The Importance of Systems-Level Collaboration in Trauma-Informed Care

Wajdi Akef Fakhoury, LMFT 148333

Trauma-informed care is vital for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), but its success often hinges on collaborative efforts across multiple systems. These individuals frequently rely on a network of support encompassing caregivers, educators, healthcare providers, and community organizations. To effectively address their unique needs and vulnerabilities, systems must work together seamlessly, promoting consistent interventions and shared understanding.

Why Collaboration Matters

Individuals with IDD experience increased rates of trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or significant disruptions such as frequent residential moves (Fletcher, 2011). The impact of these experiences often extends across various aspects of their lives, affecting their behavior, education, health, and overall well-being.

Yet, without communication and coordination among systems, responses to these challenges may be disjointed, inconsistent, and even counterproductive. For instance, school staff might address behaviors differently than a family member or healthcare provider, leading to confusion or distress for both the individual and their support team. A systems-level approach ensures everyone works toward shared goals, using trauma-informed strategies that complement one another.

Core Elements of Systems-Level Collaboration

Effective collaboration for trauma-informed care requires intentionality and shared principles. Below are key components that form the foundation of systems-level efforts.

1. Shared Understanding of Trauma-Informed Care

A universal framework and language around trauma-informed care provide a consistent lens through which all team members assess needs and develop strategies. Whether it’s home, school, or community care, everyone should operate with the same principles in mind, such as prioritizing safety, trust, and empowerment (SAMHSA, 2014).

2. Open Communication and Information Sharing

Transparency and regular communication are essential to maintaining alignment. Members of the support system must feel comfortable sharing insights, strategies, and observations while respecting confidentiality and consent.

3. Clarified Roles and Responsibilities

Each person in the individual’s network should have a clear understanding of their role in providing care. Establishing specific responsibilities ensures no gaps in care and prevents duplicated efforts or tension among team members.

4. Focus on Individualized Care

Individuals with IDD vary widely in their abilities, preferences, and experiences of trauma. A collaborative approach should prioritize customized strategies tailored to unique needs rather than relying on broad protocols.

Strategies for Building Systems-Level Collaboration

1. Establish a Core Support Team

Start by identifying key players in the individual’s life who are involved in their care. This might include family members, advocates, educators, therapists, healthcare professionals, and representatives from community agencies. Forming a formal or informal team ensures that all contributors are aware of their role in the individual’s support network.

Example: A young adult with IDD and a trauma history struggles with sudden changes to routine, which often leads to periods of behavioral dysregulation. To address this, the family, school team, and behavioral therapist meet monthly to share updates and refine strategies together.

2. Use Regular Team Meetings

Consistent communication among caregivers and professionals is fundamental to maintaining alignment. Regularly scheduled meetings (in-person or virtual) allow for updates on progress, discussion of new challenges, and joint problem-solving.

Key Practices:

• Use shared notes or progress tracking tools to document plans and goals.

• Allow all voices to contribute equally, including caregivers who offer firsthand knowledge of triggers and successes.

• Follow up with actionable steps for each participant to ensure ongoing collaboration.

3. Create Continuity and Consistency Across Environments

Individuals with IDD often encounter different rules, expectations, and responses in various settings (e.g., home, school, or therapy). Consistency in how trauma-informed care is delivered across these environments helps reduce stress and promotes predictability.

How to Apply This:

• Develop shared behavior plans between home and school that emphasize trauma-informed strategies.

• Train all caregivers and staff on the specific supports and tools the individual uses, such as visual schedules or sensory items.

4. Invest in Training for All Stakeholders

Trauma-informed care principles gain traction when everyone in the support system has a foundational understanding of trauma and its impact on individuals with IDD. Offering accessible training builds shared capacity and reduces disparities in care.

Training Topics to Consider:

• Recognizing signs of trauma in individuals with IDD.

• Strategies for managing distress using non-coercive methods.

• Adapting communication styles to meet specific needs.

Resources like workshops, webinars, and in-service training days ensure that all stakeholders feel equipped to apply trauma-informed principles in their roles.

5. Leverage Community Resources

Community organizations play a crucial role in expanding the network of trauma-informed care. Many offer additional resources, including advocacy groups, respite services, and peer support programs. By leveraging these connections, systems can create a more comprehensive, sustainable support model.

Examples of Community Partnerships:

• Collaborating with local disability advocacy organizations to provide education and peer mentorship opportunities.

• Partnering with mental health clinics specializing in trauma services for assessments and therapeutic support.

Benefits of Systems-Level Collaboration

When systems work together effectively, several outcomes are enhanced for individuals with IDD, their caregivers, and professionals.

1. Reduced Fragmentation of Care: Unified approaches minimize conflicting strategies, allowing for more predictable and cohesive support.

2. Early Identification of Challenges: Regular collaboration makes it easier to identify and address issues before they escalate.

3. Empowered Caregivers: Families and caregivers feel less isolated and more confident when professionals work as a team to address trauma-related challenges.

4. Improved Outcomes: Trauma-informed, collaborative care fosters resilience and self-regulation, promoting better outcomes in education, health, and social skills.

Systemic Barriers to Collaboration

While collaboration is essential, systemic barriers like lack of funding, time constraints, or misaligned priorities across organizations can hinder efforts. To overcome these obstacles, stakeholders must advocate for policies and practices that prioritize trauma-informed care as a central component of IDD services.

The Path Forward

Trauma-informed care is not just about individual interactions—it’s about building networks of safety, trust, and empowerment at every level. Systems-level collaboration ensures that individuals with IDD are met with understanding and consistency across all areas of their life. By working together, caregivers, educators, healthcare providers, and community organizations can create a web of support that not only mitigates the impact of trauma but also fosters resilience and growth.

References

• Fletcher, R. (2011). Psychotherapy for Individuals with Intellectual Disability. Kingston, NY: NADD Press.

• Mevissen, L., & de Jongh, A. (2010). PTSD and its treatment in people with intellectual disabilities: A review of the literature. Clinical Psychology Review, 30(3), 308-316.

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). SAMHSA's Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.