MTAAP's Trauma Informed care Program - Resource page for MTAAP members

Improve Outcomes for Montana Kids.

MTAAP supports pediatricians in integrating trauma-informed care and promoting relational health within their pediatric practices. This specialized care helps pediatricians recognize and address the impact of trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and toxic stress on children’s development.

Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) is an approach to pediatric care that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands how it can affect a child’s physical, emotional, and developmental health. TIC emphasizes safety, trust, and empowerment, creating a clinical environment where children and families feel supported, not judged. By shifting the question from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?”, pediatricians can provide more compassionate, effective care that promotes healing and resilience.

AAP Self-directed learning program

Train Anytime with AAP’s Trauma-Informed Care: Self-Directed Learning Program

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers a Trauma-Informed Care: Self-Directed Learning program designed to equip pediatricians and healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to implement trauma-informed care and resilience promotion in everyday practice. This program includes two levels of self-paced, video-based courses:

  • Level 1: Introduces foundational concepts of trauma-informed care and relational health, suitable for individuals new to these topics or seeking a refresher.
  • Level 2: Builds upon Level 1, providing advanced strategies and practical skills to identify and respond to child traumatic stress, featuring expert-led videos and case studies.

These courses aim to empower healthcare providers to recognize and address the impact of trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and toxic stress on children’s development.

Conceptual image of depression and loneliness
Click here to be directed to the AAP's resources on how provider's can integrate trauma informed care into their pediatric practice
A National Resource for Pediatricians

National Center for Relational Health and Trauma-Informed Care

AAP has launched the National Center for Relational Health and Trauma-Informed Care, led by Dr. Heather Forkey and Dr. Moira Szilagyi as co-medical directors. The Center is dedicated to helping pediatricians and other child health professionals recognize and respond to trauma, foster safe and nurturing relationships, and support the well-being of children and families. This work is carried out through focused communication, education, and partnerships across the pediatric care community.

Visit AAP.org/TIC to explore resources, or reach out at traumainformedcare@aap.org.