December 23, 2024 BY imani leave a comment
On Friday, September 27, our team had the privilege of welcoming a special guest speaker, Kelly Taylor of iHealTap, LLC, to our 3rd Quarter Staff Meeting. Hailing from Charlotte, Kelly brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to help us explore an essential topic: understanding trauma, identifying triggers, and developing effective coping strategies.
This meeting was particularly significant as it marked a preparatory step toward the launch of our new VDH Trauma Unit in January 2025. Recognizing the profound impact trauma has on the lives of the individuals and communities we serve, we understand the importance of equipping our staff with the tools and insights needed to navigate this sensitive and complex area of care.
Understanding Trauma: A Holistic Approach
Kelly’s presentation offered a deep dive into the nature of trauma—how it manifests, how it can affect behavior and health, and the importance of addressing it with empathy and understanding. She emphasized that trauma is not always immediately visible; it often resides beneath the surface, influencing thoughts, emotions, and actions in ways that may not be apparent at first glance.
Triggers and Coping Strategies
One of the highlights of the session was exploring the concept of triggers. Kelly guided us through practical examples of how certain situations, environments, or interactions can reignite past traumatic experiences. She also shared actionable coping mechanisms to help individuals manage these triggers, underscoring the importance of creating a safe and supportive space for healing.
Preparing for the VDH Trauma Unit
As we gear up for the introduction of our VDH Trauma Unit in January, this session was a timely reminder of the responsibility we have as caregivers, advocates, and community partners. Kelly’s insights served as both a foundation and inspiration for how we approach trauma-informed care in the coming months.
Moving Forward with Purpose
This meeting wasn’t just about professional development—it was a call to action. Trauma-informed care is more than a concept; it’s a commitment to understanding and addressing the deeper layers of our clients’ experiences. By equipping our staff with the right tools and knowledge, we can help pave the way for healing, growth, and resilience in the communities we serve.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kelly Taylor for her invaluable contribution to our journey. Together, we’re embracing the challenges ahead with compassion, understanding, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to prepare for the launch of our VDH Trauma Unit in 2025. It’s a new chapter, and we’re ready to face it with open hearts and minds.