Hope Begins When You Start by Believing: Why Trauma-Informed Responses Matter for Survivors

At CAPSA, we believe that hope begins when you start by believing. This means that we approach survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence with trauma-informed responses, recognizing the impact that trauma can have on individuals and prioritizing their safety and well-being.  

Why Trauma-Informed Responses Matter 

Trauma-informed responses are essential for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence because of the impact that trauma can have on individuals. Responding in an appropriate, trauma-informed manner helps prioritize survivors’ safety and well-being. When survivors come forward, they are often met with skepticism and blame, which can exacerbate the trauma they have experienced. Trauma-informed responses, on the other hand, center the survivor’s experiences and prioritize their needs. 

Trauma-informed responses also recognize that trauma can have long-lasting effects on individuals and that recovery is a process. By providing trauma-informed care, survivors are given the tools and resources they need to cope with the impact of trauma and move toward healing. 

How CAPSA Provides Trauma-Informed Responses 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing trauma-informed responses to survivors. Here are some of the ways we do this: 

• Survivor-Centered Approach: CAPSA’s services are survivor-centered, which means that we prioritize the needs and experiences of survivors in all aspects of our work. We recognize that each survivor’s experience is unique, and we believe that survivors are experts in their own experiences and that they should be empowered to make decisions about their own healing journey. We work with survivors to develop safety plans that prioritize their safety and well-being. This includes providing information on legal options, counseling services, and emergency housing, all the while providing survivors with choices and empowering their independence.  
• Trauma-Informed Care: Our staff receive ongoing training in trauma-informed care to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective support to survivors. CAPSA’s staff, including caseworkers and therapists, recognize and understand trauma responses, such as the fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses. This helps in avoiding re-traumatization and responding appropriately to survivors’ needs.   
• Peer Support: We offer peer-based support groups for survivors. These groups provide a safe and supportive space for survivors to connect with others who have experienced similar trauma. 
• Collaboration and Referrals: CAPSA collaborates with other local service providers and agencies to offer comprehensive support, effectively establishing a network for referrals, and ensuring survivors have access to various resources. 
• Trauma-Informed Programming: CAPSA has developed programs and activities that are mindful of trauma, such as yoga, art therapy, mindfulness practices, and support groups. 
• Cultural Sensitivity: CAPSA is sensitive to diverse cultural backgrounds and how trauma might intersect with various cultural experiences. At CAPSA, we know that providing culturally competent care is crucial to providing trauma-informed services. 

Here to Help

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA.