Reflective Practice

 In the same way that trauma impacts on individuals, stress and trauma impact on systems creating predictable, but challenging dynamics that can be addressed using a trauma informed lens. Applying trauma informed practice to services such as reflective practice creates a safe haven for staff and service users.

Reflective Practice is commonplace in mental health settings and an expectation in Trauma Informed Practice. Reflective practice groups offer staff a non-operational space to connect and process the emotional ‘leftovers’ of the work. It is a space to gain insight and understanding and explore ways to buffer against the effects of stress and trauma from an experienced Clinical Psychologist. 

The presence of an external facilitator removes the problematic dynamics and low attendance seen with internal facilitation or peer-led groups. Instead, they offer teams a chance to take a step back, slow down, and come together as a team. 

Groups are generally between 5 and 12 people, are 90 mins long, and typically run every 4-8 weeks. Managers are encouraged to attend with their team, but typically do not attend every session