Duration: 2 Hours

Class Description:

This 2-hour workshop is designed for supervisors and team leaders across various sectors who are seeking to understand and address the impact of secondary traumatic stress (STS) in the workplace. Participants will explore trauma-informed approaches to supervision that not only support staff well-being but also foster a healthier organizational culture.

The session will delve into critical areas, including:

• Understanding Secondary Traumatic Stress: An introduction to STS, including its definition, causes, and symptoms. Participants will learn how exposure to the trauma of clients or colleagues can affect their own mental health and job performance.

• Recognizing the Signs in the Workplace: Discussion on identifying the signs and symptoms of STS among employees. This segment will help supervisors develop a keen awareness of changes in behavior, work performance, and interpersonal dynamics that may indicate a need for support.

• Trauma-Informed Supervision Principles: Overview of the key principles of trauma-informed care, including safety, trustworthiness, empowerment, choice, collaboration, and cultural humility. Participants will explore how applying these principles in supervision can create a more supportive environment.

• Strategies for Supporting Staff: Practical techniques for supervisors to implement in their teams, including regular check-ins, providing resources for mental health support, fostering open communication, and promoting self-care practices. The class will also emphasize the importance of modeling healthy behaviors and resilience.

• Creating a Supportive Work Environment: Strategies for cultivating a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health and well-being. Participants will learn how to integrate trauma-informed practices into organizational policies, staff training, and team dynamics.

Through interactive discussions, real-life scenarios, and group activities, participants will gain tools and insights to better support their teams and address the challenges presented by secondary traumatic stress. This workshop aims to equip supervisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a resilient workforce, mitigate the effects of trauma, and enhance overall organizational well-being.