Trauma-Informed Supports in a Gentle Teaching Framework: Insights from Karyn Harvey, PhD

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When we consider trauma-informed care, we think about healing—not just for those we support, but for the entire community of care. At the Gentle Teaching International Conference, I had the privilege of discussing how trauma-informed practices align with the Gentle Teaching framework. Together, these approaches create environments where safety, connection, and empowerment foster true healing.

From Pigeons to People: A Journey Toward Understanding

My journey in this field began in an unlikely place: training rats and pigeons in a behaviourist framework during my graduate studies. It was there I first realized the profound limitations of treating people like variables in a controlled experiment.

Years later, working in human services, I saw this approach mirrored in how people with disabilities were often labelled and managed. Behaviors were targeted, but stories were ignored. Interventions were implemented, but connection was neglected.

It wasn’t until I met John McGee, the founder of Gentle Teaching, that everything clicked. He reminded me of something vital: people need to feel safe, loved, and understood before they can thrive.

The Unseen Stories of Trauma

Trauma is pervasive in the lives of those we support. From experiences of neglect and abuse to the systemic trauma of institutionalization, the stories I’ve heard over my career are both heartbreaking and illuminating.

For example, James was labelled as “non-compliant” because he refused to shower. Only by listening to his story did we uncover the source of his behaviour: nightly hose-downs during his years in an institution. Similarly, Rashida’s cutting wasn’t “attention-seeking,” as staff believed—it was an expression of her pain from years of abuse and rejection.

These stories remind us that behaviour is communication. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with this person?” we must ask, “What happened to this person?”

Listening as a Tool for Healing

Listening is the foundation of trauma-informed care. It’s not just about hearing words—it’s about validating experiences and creating space for people to feel safe sharing their truths.

One of the most transformative examples of this was Tamika, who expressed her longing for a boyfriend during her annual person-centred planning meetings. For years, her team overlooked this desire, focusing instead on “practical goals” like cooking. When her loneliness led her to a dangerous situation, the response was to restrict her independence rather than address the root cause.

Only when someone truly listened and validated her desire for connection did Tamika begin to heal.

Dr. Karen Harvey

Key Principles for Trauma-Informed Care

  1. Assume Trauma: While not everyone has PTSD, many have experienced trauma. Assume a trauma history and approach interactions with empathy.
  2. Focus on Relationships: Healing happens through connection. Relationships—both professional and personal—are central to recovery.
  3. Support Staff: Caregivers often carry their own trauma, compounded by vicarious trauma. Supporting their well-being is essential to maintaining a culture of gentleness.
  4. Celebrate Joy: Happiness is a healing force. Celebrate achievements, foster connection, and encourage meaningful purpose in the lives of those we support.

Relationships Are Everything

Research supports what we’ve known all along: relationships are the key to a fulfilling life. The Harvard Men’s Study, which followed participants for 75 years, found that happiness isn’t about wealth or status—it’s about meaningful relationships.

For the people we support, relationships can be a profound source of healing. Whether it’s a friendship, a romantic partnership, or simply the knowledge that someone cares, these connections transform lives.

A Call to Care

Trauma-informed care within a Gentle Teaching framework isn’t just about understanding trauma—it’s about fostering safety, connection, and empowerment. It’s about recognizing the humanity of every individual and honouring their unique journey.

To the caregivers, direct support professionals, and leaders reading this: thank you. Your work changes lives. And as you care for others, remember to care for yourselves. Your happiness and well-being matter, too.

Together, we can create a world where everyone feels safe, valued, and loved—a world where healing is possible.

Quotes:

On Relationships and Healing:

“Love heals. Connection heals. Relationships are everything. We all deserve to be seen, heard, and valued.”

On Understanding Behavior:

“Instead of asking, ‘What’s wrong with you?’ we need to ask, ‘What happened to you?’ That’s where the real work begins.”

On Empowering Individuals:

“Every life needs meaning and purpose. When people discover their value and have a mission, they can move beyond their trauma and truly thrive.”

