Easterseals Michigan, a behavioral health services agency, has become the first in the nation to offer a new kind of trauma treatment program for families and children.
Developed in Canada, the new Intergenerational Trauma Treatment Model (ITTM) is now being offered at the agency’s Auburn Hills location. The program aims to reduce the impact of trauma in children while strengthening relationships between them and their caregivers with a three-phase approach.
“By adding this program to the comprehensive trauma services that Easterseals Michigan currently provides, we will be able to offer the highest level of care for children affected by trauma and their families,” Uriel Stephens, Director of Family Services at Easterseals Michigan said. “Our staff was invigorated by going through the training. Finally, there is a model that supports the caregiver in processing their own experiences while supporting their child through their healing.”
Children and infants who experience trauma or chronic stress are four times more likely to develop mental health disorders in adulthood, according to Easterseals. They are also at a higher risk for health concerns such as alcoholism and chronic disease. The program, supported by a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, will soon also be available at other Easterseals locations.
Written by Natalie Broda – nbroda@medianewsgroup.com
