The new curriculum features:
- Expanded, accessible information on the biology of how trauma impacts the brain
- A structure that pairs each trauma topic with matching, concrete coping skills
- Deep dives into topics identified as important for men, including nightmares, flashbacks, anger manifestation, relationships, and avoidance
- A selection of modules that can be adapted to meet the needs of the group, including eight additional substance use modules with a greater focus on harm reduction
- A more inviting, intuitive patient binder that also serves as a post-discharge resource
- The ability to maintain consistency if a patient transfers to another outpatient site
“This curriculum standardizes content across our sites while building in flexibility for our team members to meet a group where they are,” says Pete Maclearie, MSW, LCSW, Director of Outpatient Services at Princeton House’s Eatontown outpatient site.
“The depth of trauma content also serves our patients well,” he adds. “When they better understand the many ways trauma can impact their lives, they can articulate what’s happening, ask for help, and target symptoms appropriately. This approach gets them ready to do the deeper work.”
Coping Tool TipNightmares are common for men with trauma. Although you can’t consciously use a coping skill during a nightmare, placing a grounding object on the nightstand can bring someone back to the present moment more quickly upon waking. Maclearie recommends cinnamon candy, lemon slices, or peppermint aromatherapy items. |