On the Role of Caregivers:

“The most critical people in our organizations are the ones on the frontlines. If we don’t value them, how can we expect them to show value to others?”

On the Importance of Listening:

“The biggest breakthroughs don’t come from behavior plans or rewards—they come from listening, really hearing, and understanding someone’s story.”

On Resilience and Advocacy:

“We are the bridge between the world as it is and the world as it should be. Every act of kindness, every moment of care, builds that bridge.”

On Finding Happiness:

“Happiness isn’t just for the people we support—it’s for you, too. Take care of yourself. Pursue your joy, because you deserve it.”

On the Value of Every Human Being:

“Every person’s life is as valuable as the universe. Let us never forget that profound truth.”

Dr. Karen Harvey

Self-Determination in Sexual Health – Empowering Autonomy and Inclusion, by Natalya Mason

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Speaker: Natalya Mason

Sexual health is a fundamental part of being human, yet for individuals with disabilities, it’s often misunderstood, ignored, or actively restricted. At the Gentle Teaching Conference, Natalya Mason, a sexual health educator and social worker, delivered a powerful session on the intersection of sexuality, disability, and human rights, challenging us to reframe our biases and support self-determination.

What Is Sexual Health?

Natalya opened with the World Health Organization’s definition, emphasizing its holistic nature:

•Sexuality includes pleasure, identity, intimacy, and relationships, shaped by biological, social, and cultural factors.

•Sexual health goes beyond risk prevention (STIs, unwanted pregnancy) to focus on ensuring everyone has access to ideal sexual experiences—rooted in autonomy and choice.

Key Takeaway: Sexual health is not a privilege—it’s a human right.

The Barriers: Ableism and Assumptions

Natalya outlined how ableism perpetuates myths about people with disabilities:

  1. They are seen as non-sexual or incapable of understanding sexuality.
  2. Decisions about their bodies and relationships are often made without their input.
  3. Sexual health education frequently excludes disabled individuals entirely.

These biases deny people with disabilities their right to explore, learn, and define their sexuality on their own terms.

Promoting Self-Determination and Autonomy

Natalya emphasized that individuals with disabilities know their bodies and needs best. Supporting them means:

  • Providing accessible sexual health education tailored to their experiences.
  • Offering tools and resources that tackle topics like:
  • Consent and boundaries.
  • Navigating relationships and intimacy.
  • Sensory sensitivities during sexual experiences.
  • Ensuring they see themselves reflected in sexual health resources and media, affirming their identities and desires.

“Disabled youth are not just passive learners—they are experts of their own experiences.”

Reproductive Justice: A Framework for Inclusion

Natalya drew on the reproductive justice framework developed by Sistersong, highlighting three core rights:

  1. The right not to have children, with access to contraception and abortion.
  2. The right to have children, with access to services that support healthy pregnancies.
  3. The right to parent children in safe and healthy environments.

This framework underscores the importance of autonomy, dignity, and support for all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities.

Shifting the Narrative to Sex Positivity

Sex positivity is the foundation of inclusive education—it celebrates sexuality as a natural, enriching part of life. Rather than focusing solely on preventing harm, Natalya advocated for creating spaces where disabled individuals can:

  • Explore their desires safely.
  • Develop relationships and intimacy.
  • Experience sexuality as a source of joy, connection, and empowerment.

Quote to Reflect On:

“Sex positivity isn’t just about avoiding the bad. It’s about striving for the good.”

It’s about striving for the good

The Path Forward: Supporting Inclusion and Rights

Natalya called on educators, caregivers, and policymakers to:

  1. Recognize and challenge their own ableism.
  2. Prioritize inclusive, accessible sexual health education that centers the voices of disabled individuals.
  3. Provide tools and resources that support autonomy, choice, and self-determination.

