Understanding Trauma and Substance Use: A Trauma-Informed Approach for Frontline Practice

This course explores the complex and often misunderstood relationship between trauma and substance use, supporting frontline staff to move beyond blame, stigma and simplistic explanations. Drawing on trauma-informed and psychologically informed practice, participants will develop a deeper understanding of how experiences of trauma can influence substance use, behaviour, relationships, emotional regulation and engagement with services.

The course considers the different ways people may respond to trauma and how substance use can sometimes develop as a way of coping with distress, managing difficult emotions or creating a sense of safety and control. Participants will explore how trauma and substance use can interact and reinforce one another, while recognising that each person’s experiences and circumstances are unique.

Participants will develop practical skills for responding to substance use in a compassionate, non-judgemental and person-centred way. The course explores effective communication, building trust, recognising vulnerability and risk, maintaining professional boundaries, and supporting individuals to engage with appropriate services and sources of help.

By the end of the course, learners will have a stronger understanding of the relationship between trauma and substance use and will be better equipped to apply trauma-informed principles in their everyday practice. They will be able to respond with greater empathy, confidence and consistency while promoting dignity, choice, safety and meaningful engagement.

Who is this course for?

• This course is suitable for:
• Frontline operational staff working with people who use alcohol and/or other drugs
• Housing, homelessness, health, social care and support workers engaging with people with multiple and complex needs
• Operational managers and support staff with direct service user contact

What will you learn?

• Key concepts and definitions related to trauma and substance use
• How traumatic experiences can shape substance use as a coping strategy
• The impact of trauma on the brain, emotional regulation, risk-taking and behaviour
• Understanding shame, stigma and cycles of disengagement in substance use
• Applying trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches when working with people who use substances
• Balancing safety, boundaries and compassion in frontline roles
• The impact of working with trauma and substance use on staff wellbeing, including vicarious trauma and burnout
• Developing practical, role-specific actions to embed trauma-informed practice into everyday work
• Learning is grounded in real-world practice, with reflective opportunities to consider attitudes, assumptions and organisational responses to substance use.

Emotional safety and wellbeing

• Delegates will be informed in advance about the nature of the course content
• There is no requirement to disclose personal experiences
• Participants may take time out during the session if needed
• Facilitators model trauma-informed practice, including choice, respect and psychological safety