Trauma-informed care (TIC) is a crucial component in mental health, addiction, justice system, child welfare environments, and many others. However, it is still a concept that needs a clear definition, differentiation between different groups based on specific needs (e.g., gender, race, ethnicity, etc.), and intentional practice and implementation by practitioners or anyone who works in the above-mentioned areas. This session aims to discuss the essential concepts of TIC, making it a compelling practice to help others and will specifically describe ways TIC can be applied to working with fathers. The session will address the following learning objectives:

1. Define trauma-informed care and how the needs of those you serve may differ based on gender, race, ethnicity, and other characteristics.

2. Identify ways in which standard socialization of boys is often traumatic in itself and can create barriers to healthy fatherhood.

3. Identify specific ways in which you, as a provider, can become more trauma-informed while working with fathers.