The majority of those who access the shelter system are people who have experienced trauma. Some have been victims of abuse (physical, emotional, spiritual or sexual), been involved in wars and civil conflict or witnessed violence. For some others, there has been the trauma of relocation, living on the streets or separation from family or culture. Many clients will have histories of trauma that started in childhood. A significant portion of the homeless population suffers from complex trauma – meaning that they have experienced severe trauma of one or more kinds. While many theories see dysfunctional behaviour as something that needs to be changed or extinguished, trauma theory explains behaviour as adaptive and protective. When working with trauma based behaviour, understanding the function of the behaviour will allow staff to design more effective interventions.

Note:

• You must be prompt and present for the course. Any time missed will result in certificates not being issued.
• A certificate of attendance will be provided upon successful completion.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will have a working understanding of:

1. Child Development, Brain Development and function, Trauma and Attachment Theory
2. Simple versus Complex Trauma and the potential implications for mental and physical health, socialization, ability to establish and sustain relationships (with individuals and institutions) and why many struggle with self-regulation.
3. Trauma based triggers and reactivity – clients’ and staff
4. Power and Control – how institutions can inadvertently mirror abusive dynamics and re-traumatize