OUR APPROACH
We believe empowering a child’s family changes a child’s life. Bruce Perry describes it like this: “If a person wanted to learn a second language, would we make an appointment for that person to come to an office for an hour a week where I would simply speak a second language to that person? And if so, how long do you think it would take for the person to learn it?” Now imagine the person is not motivated to learn the second language, even though the parent is motivated for the child to learn the second language. We likely would not make much progress this way, yet this is the traditional method of therapy with children.
At Lifeworks, we often find that the person most motivated for change is the parent. That’s why we chose to work with the child and the parent together. Through our Brainworks program, we use the latest understanding of neuroscience, brain mapping, and incorporating other evidence-based treatment modalities. Our goal is to teach therapeutic interventions that can be used repetitively throughout the day, and send messages of competency and acceptance. We work within our clients’ homes where it is most convenient for families, and where the kids are most comfortable.
At Lifeworks, we believe change in a child’s life does not occur from spending an hour in a therapist’s office.
We work to support and encourage the family, which is the true agent of change.
Family Centered Trauma Informed Care
Lifeworks clinical Philosophy is founded on The Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT); attachment theory, and trauma and neuroscience research. Lifeworks also follows the organizational philosophy of Trauma Informed care.
Trauma Informed means providers and the organization in which they are employed realize the widespread impact of trauma and:
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Understand potential paths for recovery
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Recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in clients, families, staff and others with whom the organization or providers interact
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Responds by fully integrating knowledge about trauma into policies procedures and practice and seek to actively resist re-traumatization
Six core principles of Trauma Informed approach are:
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Safety
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Trustworthiness and Transparency
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Collaboration and Mutuality
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Empowerment, Voice, and Choice
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Cultural, Historical
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Gender issues