In recent years, The Chase Home has incorporated trauma-informed care into its service delivery model, a programmatic development that underscores changing needs.
“We are in the middle of a youth mental health crisis,” said Executive Director Meme Wheeler, who cited escalating behaviors as one example. “The youth we work with often engage in behaviors that are not just potentially harmful to them but damaging to the property.” According to Wheeler, these escalating behaviors are due to trauma, which “affects the minds and bodies of vulnerable children and youth.” To address trauma, The Chase Home has trained staff in both TBRI and MANDT.
Based on years of attachment, sensory processing, and neuroscience research, TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) meets youth where they are at in their complex trauma needs and serves to connect with them and empower and correct them as they heal. A relationally-based program, MANDT uses a continuous learning and development approach to prevent, de-escalate, and if necessary, intervene in behavioral interactions that could become aggressive.
“All staff are trained in Evidence-Based Practices like TBRI and MANDT to provide a holistic and trauma-informed caring environment,” said Wheeler. “Staff must receive this ongoing training in order to heal trauma and build trusting relationships with each youth in our programs.”
“Troubling behaviors stemming from trauma, feelings of instability, and lack of safety are heightened at Chase Home and in the larger youth population,” added Wheeler.
Founded in 1877, The Chase Home in Portsmouth provides prevention, early intervention, residential, and community-based programs to at-risk youth in New Hampshire. Some youth are served in the community while others live at The Chase Home. To support The Chase Home, click here to donate.