Trauma-Informed Care recognizes the presence of trauma symptoms and acknowledges the role trauma may play in an individual’s life. At Hope Academy, our program strives to meet the specific challenges our students may be experiencing as a result of the trauma they endured.

Extreme trauma can have long-term psychological effects including intense hopelessness, shame, humiliation, shock, denial, and disorientation. Additionally, survivors may experience anxiety disorders such as PTSD, phobias, panic attacks, severe depression, and suicidal ideation. 

Unfortunately, trauma can go even deeper. Common behavioral characteristics include attachment difficulties, emotional dysregulation, dissociative adaptations, disrupted cognitive functioning, and skewed self-concept.  Suvivors can also experience developmental delays, language and cognitive difficulties, deficits in verbal and memory skills, poor academic performance, and difficulty concentrating. 

To meet the complex needs of our students, Hope Academy has a 1:8 teacher/student ratio, onsite counseling services, and access to important community resources. Additionally, all of our staff and volunteers attend a trauma-informed training to learn how to empathize with, communicate with, and support our students.