Georgetown Offers Web-Based Tool to Educate Communities About Childhood Trauma

Posted in GUMC Stories

JULY 8, 2015 — According to the Georgetown University Center for Child and Human Development (GUCCHD) , trauma contributes significantly to disparities in health outcomes. To help serve those affected by trauma, a new web-based educational tool offers a broad overview of the essential components of trauma-informed care.

“Trauma Informed Care: Perspectives and Resources,” a website created by the National Technical Assistance Center for Children’s Mental Health (part of GUCCHD) and JBS International, features issue briefs and resource lists to help those who work with children and families affected by trauma.

The website also includes video interviews with leaders in child-serving systems at the national, state, tribal and local levels, researchers who have developed evidence-based treatments and practices, physicians and advocates. Young adults and their families offer their perspectives on the need for trauma-informed practices, as well as the ways in which trauma-informed care has affected their lives. State-level stakeholders also share the lessons they learned following a year-long intensive effort to become more trauma-informed.

Initially intended as a resource for policymakers and service providers, “Trauma Informed Care: Perspectives and Resources” has a wealth of information valuable to students, researchers, families and anyone else seeking an in-depth understanding of trauma, its impact and ways to mitigate its long-term effects. To learn more about the project, contact the lead developer, Sherry Peters, MSW, ACSW .