Trauma-Informed Retreat Checklist
Use this checklist to evaluate whether a retreat is trauma-informed and appropriate for trauma survivors.
What Is Trauma-Informed Care?
Trauma-informed care recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and creates environments that are safe, supportive, and avoid re-traumatization. Trauma-informed retreats should have facilitators trained in trauma-informed approaches and protocols designed to support trauma survivors safely.
Safety & Screening
- ✓ Comprehensive screening that includes trauma history
- ✓ Clear contraindications for trauma-related conditions
- ✓ Medical staff on-site during ceremonies
- ✓ Documented emergency protocols
- ✓ Small group sizes (typically 6-12 participants)
- ✓ High facilitator-to-participant ratio
Facilitator Qualifications
- ✓ Facilitators trained in trauma-informed approaches
- ✓ Licensed therapists or clinical oversight
- ✓ Experience working with trauma survivors
- ✓ Clear credentials and training disclosed
Preparation & Integration
- ✓ Pre-retreat preparation sessions
- ✓ Structured integration support (4+ weeks)
- ✓ One-on-one integration available
- ✓ Support for processing difficult experiences
Environment & Approach
- ✓ Safe, supportive environment
- ✓ Participant autonomy and choice respected
- ✓ Clear boundaries and protocols
- ✓ No pressure or coercion
Key Questions to Ask
- Are facilitators trained in trauma-informed approaches?
- What is the clinical oversight level?
- How do you handle trauma responses during ceremonies?
- What integration support is available for processing trauma-related experiences?
- What is the group size and facilitator-to-participant ratio?
How We Classify Clinical Levels
In our directory:
- "Clinician-led": Licensed clinicians lead or oversee the program
- "Therapy-informed": Program informed by therapy principles but not necessarily led by licensed clinicians
- "Trauma-informed": Program uses trauma-informed approaches
- "Unknown": Clinical level is not specified or verified
For trauma survivors: "Clinician-led" or "Therapy-informed" programs may be more appropriate than "Spiritual" or "Wellness" level programs.
Related Resources
- Is a Retreat Right for You, or Should You Seek Other Support?
- When Not to Attend a Healing Retreat
- Questions to Ask Before Any Psychedelic Retreat
- Retreats for Trauma Healing
- Trauma-Informed Retreats
- Clinician-Led Retreats
- Browse Clinician-Led Trauma Retreats
- Trauma-Informed Topic Hub
- Compare Retreat Clinical Levels