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Understanding Trauma

Victimization, and the Clinical Implications within the Work

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP

Explore what addiction treatment providers already knew to be true: the large majority of people who suffer from addiction issues also have a history of trauma and/or victimization.

 

Experiences of trauma can cause lasting psychological and physiological effects including deficiencies in emotional regulation, problem solving and impulse control. This, in turn, can lead to the use of alcohol, drugs and/or addictive behaviours as a "functional fit" to cope with overwhelming emotions, physical dysregulation and other post-traumatic symptoms.

 

This two-day workshop explores the connection between trauma and addiction with a focus on providing knowledge, tools and resources to effectively serve clients who are dealing with both trauma and addiction issues.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
SUITABLE FOR

  • Integrating and applying a trauma sensitive clinical lens when working with individuals and within the agency

  • The link between trauma and addiction, including the neurobiology, physical and emotional responses of trauma and how they intersect with addictions

  • The role of attachment and addictions

  • Developing a trauma-informed service delivery model

  • The role of compassion fatigue when providing treatment to individuals with trauma/addictions

  • The role of addiction as a survival/coping strategy for traumatic memories and symptoms

  • Best practices for treating trauma 

  • Polyvagal therapy

  • Understanding addictions as unintegrated trauma parts of "self"

  • Providing tools and practical strategies to regulate autonomic arousal and trauma-related emotions and body sensations without resorting to addictive behaviours 

  • How to explain and demonstrate strategies for flashback management helpful trauma treatment models

  • The Seeking Safety Model

  • ATRIUM Model - Addictions & Trauma Integrated Model

Interested in taking part in this workshop or offering it to your organization? Contact us today.

  • Mental health professionals
     

  • Counsellors
     

  • Psychotherapists
     

  • Front-line workers such as nurses, clergy, social workers and residential workers who provide services to vulnerable populations

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