Trauma informed care (TIC) recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery. It also recognizes the signs and symptoms of trauma in clients, families, staff, and others involved with the system and actively seeks to avoid re-traumatization. Implementing TIC is not a uniform process; its demonstration varies significantly across organizations. However, experience in TIC implementation reveals common developmental stages in organizational change. The Road Map to Trauma Informed Care effectively illustrates a phased approach to organizational transformation, moving from initial recognition (Phase 1: Trauma Aware) to sustained implementation (Phase 4: Trauma Informed). Building upon this framework, the Trauma Informed Care (TIC) Screening Tool provides a detailed developmental pathway through these phases, outlining specific actions within each stage to guide progress.
This TIC Screening Tool is designed to support organizations in their TIC implementation journey. It allows organizations to identify their current stage by pinpointing steps already initiated or completed. This tool is intended to be a flexible resource, adaptable to the unique needs and context of each organization.
Organizations can utilize this tool in several beneficial ways. Firstly, it serves as a progress tracker, highlighting advancements in TIC implementation. Secondly, it can be used retrospectively to understand potential sources of resistance or obstacles hindering progress. This is achieved by identifying areas where implementation may be lagging. It’s important to note that the TIC Screening Tool is not prescriptive. Organizations are not expected to complete every listed action, and they may be undertaking other unlisted activities that contribute to becoming trauma-informed. The relevance of specific actions can vary between organizations, emphasizing the need for adaptation and customization. Ultimately, there is no single “correct” method for implementing TIC. Organizations may find themselves progressing through initial actions across multiple phases simultaneously or deeply focusing on one phase at a time.
Feedback and Citation
Your feedback is valued to improve these resources. When referencing the Trauma Informed Care Screening Tool, please use the following citation: Trauma Informed Oregon. (2018). Trauma informed care screening tool. Portland, OR: Trauma Informed Oregon.
