VUSN: Listen. Validate. Empower: A Trauma-Informed Communication Series

As the climate crisis accelerates, clinicians are uniquely positioned to address its health impacts at every level—from the exam room to health systems. This course equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to recognize environmental drivers of illness, apply Planetary Health principles in clinical care, and promote sustainable, equitable practices that benefit both patients and the planet. Through practical strategies, real-world examples, and a focus on advocacy, learners will gain a clear understanding of how to take meaningful action in a changing world.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Define the core principles of trauma-informed care and explain their relevance across healthcare, and social service settings.
2. Identify signs and impacts of trauma in individuals and communities, including vicarious trauma experienced by professionals.
3. Demonstrate trauma-informed communication techniques that prioritize safety, trust, and empowerment during challenging interactions.
4. Apply motivational interviewing skills using a trauma-informed lens to support behavior change and person-centered care.
5. Navigate difficult conversations related to conflict, suicide prevention, abuse, and exploitation with empathy, clarity, and appropriate referral strategies.
6. Recognize and manage secondary traumatic stress and develop strategies for self-care and resilience in high-impact roles.
7. Foster environments that reduce risk and support healing, especially when working with vulnerable populations or in high-stress community settings.