“Trauma-informed” is a term we hear often, but it’s not always used with precision. In the rush to meet growing demand for mental health and wellbeing support, many interventions are labelled trauma-informed without meeting the foundational principles that make such approaches safe, effective, and healing.
At Innovating Minds, we specialise in trauma-informed practice that goes beyond surface-level claims. Our work is rooted in a deep understanding of what it truly means to support individuals who have experienced trauma, especially in complex systems like children’s social care, education, and health.
To be genuinely trauma-informed, an intervention must meet five core criteria:
Understanding how trauma affects the body and the brain is non-negotiable. Trauma impacts the nervous system and effects how individuals connect with themselves and others. Interventions must be designed with this in mind, fostering the need to focus on body-based approaches to healing that centres co-regulation and feelings of safety.
Well-intentioned support can inadvertently cause harm, especially when children are asked to talk about their traumatic experiences. Trauma-informed practice prioritises emotional safety, ensuring that environments, language, and processes do not re-traumatise those seeking help.
Trauma doesn’t follow a linear path—and neither should support. Flexibility in how services are delivered and accessed allows individuals to engage at their own pace, in ways that feel safe and empowering.
Trauma-informed interventions must be designed for everyone. That means removing barriers to access, considering cultural and contextual factors, and ensuring that support is equitable and inclusive.
Claims of impact must be backed by data. Trauma-informed programmes should be rigorously evaluated by independent bodies to ensure they deliver real outcomes—not just good intentions.
Commissioning interventions that miss these principles can lead to ineffective support—or worse, cause further harm. When trauma-informed practice is diluted or misunderstood, it risks becoming a tick-box exercise rather than a transformative approach.
As a trauma-informed practice expert, Dr Asha Patel works with commissioners to assess current approaches and ensure they align with these five essential features.
Whether you're reviewing existing services or planning new ones, it’s vital to ask: Is this truly trauma-informed?
📞 Book a call with Dr Asha Patel to assess your current approach and explore how Innovating Minds can support your organisation in delivering trauma-informed interventions that make a real difference.