Conclusion: Centering Voices, Celebrating Rights

Sexual health and self-determination are universal human rights, and individuals with disabilities deserve the same opportunities to explore, express, and define their sexuality. By promoting inclusion, representation, and autonomy, we create a world where everyone is seen, heard, and empowered to live as their full, authentic selves.

Natalya’s message was clear: It’s time to listen, learn, and ensure that no one is left out of the conversation about sexuality.

Call to Action: Reflect on your own work or organization:

  • Are you providing accessible sexual health resources?
  • Are disabled individuals involved in shaping programs that impact them?
  • How can you challenge biases and promote autonomy in your community?

By shifting our perspective, we can create inclusive spaces that affirm sexuality as a right for all.

Link to Sexual Health Resources for Diverse Learners.

You Don’t Need Marketing—You Need a Movement: Capturing Our Collective Stories By Jeph Maystruck

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In a world overflowing with ads, algorithms, and analytics, traditional marketing no longer cuts it. The rules of engagement have shifted, and if you’re not telling a story, you’re already behind. But here’s the kicker—you don’t just need a good story. You need a movement.

At the Gentle Teaching International Conference 2024, I had the honor of sharing this message, and now I’m excited to dive into what it means to build something bigger than a brand—a movement fueled by collective stories, shared purpose, and genuine connection.

Start with Heart: Why Stories Matter More Than Facts

Growing up, I learned one of the most important lessons of my life: everyone has a superpower. My mom, who worked in group homes supporting people with disabilities, showed me the power of connection and empathy. This perspective shaped my approach to storytelling, both in life and in work.

Here’s the truth: facts fade, but stories stick. According to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, people remember stories 22 times more than facts alone. This means if you want your message to resonate, it’s not enough to list what you do—you need to show why it matters.

From Marketing to Movements

When I say you don’t need marketing, I don’t mean stop promoting yourself. I mean stop shouting into the void. Instead of broadcasting messages, invite people to participate in your story.

Movements happen when people feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves. Look at Patagonia, whose mission to combat climate change resonates so deeply that customers see wearing their gear as a badge of purpose. Or think of the Savannah Bananas, who reinvented baseball with creativity, humor, and community engagement. These are brands that don’t just market—they inspire.

The Power of Participation

Participation beats promotion every time. Why? Because when people engage with your story, they become ambassadors for your cause.

At Creative Options Regina (COR), we’ve seen this firsthand through campaigns like 100 Acts of Kindness. What started as a simple idea—spreading kindness and recognizing unsung heroes in the community—turned into a movement. The stories we uncovered through that initiative weren’t just inspiring; they were transformative.

In one instance, an act of kindness from a group of kids changed someone’s life. A simple compliment on a difficult day can be life-saving, a reminder that even the smallest actions have immense power.

Unreasonable People Change the World

George Bernard Shaw once said, “The reasonable person adapts themselves to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to themselves. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable person.”

Movements require a bit of unreasonableness. Whether it’s painting basketball courts with Buckets & Borders or creating socks that embody an organization’s values, change comes from those who refuse to accept the status quo.

Building Connections Through Collective Stories

Communities are built on connections, and connections are built through stories. If you’re not telling your story, someone else will—and they might not get it right.

COR exemplifies the power of storytelling. Their 150+ videos on Vimeo are more than just content; they’re moments that capture the heart of their mission. They show real people, real impact, and real progress. These stories not only document their work but also inspire others to join the movement.

How to Start Your Own Movement

1. Know Your Why: Why do you do what you do? Speak from the heart and invite others to connect with your purpose.
2. Engage Your Advocates: Focus on the people who already believe in you and give them the tools to spread your message.
3. Be Unreasonable: Push boundaries, take risks, and challenge the norm.
4. Participate, Don’t Just Promote: Involve your audience in meaningful ways—through events, stories, or small acts of kindness.
5. Keep It Real: Authenticity isn’t optional. People connect with vulnerability and honesty, not perfection.

