Our History
At The NATRC
The UC San Francisco Trauma Recovery Center developed the TRC model of care in 2001 to serve survivors of violence who were falling through the cracks of traditional victim services. By combining assertive outreach, trauma-informed mental health services, and help with practical needs, TRCs are breaking the cycle of violence and removing barriers to care in underserved communities.
Outcome data demonstrates what sets this model apart: high rates of engagement in services, significant improvements in mental health / wellness, and effective linkage to other community supports. TRCs provide wraparound care that costs less than traditional, fee-for-service mental health treatment alone.
In 2013, the State of California passed legislation to begin replicating the TRC model. In 2017, California passed legislation to define standards for TRCs across the state and codified minimum requirements and best practices for what constitutes a TRC.
As additional states replicated the TRC model, programs joined together in 2019 to form the National Alliance of Trauma Recovery Centers (NATRC). We offer a learning community to share best practices and innovations, advocacy updates, and provider support, along with support for TRC implementation and program development through the TRC Technical Assistance Program. By expanding our network, the NATRC serves as a catalyst to advocate for just and equitable healing services.
Testimonials
From TRCs
“This model is cost-effective, we can reach a lot more people.”
“We are client-centered, they are the experts on their lives.”
“We give our clients a sense of hope and healing.”
“With the TRC model, there is definitely potential for generational change.”
“We serve those who experience personal and institutional trauma.”
“We’re going to meet the client wherever they are, we don’t have the expectation that a client will come to us to get services.”
“When clients contact us, often times mental health is not their priority, it’s getting the utilities paid. When a client says “I can’t pay my rent,” that is a mental health issue.”
“Leveraging our community partnerships has been an amazing part of this model; we are able to connect clients to resources for a better quality of life.”
“Part of trauma-informed care is changing institutions that have caused harm, for example, coming into schools that may not be using a trauma lens in working with teens of color, but are more focused on conduct disorder.”
“We are an innovation, but we really need to be standard practice for our communities.”
Trauma Recovery Centers
Across the Country
