All Bystanders Count is a trauma informed violence prevention curriculum, so what does that mean and why is it important to me?

Being a trauma informed preventionist means that I am knowledgeable about trauma, its diverse impacts, and the many different ways survivors respond to trauma.

In addition to knowledge of diverse impacts and responses, trauma informed also requires knowledge of cultural differences as they have a large impact on perception and response to trauma. As a prevention and advocacy practitioner I strive to always meet people where they are at emotionally, physically, culturally, and holistically.

Trauma informed service also focuses on comprehensive approaches that include collaborative social support services (often across agencies), addresses the whole person or are holistic in nature, focuses on promoting and increasing physical and emotional safety, and works towards creating safe supportive relationships.

Most importantly trauma informed service works diligently to empower survivors to see their strength and courage, and to increase their sense of control and autonomy. Trauma informed care acknowledges that survivors are the best experts when it comes to their lives, and works to collaborate with survivors as they heal—letting the survivor dictate what they need and how they would like support.

Lastly, trauma informed care utilizes active listening, normalizes and validates survivor’s feelings and experiences, is non-judgmental, and empowers survivors through building on their strengths.