The prevalence and management of trauma in the public domain: an agency and clinician perspective

Abstract

This descriptive study surveyed the ways in which trauma survivor needs have been addressed within the public mental health system in one sector of Connecticut. Information was obtained about the prevalence of traumatic history among consumers, the existence of policy related to trauma, trauma screening and cross-referral mechanisms, and trauma-related supervision and education. The study maps current service system functioning related to the provision of trauma-specific services at both the agency and the clinician level. The study data indicate a need for service enhancement and increased service system collaboration and integration to permit access to a full range of trauma interventions. The data also indicate a need for increased clinician education and supervision specific to trauma both across agencies and among individual clinicians.