One Starfish at a Time

Changing the world doesn’t happen all at once. It happens one story, one person, one act of kindness at a time. Like the boy throwing starfish back into the ocean, your actions may seem small—but to the one person you impact, they mean everything.

So, stop worrying about marketing. Instead, focus on creating moments, telling stories, and building movements. Your story matters. Now go out and share it.

Jeph Maystruck - GTI conference

Five Core Beliefs of Servant Leadership, by Kevan McBeth

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Speaker: Kevan McBeth

Kevan McBeth explored the foundations of Servant Leadership, emphasizing human connection, empowerment, and supporting frontline workers to excel.

Key Points:

  • Leadership is about caring for the people who care for others.
  • Servant leadership flips traditional models: leaders serve from the bottom, empowering employees to deliver exceptional service.
  • Empowerment requires self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and building trust.
  • Actionable Takeaway:

“Your job isn’t to do it all—it’s to care for and grow the people who do.”

Your job isn’t to do it all—it’s to care for and grow the people who do

Five Core Beliefs of Servant Leadership

Kevan presented five practical beliefs:

1. It’s Not About You, But It’s All About You:

Focus on self-awareness and emotional intelligence to effectively serve others.

2. Everybody Matters, Nobody’s Perfect:

Leaders must nurture environments where everyone can bring their whole selves to work.

3. Aim for the Heart:

Lead with empathy and kindness. Separate problems from people during difficult conversations.

4. Lead for the 95%:

Build policies and cultures for the 95% of people who care, not to control the 5% who don’t.

5. Lead with Intentionality:

Small intentional acts of kindness create magic moments that inspire and empower.

Kevan McBeth

Stories of Impact – Servant Leadership in Action

Kevan’s WestJet story highlighted the value of trusting employees:

“We serve the 95%, not the 5%.”

Policies focused on trust empower employees to act in the best interest of customers.

Key Example: A bereavement policy with minimal barriers allowed frontline workers to help customers in need quickly.

Reflection: Are your organizational policies empowering or alienating employees?

Ugonna Prince Ernest Osigwe – Celebrating Black History Month

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Ugonna Prince Ernest Osigwe moved to Canada from Nigeria on April 7, 2023. Ugonna is originally from Imo State, which is located in the southeastern part of Nigeria. Imo State is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, which is beautifully reflected in its traditional attire, music, dance, festivals, arts and crafts, and the warm hospitality of its people. The majority of Imo State’s residents are Christians, with Catholicism being the most predominant denomination.

“While my parents continue to reside in Nigeria, I am currently living in Canada independently. The primary reason for immigrating to Canada was to pursue a quality education that would prepare me for real-world challenges,” said Ugonna.

His interest in Canada began during his early school years and solidified during his final term of secondary school. When he shared this aspiration with his parents after secondary school, they were genuinely excited and fully supportive, recognizing the vast opportunities and valuable experiences that moving abroad would offer. Their unwavering encouragement and support were instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition to Canada for Ugonna.

Despite the excitement that comes with the idea of moving to a developed country like Canada, leaving his home country was never an easy decision, and one of the most challenging aspects is being separated from his loved ones, knowing it will be a long time before he will see them again. The absence of their presence and the comfort of being close to family can be deeply felt, especially during significant milestones or moments when their support would mean the most. Maintaining connections through video calls, messages, and other forms of communication often becomes a vital way to bridge the distance. “However, no amount of technology can fully replace the warmth of being physically present with my family” shared Ugonna.

Ugonna faced some cultural shock like every immigrant that moves to Canada; he shares that he was instantly struck by the dramatic difference in climate. “Coming from a tropical region where temperatures regularly surpass 30 degrees Celsius, I was not prepared for the intense cold that hit me at Toronto Airport in April, just as winter was coming to an end. The cold was unlike anything I had ever encountered, marking the beginning of my new journey in this country,” shared Ugonna.

