Understanding the Difference Between Trauma-Informed and Trauma-Focused Care for Clients

As I have built my practice and looked at the websites of my peers, I often see the term "trauma-focused" and "trauma-informed" thrown around. Sometimes as therapists, we get caught up in our own jargon (guilty!) but it did have me think- do folks come in to a new therapy experience knowing what that means?

We know trauma shapes many people's lives, at times in ways that are not immediately visible. Keep in mind, trauma here can mean a "Big T Trauma" (like a time someone fears for their life or bodily safety) or "Little t trauma" (like the effects of bullying, an impactful event, or other relationally painful experiences).  I describe trauma to clients as an experience where someone looses a sense of 1) safety, 2) predictability, and 3) control.

All of our providers here at Sunrise Psychology NY P.C. practice both trauma-informed and trauma-focused care. So let's dive in to what that means:

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-informed care is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery. Trauma-informed care does not require a client to disclose trauma, identify a specific trauma, or focus therapy directly on traumatic events. Instead, it emphasizes the creation of a safe, supportive environment. In other words, trauma-informed therapy is, well...good safe therapy!

This approach is based on several key principles:

• Safety: Ensuring physical and emotional safety for clients.

• Trustworthiness: Building trust through transparency and consistency.

• Choice: Empowering clients by offering options and respecting their autonomy.

• Collaboration: Working together with clients as partners in their care.

• Empowerment: Focusing on strengths and resilience rather than deficits.

What Is Trauma-Focused Care?

Trauma-focused care, by contrast, directly addresses the trauma itself. It involves specific therapeutic, evidence-based (that's a whole separate blog post) techniques designed to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences, including but not limited to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This approach often requires clients to explore memories, feelings, and thoughts related to trauma in a safe and structured way.

Common trauma-focused therapies include:

• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): Helps children and teens change negative thought patterns and avoidance behaviors secondary to trauma. It provides skills to kids and their caregivers and walks children through a narrative to help them put their trauma in context, servicing as just one chapter in an ever-evolving life story.

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements to reduce distress from traumatic memories. Can target traumatic cognitions, as well as ways in which the body holds onto trauma.

• Cognitive Processing Therapy: Encourages challenging common trauma-based beliefs, such as "it is my fault" or "I can't trust people."

Key Differences Between Trauma-Informed and Trauma-Focused Care

Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care

• Feeling Safe and Respected: Clients experience care environments that prioritize their safety and dignity.

• Reduced Risk of Re-Traumatization: Services avoid triggering trauma responses unintentionally.

• Empowerment: Clients maintain control over their care decisions.

• Better Engagement: Clients who might avoid care due to fear or mistrust are more likely to participate.

• Holistic Support: Addresses the impact of trauma on many aspects of life, not just symptoms.

Benefits of Trauma-Focused Care

• Targeted Healing: Clients work through trauma memories and symptoms with professional guidance.

• Symptom Reduction: Effective in reducing PTSD, anxiety, and depression related to trauma.

• Improved Functioning: Helps clients regain control over their lives and relationships.

• Validated Experiences: Clients feel heard and understood in their trauma journey.

• Long-Term Recovery: Builds skills to manage trauma triggers and prevent relapse.

What Clients Can Expect in Trauma-Informed and Trauma-Focused Settings

Well, the cheat-code here is you don't have to chose! All of our clinicians here at Sunrise Psychology NY P.C. are trainined in trauma-focused therapies, and strive to meet the standards of trauma-informed care. We value clear, transparent communiation, growing safety in the relationship, and bringing in evidence-based interventions when helpful.

If you or someone you know is seeking help, ask providers about their approach to trauma. Understanding these differences can help you find care that feels safe, supportive, and effective.