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

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?

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.

Trivial is Transformational, by Connie Jones

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Trivial is Transformational.

As a philosophy, Gentle Teaching puts the onus on us to change how we interact in the little moments together, and to take those opportunities to remind people that they are safe with us, loved by us, and that they are good, just as they are. Full stop. That means we show love even in the face of violent behaviours, to see those outbursts for what they are: brokenness, and ultimately, to stop trying to ‘mend’ a broken brain but instead, go for the heart.

That’s what founder John McGee called us to be: Menders of broken hearts.

Tall order? Maybe. But maybe it just takes a moment.

Now that I’m a grannie, I sometimes feel the responsibility more heavily than ever to ensure that my grandkids won’t develop hearts that ever need mending. As a Gentle Teacher, I’m keenly aware that right now, my sweet littles are learning all about themselves through their interactions with the adults around them, including me. I can’t forget the significance of seemingly trivial moments together. What is the message beneath my words, when I speak to them? What tone do I intentionally take? How mindful am I of my pacing, intensity, and word choices so as to convey positivity and reduce anxiety? Do my eyes speak of love, even when the kiddos are wreaking havoc on the house, the furniture, or – god bless ‘em – the dogs? Does my presence give them a safe space to just be? And what about my hands? I mean, I just want to grab those kiddos and gobble zeeberts all over their bellies and tickle them until they squeal. But even these loving moments together could become overwhelming for them, and I need to remember to move into their spaces with a keen awareness that my presence is big in their little worlds.

Gentleness is powerful. It might have more transformative power in the small moments that form moral memory than vengeance against thine enemies ever could, because where vengeance is felt in the storm, gentleness is found in the calm.

Like when I sang to my granddaughter while combing her hair softly. Or when I don’t rush through daily chores but invite them to help choose their clothes for the day, or set the kitchen chairs up at the sink so we can play in the suds while washing dishes together. Or work out the zoomies by cranking some music and having a dance party in the living room. These seemingly mundane moments carry huge significance. So, while we do things together, I try to be very mindful of each of my tools.

I think that kiddos have just as much value in this world when they’re tiny as they’ll have when they’re  grown – even in those times when my little angels’ behaviour isn’t exactly congruent with their value. I think that above and beyond anything else, all kids need to be reminded of how good and lovable they are, just as they are. During the time that we spend together, I want my grandkids’ powerful brains and beautiful hearts to get one thing straight: When they’re with me, they’re safe. And they’re loved, just as they are. Full stop.

www.gentleteaching.com
www.gentleteaching.ca
www.coracademy.ca

Connie Jones is a certified Gentle Teaching Ambassador with Gentle Teaching Canada. She has a Master of Arts in Leadership, three grown kids and four grandchildren. She currently lives in Saskatchewan with her partner of 35 years, two dogs, and five unfinished manuscripts.

 

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

Gentle Teaching Stories: “I’ve spent time learning who my supports are and how they feel supported.”

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As a brand-new team leader two years ago, I naïvely believed that I had a great enough understanding of Gentle Teaching. That I had reached some level of understanding that wouldn’t transform any further. I was incredibly wrong in that belief and having the past two years to learn about myself and lead my team, I see how vital Gentle Teaching is to a team culture.

I reflect often on power struggles and ego in regard to supporting and across team dynamics. I’ve been in situations that were unpleasant, where others were intentionally hurtful toward me, or toward others on the team. And it took me a long time to identify that these supports needed nurturing. When I began, it was very easy for my ego to step into the drivers seat, and for me to engage in power struggles over issues with my supports. I had a pretty good understanding of COR at the time, and a pretty good ability to read other people which equated to me being willing to go to the mat over a lot of truly miniscule things (hindsight is 20/20). However, I see how that wasn’t helpful. And now, when similar circumstances occur, I can find the space in myself to step back and view the issue from a greater perspective. I have learned to respond to people’s words, not tone. I have learned to seek deeper meaning in the concerns that are brought up. I have learned the importance of having difficult conversations.

