Our Approach – The Novalis Model
Our approach – known as the Novalis Model – is based on many years of experience and draws on practice and research by some of the world’s leading practitioners and academics in trauma theory, attachment focused therapies and sensory integration.
The model was developed after we received training in trauma informed care from Dr Sandra Bloom (an internationally recognised expert in the treatment of trauma-related disorders and co-creator of the Sanctuary Model) and is underpinned by a considerable body of scientific and academic research.
Trauma-informed care
Because many of the young people and adults in our care are affected by developmental and/or complex trauma, the Novalis Model involves a trauma-informed and evidence-supported approach which promotes positive relationships and secure attachments within a therapeutic low arousal environment.
It’s been a privilege working with Novalis Trust and joining you on your journey to becoming a truly trauma-informed organisation. Your approach sets the standard for others involved in the care of children and adults
Dr Sandra L. Bloom, MD
Novalis Model
Trauma Informed
Our approach to care and education is underpinned by a detailed understanding of trauma theory and the impact of trauma on brain development
Relationship based
We believe that the promotion of positive relationships is key to helping people feel safe and to ensuring they can make progress in their lives
Evidence Supported
We carefully review the evidence to monitor progress and are willing to adapt our approach where necessary
Attachment Focused
We recognise the importance of safe and secure attachments to emotional development and good mental health
Therapeutic Environment
We understand that environments play a key role in managing arousal levels and in enabling people to remain calm and relaxed
Establishing a sense of safety
Central to the Novalis Model is the belief that establishing a sense of safety is a vital first step in enabling people to regulate their emotions and to make progress in their emotional and social well-being. With that in mind, we do everything possible to ensure that the young people and adults in our care feel physically, psychologically, socially and morally safe.
Physical
Physical safety is prioritised by carefully designing the physical environment to provide comfortable, homely surroundings and a calming atmosphere
Psychological
Everyone in our care is helped to feel psychologically safe by receiving therapeutic input from our team of clinical therapists
Social
Social safety is enhanced by encouraging positive relationships with key adult attachment figures and through positive role modelling by all members of staff
Moral
Moral safety is cultivated through the promotion of a positive outlook and sensitive values including a commitment to non-violence, open communication and social responsibility
A culture of continuous improvement
We promote a culture of continuous improvement and we are constantly looking at how we can develop and refine our approach using the latest research and best practice from across the world. A recent example of this has been the adoption of the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics™ (created by Dr Bruce Perry, one of the world’s leading child trauma experts) in order to develop therapy plans.
Your application of trauma-informed and trauma-responsive principles and interventions leads the way and has caught the attention of US providers and colleagues
Dr Janice LeBel, Director of Systems Transformation at MA Department of Mental Health