Hello Spiritual Community Leaders,

For many people involved in Behavioral Health Services, trauma (Spiritual Wounds) has shaped their experience of the world in devastating and persistent ways. Research indicates that at least two-thirds of men and almost all women who are presently or formerly incarcerated have experienced some form of trauma, including adverse childhood experiences; emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse; domestic violence; extreme poverty; and loss of friends and loved ones due to community violence. Scientific literature indicates that early exposure to trauma and violence results in changes to the brain that can severely impact behavior. It is also important to recognize that the opioid and convid-19 pandemic, in and of itself, can be a highly stressful and potentially traumatic experience. One way of combating the long-term impact is to assist individuals with techniques that can reduce/decrease disruptive or maladaptive behaviors. The TAMAR Curriculum is one model  that can be used in any group setting and can be led by a paraprofessional.

If individuals are interested in learning more about TAMAR we will be hosting an orientation on Wednesday December 22, 2021 from 3-4 pm. Then in January we will host a 1 day training to cover the implementation and facilitation of the curriculum.

If you plan to attend or send a staff member please email me back the name(s) of those that will be attending the orientation.

David Washington
david.washington@maryland.gov