What is Trauma-Informed Care?
Trauma Informed Care (TIC) is an intervention model that is dictated by the understanding that over stressing the brain will hinder effective intervention and stop long-term change. This model is based on an advanced understanding of the brain’s response to stress and specifically addresses innate survival responses and many other nervous system variables. A true TIC model involves all levels of care including training in stress responses for all line staff. At Deschutes Wilderness, there is an even stronger emphasis on trauma training for the clinical team who facilitate deep interventions to effectively manage stress in the field.
Making Wilderness Interventions Match Your Brain
Wilderness therapy has been in existence for a long time and has proven to be an effective choice for creating positive change. Many programs are notorious for using shock as their primary avenue for change. At Deschutes, we understand that a shocked brain cannot retain information and creates an increase in defenses towards lasting change; therefore, carefully assessing stress and strategically adjusting interventions to the individual and group is our priority. This includes a stress pre-test of all students with bio-feedback technology to ensure a level of readiness to be challenged in the field environment. Based upon the readings, Deschutes individualizes the therapeutic intervention process in order to minimize the stress responses and defensive stances which leads to longer-lasting change.
Slowly Increasing Comfort Zones
The Trauma Informed Care (TIC) model is inclusive by understanding individuals have unique life situations and stress responses. Deschutes carefully plans each step of the intervention, proceeding with caution, while not shying away from individual challenges. Seeking input from the client on each step in the process aids in transitions within wilderness immersion. A gradual increase of comfort zone boundaries allows for more effective positive growth.
Real or Perceived Powerlessness
Trauma-trained therapists understand that real or perceived powerlessness is a key factor in our brain’s ability to process trauma. Therefore, Deschutes seeks to minimize the fear response by maintaining a Challenge by Choice model. This means that input for interventions and challenges is sought with the client in an effort to create a sense of client ownership for the process of the challenge. This minimizes the feelings of powerlessness which leads to a sense of empowerment and inner strength without distress.