Abstract
A majority of youth in residential facilities such as residential children’s treatment centers and juvenile justice facilities have a history of exposure to traumatic events, contributing to a multitude of long-term mental and physical concerns. Residential facility teachers and staff have the unique opportunity to create trauma-informed spaces - safe, healing environments in all aspects of a youths’ life during their stay. Trauma-informed spaces may help youth develop healthy relationships, build resilience, and increase social and emotional skills, all establishing a foundation for future success in their home, school, and community. This article provides suggestions for incorporating trauma-informed strategies across all spaces of the facility to mitigate the negative effects of trauma using Harris and Fallot’s (2001) five core values of safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment.
Keywords: trauma, trauma-informed care, trauma-informed spaces, residential facility, juvenile justice
