Healing from trauma: Utilizing effective assessment strategies to develop accessible and inclusive goals

Abstract

Trauma is the fifth most common psychiatric disorder and is said to be the number one cause of suicide. Yet, research clearly demonstrates that trauma-related ailments are “under- recognized, under-diagno­sed and under-treated” (Hanson et al., 2002). Research indicates that across various cultural groups there is an absence of effective assessment protocols. Additionally, many trauma-focused individual and group psychotherapy, self help and support groups have proven to be ineffective. Our manuscript examines the need for, and importance of, developing accessible and inclusive trauma assessment protocols that support the well-being of families around the world. In this article the authors will consider the efficacy of com­prehensive universal screening and assessments, standardized questionnaires and self-reports. Methods for evaluating resources, establishing treatment plans and outcome measurements will also be considered.