Asked how he approached the culture shock, he said he embraces the opportunities to learn, try new things and adapt to his surroundings with an open mind. “I found it especially helpful to connect with positive minded friends who had been living here longer, as their experiences guided me through my transition”. While there is a lot of joy in moving to a new country, Ugonna missed many things in his home country, but on the top of the list, he missed his loved ones and the comforting flavors of Nigerian local cuisine.

In comparison with other immigrants who came before him to Canada, his immigration journey has been largely smooth, although it has required some adjustments, particularly in adapting to a new culture and navigating a different educational system and job market. “At times, I’ve experienced feelings of isolation and homesickness. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of creating my own happiness, as it can be challenging to manage feelings of depression when family is far away” shared Ugonna.

Ugonna shared that his experience has been largely positive. The local community has been welcoming, and he has found ways to integrate, whether through education, work, or social activities. “However, I’ve also had to overcome occasional feelings of isolation. There have been instances of subtle discrimination, but I’ve dealt with them by staying focused on my goals and drawing strength from my support network, including friends, family, colleagues and mentors. Talking about my experiences with people I trust has also been helpful. One misconception is that immigrants don’t contribute enough to society. The truth is, many immigrants work hard, bring diverse skills, and play a significant role in building the economy and culture.

Ugonna Prince Ernest Osigwe-COR

Ugonna also shared that the Black community faces a lot of challenges, such as labour market integration, income inequalities, and discrimination. Black History Month in Saskatchewan is a time not only for celebration but also for the discussion of these issues. The story of the Black community is one of resiliency, diversity, and a substantial contribution to the Canadian heritage; it still demands extra effort in order to allow for the full inclusion of all Black Canadians. “People may think all immigrants move solely for financial reasons, ignoring personal growth and education. For me, one of the best things about immigrating to Canada seems to have been the opportunity to pursue higher education and gain the knowledge and skills necessary for real-life challenges which will help me to contribute to the Canadian society.”

He also shares that he feels a growing sense of belonging in Canada and his work at COR has been a key part of this journey. “One of the most impactful aspects has been learning and practicing Gentle Teaching. Within a culture of gentleness, the relationship with the individuals I support has become more genuine and trusting. The connection is built on emotional bonds rather than control, creating a safe and nurturing environment.” “Something I’ve learned is that the more individuals trust me, the more the relationship grows. Gentle Teaching emphasizes supporting people with unconditional respect, and this philosophy has transformed both my personal and professional lives. It has made me more patient, empathetic, and intentional in my interactions. I’ve seen the positive reflection of this approach in the life of the person I support as they become more confident, emotionally secure, and connected. These experiences have deepened my sense of belonging at COR and within the wider community”.

Thank you, Ugonna, for sharing your journey to Canada and COR. We are grateful for everything you do as we pride ourselves on the human touch of every person that is part of the COR family.

 

The Universal Longing for Belonging: Why Human Connection Matters, by Dr. Anthony McCrovitz

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In a world where people often feel disconnected, Dr. Anthony McCrovitz reminds us of an undeniable truth: a sense of belonging is a universal, human longing. During his presentation, “A Sense of Belonging Is a Universal, Human Longing and Needs a Human Connection,” Dr. McCrovitz explored the profound impact of belonging and connection on our lives and how fostering these bonds can lead to healing and growth.

The Core of Belonging: Feeling Safe and Loved

At the heart of belonging lies the foundational need to feel safe and loved. Dr. McCrovitz emphasized that true belonging requires creating spaces where people feel valued, respected, and free to express themselves without judgment. This isn’t just about offering physical safety; it’s about emotional and psychological security that allows individuals to trust and connect deeply with others.

He explained that belonging doesn’t demand perfection but instead invites authenticity and vulnerability. It’s about being seen and valued for who you truly are, imperfections and all.

Connection, Not Correction

Dr. McCrovitz introduced a transformative idea: “Focus on connection, not correction.” He argued that instead of trying to change or fix people, we should seek to understand their experiences and meet them where they are. Connection fosters trust and creates the foundation for meaningful relationships, while correction often leads to defensiveness and further disconnection.

