Trauma-Informed Work in Organizations: Small Moments, Big Difference

By: Esther van der Sande – Trainer, Therapist & Consultant

Autumn as a Mirror

Autumn reminds us that rhythm and rest are part of growth. The leaves fall without haste, without judgment. During a walk, my partner noticed a chestnut slowly loosening from its protective shell. He pointed it out to me – a small moment, and yet a mirror.

Letting go takes time. Protection is sometimes necessary, but there also comes a moment when we are invited to open ourselves to something new.

The same is true in organizations. In a world that often spins ever faster, we sometimes forget that healing and growth arise in the small moments of slowing down and paying attention.

What Does Trauma-Informed Work Mean?

Trauma-informed work means recognizing that many people – clients, employees, leaders – carry experiences that affect their nervous system, sense of safety, and capacity for trust.

In international literature, two terms are often used:

  • Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) refers to the broader framework and vision: working with an awareness of trauma, with safety, choice, collaboration, and empowerment at the foundation.
  • Trauma-Informed Practice (TIP) refers to the practical application of these principles in daily actions – within teams, organizations, and policies.

You might say: TIC is the vision, TIP is the translation into practice.

Trauma-informed work is not a method you simply “apply.” It is a culture. An attitude. A way of seeing and being.

Three Core Principles – Small Moments, Big Difference

Over the years, I’ve noticed three core principles that consistently serve as a foundation for trauma-informed work. Together, they create a grounding for both individuals and organizations: rhythm and regulation, space for reflection, and presence with compassion.

Rhythm and Regulation (TIC)

Trauma often impacts the nervous system. As a result, safety and calm are not always self-evident. Trauma-informed work always begins with regulation.

For individuals, this may mean conscious breathing, movement, or simply pausing. For teams, it’s about creating rituals and moments that bring calm and rhythm.

I once worked with a team that decided to begin each meeting with two minutes of silent breathing. At first it felt unfamiliar. But after a few weeks, they noticed: the atmosphere changes, there is more focus and less tension.

👉 Practical tip: Start a meeting or workday with a short breathing exercise:

  • Place both feet firmly on the ground.
  • Inhale gently through the nose.
  • Exhale slowly through the mouth.
  • Repeat three times.

Reflection question: How can you bring more rhythm and regulation into your workday today?

Space for Reflection (TIP)

We live in a culture that often focuses on solving and moving forward. Yet reflection opens the door to learning, healing, and collaboration.

Trauma-informed practice means making space to pause: How are we doing? What do we need? What can we learn from what has happened?

In one organization I worked with, they ended each team meeting with three simple questions:

  • What went well?
  • What drained energy?
  • What would help us feel safer next time?

It may seem small, but this ritual created more openness and connection.

👉 Practical tip: Include regular reflection moments. Ask not only what was achieved, but also how the process was experienced.

Reflection question: What questions could help your team not only to do, but also to feel and learn?

Presence and Compassion (TIC & TIP)

Zen Buddhism has taught me that every breath can be a gateway to presence. Trauma-informed work asks the same: can we simply be here, without rushing or forcing?

In organizations, this means leadership that listens, a culture where mistakes can also be moments of learning, and a recognition that every voice matters.

Sometimes the most healing question you can ask is simply: “What do you need right now?”

👉 Practical tip: Allow silence in conversations. Sometimes “I hear you” is enough.

Reflection question: How can you be more present and compassionate today, rather than solution-driven?

The BELIEVE Model as a Compass

To bring these principles into practice, I developed the BELIEVE model.
This model is available in two versions:

  • One for individuals and participants, focusing on personal growth and healing.
  • One for professionals and organizations, focusing on building safety, trust, and resilience in teams and structures.

The seven pillars are:

  • Belonging – To feel you belong
  • Empowerment – Strength and self-agency
  • Listening – Deep listening
  • Inspiration – Sources of hope
  • Engagement – Active participation
  • Voice – Expressing your truth
  • Education – Learning and development

It is not a strict step-by-step plan, but a flexible compass. A supportive framework for both individuals and organizations. Both versions can be downloaded on our website.

Slowing Down is Growing

Autumn teaches us that letting go is not stagnation, but a path to renewal. Trauma-informed work asks the same: to slow down, to regulate, to reflect, and to be compassionately present.

Small moments make a big difference. For yourself, for your team, for your organization.

When we integrate trauma-informed care and trauma-informed practice, we create a culture of safety, trust, and resilience.

Together, we contribute to a society where every voice is heard and every body is seen.

❓ FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What is trauma-informed care (TIC)?
The vision and framework: working with awareness of trauma, centering safety, choice, and collaboration.

What is trauma-informed practice (TIP)?
The practical application of TIC in the daily work of professionals, teams, and organizations.

What is the difference from trauma-sensitive work?
Trauma-sensitive work is the broader attitude of gentleness and awareness. Trauma-informed care and practice are the more specific frameworks and applications.

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