Breaking the Chains - Reframing Trauma and Healing in Social Work Practice

This program provides social workers with a practice-based framework for reframing domestic violence and vicarious trauma through the lens of resilience. Grounded in social work values of empowerment, cultural competence, and systemic advocacy, the workshop uses Michael’s case — a 42-year-old father whose experience of partner abuse was overlooked because services were written for “women and children” — to illustrate how stigma impacts both survivors and service systems. Participants will engage in case analysis, reflection, and grounding exercises to strengthen their clinical skills, enhance inclusive assessment practices, and develop ecological strategies that disrupt generational harm. The training not only expands intervention approaches for survivors, but also offers tools for practitioners to mitigate vicarious trauma and sustain ethical, client-centered practice. Click here for more information.