The Power of Perspective: A Supervisor’s Journey with Trauma-Informed Care Certification

At The New Foster Care, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective support for young adults aging out of foster care. A key aspect of our mission is ensuring that our team is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to offer trauma-informed care. Recently, one of our supervisors completed their Trauma-Informed Care certification, gaining valuable insights that are shaping their approach to supporting our participants.

In this Q&A, they share their biggest takeaways, eye-opening moments, and how this certification is influencing their work.

Key Takeaways from Trauma-Informed Care Certification

Q: Can you share a key takeaway from the Trauma-Informed Care certification that resonated with you?

A: Especially in the social work field, perception is everything! A major takeaway from the certification was how crucial understanding another person’s perception of a situation is. This awareness allows us to provide better support or guidance. It may seem like a small detail, but if someone feels wronged, their emotions and perspective can significantly affect their engagement with the process. This understanding has deeply impacted how I approach conversations and support for individuals, ensuring I consider their point of view to better meet their needs.

Eye-Opening Moments and New Approaches

Q: Were there any eye-opening moments or concepts that changed the way you approach your work?

A: So many! One of my favorite parts of the certificate program was choosing courses that fit my role. As a manager, one course in particular, on compassion fatigue, was eye-opening. We learned that the same areas of the brain light up when someone experiences physical pain and when they feel compassion! This connection made me realize how deeply the mental effects of working in caregiving fields can impact us. It’s furthered my commitment to prioritize self-care and advocate for organizational practices that support the well-being of the team.

Another eye-opening moment was when we discussed the importance of understanding the effects trauma can have on every part of a person's mind and body, and even further, how person-to-person trauma can present so differently. We explored the high diagnosis rate of ADHD in children with experience in the foster care system, and how the symptoms of ADHD and PTSD have a lot of overlap. This highlighted the complexity of trauma and reinforced the need for a careful and individualized approach when working with those who have experienced significant adversity. It’s a reminder that we must consider the full context of each person’s experiences to provide the most effective support.

Applying Trauma-Informed Care to Foster Care Transitions

Q: In what ways has this certification influenced your perspective on supporting young people aging out of foster care?

A: The certification has helped me better understand the emotional responses we might encounter from our participants, particularly stressors that seem minor but can lead to major reactions. Understanding the root of these reactions, such as trauma triggers, helps me tailor my support and ensures we respond with compassion and patience.

It’s also reinforced the importance of creating a stable, supportive environment that addresses both their immediate and long-term needs as they transition out of foster care.

Recommendations and Advice for Others

Q: Would you recommend this certification to others in similar roles?

A: Yes!

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a Trauma-Informed approach in their work?

A: Start with small steps! Trauma-Informed Care can seem overwhelming with the number of resources and models available, but it’s important to start with one technique or approach. As you get comfortable and see how it benefits your work, you can gradually incorporate more. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Each small change makes a difference in how we support those we serve.

The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care

This certification has reinforced the power of a trauma-informed approach in shaping how we support young adults transitioning out of foster care. By understanding individual perspectives, recognizing trauma responses, and taking steps to prevent compassion fatigue among caregivers, we can create a more effective and empathetic support system.

At The New Foster Care, we remain dedicated to ensuring our team is equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to provide the highest level of care. If you’re interested in learning more about trauma-informed care and how it impacts the lives of those aging out of foster care, stay connected with us for more insights and resources.