Debriefing with intention: Skills and supports for helping professionals

Description: In high-stress and complex work environments, those who provide care and support to others need intentional support, skills and care to sustain themselves in the work. Learning and using different types of debriefing is one of the leading mitigating factors to vicarious trauma and isolation and can help create high-functioning, connected, and emotionally aware teams. This full-day workshop is designed for frontline workers, managers, and helping professionals who navigate complex, trauma-exposed environments and who want to build or strengthen their skills in debriefing and support.

Participants will explore practical tools, models, and trauma-informed strategies for navigating both acute critical incidents and the ongoing emotional toll of supporting others. This workshop blends theory, reflection, and applied practice, offering a collaborative space for learning, connection, and skill-building. The workshop is also informed by a social justice, strength-based, anti-colonial, and queer and trans affirming lens.

“Trauma pulls people toward isolation, and connection is one of our most powerful antidotes. This course focuses on intentional debriefing practices that foster brave conversations, curiosity, and resilience—helping people feel less alone and more able to stay in this work.” - Karine Silverwoman, MSW, RSW.

Learning objectives:

• Understand the purpose and power of debriefing, including the different types (immediate, informal, ongoing, critical incidents, and support around grief and losses).
• Explore models and debriefing skills to mitigate vicarious trauma and embody trauma-informed practice. 
• Learn to support individuals and teams with high-risk and complex situations.
• Deepen emotional literacy, connection, and embodied resilience as individuals and as teams. 

SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health Learning Institute offers training and education for professionals to advance mental health care – our goal is to improve client outcomes and building capacity, together. Find training to support your professional development at www.sickkidscmhlearning.ca and reserve your spot today! Don't forget to use code OPA20 to save 20% off your registration fees.