Building trauma-informed systems: Early help for young people | Dr. Asha Patel | #029 Mastering Change

How do we stop working at “the wrong end of the spectrum” – only intervening when it’s too late? 

This week on Mastering Change, clinical psychologist and Innovating Minds founder Dr. Asha Patel shares her journey from working in forensic services to building trauma-informed systems for schools and community-based organisations.  

Asha explains how behaviour is always a form of communication, why exclusion punishes pain instead of addressing it, and how compassion, regulated adults and safe environments can change young people’s life trajectories. 

We also explore: 

• Why trauma-informed systems are essential in schools 
• The role of emotional regulation in supporting children 
• How early intervention prevents cycles of trauma from repeating 
• Practical ways to shift from punishment to compassion 

Moment of Care: This episode discusses sensitive episodes related to trauma, mental health and potential distressing experiences. If you feel triggered at any point, please take a moment to check in with yourself and seek support.

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