Trauma Recovery Center (TRC)

“We are the light in the darkness.” – Cathy Choy, Program Coordinator

Overview

The University Hospital (UH) Trauma Recovery Center is a 16-week program (which may be extended for those who need it) aimed at healing survivors’ injuries holistically by addressing them emotionally, physically, and socially.

Through targeted trauma-informed mental health services, we aim to support survivors in restoring the daily functioning that was disrupted by victimization. The goal is for survivors of trauma to successfully regain independence in all areas of their lives. Our program is staffed by Licensed Social Work Clinicians, Social Workers, and other supportive staff.

The program started accepting patients January of 2021.

Focus Areas

• Providing services to victims who have experienced sexual assault, adult survivors of sexual abuse, child abuse/neglect, teen dating violence, bullying, intimate partner violence, physical assault, vehicular assault, gang violence, robbery, human trafficking, hate crimes, and/or immigration-related violence, as well as family members of homicide victims.
• Provide those services in order to help survivors of trauma successfully regain independence in all areas of their lives.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for Trauma Recovery Center services, patients:

• 12 years old or older
• A survivor of violent crime in the past 5 years
• Physically and mentally able to participate in treatment
• Experiencing symptoms affecting daily functioning
• Not in need of hospitalization or acute detoxification
• A resident of Essex County or surrounding area

Services

Trauma Recover Center services are provided by Licensed Social Workers aimed at fostering a supportive therapeutic relationship. Services include:

• Therapeutic Case Management: Supportive coordination of services and advocacy for overall well-being.
• Trauma Informed Individual and Group Therapy: Healing- focused individual and group therapy for trauma survivors.
• Peer Mentorship and Advocacy Support: Guidance, support, and empowerment from individuals with lived experiences.
• Employment Support and Job Training: Assistance in developing job skills and finding employment opportunities.
• Legal Advocacy and Assistance: Support in navigating legal related matters.
• Housing Advocacy and Assistance: Help in securing safe housing.
• Socialization via Community Based Activities: Engaging in activities that promote social connections and wellbeing.
• Linkage to Resources in Community: Connecting individuals with community resources and support systems.
• Medication Management by Licensed Psychiatrist

Meet the Team

TRAUMA RECOVERY CENTER

Cathy Choy, MSW, LSCW
Program Coordinator, TRC

Taira Jean-Bart, MSW, LSW
Social Worker, TRC

Shakia Wyche, MSW, LSW
Social Worker, TRC

Helen Da Silva, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Mental Health Clinician

Margarita Rivas, MSW, LSW
Mental Health Clinician

Shante Breedlove, BA
Community Health Worker

Contact Us:

Phone: (973) 972-0643

E-mail: trc@uhnj.org