A trauma-informed approach is not about acting as a therapist or asking coworkers to share personal experiences. It is about communicating with an approach of kindness, curiosity, consistency, and respect. When people feel safe and supported, they are more likely to share ideas, ask for help, and contribute to a healthier workplace culture (Edmondson & Bransby, 2023).
Work is not just a place where we are completing tasks, it is where we collaborate, solve problems, support one another, and build relationships. Every person brings unique experiences, strengths, and challenges into the workplace, which is why creating a culture of understanding and psychological safety benefits everyone.
A trauma-informed approach acknowledges that trauma and prolonged stress can affect how people communicate, make decisions, build relationships, and respond to challenges. Rather than asking people to disclose personal experiences, a trauma-informed approach focuses on creating environments that promote safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. Instead of making assumptions about someone’s behaviour, it encourages empathy, understanding, and respect (SAMHSA, 2014).
Whether you are a coworker, supervisor, or an employee, adopting a trauma-informed mindset helps create a workplace where everyone feels supported and valued.
While organizations may describe trauma-informed leadership differently, here are six key principles of a trauma-informed approach:
Psychological safety is a crucial component of wellness in the workplace. Studies show that individuals who feel psychologically safe tend to ask questions, share their views, seek help, and benefit from mistakes (Edmondson & Bransby, 2023). All of these actions lead to better relations between people and contribute to productivity in the workplace.
A trauma-informed approach encourages us to shift our thinking from “What is wrong with this person?” to “What might this person need to feel supported and successful?” This small change in perspective can have a meaningful impact on workplace culture and overall well-being.This simple shift helps strengthen relationships and create a more compassionate workplace.
We have elaborated on this concept in our blog, Why Work/Life Balance Means a Happier Life, where we talk about why this is not just important for employees but is necessary for organizations.
Building a trauma-informed workplace does not happen through one conversation, it develops through consistent, everyday actions.
Whether you are a coworker, supervisor, manager, or team member, you can help create a healthier workplace by listening with curiosity, communicating openly, respecting boundaries, acknowledging different perspectives, and following through on commitments. Small behaviours, such as thanking someone for speaking up, checking in with a colleague, or asking thoughtful questions, help build trust over time.
Creating a trauma-informed workplace is not about lowering expectations or avoiding accountability. It is about creating an environment where people feel respected, supported, and safe enough to contribute their ideas, ask for help, and learn from challenges together.
When we approach one another with empathy, curiosity, and respect, we strengthen psychological safety, improve workplace wellness, and create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
But what does a trauma-informed conversation actually sound like and what questions help people feel safe enough to share honestly? To help you put these principles into practice, we are offering our free guide: 10 Trauma-Informed Questions to Strengthen Trust and Connection. Inside, you will find practical conversation starters for one-on-ones, team check-ins, and everyday workplace conversations.
Edmondson, A., & Bransby, D. (2023). Psychological Safety Comes of Age: Observed Themes in an Established Literature. Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior.
Geffner, C. (2025). Understanding Trauma-Informed Leadership. Forbes Coaches Council.
Manning, K. (2022, March 31). We need trauma-informed workplaces. Harvard Business Review.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). Trauma-informed care in behavioral health services. SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach.
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Marci Gray is the lead psychotherapist and CEO of Gray Matter Health. She is an experienced speaker and corporate trainer as well as consultant and author who specializes in mental health and anti-racism work which is the focus of her PhD research. READ MORE
