Exploring Trauma

Exploring Trauma is an evidence-based, gender-responsive program addressing the trauma experiences of men. This six-session program includes a facilitator guide and a reproducible participant workbook (available in both English and Spanish) designed for working with men in a setting where a short-term intervention is needed. Examples of settings in which the program can be used are a community-based program, such as a community mental health centre; an addiction treatment program; a private practice setting; a correctional facility; or an agency charged with addressing domestic violence.

Each session contains multiple activities that may include discussions, role-plays, interactive projects and grounding/self-soothing exercises. Some sessions utilize guided imagery, or visualization—the goal being to allow men the opportunity to imagine scenarios that are different from their own realities and offers them an opportunity to safely envision different behaviours.

What Are the Program Components?

Exploring Trauma includes a reproducible facilitator guide and a reproducible participant workbook (in both English and Spanish) on a CD-ROM or in a digital delivery format. The facilitator guide contains background information about trauma and session outlines that are similar to lesson plans. The six sessions in the program are:

Session 1: Welcome and Introduction to the Subject of Trauma
Session 2: Exploring Trauma
Session 3: Thinking, Feeling and Acting
Session 4: Beyond Guilt, Shame, and Anger
Session 5: Healthy Relationships
Session 6: Love, Endings, and Certificates