Trauma in Schools #9 — Human-centered Routines that Create the Psychologically Safe School

Dr. Terri Erbacher — A practicing school psychologist and founder of Erbacher Consulting Associates, PLLC

The Takeaway

All school personnel need to have some mental health training so that they can contribute to a safe and SEL-focused environment for students. Connections are essential to getting teachers and students back into a school routine, stabilizing their mental health, and increasing overall support. Communication, even simple questions such as “Are you okay?” while being present with the student, can open the door to those who need guidance.

“As someone who works with staff doing debriefing, after trauma, after crisis situations, I always meet with the teachers, I meet with the Crisis Staff who are the helpers. And then I always say to my administrators, ‘OK, let's sit down,’ and they're like, ‘I'm fine.’ And then we sit down, and they're not fine. Because what's going on with them is heavy; they get the brunt of a lot of this.”

Our guest

Terri A. Erbacher, Ph.D. is in her 23rd year practicing as a School Psychologist. She also founded her private practice, Erbacher Consulting Associates, PLLC, in 2014. Dr. Erbacher’s practice focuses on training, coaching and consultation on the topics of school crisis response, social media and youth mental health, trauma, suicide prevention, and threat assessment.

Dr. Erbacher was a Professor of School Psychology at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine for over 13 years, has written numerous books and articles, and has held many board roles across Pennsylvania. She was honored to have been named Pennsylvania's School Psychologist of the Year.

As you listen

What are the primary components for trauma-informed practices?

What are “learner behaviors,” and what are their impacts?
How can routines be built to help students manage experience coming back from COVID-19?
What can be done in schools regarding suicide prevention?
Who should teachers and staff speak to when they think a student needs extra support?
What can teachers do to support students after taking time off for their mental health?