Tools to Address Trauma

Here you will find a number of recommendations for trauma screening and assessment tools and trauma-specific interventions.

Trauma Screening Tools: A screening tool is a validated, reliable, standardized tool that is designed to identify trauma in children or adults. The purpose of screening is not to provide a diagnosis but to explore and understand how trauma may be a factor in impacting a child’s well-being or ability to function. The screener is used as a guide to consider whether a trauma-specific, in-depth assessment and services should be considered.

Trauma-Informed Mental Health Assessment Tools: A trauma-informed assessment is performed by a qualified mental health professional and involves the organized collection of information relating to an individual’s trauma history and response to a traumatic experience using multiple sources and methods. A trauma assessment addresses whether clinical symptoms of traumatic stress are present and identifies the types and severity of the symptoms and their impact on the individual’s functioning.

Trauma-Specific Interventions: Interventions are performed by a qualified mental health professional. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Trauma-Specific Intervention programs generally recognize the following:

1.  The survivor's need to be respected, informed, connected, and hopeful regarding their own recovery
2. The interrelation between trauma and symptoms of trauma such as substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety
3. The need to work in a collaborative way with survivors, family and friends of the survivor, and other human services agencies in a manner that will empower survivors and consumers

Age Specific Tools

Trauma screening and assessment tools and trauma-specific interventions are often age specific.

Funding Resources for Trauma Screening, Assessment and Treatment: A summary of public and private resources available to pay for trauma-related services.