The therapeutic tasks now focus on changing the core environment of the family. The support goals of the acute stage often continue into the later stages. The following areas of intervention are intended to capture the range of difficulties encountered when the entire family environment is adversely affected. Using a psychoeducational approach, the therapist can openly identify these problem areas with the family and establish a collaborative alliance, as well as a mandate to pursue these areas. The family's first priority following traumatization of one or more members is to re-achieve a sense of stability and safety.
Physical safety is often a concern, particularly with children and traumatized members.
Fearful family members will not feel safe if they feel that their fears are not being taken seriously. Traumatized children may remain in the alarm state if they feel their fears are not being addressed. The other dimension of safety is psychological. Traumatization can stir powerful feelings of alienation and shame. Unfortunately, many people do not deal well with shame and resort to distancing and blaming maneuvers to protect themselves.