MaineHealth trauma-informed behavioral health care helps people cope with the effects of traumatic events.
What is trauma-informed care?
It is common for people facing behavioral health problems to have experienced trauma, such as child abuse or sexual abuse. Trauma-informed mental health care puts focuses on the impact of traumatic events on a person’s health and well-being.
Trauma-informed care addresses the effects of trauma through mental health evaluation, diagnosis and treatments. Trauma survivors can be both children and adults. Trauma may include domestic violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, threats and intimidation. A trauma-informed approach to mental health care emphasizes:
- Client safety
- Peer support
- Inviting people to voice their problems
- Creating an environment of trust and respect
Trauma-informed treatment
Trauma-informed care recognizes the physical, mental, behavioral, social and emotional impacts of the experience. Often survivors are afraid or feel shame to talk about their trauma. Treatment includes early screening for adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), creating safe spaces for clients to explore their feelings, community outreach and ongoing support. Trauma treatments can include:
- Counseling
- Support groups and peer support
- Medication
- Education for self-care
- Meditation and other therapies
MaineHealth cares about your physical and mental health
Counseling, therapy and other behavioral health services are available at most MaineHealth primary care practices. Contact your primary care provider for more information.
