A Trauma-Informed Approach to De-escalation and Crisis Response

Switchboard is pleased to announce an upcoming webinar open to all refugee service providers, whether working at state agencies, resettlement agencies or affiliates, or other organizations. Please circulate this announcement widely among your colleagues! 

Tuesday, May 9, 2023
 1:00–2:30 PM ET

What will this webinar cover?

Work with refugee and newcomer clients is multifaceted and complex. At times, the added layers of past trauma, resettlement stressors, and navigation of complicated and limited resources can lead to high-stress interactions with clients. Recently, direct service providers have reported a marked increase in the need for crisis management with their most vulnerable clients. This webinar will provide foundational information on how trauma can influence and escalate client responses. Practical tips on de-escalating client interactions while staying grounded and ensuring both client and staff safety will be identified.  

Is this webinar for me?

This webinar is designed for frontline and management staff at all experience levels who work with newcomer clients and are seeking introductory information on de-escalating client responses. It will be especially relevant for staff who bring a basic foundation in the principles of trauma-informed care. 

Why should I attend?

After attending this 90-minute webinar, you will be able to:  

• Recognize common trauma responses among refugee and newcomer clients and how they may contribute to escalated client behaviors
• Utilize practical techniques to mitigate potential client escalation and stay grounded while de-escalating client crises

• Describe effective practices, at the individual and organizational levels, to ensure staff safety and well-being during crisis situations

Speakers

Gwen Soffer serves as the Manager of Wellness at Nationalities Service Center, managing onsite clinical and holistic trauma-informed wellness programming as well as staff self-care and professional development. She holds a master’s degree in social work with Trauma Specialty from Widener University. She is TCTSY-F certified through the Center for Trauma and Embodiment at the Justice Resource Institute and has been working in the trauma-informed wellness field for over 15 years.

Gwen is a Certified Trauma Service Specialist with certifications in Stress Management, as well as the Harvard Global Mental Health Trauma and Recovery Certification. She is a member of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, the Association of Traumatic Stress Specialists, and the National and Pennsylvania Associations of Social Work. She presents regularly on the topic of trauma and wellness, including the Pathways for Victims Services Conference, Jefferson University Trauma Training Conference, North American Refugee Health Conference, and the Beau Biden Institute/SOAR Trauma Institute.

Gwen has also published multiple articles and chapters on trauma- informed wellness practices. Her belief in the power of connection and the potential of healing drives her passion for trauma-informed practice.