I have been discussing how communities can become trauma-informed. In my last post, I wrote about the permeating effect of trauma training. But this post addresses where you fall on the continuum of sophistication. It is one thing you need to know to move forward with training.
What Are the Trauma Training Levels of Sophistication?
What we acknowledge and understand is that not everyone needs to be trained in trauma at the same level.
Some individuals may rarely encounter trauma-impacted individuals but may need a level of trauma-awareness in order to understand the basics of trauma and the accompanying behavior.
Other professionals may need to know how to deal with a more serious level of trauma in those they work with every day.
Therefore, any model of training should have levels of sophistication that span a few hours to a full curriculum of trauma training where professionals can become trauma-competent.
We recognize that it is not possible for everyone in a community to be completely trauma-trained, but with an adaptable model of training, different levels of trauma capability can be available to everyone within that community.
How much training is required for different levels?
See our chart of the continuum of sophistication levels for trauma training and how we categorize each knowledge and skill level.
At Lakeside, we have been intentional in our training design to offer multiple levels of trauma training.
We provide our two-hour Trauma 101 training with other related workshops. We offer a school-based Neurologic training that provides what is needed to help school staff manage their students with the latest neuroscience regulation interventions. And, we also provide a comprehensive course of 30 sessions of trauma-training leading to a trauma-competent certification.
This continuum of sophistication allows a community to participate in trauma training at a variety of levels, so that each member will learn and possess the level of knowledge needed.
If we are going to be serious about equipping a trauma-informed community, we must be able to provide all levels of sophistication depending on each member’s role and level of responsibility for traumatized children and adults.
Gerry Vassar, President/CEO, Lakeside
