What does it mean to be "trauma-informed"?

You may have heard the term "trauma-informed" in various fields, from healthcare to education, and wondered; what does that actually mean? To be trauma-informed means understanding the profound impact trauma has on individuals and recognizing how it influences behaviour, decision-making, and emotional responses. A trauma-informed approach acknowledges these effects and integrates this awareness into practices to provide care that is sensitive, supportive, and avoids re-traumatization.

How Trauma-Informed Care Shapes My Mediation Practice

As a mediator, I work with individuals navigating conflict, often in emotionally charged situations. A trauma-informed lens allows me to approach mediation with deep sensitivity to my clients’ experiences, recognizing that trauma can continue to shape a person’s responses long after the initial event has passed. My goal is not just to facilitate resolution but to do so in a way that minimizes stress and emotional harm to all those involved.

1. Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment

Mediation can be a vulnerable process, particularly for those who have experienced trauma—whether related to the conflict at hand, or not. I prioritize creating a safe space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. This means setting clear expectations, regularly checking in on participants throughout the mediation process, encouraging breaks as necessary, and ensuring that everyone has the ability to participate at a pace that feels comfortable for them.

2. Recognizing Trauma’s Impact on Communication and Decision-Making

Trauma can affect how individuals process information, engage in conversations, and make decisions. Some may struggle with confrontation, while others may have difficulty expressing their needs. I approach mediation with patience and adaptability, using strategies that foster clarity and understanding rather than pressuring individuals into quick resolutions.

3. Avoiding Re-Traumatization

One of the core principles of being trauma-informed is to avoid re-traumatizing the individuals in my care. In mediation, this means being mindful of language, power dynamics, and triggers that may resurface painful experiences. This is one of the reasons that it’s vital to have one-on-one conversations with clients prior to and potentially throughout the mediation process. Without advocating on behalf of either party, I strive to guide discussions in a way that allows clients to engage without fear of being overwhelmed or re-traumatized by the process.

4. Empowering Clients Through Choice and Control

One of the key components of mediation is personal autonomy and control over the process. Whether it’s setting boundaries, choosing the pace of discussions, or determining the level of engagement, I encourage my clients to have a say in what feels right for them, without sacrificing the efficacy and scope of the mediation.

Mediation Through a Neurodivergent Lens

As a member of the neurodivergent community, I bring an additional layer of awareness to my practice. Many neurodivergent individuals have experienced trauma, particularly in navigating systems and environments that are not designed to accommodate their unique needs. By incorporating both a trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming approach, I ensure that mediation is accessible, inclusive, and responsive to a variety of communication and processing styles.

A Commitment to Compassionate Conflict Resolution

I am deeply committed to ensuring that my clients feel safe, respected, and understood throughout the mediation process. I aim to help my clients work toward resolution with empathy and care, being mindful of the impact trauma may have on their journey, and fostering healing, empowerment, and lasting understanding.