This approach is particularly important when working with individuals who have experienced trauma. Belonging offers them a path to healing by providing a safe space where their voices are heard, and their experiences are validated.

The Psychology of Interdependence

Dr. McCrovitz explored the idea of interdependence—the recognition that we are all deeply connected and reliant on one another. True belonging happens when individuals feel they are part of a supportive community where their contributions matter, and their presence is appreciated.

This sense of interdependence fosters a culture of care and collaboration, reminding us that we thrive not in isolation but through relationships that nurture and empower us.

The Role of Moral Memories

One of the most impactful parts of Dr. McCrovitz’s presentation was his discussion of moral memories. These are the deep, meaningful experiences that shape our sense of self and connection to others. He highlighted the importance of creating new, positive moral memories to help individuals rewrite their narratives and overcome past pain.

By fostering moments of connection, kindness, and understanding, we can help others build a new framework for belonging and self-worth.

Belonging in Action: Practical Steps

Dr. McCrovitz encouraged caregivers, educators, and community leaders to actively cultivate belonging by:

1. Creating Safe Spaces: Ensure environments are welcoming, inclusive, and free of judgment.
2. Validating Voices: Listen to and affirm people’s experiences without trying to “fix” them.
3. Fostering Interdependence: Build communities where everyone feels valued and connected.
4. Inviting Vulnerability: Encourage open, honest communication to deepen relationships.

Focus on connection, not correction

Final Thoughts

Dr. McCrovitz’s message is clear: belonging is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for human well-being. By prioritizing connection over correction and embracing our shared humanity, we can create a world where everyone feels valued, supported, and truly seen.

As you go about your day, remember: the smallest act of kindness or acknowledgment can be the seed of belonging for someone else. Together, we can build communities that heal, empower, and inspire.

Let’s make belonging a priority—for ourselves and for each other.

How Gentle Teaching Promotes Unity in Caregiving, by Charles Woodard, PhD

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In today’s world, where stress and disconnection seem to dominate, the concept of Gentle Teaching stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, compassion, and connection in caregiving. Dr. Charles Woodard’s presentation, “Gentle Teaching Promotes Unity,” offered a heartfelt exploration of how this philosophy transforms relationships between caregivers and those they serve.

Unity: The Foundation of Gentle Teaching

Dr. Woodard highlighted that unity begins with a shared sense of purpose and mutual respect. It’s about recognizing, accepting, and appreciating the individuality of every person—caregivers, those being cared for, and the organizations that bring them together. At its core, unity is both a goal and a process, requiring unconditional love, collaboration, and understanding.

He emphasized the idea of “team” as an acronym: Together Each Achieves Much. This simple yet profound concept illustrates how working together in harmony can make even the biggest tasks manageable.

Unconditional Love as a Catalyst for Unity

Gentle Teaching is rooted in the belief that unconditional love is the highest form of care. According to Dr. Woodard, this love is kind, compassionate, and nurturing—it helps caregivers identify and meet the unique needs of others. But unconditional love must start within. Dr. Woodard shared the importance of “filling your own love tank” through positive self-talk and self-care, reminding us that caregivers can only give love if they have it themselves.

The Tools of Gentle Teaching

To foster unity, Gentle Teaching relies on four primary tools:
1. Words: Words have the power to hurt, heal, and connect. Dr. Woodard encouraged caregivers to use affirming, uplifting language, both with others and with themselves.
2. Presence: A caregiver’s demeanour and energy can create an environment of safety and trust. Being fully present and approachable sets the tone for meaningful connections.
3. Hands: A gentle, respectful touch can communicate safety and love, especially for individuals who may have experienced negative interactions in the past.
4. Eyes: A warm and compassionate gaze shows acceptance and care, allowing caregivers to truly see beyond a person’s behaviours to their underlying needs.

