The potentials of trauma-informed counselling for homeless children and youths in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This article explores the role of trauma-informed counselling for homeless children and youths in Zimbabwe, a demographic group profoundly impacted by systematic poverty, family disintegration, and social exclusion. The study explores how homelessness affects their physical, mental and emotional well-being, influencing their behavior and shaping their coping mechanisms. The author emphasizes that trauma-informed counselling is an essential approach in the lives of young people going through the traumatic experiences of homelessness. The study examines how trauma-informed principles can guide therapeutic interventions, inform social policies, and empower both the practitioners and the youths. Integrating trauma-informed counselling principles, such as safety, trustworthiness, empowerment, and cultural relevance in youth shelters, community organizations, and health services leads to improved client engagement among homeless youths. The study underscores the importance of community-driven models, youth mentorship, and policy-level interventions to ensure sustainable psychosocial support.