma – especially active-duty in a war-like setting
  • Crimes or natural disasters – being held at gunpoint, surviving a natural disaster can also lead to long-term anxiety
  • Abuse or neglect – whether by a parent or a spouse 
  • Traumatic accidents – car accidents, traumatic sports injuries can trigger anxiety

Recognizing trauma response as a cry for help.

At Coleman, we understand the impact of trauma can be far-reaching, and it can affect every aspect of health. People can experience a range of physical, mental, emotional and behavioral reactions. While responses to trauma can vary greatly, common reactions may include:

  • Reliving the experience 
  • Difficulty eating or sleeping
  • Isolation 
  • Questioning faith/beliefs 
  • Becoming easily startled
  • Experiencing anger/emotional outbursts
  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering things 

It’s normal to have strong reactions following a distressing or frightening event, but when any of these symptoms affect daily living, Coleman is here to support a treatment plan of active recovery that avoids re-traumatization.

Coleman is committed to providing a trauma-informed environment.

All Coleman staff are trained in trauma-informed care, and we take responsibility for our role in providing a trauma-informed environment. We understand that involves supporting self-care and wellness among our staff. Coleman supports and empowers its employees through continuous improvement – including ongoing training. We view clients and team members alike, from the empathetic lens of “What happened to you?” rather than an accusatory lens of “What’s wrong with you?” 

Coleman supports continuing education opportunities for specific trauma-informed care (TIC) trainings including:

  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) – non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy that includes combination of cognitive therapy and meditation where therapists encourage clients to remain present
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. 
  • Critical incident stress management (CISM) — crisis intervention designed to provide support for those who have experienced trauma
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) – a treatment model that incorporates a caring humanistic approach, trauma-sensitive interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy, and techniques that address the specific emotional and mental health needs
  • De-escalation Strategies – empathetic, respectful, and supportive interventions focused on calming patients with agitation — safely and cooperatively. 

Person-centered care makes a vital difference.

Coleman clients are involved in any decisions being made about their treatment. The trauma-informed specialists at Coleman will consider each client’s individual situation when creating a treatment plan. Treatment plans include therapies such as group counseling, personal therapy, family and community programs, or medication-based therapy. Clients often benefit from a combination of a number these effective options. 

We support a plan of ongoing, holistic care.

“Whole person” treatment at Coleman – a wellness approach that can offer a greater level of care by integrating mental and physical health as well as meaningful contribution and successful daily living. At Coleman, we coordinate efforts to develop a safe discharge plan as a treatment team – assuring every client’s needs are supported. 

The right support can make an important impact.

Because clients are directly involved with their own treatment plans, trauma-informed care supports a trusting relationship with staff, increases engagement and •promotes active adherence to treatment plans – having a positive effect on long-term health outcomes. That’s why Coleman clients are motivated to continue treatment and seek a new, helpful direction to recovery.

Learn more. Make a referral.

2421 13th St. NW Canton, OH 44708 • 330-452-6000

StarkCSU@colemanservices.org