If you, or someone you know is in crisis & thinking of suicide, call or text 988 (free)!

Our framework approach - Well researched, proven by professionals & para-professionals, and reliable - Over & Over again.

We believe the Psychoeducational model is highly beneficial to our members. By introducing concepts like understanding stored traumatic energy, response stages, regulation, and post-traumatic growth, we provide them with crucial information. This foundation then transitions seamlessly into the Tri-Phasic Model, offering a structured framework for our meetings.

Trauma survivors deserve empathetic and respectful interactions. Our commitment to providing the highest standard of care and dignity is central to our approach. The Tri-Phasic Model allows us to carefully Assess Evaluate, and Refer (EAR), then tailor our support accordingly. This not only ensures appropriate care but also provides a comprehensive and ethical closure process that fosters confidence and well-being throughout the group's journey.

Our intake process involves using industry-standard forms to gather information, assess needs, and refer clients to appropriate services, ensuring compliance with our certifying organizations' guidelines.

Shifting the Focus to Growth and Resilience

While traditional group therapy often focuses on addressing the symptoms and challenges of trauma (Pathogenic), post-traumatic growth (PTG) peer sessions focus on a Salutogenic approach, while using the above noted frameworks, which is an extremely valuable complementary approach. By emphasizing personal growth, resilience, and finding meaning in difficult experiences, these sessions can empower individuals to thrive in the aftermath of trauma.

Key Elements of Post-Traumatic Growth Peer Sessions

• Shared Experiences and Mutual Support:
  • Empathy and Understanding: Members can connect through shared experiences, offering empathy and support to one another.
  • Validation and Acceptance: Validating each other's feelings and experiences can help members feel less alone and isolated.

• Exploration of Positive Change:
  • Identifying Growth: Encourage members to reflect on the positive changes they have experienced since their trauma.
  • Sharing Insights: Facilitate discussions about newfound strengths, skills, or perspectives that have emerged.

• Meaning-Making and Purpose:
  • Finding Purpose: Help members explore how their trauma has given their life new meaning or purpose.
  • Discovering Resilience: Discuss strategies for building resilience and coping with future challenges.

• Skill Development and Empowerment:
  • Coping Mechanisms: Teach and practice effective coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, or journaling.
  • Goal Setting: Encourage members to set personal goals and develop action plans to achieve them.

• Community Building and Connection:
  • Social Support: Foster a sense of community and belonging among members.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect members with relevant resources and support networks.

The facilitator plays a crucial role in creating a safe and supportive environment for PTG peer sessions.

• Encourage Openness: Create a space where members feel comfortable sharing their experiences and emotions.
• Facilitate Meaning-Making: Guide members in exploring the positive aspects of their experiences and finding meaning.
• Provide Guidance: Offer support and guidance when needed, while allowing members to take ownership of their growth.
• Confidentiality, Respect, and Trust:
  • Rules and expectations regarding confidentiality, respect, and trust must be discussed during group intake.
  • These rules and expectations should not be breached, shared, or discussed outside of the group.
  • Members should not be pressured to resolve issues. Their pace, needs, and boundaries must be respected and protected.
• Crisis Management:
  • In case of a crisis (including ideations/thoughts of suicide), a properly trained (with a recognized certification) person must follow established processes and protocols.

By incorporating these elements, post-traumatic growth peer sessions can provide a valuable complement to traditional group therapy, empowering individuals to overcome the challenges of trauma and embrace a more fulfilling life.