Charles Woodard

Why Unity Matters in Caregiving

Unity isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a practical tool that makes caregiving more effective and fulfilling. Dr. Woodard explained that when caregivers feel united and supported, they’re better equipped to withstand stress, navigate challenging situations, and provide consistent, loving care. Unity creates a ripple effect, building stronger relationships and fostering a culture of mutual respect.

Key Takeaway: Be What You Expect to See

Dr. Woodard closed his presentation with a powerful message: “Be what you expect to see.” If you want to see love, be loving. If you want to see respect, be respectful. Gentle Teaching is not just a technique; it’s a way of being. It asks caregivers to embody the values they wish to see in their interactions, creating a space where unity can flourish.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Woodard’s insights remind us that caregiving is more than a task—it’s a relationship. By embracing the principles of Gentle Teaching, caregivers can create an environment where unity, love, and mutual respect thrive, ultimately improving the lives of everyone involved.

Whether you’re a professional caregiver, a parent, or simply someone who values connection, the philosophy of Gentle Teaching offers a guide for building stronger, more compassionate relationships in all aspects of life.

Proud Host of the 2024 Gentle Teaching International Conference

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On October 1-3, 2024, COR proudly hosted the 2024 Gentle Teaching International (GTI) conference, the premier gathering of people from around the world committed to providing positive and proactive support in health, mental health, disability and educational sectors. This event marked the 23rd anniversary of the conference and brought together 400+ participants from across the world for over three-days. The conference presented a unique opportunity to learn about the research, best practices, case studies and lessons learned on creating and sustaining a culture of support for vulnerable populations in varied environments.

“Thank you to the many sponsors, supporters, volunteers, attendees, speakers and contributors. We are truly grateful for your support. GTI2024 was a tremendous success because of you!” – Michael Lavis, CEO

CTV News: Conference aims to care for vulnerable people

https://regina.ctvnews.ca/video/c3005374-conference-aims-to-care-for-vulnerable-people

CBC Radio: Non-profit brings Gentle Teaching to Saskatchewan

https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-66-the-morning-edition-sask/clip/16098819-non-profit-brings-gentle-teaching-saskatchewan

2nd Annual Prairie Sexuality and Disability Conference

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COR is proud to host the 2nd Annual Prairie Sexuality and Disability Conference, in partnership with Saskatoon Sexual Health and Inclusion Saskatchewan. Join us in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan on October 18-19, 2023.

For more information, visit: https://nevertmi.ca/psdcon/

 

 

Regina to Host the 2024 Gentle Teaching International Conference

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The 2024 Gentle Teaching International (GTI) conference is the premiere gathering of people from around the world committed to providing positive and proactive support in health, mental health, disability and educational sectors. This event will mark the 23rd anniversary of the conference and will bring together 500+ participants over three-days from October 1-3, 2024. This conference presents a unique opportunity to learn about the research, best practices, case studies and lessons learned on creating and sustaining a culture of support for vulnerable populations in varied environments.

Gentle Teaching incorporates compassion as an alternative to the reactive and restrictive practices that are commonplace in working with vulnerable populations. Our central purpose is to nurture, teach, and sustain the experience of connectedness, companionship and community for those who have repeatedly experienced an existence of disconnectedness, isolation and loneliness.

Gentle Teaching is based on the premise that all individuals have a right to feel safe and valued in their homes; with their families and caregivers; and at their job, school, or other forms of meaningful day activities. Those who are most vulnerable require predictability and structure in their day. They also need to experience interactions from others that are overwhelmingly positive and uplifting (vs. critical and demanding). This is truly a cultural shift to, or in some cases a deepening of, those principles that provide a solid base for helping individuals experience companionship and connectedness. It serves as a foundation for other models of treatment or teaching specific to the needs of the individual.

COR and Gentle Teaching Canada are proud to host the Gentle Teaching International Conference in Regina, Canada on October 1-3, 2024. Visit the conference website to register and be the 1st to know when conference tickets go on sale!

Click Here for the GTI 2024 Conference Website.