This presentation explores contemporary understandings of the intersection between trauma-informed care and trauma transformative practice. Children and young people who have lived experience of family violence, with their right to safety violated, need to be heard and understood. When their voices are heard within the context of trauma transformative practice, they are empowered to see their true value, transformative healing can occur and their life trajectory changed.

Children and young people are often silenced, unheard and misunderstood in the context of family violence. The experience of living in fear, harm and violation impacts their social, emotional, cognitive and cultural development, self-efficacy and wellness. Research shows the effects can last a lifetime, significantly impacting physical and mental health. The emotional and psychological harm that takes root in the hearts and minds of young people can become deeply embedded within thought processes, attachment style, self-efficacy and self-value. Their life trajectory can be significantly compromised and intensifies in the absence of transformational healing. Trauma finds self-expression through behaviour, conduct and attitudes and often becomes the focus of professional intervention. The outward behavoiurs can alienate the young person from aspects of society, commonly ending up in the welfare, justice and mental health system.

Understanding the impact of the trauma is where healing needs to begins. Healing young hearts and minds begins when trauma is recognised and understood, rather than being hidden in silence, secrecy and shame. Trauma-informed care embraces principles of safety, trust, collaboration, choice, culture and gender. Whilst these are vital in supporting healing, healing needs to be trauma transformative. Trauma transformative practice is committed to bringing hope into the lives of young people, draws on the neuroscience of child development and attachment and embraces the inner power of neuroplasticity. Trauma transformative healing empowers young people to live their best life.