Workshop
Description
This day-long workshop examines the impact of trauma in the lives of people who experience disabilities. Many experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a result of early loss of family (institutionalization), medical procedures, treatment procedures, sexual and physical abuse. This workshop explores strategies for helping people to heal, even in the aftermath of extraordinary suffering.
Objectives
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will have developed knowledge in the following areas:
- The symptoms of PTSD, causes, and its incidence in the lives of people who experience disabilities;
- Strategies for understanding common triggers for unpleasant memories;
- Strategies for supporting people along 7 critical areas, including health and well-being, relationships, joy, power, and the development of skills to gain mastery over symptoms;
- The nature of vicarious traumatization and what caregivers can do to prevent it.
Suggested Agenda
The following is a suggested agenda only. Starting and ending times may vary. Regular question and answer breaks are built into the day.
- 09:00 Introductions/housekeeping
- 09:10 Part One: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in the lives of people who experience disabilities: symptoms, incidence, and support
- 10:30 Break
- 10:45 Part Two: The development of a support plan that emphasizes safe and predictable relationships, joy, and hope for a better future.
- 12:00 Lunch
- 01:00 Part Three: The importance of supporting a person’s supporters: Tips for caregivers
- 02:30 Break
- 02:45 Part Four: The importance of staying focused on attachment.
- 04:00 End
Handouts
Recommended: Supporting A Person with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Optional: Discovery Workbook with Support Plan Forms (abbreviated and extended). Upside Down and Inside Out: Supporting a Person in Crisis, and Jumping Into the Chaos of Things.
Thumbnail Sketch and Photo
A thumbnail sketch of David and his work for conference brochures. Includes information about audio-visual needs. A photo for brochures can also be downloaded.
Audio Visual Needs
If available, an LCD projector (if not, an overhead projector), screen, large pieces of paper, masking tape, felt pens (or a blackboard), and, if you are expecting over 50 people, a lavaliere microphone (a microphone that can be worn as a necklace or attached to a shirt or tie).