Creating a parallel process: A new methodological framework for conducting Trauma-Informed Evaluation and Research...

New understandings of the pervasiveness of adverse childhood experiences and their attendant negative impact over the life course has led to a focus on the provision of Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) in mental health treatment. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration operationalizes TIC through six key principles: 1) safety, 2) transparency and trustworthiness, 3) peer support, 4) collaboration, 5) empowerment and, 6) sensitivity to cultural, gender, and historical issues (SAMSHA, 2014). However, there has been little attention paid to how these principles should be operationalized in the context of evaluation. This methodological article first identifies the need for evaluation of TIC programs to mirror the core principles of TIC and then offers specific strategies for conducting research and evaluation in accordance with them. The goal of this work is to define a set of principles for research and evaluation that utilizes the process to reinforce key tenets of TIC and enhance trauma treatment.