I trust the people who are honest with me, about me, the most. And I foster that trust on my team through having that same expectation of myself, for them. I recognize people’s accomplishments – I thank people who have gone through difficult situations. I work hard on encouraging the team to celebrate each other, to find connection in each other, especially during and after tough moments. I work hard to set a good example – always using kind words, not engaging in negative speech about others and coming to the home with all my personal stuff checked at the door. I’ve spent time learning who my supports are and how they feel supported. I recognize that I have a lot more experience to learn and gain. Yet every interaction I have with my team, I can feel a practiced compassion come into how I greet them, what questions I ask and how I seek connection for them. My goal is to be a leader that no one is afraid of coming to, no one is afraid of getting in trouble, and knows that support will be there when needed. And I believe I have achieved this (at least, mostly) by going through my own self-growth and reflection and understanding how I can change the course of an interaction with a team member through my responses the same way I can change the course of an interaction through my positivity with the people I support.

-Kassie, COR Family

If you want to learn more about Gentle Teaching and the culture of gentleness, click here! 

Gentle Teaching Stories: “Sometimes all it takes is one positive experience to leave someone feeling safe and loved.”

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I still vividly remember learning about a culture of gentleness as a young Support Worker nearly eight years ago. I remember the “lightbulb” moment that I had learning about Gentle Teaching and how I was immediately drawn to this incredible organization that treated people in a way that aligned with my values and beliefs.

Before getting hired at Creative Options Regina, I had worked for another program that supported teenagers with intellectual/developmental disabilities. I chose to leave that job because the way people were treated and looked at by those in positions of power didn’t sit right with me. I was asked to do things within that role that left me with a pit in my stomach. As someone so new to the field, I didn’t have anything to compare my experiences to, and I wondered if this is just how it goes in the disability sector.

That all changed when I began my journey at COR and realized that how I had been feeling was valid and for good reason. Treating people with kindness and dignity IS a part of this sector of work, and I had finally found a place where I felt at home. Over the past eight years at COR, I have been able to nurture a culture of gentleness not only with those I was supporting, but also within myself. A culture of gentleness isn’t just something you forget about after a support time. A culture of gentleness is something that becomes a part of you, if you let it.

I have been privileged to have been in several different roles during my time at COR, all of which have taught me different aspects of Gentle Teaching within different settings. During my time as a Direct Support Worker, Gentle Teaching meant ensuring that those I was serving felt safe around me, built trust with me, and knew I was there to support them first and foremost. As a support, I worked very hard at leaving my personal feelings, my stressors, and my struggles within my personal life at the door. I remember Jim talking about this in a training very early on and this stuck with me. As soon as I stepped into the house of the person I was serving, I was a guest in their home. I wasn’t there to only support THEM, they were not there to support me. I chose this job, and they have welcomed me into their home so it was important to enter into it with a positive attitude and open mind.

As I worked my way into the Aspiring Team Leader role and the Team Leader role, I was able to encourage and support my teammates to also work on this same mindset when entering people’s homes. How would it feel if someone came into your home and was grumpy, distracted, or upset? Would that make you feel safe? Would that be something you’d want to engage in? Would that make you feel loved? Likely not.

When I transitioned into the role of Literacy Facilitator, I remember wondering if Gentle Teaching might look a little bit different. I remember feeling worried that I might not get to spend as much time with those we supported, and wouldn’t have as much success nurturing this gentle culture I had worked so hard at in my previous roles. The truth is, it doesn’t always matter how much time you spend with someone. Sometimes all it takes is one positive experience to leave someone feeling safe and loved.

Kristyn, COR Family

Gentle Teaching Stories: “I strongly believe that Gentle Teaching can impact the likely hood of an individual re-offending if human justice professionals practice it in all levels of occupations within the justice system”

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